The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is an exciting, interactive museum located in Corona, Queens. Originally built for the 1964 World’s Fair, it has grown into one of the most engaging science centers in the region. It’s ideal for families, students, and anyone curious about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
What Makes New York Hall of Science Special?
- Location: 47-01 111th Street, Queens, NY 11368
- Founded: 1964 (renovated and expanded over the years)
- Known For:
- Hands-on exhibits that allow visitors to experiment with scientific principles.
- The largest STEM education provider in New York City.
- Indoor and outdoor attractions such as Science Playground and the Rocket Park.
- Exhibitions focused on space, robotics, physics, chemistry, and math.
Must-See Exhibits and Attractions
Science Playground
- What: A giant outdoor play area that combines fun with learning, featuring water features, giant climbing nets, and sand pits.
- Tip: This attraction is a favorite with kids. Wear comfortable clothes, as some activities can get messy!
Rocket Park
- What: Displays two retired NASA rockets: a Titan II and an Atlas rocket.
- Interactive Element: Try the Rocket Park Mini Golf, where each hole explains a principle of space travel.
Design Lab
- What: A maker space where visitors can design and build their own projects. Activities change regularly, but you might build a prototype or experiment with circuits.
Connected Worlds
- What: A high-tech immersive environment where visitors interact with ecosystems through body movements.
- Highlight: Engage with giant digital walls to manipulate virtual rivers, plants, and animals.
Mathematica Exhibit
- What: A permanent exhibit exploring mathematical concepts, created by the legendary Charles and Ray Eames.
- Highlight: Features working models, including a giant Mobius strip and interactive probability machines.
Sports Challenge
- What: A hands-on area exploring the physics of sports. Learn how principles like force and motion affect athletic performance.
- Interactive Element: Test your reflexes and agility in fun experiments.
Special Programs and Workshops
NYSCI Camps and Workshops
- STEM-focused programs for kids during summer and school breaks.
- After-school workshops include robotics, coding, and engineering activities.
NYSCI Explainers Program
- High school and college students serve as “explainers”, guiding visitors through exhibits and demos.
Special Events
- World Maker Faire (Now Part of Maker Camp): A festival celebrating creativity and DIY projects.
- STEM Nights: Special evening programs with interactive science themes for families.
Visiting the New York Hall of Science – Practical Information
Hours of Operation
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed: Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
Admission Fees
- Adults: $20
- Children (2-17): $15
- Seniors (62+): $18
- Free Fridays: Admission is free from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM on Fridays.
Dining Options
The Science Café
- What to Expect: Offers light snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. It’s a casual place to grab a bite between exhibits.
- Tip: You can also bring your own food and have a picnic at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, located just outside the museum.
How to Get to New York Hall of Science
By Subway
- Take the 7 train to 111th Street Station, and the museum is a short walk from there.
By Bus
- Take the Q23 or Q48 buses, which stop near the museum.
By Car
- Parking: There is on-site parking available for a fee. Parking can fill up during weekends and special events, so plan accordingly.
Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays: Quieter and more relaxed, especially in the morning.
- Weekends and Holidays: Busier, with more family visitors and special programming.
- Tip: Visit on Free Fridays for a budget-friendly experience.
Nearby Attractions
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
- One of the largest parks in NYC, home to:
- The Unisphere (a massive globe from the 1964 World’s Fair)
- Queens Zoo and Queens Museum
- USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where the US Open is held
Queens Night Market
- When: Saturdays (April to October)
- What: A popular night market offering global street food and local crafts.
Tips for Visiting
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The museum is large, and there’s a lot to explore, both inside and outside.
- Check for Special Programs: NYSCI often hosts family workshops and pop-up activities—check the calendar for your visit date.
- Pack Sunscreen: If you’re visiting the Science Playground or Rocket Park, you’ll be spending time outdoors.
- Book Tickets Online: This helps you skip the lines, especially on busy weekends.
- Plan for the Whole Day: Between the exhibits, playground, and nearby attractions, you can easily spend several hours here.
Conclusion
The New York Hall of Science offers a fun and interactive experience that makes science engaging for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re building your own invention in the Design Lab, learning about space travel at Rocket Park, or enjoying outdoor play in the Science Playground, NYSCI promises hands-on learning and family-friendly entertainment. With nearby attractions like Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and the Queens Museum, it’s the perfect destination for a full day of exploration in Queens.
