Exploration Place Inc

Exploration Place, The Sedgwick County Science and Discovery Center, opened April 1, 2000, and has become a local leader in STEM-based (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education offerings that focus on exhibits, dome theater films, programs, and outreach.

In 2013, more than 190,000 people encountered the science center’s 100,000 square feet of hands-on exhibit areas that focus on aviation, Kansas, medieval life in a three-story castle, architecture, health, imaginative spaces for toddlers, and special traveling exhibitions

The Boeing Dome Theater and Planetarium is the largest in the state of Kansas, with a massive 60-foot  tall, 360-degree screen. Current shows include a journey to meet ancient flying creatures, an alien family looking at our solar system’s planets for a vacation destination and the popular adult-oriented Pink Floyd Cosmic Light Shows.

The science center’s 20 acres also include the outdoor Exploration Park, picnic grove, and MiniGolf, an 18-hole putting course.

Almost 30,000 children have enjoyed Exploration Place’s fun and educational programs. These include general public offerings such as School’s Out Edventures, Homeschool Edventures, summer camps, Children’s Spanish Classes, Little Explorers Preschool Playgroup, Live Science Shows, and Boy and Girl Scout programs.

Children also visited Exploration Place through the school visit programming. Outreach programming has exploded in its growth over the past couple of years. Educators visit facilities and lead hands-on activities along with live science shows. All programs align to Kansas State Standards.

Known for its versatility and world-class architecture, the facility is a favorite venue to host events of all kinds. Special events include Gingerbread Village, Smallgrass, Museum of the Undead, Riverfest Discount Days, and more. People can also rent Exploration Place to host weddings, receptions, business meetings or mixers, birthday parties, and team building sessions.

Exploration Place continues to evolve as it looks to the future with essential building improvements, renovation or refreshing of its permanent exhibit areas – namely those for young children, Kansas, health, and aviation. Continued growth is also planned with its education programs. So much support is needed  make these massive efforts happen.

Please consider helping us to continue our goal of being the leader in STEM education, not only in Wichita, but in the state and region.

Exploration Place is a private 501(c)(3) not-for-profit institution governed by a self-perpetuating Board of Trustees. Through a partnership with Sedgwick County, Exploration Place currently receives support and is recognized as the Sedgwick County Science and Discovery Center. Support is also earned from admissions, membership dues and voluntary contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations.