
Igniting curiosity through hands-on science and spectacular IMAX experiences in San Diego.
The Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park offers an engaging, family-friendly destination with interactive exhibits and a Dome Theater featuring IMAX shows. Reviews highlight hands-on activities for children, educational displays on topics like the solar system and weather, and a welcoming atmosphere. It's noted as a great place for kids to learn and explore, with free admission for San Diego residents and options for membership.
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Hands-on displays covering physics, space, weather, and more for all ages.
Immersive planetarium films on topics like space exploration and nature in a stunning dome setting.
Special play area with age-appropriate activities and a ball pit for young children.
Annual passes offering unlimited visits, discounts, and free parking for members.
Organized tours and educational programs for schools and large groups.
On-site café providing snacks and light bites for visitors during their stay.
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Overall rating
NRose A
Its free for San Diego residents! Lots to do for kiddos with hands on experiments. Learn about the Solar System, cause and effect, world terrains are form...how tornadoes form as well. They can spin, build and watch things work....great for learning and inspiring young minds on Science and Physics. Your entry comes with a free Imax showing in the Planetarium! Today we watched the Blue Angels Soar! Last time we watched Deep Sky ...about space shuttles, planets and galaxies. Gorgeous Imax presentations! You can stroll Balboa park afterwards, parking is no longer free, but if you have a SD Zoo membership itll be Free! Customer service very friendly and inviting.... fun for the whole family!
Tatyana Murzova
Excellent science center for kids from 3 years old up to 12 for my opinion. Interesting exhibitions, need to plan 3 hours at least here
Ashley
Great place to take kids. Lots of fun activities and great way to have fun and learn how things work at the same time. They have a really cool ball pit pool. It's huge! They have a kids zone area for the younger kids 5 and under. There is a snack zone where you can buy some snacks and little bits to eat. Loved it so much, we became members! Will definitely be back again. If your going to Balboa Park, this is a must. Parking can be challenging, so keep that in mind.
Angela C
There’s just something magical about this place. I’ve been twice .. once with my little one and once as a chaperone for a school field trip — and both times, I left grinning ear to ear. Kids ages 3–9 will absolutely light up here! Everything is hands-on from the weather and electricity exhibits to space exploration. The Dome Theater is pure delight as it feels like stepping into a cozy, mini Las Vegas Sphere. You just lean back, look up, and let the world swirl around you. There’s even a special play zone for littles under 5, and a ball pit for the older ones (which is basically the definition of “fun meets learning”). It’s the kind of place that reminds you science is, at its heart, a grand adventure and that curiosity is contagious.
Sandra Veum
One of the most unique experiences ever. It was absolutely wonderful! The musicians were outstanding and loved loved loved the music. Such a beautiful ambience, truly outstanding! Worth every penny!