How far is the Museum of Discovery and Science from Miami?

Approximately 30-40 minutes north of downtown Miami via I-95 (Exit 27) or US-1. The museum is at 401 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale. Factor in Broward County traffic during peak hours.

Does the Museum of Discovery and Science have real animals?

Yes — the EcoDiscovery Center has live Florida animals including alligators, sharks, and native reptiles. A stingray touch tank is available for hands-on interaction. These are among the museum's most popular features.

Is the IMAX theater at MODS worth it?

Yes — the IMAX experience is significantly better than a standard theater for age-appropriate documentary films. Buy tickets in advance at mods.org as popular shows sell out.

How much does the Museum of Discovery and Science cost?

General admission is approximately $16-22 for adults and $12-18 for children. IMAX tickets are additional (~$8-12). Combo packages available. Broward County residents receive discounts.

Is the Museum of Discovery and Science good for toddlers?

Yes — there are toddler-appropriate exhibit areas, and the sensory-rich environment engages young children. The sweet spot is ages 3-12, but toddlers 2+ can enjoy multiple exhibits with parental guidance.

Museum of Discovery and Science

Name: Museum of Discovery and Science
Address: 401 SW 2nd St, Miami, FL, 33312, US
Telephone: +1 954-467-6637
Rating: 4.5

1 / 5

Rating

4.5(7,379)

Family of 4

$100-160 total (admission + IMAX if desired + light dining)

Duration

2-4 hours

Best Ages

Best for ages 2-13

About

The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale is one of the premier science museums for families in South Florida — and it's a realistic day trip from Miami (30-40 minutes up I-95). With 7,379 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it consistently delivers for families across a wide age range.

The museum is built around hands-on learning — the philosophy that understanding comes from doing, not just observing. Multi-story interactive exhibits cover physics, natural science, Florida ecosystems, space, and technology. Kids don't just read labels; they pilot flight simulators, touch live stingrays in a touch tank, and manipulate physical demonstrations that make abstract concepts concrete.

The EcoDiscovery Center is a highlight for young nature lovers. Live Florida animals — including alligators, sharks, and native reptiles — are displayed in environments that teach about local ecosystems. For children who live in South Florida and see these animals in the abstract, getting close to them in a safe educational context is memorable.

The IMAX theater shows both large-format educational documentaries and entertainment films. The screen size and sound system create an immersive experience that's genuinely different from a regular movie. Buy IMAX tickets in advance — popular shows sell out.

For Miami families, this is a legitimate day trip that works well when combined with Fort Lauderdale's Riverwalk, beach, or Las Olas Boulevard for dining. Sunday hours start at noon (rather than 10AM), so plan accordingly for a weekend visit.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

Nursing / Changing

true

Kid Meals

true

Setting

Indoor

Rainy Day

Great option!

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings for school-group-free experience

Wait Times

IMAX shows fill up — buy tickets in advance; general admission minimal wait

Nearby Food

On-site cafe for light meals and snacks. Downtown Fort Lauderdale along SW 2nd Street and the Riverwalk has excellent dining within a 5-minute walk.

Why Kids Love It

The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale packs genuine wow moments into every floor — kids can experience a Florida ecosystems exhibit with live animals including alligators, touch stingrays, pilot a flight simulator, and explore a multi-story structure that demonstrates physics concepts through play. The IMAX theater shows both educational and entertainment films on a screen that makes kids feel like they're inside the action. The live animal interactions (particularly the gator exhibit) keep children genuinely engaged rather than just moving past displays.

From Reddit Parents

“Parking is $15-20 for the garage that’s right next to the theater, though there is also limited free street parking if you get lucky and find a spot.”

View thread on Reddit

Pro Tips from Parents

Located in Fort Lauderdale — about 30-40 minutes north of Miami on I-95 or US-1.
The IMAX theater needs advance ticket purchase, especially for popular showtimes.
The EcoDiscovery Center has live Florida animals including alligators — this section alone is worth the trip for animal-loving kids.
Parking garage is directly connected; factor in parking cost.
Sunday hours start at noon — plan for a late morning departure from Miami.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes
Advance IMAX tickets (purchased online)
Snacks to supplement on-site cafe
Patience for school groups on weekdays (call ahead to check field trip schedules)