Da Vinci Science Center

Da Vinci Science Center in downtown Allentown is a hands-on science museum that earns its 4.4 Google rating through genuine interactive quality. Almost every exhibit in the building is designed to be touched, operated, and experimented with — which is exactly what kids from toddlers through middle school want from a science museum.

The engineering challenge areas are the standout: kids can build structures and test them against stress, design and launch rockets, and experiment with basic physics in ways that feel more like play than school. The live science demonstrations run on a schedule throughout the day and cover topics like chemical reactions, electricity, and physics in ways that spark real enthusiasm — especially the more theatrical demos involving fire or electricity.

Admission runs approximately $14-16 for adults and $10-12 for children (verify current pricing). A family of 4 should budget $60-80 for admission and the on-site cafe. The museum is closed on Mondays but open Tuesday through Sunday.

Allentown is about 60 miles north of Philadelphia, making this a day-trip destination rather than a quick afternoon outing. That distance actually works in your favor — it's a solid anchor for a day trip that can include lunch in downtown Allentown (the Hamilton Street district has good options) and the drive through the Lehigh Valley, which is scenic.

If you're a member of another ASTC-affiliated science museum, check whether your membership provides reciprocal free or discounted admission — many science centers participate in that network.