Danville Science Center
Rating
Family of 4
$35-50 (approximately $8-12/person)
Duration
2-3 hours
Best Ages
Best for ages 3-12
About
The Danville Science Center occupies a beautifully restored historic train depot in Danville, Virginia — a setting that immediately distinguishes it from generic science museums. The building's industrial heritage creates an atmospheric backdrop for exhibits that connect science, technology, and local history.
As an affiliate of the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond, the Danville center benefits from shared resources and programming while maintaining a regional character. The dome theater is the centerpiece attraction — immersive films on science and nature subjects that leverage the curved screen format for maximum visual impact.
For families traveling through Southern Virginia, this is an excellent stop. For families based in Williamsburg, the drive (approximately 2.5 hours) makes it a destination better suited to those already in the Danville or Piedmont area.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Available
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Wednesday-Saturday mornings; note closed Monday and Tuesday
Wait Times
No significant waits
Nearby Food
Danville's downtown area has various dining options within a short drive of the museum.
Why Kids Love It
A renovated historic train depot houses this charming regional science center, giving it an atmospheric character that purpose-built museums lack. The train heritage theme runs through exhibits that connect Danville's industrial history to science concepts, making the history feel tangible. The dome theater experiences are a particular highlight for kids who haven't experienced immersive science films.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Affiliated with the Science Museum of Virginia (Richmond) — check for reciprocal membership benefits
- Closed Monday and Tuesday; Sunday hours start at 11:30AM rather than 9:30AM
- Housed in a historic train depot — the building itself is part of the experience
- Best positioned as a stop for families traveling through Southern Virginia rather than a Williamsburg day trip (2+ hours away)
- The dome theater shows are a highlight — check the schedule before planning your visit time
What to Bring
- Water bottles
- Snacks (limited on-site food)
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$35-50 (approximately $8-12/person)
Tips to Save
- Affiliated with the Science Museum of Virginia — reciprocal membership benefits may apply.
- Closed Monday and Tuesday.
- Sunday has shortened hours starting at 11:30AM.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 9:30AM-5PM
- Monday
- Closed
- Sunday
- 11:30AM-5PM
- Tuesday
- Closed
- Saturday
- 9:30AM-5PM
- Thursday
- 9:30AM-5PM
- Wednesday
- 9:30AM-5PM
