Summer is here and for many families, that means one thing: more screen time. With school out and long days to fill, it’s easy for smartphones, tablets, and video games to become the default source of entertainment. While technology has its place, spending too much time on screens can take away opportunities to explore and connect with the world around us.
The good news? Reducing screen time doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Summer is the perfect opportunity to encourage curiosity, hands-on learning, and unforgettable family experiences. By replacing passive screen use with interactive activities, kids can stay engaged, build new skills, and make long lasting memories while having fun.
Here at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, you can cut back screen time and turn learning into adventure through these four ways.
1. Cosmic Courtyard Gallery
Whether you’re exploring the dunes of Mars aboard a rover simulator or dancing among the stars in Star Stuff, there’s always something new to discover in the Cosmic Courtyard Gallery. Designed for curious minds of all ages, this interactive space invites visitors to learn through hands-on experiences.
Get up close and personal with real artifacts by touching a genuine piece of the Moon and testing your strength to lift an authentic meteorite. Flourishing engineers and future astronauts can put their creativity to work at the Lego building station, where they can create their own spacecraft, space station, or satellite.
With interactive exhibits and plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace, the Cosmic Courtyard Gallery transforms space science into an incredible adventure.
2. Experience Augmented Reality
Located inside the Cosmic Courtyard Gallery, you can experience augmented reality where the cosmos come to life right before your eyes. This all-new augmented reality experience invites explorers to step into the Solar System without screens. While wearing AR headsets and guided by a live facilitator, you’ll walk among the planets, witness the forces that shape our universe, and discover the wonders of space through an interactive experience that’s educational, immersive, and unforgettable.
Along the way, you’ll discover our cosmic neighborhood, experience interactive moments that encourage exploration and discovery, and gain a deeper appreciation for the science behind space exploration. Whether you're watching planets orbit around the sun, or marveling at the vastness of space, every moment is designed to inspire curiosity and wonder.
3. Science Demos
From hunting exoplanets to launching a rocket, you are bound to learn something new from interpreters through live science demos. These live science demonstrations not only keep your kids entertained but also make learning fun and engaging. Led by knowledgeable interpreters, these demonstrations feature exciting experiments that explain scientific concepts in an easy way. From learning about Newton’s Laws of Physics in Rocket Lab to finding out how astronauts live in space in Day in Space, your family will truly learn something new.
Live science demonstrations happen hourly at the Ground Station Canada Theatre inside our Cosmic Courtyard.
4. Planetarium Show
After exploring the Cosmic Courtyard Gallery, venturing through the cosmos, and watching live science demonstrations, you can head to the Star Theatre Planetarium. The planetarium offers an immersive journey through the universe. You can experience simulations of the night sky, explore distant planets and galaxies, and learn about astronomy through engaging films and presentations. Whether you're interested in constellations, exoplanets, or the latest discoveries in space exploration, the Planetarium Star Theatre provides both an educational and entertaining experience for you and your family.
Planetarium shows happen hourly. For specific show times click here.
FAQ
How do I get there?
The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre is located at 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC, in Vanier Park. You can get there by:
- Car: About a 5-minute drive from downtown Vancouver via the Burrard Bridge.
- Transit: Take the #2 or #32 bus, then walk about 5 minutes.
- Bike: About a 10-minute ride from downtown.
- Walking: About 15 minutes from downtown or 10 minutes from Granville Island.
- False Creek Ferry: Get off at the Vanier Park stop.
How much is admission?
General admission prices are:
- Adults (19–54): $27.50 + tax
- Youth (12–18): $25.50 + tax
- Children (5–11): $19.60 + tax
- Seniors (55+): $25.50 + tax
- Children under 5: Free (with a paying adult)
- Family (up to 5 people, maximum 2 adults): $85.35 + tax
For more information on tickets, visit here.
Do I have to pay for parking?
Yes. Visitors who drive must pay for parking at EasyPark - Lot 60, which is beside the Space Centre. Payment can be made using the ZipBy app or at the parking kiosk.
Can I become a member?
Yes. The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre offers two annual membership options:
- Standard Membership ($74.75 + tax): Includes unlimited regular admission for one member and one guest for one year.
- Enhanced Membership ($149.50 + tax): Includes unlimited regular admission for one member and up to three guests for one year.
Memberships are valid for one year from the date of purchase and include benefits such as discounts on select events, birthday parties, and venue rentals, a monthly member newsletter, voting privileges at the Society's Annual General Meeting, and reciprocal admission discounts at participating museums and science centres.
For many visitors, a membership pays itself after approximately three visits while providing year-round savings and exclusive member benefits.
If you have questions or would like to purchase a membership, visit the Space Centre website, call (604) 738-9620, or email membership@spacecentre.ca.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to explore the wonders of space? Visit the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre at 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC, located in scenic Vanier Park. It's easy to reach by car, public transit, bike, or even the False Creek Ferry.
Admission tickets are available for adults, youth, children, seniors, and families, with free entry for children under five when accompanied by a paying adult. If you're driving, paid parking is available in the EasyPark lot next to the Space Centre.
Before you go, check the daily schedule for planetarium shows, live science demonstrations, and special events so you can make the most of your visit. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, but not mandatory, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
Get your tickets online at www.spacecentre.ca or at the front desk.
