Akron Fossils & Science Center — Attraction in Copley Township

Our 5th grade class (public school) attended a lock in last weekend. I was a chaperone. The experience that the kids had was wonderful. I'm not sure why people have posted that there is no science. That is all we did (other than the glow in the dark zip line, which was awesome). The kids split into two groups and half did work on fossils/volcanos/sedimentation while the others did work on the scientific method, where they blew up balloons with chemical reactions, learned about dry ice, and other really cool things. The kids LOVED it. After dark, they went outside and each got a ride on the zip line in the dark. All we could see were their glow in the dark bracelets. The kids had a blast playing on the playground in the dark. It was a wonderful experience. Then we headed back inside for snack (also science related). They made a punch with dry ice, among other things. Then they played some games and then settled down for the night--boys in one room and girls in the other. The director slept between the two rooms to make sure there weren't any issues and helped to get the kids to sleep when it was time. The price was very reasonable (about half the price of COSI), plus it was nearly in our backyard (we are from Medina county). So, all in all, it was an excellent experience. While I later became aware that they have a creationist exhibit along with an evolution exhibit (mainly because I could see it behind a temporary wall they had set up to block off the displays), there was never any mention of religion/creationism. I think you get out of the museum what you want. If you want to go over the creationism aspect, they will explain their views (I'm assuming this, but didn't actually go through the exhibit). If you don't want it, they don't push it on you. Overall, very good experience, and we are talking about having next year's 5th grade class go back. I may even bring my daughter and some of her friends back to do the zip line again. It was awesome! Thank you to Jodie and the rest of the staff for making our first 5th grade lock...

The summer camps are amazing. My son begs to go back each year. The curriculum is supported by scientific research and implemented with a disciplined approach. The staff are loving and wise. My son has attended the summer offerings for the past three years- the past two years he did all six, and summer 2020 will be his fourth summer. My son’s STEM/STEAM interest and application has progressively grown and flourished. He has an absolute blast, as well- a secondary consideration for me in my efforts to faithfully develop my gifted child. In addition to what I equate as the best summer school you can buy, he gets to be a kid, play outside in their awesome park, have fun and be active while I’m at work. He gets up each day excited to go, and never comes home bored. He’s also attended Akron Zoo Camp, Akron Artworks camps, local YMCA camps, and Camp Invention. While he enjoys them all, and they are all good camps, Akron Fossil has hands-down has the most positive impact on his academic development and captures his attention the most. Their staff have proven to be the most prepared and seem to be the most genuinely interested in the individual child, too. I’ve dealt with the staff, especially Jodi, the director, long enough (all summer long for three years) to have experienced that they are wise and competent, completely trustworthy, and that they faithfully execute the curriculum - and...

I absolutely love this place. The tours, camps, and classes are amazing, but the people who so obviously care so much about the science center really set it apart. I have been going to the science center since I was in kindergarten. First for field trips, then, when I was old enough and wanted even more of the science center, I went to the summer camps. The camps are so hands on and are the reason I fell in love with science. Three years ago, I began taking the homeschool classes at the science center. These changed my life. I was able to explore so much and learn so much more than I would have elsewhere. I was always encouraged in my learning exploits and was able to take so many advanced classes that truly set me apart from the crowd. The teachers are amazing, offering great curriculum, great delivery of information, great relationships, and great fun! Every year I take the classes, my Akron fossil family grows. This is also true for the aforementioned camps. Akron Fossils and Science Center has encouraged me to grow in so many ways and has done the same for so many other people that walk through its doors. I recommend this place for all its parts. Whether you're looking for a fun afternoon, an engaging and safe summer camp, or a place for your child's education, and an overall great experience, Akron Fossils and Science Center is the...