Eugene Science Center — Attraction in Eugene

You would think that being located in a university town, the science center would be exceptional. This location could not even be described as ‘adequate’.

A personal support worker, I took a teenage client here in hopes of an engaging, educational experience. Parking here is some distance from the actual science center and we were confused if we were even in the right location. Once we finally made our way to the building, I should have been alerted to possible trouble by the rundown exterior and poor maintenance of the grounds. Old, peeling picnic tables and litter were the first impression made. We purchased entrance to the center as well as a planetarium show. I believe my adult price for both was $11. Stepping from the cashier into the center, I was immediately disappointed. The entire place can be taken in in one glance. The stations are old, many in need of repair, and all seriously lacking in appeal. In fact, most of the exhibits are geared towards very young children - under 8, I’d say. In this technology-driven society, this science center seems like an absolute dinosaur.

We were finished with the main center in less than 20 minutes and had to amuse ourselves in the gift shop until the planetarium show. The planetarium seating was comfortable, the sound was good, but the graphics were dated. We didn’t see a astrological show, but rather a show on sounds in nature. It was meant to be interactive, but, much like the rest of the center, was geared towards a very young audience. A teenager or adult feels grossly out of place.

The staff were all friendly, but this science center is in desperate need of funding and updating. It’s painfully obvious where Eugene’s interests lie - with Autzen stadium mere footsteps away in its multi-million...

My kids love the Science Center. It seems like each time we go there are new exhibits and activities to check out, and the planetarium show is super fun! The Science Center has undergone a lot of improvements in the last couple years, so if you haven't visited for awhile you should check it out again. My kids have gone to summer camps and no-school day camps there and really enjoyed it. The Parents' Night Outs cost less than a babysitter and my kids always have a great time!

With a Science Center membership, you can get into OMSI, Evergreen Aviation Museum, and tons of other museums for free or reduced price. Buying that membership has saved me a ton of money.

The Science Center staff is always super friendly and helpful. They are patient with my children and take time to show them interesting aspects of...

Friendly Staff, and that is about it. Its a small planetarium, its very run down and they get very little to no local support unfortunately. I came to this place once around 30ish years ago as a kid for a school trip and it was great.(when it was at its mid to prime years.) As an adult taking other kids(not mine) to see this place...its sad to see how little love it gets. the seating is sticky sometimes, there is a smell to the place....really it needs to be torn down and redone on a grand scale...but this is a football and track town...science doesn't seem to matter to the locals much unfortunately. would not take kids to this place even though it can still be fun and inexpensive price for admission. There are better ones available further away...