Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts — Attraction in Harrisburg

For over ten years, Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts has been a cornerstone of our family’s journey. From introducing my kids to the wonders of science to creating magical family memories, this incredible institution has been so much more than a place to visit—it’s been a partner in raising curious, creative, and passionate children.

A Place to Grow My oldest child practically grew up in the Little Learners program, where he not only discovered his love for science but also gained a sense of independence that has shaped him into the person he is today. Fast forward a decade, and he’s now a full-fledged STEM enthusiast who loves explaining science concepts to anyone who will listen (including me, though I try to keep up!).

Whitaker Center’s impact hasn’t stopped there. For my seven-year-old, who has some additional needs, the staff’s ability to meet him exactly where he is has been nothing short of extraordinary. Seeing him thrive in this environment makes my heart burst with gratitude.

And then there’s my five-year-old—Whitaker Center has practically turned him into an evil scientist-in-training (in the best way possible!). He’s always up to something inventive, inspired by their hands-on exhibits and programs. Now, my youngest, who’s almost three, is getting her turn. Watching her explore sensory play, art, and science like her brothers before her is a joy I didn’t know I needed.

A Constant in Changing Times Beyond their stellar programs and workshops, Whitaker Center has shown an unwavering commitment to our community. During the pandemic, when life felt so uncertain, they collaborated with our homeschool group to offer both virtual and outdoor learning opportunities. These experiences not only kept my kids engaged but also provided a sense of normalcy that was invaluable for all of us.

Their outreach extends far beyond our family. Programs like Museum Access ensure that all families, regardless of financial circumstances, can experience the magic of science, art, and culture. Whitaker Center brings the community together through incredible events and celebrations, reminding us of the joy in shared experiences.

More Than a Destination Whitaker Center isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a partner in raising the next generation of thinkers, dreamers, and creators. From summer camps and special events to awe-inspiring exhibits, they’ve enriched our lives in countless ways. And it’s not just the kids who benefit—watching their faces light up as they discover something new is a gift for me as a parent.

Why We Support Whitaker Center We’ve been members every year, attended countless programs, and even written letters of support because we believe in what Whitaker Center represents: a commitment to education, creativity, and community. They’ve given us so much over the years, and we are honored to give back however we can.

If you’ve never been to Whitaker Center, let me tell you—there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re watching a show in the Sunoco Performance Theater, exploring hands-on exhibits in the UPMC Science Center, or catching a breathtaking film in the Select Medical Digital Cinema, you’ll leave inspired.

For my family, Whitaker Center has been a decade-long adventure, and I’m grateful for every moment they’ve given us. Here’s to many more years of learning, growing, and...

If you are going to the Imax Theatre, you'd better get there super early to get the seats in the middle or upper rows. I was really shocked that for the expensive rate I had to pay for tickets online without being able to chose the seats ahead of time. The online portal was very user friendly, but then they tag on a holding fee. When we got there, we had to stand in a long line with less-than-friendly attendents at the box office and the ones who simply took our tickets.

There was also, supposedly a deal where if you purchased your tickets prior to a certain date, you would get a free movie poster. We were only the 3rd showing of opening of The Hobbit, and the man said those posters were long gone. False advertising, or just poor communication online?

By the time we got in, most of the seats were filled, and we ended up in the front row! We had to slouch and crank our necks to see the screen well-enough. Perhaps the Center should consider lowering or enlarging the screen, as it is too close to the seats for those in the lower rows. Also, it would've been nice to have attendants encourage people to move to the center of the rows, rather than taking end seats leaving only one available somewhere in the middle. If you're coming with a friend, you can't find anything together easily. There was also a smell in the theater and the floors seemed really dirty. If we hadn't been anticipating the movie for so long, and if we hadn't paid as much as we did, we probably would've left.

I might bring our kids to the actual hands on museum, but we won't be back to the Imax. I'd rather go to stadium seating...

The mEEGa Hunt was a complete disaster from start to finish. $44 doesn't come easy to me but I want my grandson to experience the best. Upon arrival the guy selling tickets couldn't send me in the right direction to pick up Will Call tickets and then gruffly excused himself that the line was somewhere else earlier. At Will Call they had trouble locating my name but finally did AND THEN wanted to see my email confirming my tickets. What? I paid, you have my name, what is the issue?

My grandson was in the 6-8 age group that was SUPPOSED to start their hunt at 9:45am. Instead it was OVER at 9:42 am leaving my grandson to look on his own for what eggs might be left. They should have handed out a layout of the building and how to get downstairs not be given a one minute warning it was starting 10 min early! The lady handing out the prizes was rude, shaming us for not having opened our eggs before we got to her. One egg was empty and one had a number from another age group. She told him just to take a candy. 2 candies, three glow sticks and a girls bracelet. That was ridiculous. He may have won something bigger but she didn't care. $44 for that?

Then we, because we were last, had no breakfast items available to us. All gone. Coffee gone. What was it I was paying for again?? Truly a disaster and I will not recommend it to anyone. Will not return again. I should get a...