The Montreal Science Centre (French: Centre de Sciences de Montréal) is a science museum entirely dedicated to science and technology. The mandate of this popular Montreal attraction is to help visitors of all ages discover, understand and appropriate science and technology for use in building their future. To accomplish this, the center has setup various exhibitions that are accessible, interactive and feature subjects that successfully capture public interest. Established in 2000 and originally known as the iSci Centre, the museum changed its name to the Montreal Science Centre in 2002. Over 800,000 people visit the center annually.
The museum is home to interactive permanent and temporary exhibitions that will entertain the entire family. Many of the permanent exhibitions are geared towards different age groups. For example, Clic! is a building block system designed for children between the ages of four and seven. It allows children to build various structures and participate in other science related activities which involve things like gravity and patterns and forms. In addition to the permanent exhibits, there are a range of temporary exhibits which are always fascinating and entertaining.
The center has earned a well-deserved reputation for having excellent exhibitions and making use of interactive devices in an innovative environment, both educational and entertaining. Unlike most museums, the Science Centre encourages visitors to touch and interact with the various exhibits. Some of the previously featured exhibitions include Star Wars: Identities, Indiana Jones and the Adventure of Archaeology as well as Dinosaurs Unearthed.
The museum is also home to an IMAX theatre. Movies at the IMAX theatre tend to be documentaries that examine subjects related to the natural sciences, history and biology. Past movies have touched on subjects about the Arctic, the Ocean, Wildlife, and even Space. There are often many different movies showing at the same time, therefore it is a good idea to consult the schedule before visiting. It is also recommended to verify the language of the movie you are going to see since the theatre often shows movies in French.
Conveniently located in the heart of the Old Port of Montreal, the Science Center is an ideal destinations for kids and families. It is situated along the edge of the Old Port, near several other attractions, including Pointe-à-Callière, the Notre-Dame Basilica, Marché Bonsecours, the Bonsecours Basin and the Clock Tower Beach. The Montréal Science Centre is at the foot of St.Laurent Blvd., corner of de la Commune St. and a pleasant 10 minute walk through Old Montreal from the Place-d’Armes Metro station. Admission rates vary significantly depending on your age as well as which exhibitions and IMAX films you choose to see. Package deals are available and occasionally special discounts are offered.