Catawba Science Center, Hickory

About Catawba Science Center

Catawba Science Center is a 35,000-square-foot science and technology museum in Hickory where visitors engage with hands-on exhibits, animal habitats, and aquarium galleries featuring both salt and freshwater environments. The Millholland Planetarium, a 65-seat digital theater with a 30-foot dome and surround sound, presents shows including Legend of the Enchanted Reef, Magic Tree House, Living Worlds, and the Led Zeppelin Laser Show. The museum also features the IMMOTION VR Experience with "Dinosaur Evolution" and "Shark Dive" programs. Beyond general admission, the center offers school field trips, homeschool classes, preschool programs, summer camps, and birthday parties. The museum hosts special events such as Hickory Bot Battles and SPARK: A STEM Career Showcase. General admission tickets are sold online through the museum's website and include access to all exhibit areas, the featured exhibit hall, aquarium galleries, and planetarium shows based on seat availability.