Explore prehistoric exhibits, coral conservation, local heroes’ celebrations and more
(WEST PALM BEACH, FLA) – Dive into a summer of exploration and discovery at the Cox Science Center and Aquarium! Starting this month, escape to indoor and outdoor summer entertainment that keeps the family learning and engaged. From dinosaur-inspired exhibits to honoring local heroes, the Science Center is your ticket to summer fun.
“At the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, summer means fun-filled adventures that ignite curiosity and spark imagination,” said Cox Science Center and Aquarium President and CEO, Kate Arrizza. “Our engaging programs promise excitement for the whole family while creating memories of exploration and discovery.”
Now through September 29, Minotaur’s Dinosaur Revolution leads guests through a giant maze, giving them an exciting in-depth look at one of their favorite topics, the opportunity to puzzle and problem-solve and the chance to be a dinosaur. This powerful combination of role-play and study creates an unforgettable experience that will inspire older visitors to take a fresh look at this prehistoric topic and encourage young visitors to look to the future as we learn more about this fascinating subject.
Dinosaur Revolution is created by Minotaur Mazes, a Seattle-based company specializing in interactive maze exhibits.
On Saturday, June 8, visitors can dive into the world of corals during the Center’s colorful Coral Carnaval conservation event! In partnership with The Reef Institute, guests can participate in presentations from coral experts, get hands-on with coral-themed crafts and enjoy various vendors, food trucks and live musical entertainment between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. A schedule of shows will also be offered in the planetarium including Kaluoka’hina: The Enchanted Reef, Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure and One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure to name a few. Vendors and sponsors are still being accepted for this event at coxsciencecenter.org/Coral-Carnaval.
On Saturday, June 15, show some local love by participating in Hometown Hero Appreciation Day. Between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., veterans, active-duty military, first responders, Gold Star Families and up to four guests can receive free admission at the Center an hour before doors open to the general public. Heroes, their families and the public can enjoy special activities such as military vehicle demonstrations, meet and greet with local armed forces as well as live science demonstrations and military ceremonies. To redeem your tickets, register online at coxsciencecenter.org/heroes and kindly bring your military or employee ID.
On Thursday, June 20, Science on Tap will begin at 7 p.m. at NOBO Brewing Company with guest speaker Annie Page, from Florida Atlantic University Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. Science on Tap is the only place in Palm Beach County where for the price of a cup of coffee, a quality craft beer or a smooth glass of wine, anyone can come to discuss the latest trends in science and technology with a world-class scientist. With the motto to ‘drink up – get smart,’ you know you are in for a casual-education session, as the goal of the program is for guests to have fun while learning a little bit more about everyday curiosities.
On June 22 through 26, join the CSCA for its jaw-dropping week dedicated to sharks in partnership with the American Shark Conservancy. Guests can strengthen their shark knowledge with fun activities, labs, presentations and more, including daily touch tanks and shark presentations in the 10,000-gallon fresh and saltwater aquarium, a feeding frenzy and daily STEAM, ocean-themed crafts. As the ocean’s top predator, it’s important to educate guests on the significance that sharks play in the marine ecosystems, including their indirect role in maintaining seagrass and coral reef habitats. Entertaining and educational conversations will also help reduce any fear tied to shark attacks as said incidents are less likely than being struck by lightning or having a coconut fall on your head.
Onthe last Friday of each month through September, from 6 to 9 p.m., join the CSCA for an evening of exploration during the Nights at the Museum events. Each event features a different theme, offering guests of all ages the opportunity to engage in interactive science crafts, activities, exhibits and planetarium shows. Some of the themes include space explorers, archaeological adventures and more.
The Center’s current indoor/outdoor venue features more than 100 hands-on educational exhibits, a 10,000-gallon fresh and saltwater aquarium, digital planetarium and quarter-mile-long outdoor science trail. One of its celebrated displays includes “Journey Through the Human Brain,” a permanent exhibit that features the most advanced neuroscience research in the world. The Cox Amphitheater hosts daily live science shows, seasonal laser shows, and special event programming. The Center took on a new name at the end of 2021 when leadership announced a $20 million gift from Palm Beachers, Howard and Wendy Cox, to launch a transformative capital expansion campaign. The Center broke ground in May 2024 with a target completion date of 2026. To learn more, visit coxsciencecenter.org/support-us.
CSCA will remain open to the public throughout construction and will host its spring and summer exhibit, Dinosaur Revolution into the fall. To participate in the campaign or to learn more about CSCA’s current or future offerings, email philanthropy@coxsciencecenter.org, call 561.370.7723 or visit coxsciencecenter.org/ support-us. Cox Science Center and Aquarium is located at 4801 Dreher Trail North in West Palm Beach.