Great Lakes Science Center Winter Family Science Labs & NASA Glenn Visitor Center

About this adventure

Perched along the shores of Lake Erie in downtown Cleveland, Great Lakes Science Center offers hundreds of interactive, hands-on STEM exhibits across three sprawling floors. Families escape winter winds to explore the world-renowned NASA Glenn Visitor Center, featuring the actual Apollo 13 command module, authentic space suits, simulated moon landing capsules, and astronaut training gear. In the Polymer Funhouse, toddlers and early elementary kids crawl through climbing tunnels and launch lightweight balls into pneumatic air tubes. During January and February, the museum hosts interactive Winter Family Science Labs where kids conduct hands-on cryogenic experiments with liquid nitrogen, explore ice crystallization, and build motorized contraptions. The six-story Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater screens immersive giant-format educational films exploring arctic wonders and deep space. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Fully accessible facility with wide open exhibit halls, smooth ramp transitions, heavy-duty passenger elevators connecting all levels, and stroller parking outside theaters. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Private Mamava nursing pod on Level 1; comfortable bench seating overlooking the lakefront atrium; multiple spacious family restrooms with changing stations. • Age Suitability: Engaging for infants, toddlers (specialized early childhood zones), elementary tinkerers, and science-loving teens. • Sensory Tips: High-energy hands-on environment with interactive sound effects; sensory kits with noise-dampening headphones, sunglasses, and fidget toys are available at the information desk.