Cox Science Center and Aquarium

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach offers an exciting blend of hands-on science exploration, fascinating marine life, and immersive planetarium experiences. With interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and live aquarium animals that captivate young visitors, this moderately priced attraction provides an educational adventure that feels more like play than learning.

• ✓Interactive planetarium shows that transport kids through space and the solar system
• ✓Touch tanks where children can gently interact with starfish, sea urchins, and other marine creatures
• ✓Hands-on STEM stations covering topics from weather patterns to simple machines
• ✓Live aquarium exhibits featuring colorful tropical fish and local Florida marine species
• ✓Outdoor miniature golf course included with admission

1. 1.Arrive right at opening time (9 AM weekdays, 10 AM weekends) to enjoy the exhibits before field trip groups arrive mid-morning.
2. 2.Check the planetarium show schedule when you arrive and plan your visit around show times, as these are often the highlight for kids and can fill up quickly.
3. 3.Pack snacks and water bottles to save money, though there is a small café on-site for light refreshments.
4. 4.Don't miss the mini-golf course outside, which is included with admission and makes a great break between indoor exhibits.
5. 5.Wear comfortable shoes as kids will want to explore every corner, and plan extra time for the touch tanks where children can interact with sea creatures.

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday through Thursday) between 9-11 AM for the smallest crowds and most interactive time with staff. Weekends after 2 PM can get busy with birthday parties, so earlier is better if visiting Saturday or Sunday.

Admission is moderately priced (typically under $20 per person with family discounts available), and free parking is available on-site. The venue has a small café for snacks, but you may want to plan lunch at nearby restaurants before or after your visit.

Open year-round with consistent hours. Summer months (June through August) can be busier with vacation crowds and camp groups, so arriving early is especially important. The science center often hosts special holiday-themed planetarium shows during winter break and spring break.

CityPlace is about 10 minutes away and offers numerous family-friendly chain restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory and Hullabaloo. For a closer option, check out Grease Burger Bar on Okeechobee Boulevard (5 minutes away), which has a fun diner atmosphere kids enjoy.