5 Within 50: Science Centers

Science Enthusiast/Geeks rejoice! Everyone wants to be as cool as you now and get in on the fun. From the youngest little friends that crave delving into their own experiment of gooey substance, to the adult that thirst to explore with a cocktail in hand, we’ve got you covered.


FERNBANK
767 Clifton Rd. Atlanta
fernbankmuseum.org
Where Science, Nature and Fun Make History – That tagline sums Fernbank up nicely. Fernbank is one of the most popular and iconic cultural attractions in Atlanta. It houses the world’s largest dinosaurs, and one of the largest assemblages of urban forest in the United States. Fernbank brings science to life through immersive experiences. The list of their programs and experiences are vast and truly have something for everyone. Open daily 10:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. Memberships are available and online tickets are required.

FERNBANK AFTER DARK
“Adult Science Night and Grownup Fun!” You read that correctly. Leave the kids at home for this 21 and older event. Grab a date, girls night out or meetup with friends to enjoy this treasure in a way you never have before (or for the first time). Offered the second Friday of each month, 7:00-11:00
p.m. and highlights a different science each After Dark. Explore the outdoors in WildWoods, varying exhibits, live music, full bars, tapas and science demonstrations. Make sure to purchase online tickets in advance as this one sells out monthly.

GWINNETT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND
HERITAGE CENTER (GEHC)
2020 Clean Water Drive Buford
This hidden gem secluded near the Mall of Georgia offers self-guided tours of Gwinnett’s first LEED
(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified building and also has one of the country’s largest “living” vegetated roofs. On the property you will also find the historic Chesser-Williams House, walking trails and much more. They offer many camps including their Spring STEAM Fun camp during GCPS’ Spring Break, April 5-9 for ages seven to thirteen. To register go to gwinnettehc.com. GEHC is also home to Treetop Quest for the outdoorsy thrill seekers of nature and offers eight courses of adventures for all skill levels, ages four and up. Although closed for Winter, the anticipated reopening date is March 6 with tickets on sale soon. Treetopquest.com.

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF
ATLANTA (CMA)
275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr
NW, Atlanta
childrensmuseumatlanta.org
Wow. Wow. WOW! The activities and exhibits here are endless! CMA is geared toward children 8 years and younger, but we’re not ashamed to admit that we can’t wait for an excuse to go back. The CMA has changing featured exhibits every four months (We are personally excited about Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab beginning May 22) however, Step up to Science is a permanent exhibit that incorporates technology, engineering, light, and a science bar all through hands-on exploration and play.

“Messy Thursdays” is catered to the littlest visitors (and their grownup) for the messiest of fun-ness. Think slime, finger painting and so much more AND they clean up the mess! Each week offers a new, messy activity for you and your little human to DiG into to create and learn something new! Takes place every Thursday and is included with your admission. Although no sign-up is needed, it is first come, first messy served. Be sure to check out the website in advance for tickets and parking info.

CRAWFORD W. LONG
MUSEUM
28 College St. Jefferson, GA
crawfordlong.org
Who IS Dr. Crawford Long, you may ask? Of course, he is the physician who on March 30, 1842 used ether for the first time for surgical anesthesia (Now don’t you feel silly that you asked?). The museum takes you through the journey of how this country doctor came to be the “father of painless surgery”…A scientific miracle! Although currently closed during these crazy social times, they DO offer small group tours by appointment only and hope to be fully operational (pun intended) soon. Don’t miss visiting the gift store online for more than unique items. Perhaps purchase an Ether Bunny?