Small Discoveries Exhibit Reopens December 17 at the Science Center of Iowa
SCI welcomes families back to its beloved early learner space with new hands-on features, creative play zones, and a whole lot of sensory fun
- Tuesday December 9, 2025
The Science Center of Iowa (SCI) is thrilled to announce the grand reopening of its Small Discoveries exhibit, a hands-on space specially designed for SCI’s littlest learners. Following a full-scale renovation this fall, the reimagined exhibit space will open to the public on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.
The updated Small Discoveries exhibit space invites young children to explore science through play, creativity, and sensory engagement. New features include a vibrant “make your own mural” station, an 8 ft. splashtastic water table, and a calming sensory space where children can interact with light, sound, and textures.
“We’re beyond excited to welcome families back to Small Discoveries,” said Curt Simmons, President and CEO of the Science Center of Iowa. “This space has always been about sparking wonder in our youngest scientists. With this renovation, we’re offering more opportunities than ever for joyful, hands-on exploration.”
SCI's mission to inspire a love of science begins early — and Small Discoveries is a cornerstone of that journey.
As Fred Rogers beautifully said, “Play is really the work of childhood.” At SCI, we’ve built a space that embraces that idea wholeheartedly — where play and learning go hand in hand.
SCI invites members and families across Iowa to join in the fun and experience the magic of Small Discoveries once again — starting December 17.
About the Science Center of Iowa
The Science Center of Iowa engages and inspires Iowans along their journey of lifelong science learning. The 110,000-sq. ft. facility located in Downtown Des Moines features dynamic experience platforms, large format theaters and daily interactive science demonstrations, including the NAEYC-accredited SCI Preschool. The Science Center of Iowa also provides educational outreach programs across the state of Iowa. For more information, visit www.sciowa.org.