If you’re looking for a day of interactive fun and learning, the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City is the perfect spot.
Since opening its doors in 1993, it’s become a go-to destination for families, students, and anyone who loves science, for that matter.
Tucked away in Liberty State Park, with stunning views of the Lower Manhattan skyline, the center offers an educational yet entertaining experience.
Right from the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with excitement and curiosity. Across its massive 300,000-square-foot space, there’s always something new to discover.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Liberty Science Center, from its must-see exhibits and educational programs to tips on making the most of your visit.
Must-See Exhibits
One of the best things about Liberty Science Center is the wide variety of exhibits. With four floors packed with hands-on activities, there’s something here for everyone, from toddlers to adults.
Here’s a look at some must-see exhibits:
Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium
If you’re into space—or even just curious—the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium will blow your mind.
It’s the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, and the shows here give you a front-row seat to the universe.
The 89-foot dome screen takes you on an unforgettable journey, exploring distant galaxies or checking out a fun, family-friendly show like the Taylor Swift Laser Show.
Skyscraper! Achievement and Impact
Have you ever wondered how skyscrapers get built? The Skyscraper! Achievement and Impact exhibit is a fascinating dive into the engineering marvels that shape our cities.
You can even get hands-on and try your luck operating a crane or an excavator in the interactive simulators.
Plus, there’s a touching display of September 11 artifacts that offers a moment to reflect on history.
Touch Tunnel
The Touch Tunnel is not for the faint-hearted! This 80-foot tunnel puts you in complete darkness, and you’ll need to rely solely on your sense of touch to make it through.
As you can imagine, it’s an exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking experience, but kids (seven and up) love it. If you’ve ever wondered what navigating without sight is like, this is your shot!
Infinity Climber
In the heart of the center, you’ll find the Infinity Climber, a massive web of wire mesh suspended in mid-air.
This giant structure lets kids—and adventurous adults—climb, crawl, and explore multiple paths within its safe yet challenging design.
It’s 26 feet wide and 19 feet tall, making it one of the museum’s most eye-catching features.
Our Hudson Home
Our Hudson Home is where you want to be for a cool hands-on experience that teaches you about the local environment.
You get to mess with a 20-foot-long model of the Hudson River—control the water flow, create dams, and see how the environment changes.
There’s even a huge aquarium filled with marine life, and don’t forget to check out the outdoor deck for some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan.
Energy Quest
Energy Quest will catch your interest if you’ve ever been curious about how we generate power.
This exhibit is all about how different types of energy, from solar and tidal power to traditional methods like oil, are harnessed.
It’s hands-on, so you’re not just reading about it—you’re seeing it in action, which makes it a great learning experience for all ages.
Fun for All Ages
The beauty of Liberty Science Center is that it really does have something for every age group.
If you’re visiting with little ones, the Wobbly World exhibit is great for toddlers to explore balance and motion in a fun, safe environment.
Designed for ages two to five, it’s a colorful, hands-on playground where kids can learn through play.
For older kids—and let’s be honest, the adults too—the Brain Games exhibit is an absolute hit. It’s packed with mental challenges that test your thinking and problem-solving skills.
One of the highlights of Brain Games is watching a robot solve a Rubik’s Cube in seconds—a clever challenge that never fails to impress kids and adults.
And if you love animals, don’t miss the Wild About Animals exhibit, where you can get up close and personal with over 100 different species.
From tiny cotton-top tamarins to the quirky naked mole rats, there’s plenty of wildlife to learn about.
Also, if you’re looking for more fun places to take the kids, be sure to check out our article on Catch Air Jersey City for another great day out!
Educational Programs and Events
On top of its permanent exhibits, the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City keeps things fresh with educational programs and live demos.
Whether it’s a hands-on lab or an awe-inspiring science show, these programs are designed to spark curiosity and inspire future scientists.
One of the key spaces is the Jennifer Chalsty Center for Science Learning and Teaching.
Here, educators can upgrade their teaching skills, while students get to participate in multi-day programs, diving deep into various science topics. With six labs and a 150-seat theater, it’s a hub for interactive learning.
The center also hosts its annual Genius Award, celebrating the work of notable figures in science and innovation.
Past honorees have included Jane Goodall, Jeff Bezos, and Vitalik Buterin—names that have significantly shaped our world.
Planning Your Visit to the Liberty Science Center in New Jersey
Getting to the Liberty Science Center is a breeze, thanks to its convenient location in Liberty State Park.
Whether you’re driving in or hopping on public transit, the museum is easy to access.
If you’re taking public transit, the Liberty State Park station on the Hudson–Bergen Light Rail is nearby. For those driving, there’s on-site parking available for a $7 daily fee, and the center is just a short drive off the NJ Turnpike.
When it comes to tickets, general admission is $31 in advance and $36 on the day, while children’s tickets are $26 in advance and $31 on the day.
And add-ons like 3D movies, planetarium shows, or premium exhibitions are available for $8 each.
But check the website before you go, as prices and promotions may change.
Not to mention, if you’re a member of the ASTC Passport Program, you may even be able to score free general admission.
To get the most out of your visit, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the center. But honestly, you could easily spend an entire day here, especially if you’re taking part in one of the center’s many educational events or special exhibits.
And don’t forget—starting your visit on the top floor and working your way down is a great strategy for seeing everything without getting overwhelmed.
Closing Thoughts on the Liberty Science Center
Visiting Liberty Science Center is one of the best things to do in Jersey City—it’s a day filled with learning, hands-on experiences, and plenty of “aha” moments.
No matter if you’re exploring the universe in the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium or climbing high on the Infinity Climber, the adventures never stop.
And before you go, swing by the Gift Shop to grab a souvenir or two. Whether it’s a fun science kit for the kids or a quirky keepsake, it’s the perfect way to cap off your day.
So, if you’re ready to spark your curiosity and learn something new, Liberty Science Center is calling your name.
