About the Lawrence Hall of Science
The Lawrence Hall of Science, located in Berkeley, is a premier public science center that offers engaging and educational experiences for visitors of all ages. Affiliated with the University of California, Berkeley, the Hall provides interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs designed to inspire a love of science and discovery.
 
Historical Overview
Foundation: Established in 1968, the Lawrence Hall of Science was created as a public science center in honor of Ernest O. Lawrence, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist and pioneering figure in the development of the cyclotron. The Hall aims to serve as a bridge between the scientific community and the public.
 
Key Features and Exhibits
Outdoor Nature Lab: An interactive outdoor space where visitors can explore the natural world through hands-on activities and experiments. The lab includes areas for water play, gardening, and observing local wildlife.
Ingenuity Lab: A makerspace where visitors can engage in design challenges and engineering projects. The lab encourages creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration through activities such as building prototypes and testing inventions.
Forces That Shape the Bay: This exhibit focuses on the geological and environmental processes that shape the San Francisco Bay Area. Interactive displays cover topics such as earthquakes, erosion, and ecosystem dynamics.
Planetarium: The Hall's planetarium offers immersive shows that explore the wonders of the universe. Visitors can learn about stars, planets, and the latest discoveries in astronomy through engaging visual presentations.
Animal Discovery Room: A space where visitors can meet and learn about a variety of live animals. The room features educational displays and hands-on opportunities to interact with reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
Science on a Sphere: A dynamic exhibit that uses a large spherical display to present Earth and space science data. Visualizations include weather patterns, ocean currents, and planetary systems, providing a global perspective on scientific phenomena.
 
Visiting Tips for Families
Plan Ahead: Check the Lawrence Hall of Science’s website for current exhibits, special events, and educational programs to make the most of your visit.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and participating in hands-on activities. Bring layers, as some exhibits may be outdoors or involve messy materials.
Bring Essentials: Pack water, snacks, and any necessary items for young children. The Hall also offers dining options on-site.
Engage with Staff: Utilize the knowledgeable staff and volunteers who can provide insights and answer questions about the exhibits and programs.
Participate in Activities: Encourage children to participate in the interactive exhibits and family programs to enhance their learning experience and enjoyment of the Hall.
 
By visiting the Lawrence Hall of Science, families can immerse themselves in the wonders of science and discovery, exploring interactive exhibits and engaging in hands-on activities. The Hall provides a dynamic and educational environment that inspires curiosity, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the natural world. Whether observing live animals, participating in design challenges, or attending a planetarium show, the Lawrence Hall of Science offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
 
Educator Package: Includes educational resources, interactive project ideas, trip organization, direct experiential opportunities to help better connect the experience with your students and complimentary chaperone ticket. Does not include student ticket.
 
Student Package: Includes engaging pre and post educational field trip activities, trip organization and student ticket.