Discovery Centre, Halifax

The Discovery Centre is Halifax’s go-to interactive science museum, blending education and entertainment to spark curiosity about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). As a not-for-profit charitable organization, its mission is to inspire a love for discovery in all ages.

The Centre’s roots date back to the 1970s when Dr. Gehard Stroink of Dalhousie University began creating hands-on science demonstrations. With the help of Richard Goldbloom and Liz Crocker, the idea evolved into a full-fledged science museum. Originally a traveling exhibition, the Discovery Centre became an official nonprofit in 1985 and a charity in 1989, before opening a small, 5,000-square-foot space in Scotia Square (1990). It later moved to a larger home at 1595 Barrington Street in 1995, where it remained for 25 years.

In February 2017, the Discovery Centre moved to its current location on Lower Water Street, doubling its previous size. This modern facility features five permanent galleries: Energy, which explores power sources and sustainability; Health, which focuses on the human body and well-being; Flight, which delves into aerodynamics and aviation; Ocean, which includes a live touch tank with local marine life; and Just for Kids, an interactive space designed specifically for younger visitors.

Beyond the galleries, the Dome Theatre planetarium offers astronomy, space science, and life science shows in a 65-seat immersive setting. The Innovation Lab introduces visitors to coding, 3D printing, and hands-on experiments, while the legendary Bubble Room, a crowd favorite from the Barrington Street days, continues to entertain.

With rotating featured exhibits three times a year, the Discovery Centre always ensures something new to explore, making it a cornerstone of Halifax’s educational and cultural landscape.