Just outside Atlanta, the state of Georiga has science-centric attractions just waiting to be explored!
Tellus Science Museum (100 Tellus Drive, Cartersville, GA) -- Just 45 minutes from Atlanta, Tellus Science Museum features space and Earth-centric exhibits with a lesson on transportation thrown in.
As you walk through the "Science in Motion" exhibit, a Wright brothers replica plane will undoubtedly catch your eye first as the exhibit then moves guests through the history of steam, gasoline and electric automobiles toward space travel. Highlights of the exhibit include the 1896 Ford Quadricycle, 1886 Benz Patent Motorwagon, a replica of the Apollo I capsule, a Mercury capsule and a replica of Sputnik.
The Fossil Gallery features fossils from animals that have long since left this Earth like the Tyrannosaurus rex, saber-tooth cat and Megaladon. Around the corner the Weinman Mineral Gallery is the go to space for all things inside the Earth showcasing everything from plate tectonics to glow in the dark rocks.
Kids won't want to miss the chance to test their engineering and play skills inside "My Big Backyard." While some of the experiments may require parental supervision, they're full of learning experiences and fun.
No trip to Tellus is complete without participating in their fossil dig and gem mining. Both activities are hands on, geared toward kids 12 and under and included with admission.
Each spring, Tellus hosts Rock Fest, a gathering of rock and mineral sellers that also includes activities throughout the museum and grounds for families. Be sure to look out for it in 2016.
Elachee Nature Science Center (2125 Elachee Drive, Gainesville, GA) -- North of Atlanta, in Gainesville, the Elachee Nature Science Center promotes environmental education inside their 1,400-acre campus.
Ongoing programs include the 1st Saturday Hikes, which show off the grounds of the Center during a hike with an experienced guide, and "Stars Over Elachee," which teaches telescope and astronomy basics to children 8 years of age and older as well as adults.
Families wishing to explore the Center grounds on their own are invited to pick up a Discover Nature Pack in the lobby and spend the day exploring the forest with the help of nature guides and fun learning activities.
Two of the highlights of each year are the Center's Raptor Fest, which brings together bird lovers with some of their favorite raptors for a day filled with family-friendly fun, and Snake Day, which occupies families with crafts, educational opportunities and live animal demonstrations.
Chattahoochee Nature Center (9135 Willeo Road, Roswell, GA) -- On the shores of the Chattahoochee River, you'll find a nature and animal preserve chocked full of fun learning experiences for the whole family.
In addition to weekly guide led canoe and kayak trips, the 127-acre Chattahoochee Nature Center offers hands on learning for kids including their premier exhibit, Explore Your Watershed. Once you're done exploring skulls, bones, and live animals inside, head outside where the rescued raptors, a giant beaver and turtles are ready for viewing.
Story Time by the River, Creature Feature and Wildlife Feeding Time are must-do recurring events that are included with admission.
Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center (2020 Clean Water Drive, Buford, GA) -- Sitting next to TreeTop Quest near the Mall of Georgia, the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center offers hands on learning and hiking.
The family-friendly Discover H2O exhibit offers children an interactive and fun way to explore how water gets to their homes while walks outdoors provide interactive exploration fun for children and adults.
While you're there, take the opportunity to explore Gwinnett history through the Water Ways exhibit and see how water helped the county come to life.
Don't miss the Discovery Dome Theater on Saturdays, which features a variety of programming showcasing the universe, all inside a portable planetarium.
