The Fernbank Science Center might be a small museum, but it packs an awful lot of exhibits and things to do into its site on the edge of the Fernbank Forest. Stargazers will love the museum's 500-seat planetarium and observatory which houses one of the country's largest telescopes for public viewing. The museum opened in 1967 with the aim of preserving the forest and teaching as many people as possible about science, which is why the museum is free to enter, though there is a charge for the planetarium shows. As well as the inside exhibits, visitors can explore the 26 hectares of nearly-pristine old-growth Piedmont forest that surrounds the museum.
The main exhibit hall covers just over 800 square metres and is split into two levels which have exhibitions on a whole array of scientific concepts. Considering the size of the museum, it has some amazing exhibits, including the Apollo 6 space capsule, which is on display in the permanent gallery. You can also watch a video about the last unmanned Apollo mission's take off and journey.
As well as all the science exhibits, there are lots of animals to see too, including snakes, frogs, chickens, turtles and spiders. Another popular exhibit is the busy working beehive that is attached to the outside of the building and where you can watch the bees producing honey through a glass spy panel.
Don't miss a show at the planetarium – some of the shows are aimed at toddlers, so check online to see the schedule. As you look up at the 21-metre dome you will feel as though you're on a real journey through space.
Over in the observatory, you can look at stars through the high-powered telescope. Astronomers work the telescope, and they hold question and answer sessions on Thursdays and Fridays, though these are dependent on the weather).
The science centre is open every day except Sunday and some national holidays. The exhibit hall and conservatory are free, but there's a small fee for planetarium shows. You can get here by bus from central Atlanta, or if you drive, there's plenty of free parking.
