Sad news, Seattle: Seattle’s Pacific Science Center will be temporarily closing from September 2 through October 10. When it reopens on October 11, PacSci (as it’s often called) will introduce a heart-pounding, skin-crawling new exhibit along with other updates. It will also close the curtain on an iconic exhibit that Seattle has loved for decades: the PacSci dinosaurs.
Read on for all the answers to your questions!
Why is PacSci closing?
In the announcement about the closure and upcoming changes, Pacific Science Center cited financial constraints as one of the reasons for the updates. The museum referred to the closure as “a period of renewal, with improvements designed to enhance the visitor experience, honor our legacy, and ensure our campus is sustainable for the future.”
Why are the dinosaurs being removed?
The dinosaurs at Pacific Science Center were built almost 40 years ago in 1986! The materials used were only meant to last for 15 years and have therefore become too degraded and costly to repair and maintain. The opening date and content of the exhibit(s) that will eventually replace the dinosaurs has yet to be announced.
Luckily you will have a chance to say goodbye to the PacSci dinosaurs. The museum plans to host a “goodbye dinosaurs party” in late August. We will update this post with the exact date! And if you miss the farewell party, one of the dinosaurs will remain permanently as part of a new exhibit about Pacific Science Center’s history.
What other changes is PacSci implementing?
The dinosaur exhibit ending isn’t the only change coming to Pacific Science Center this fall. Here are all the updates:
- The dinosaur exhibit will be retired.
- The PacSci courtyard will open on October 11. This outdoor space will be used for “relaxation, learning, and community gatherings.”
- There will be new and updated entrances, including an entrance in the courtyard.
- Building 4 will reopen with a new exhibit called “Spiders: From Fear to Fascination.” This will feature live spiders from around the world in an exhibit featuring hands-on activities and interactive elements. If you hate spiders, know that PacSci says the exhibit is designed to help all ages “overcome common fears in a safe, engaging environment.”
What if I have an annual membership?
Worried about missing out on your full membership this year due to the closure? Never fear: if you have an active membership at Pacific Science Center it will be extended by two months to, per the museum, “ensure you receive the full value of your PacSci experience.” This will happen automatically so you shouldn’t need to take any action on your part.
Will the IMAX theaters be closed as well?
No, the IMAX theaters at Pacific Science Center will stay open during this closure! The Laser Dome will also remain open. So you can still go to PacSci this September and October for laser shows and IMAX movies.
We’ll see you at the PacSci Butterfly House (and maybe even at the new spider exhibit??) on October 11! In the meantime, we will update this post with upcoming reopening events and previews.