Inspiring Curious Minds Since 1984

Arizona Science Center’s story begins with a spark of curiosity—and with the early leadership of The Junior League of Phoenix, which first championed the effort to create a center dedicated to hands-on science education in Arizona. Their vision set the stage for what would become the state’s premier resource for informal science learning.

In 1980, Arizona Science Center—then known as the Arizona Museum of Science & Technology—was born as the state’s first and only dedicated hub for science education and engagement. Incorporated in 1982 as a private nonprofit, the Science Center opened its doors in 1984 in a 10,000-square-foot space tucked into the parking-garage level of the downtown Phoenix Hyatt Regency.

During these formative years, the generosity of Stevie and Karl Eller provided essential seed funding that helped bring this vision to life. From their Swensen’s Ice Cream Store in downtown Phoenix, the Ellers offered more than just sweet treats—they offered vital support that allowed the future Science Center to take root and grow. Their belief in the power of science education continues to ripple through everything we do today.

With its unique ability to inspire, educate, and engage curious minds through science, Arizona Science Center quickly gained popularity, welcoming more than 87,000 visitors in its first year, and soon outgrew its original location. In 1997, the Center relocated to a new 120,000-square-foot building designed by the award-winning architect Antoine Predock.

Today, the Center still occupies this distinct building within Heritage and Science Square and has expanded by an additional 18,000 square feet with the opening of CREATE at Arizona Science Center®.