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Museums #3 in Glen Ridge, Florida

Cox Science Center and Aquarium

4.4 · 2,378 reviews
Energetic, educational, and family-oriented.
Cox Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail N, West Palm Beach, FL 33405, United States
Interesting facts
1

The center is home to a 10,000-gallon reef aquarium that specifically highlights local Florida marine ecosystems.

2

It houses a digital planetarium that utilizes high-resolution projection systems to simulate night sky views.

3

The facility includes an outdoor physics-themed 18-hole miniature golf course.

4

The onsite observatory is equipped with professional-grade telescopes for public solar observation sessions.

5

The museum serves as a hub for the Palm Beach County STEM ecosystem, hosting regional robotics and science competitions.

Overview

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium is a hands-on interactive museum located within West Palm Beach's Dreher Park. The facility features over 10,000 square feet of gallery space housing permanent and rotating scientific exhibits. The onsite aquarium contains a 10,000-gallon main tank showcasing native marine life from the Florida Everglades and Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can access an observatory for solar telescope viewing during clear weather. The campus includes a miniature golf course designed with educational STEM themes. The center also operates a high-definition planetarium featuring digital astronomy shows. Extensive outdoor science trails provide supplemental hands-on learning environments.

Photo spot

In front of the large main saltwater aquarium tank for dramatic blue-toned lighting and marine life backdrops.

Insider tips

Check the planetarium show schedule upon arrival to secure a seat, as capacity is limited.

Combine your visit with a walk through the neighboring Palm Beach Zoo, which shares the same park complex.

Visit the observatory during mid-day hours for solar viewing opportunities.

What to avoid

Do not overlook the outdoor science trail, which is frequently missed by visitors focusing only on the indoor exhibits.

Good to know

Open daily, though specific exhibit areas may close for private events or maintenance.

Etiquette

Family-friendly environment; children must be supervised; no food or drink allowed inside the aquarium galleries.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2.5-3.5 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to avoid large school field trip groups and weekend crowds.
Address
Cox Science Center and Aquarium, 4801 Dreher Trail N, West Palm Beach, FL 33405, United States
26.669, -80.069
Get directions
Details
Key exhibits10,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, high-definition digital planetarium, and interactive STEM mini-golf course.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2.5-3.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to avoid large school field trip groups and weekend crowds..

In front of the large main saltwater aquarium tank for dramatic blue-toned lighting and marine life backdrops.

Close by you'll find Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society, Norton Museum of Art, Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.