Science World

A silver ball glows beside False Creek at the east end of Vancouver, and almost everyone who sees it asks the same question. The answer is that it is Science World, one of Canada's most recognisable science centres, housed in a geodesic dome 47 metres high. The dome was built as the Expo Centre for Expo 86, the world's fair that put Vancouver on the global map, and designed by the architect Bruno Freschi with a skin of triangular panels that gives it its faceted look. After the fair, it was reborn as a science museum, and Science World opened to the public in 1989. At night, the dome is lit with lights that glow in changing colours across the creek.

Inside, the building is a hands-on laboratory aimed particularly at children and families, though adults tend to get as absorbed as the young ones. Galleries cover the physical world, the human body, nature and the environment, with experiments that visitors can touch and test, such as ones involving sound, light, motion and water. Live shows with scientists and presenters, lab demonstrations and special themed exhibitions are held daily, and a dedicated space for the youngest children encourages play-based discovery. The OMNIMAX theatre, with its giant domed screen that surrounds the audience, shows large-format films about space, nature and science, and it is among the largest screens of its type.

The outdoor Ken Spencer Science Park, on the grounds, offers additional exhibits, including some that involve water, wind and natural materials, and it is open in good weather. A café and shop are on site, though food services can change.

The building is easy to reach. The Main Street–Science World SkyTrain station is a short walk away, and the Seawall runs past the door, so many people walk or cycle along False Creek from Granville Island. Allow around two hours for a visit, or longer with a film and a live show. Visitors with young children often come in the morning, when it is calmer.

Ticket prices, hours and exhibits change through the year, so check the website before you go. Science World is a non-profit centre, and admission funds its educational programmes.