With school out for summer, chances are you’re looking for family-friendly activities. It’s always a bonus when that activity features fun for both the kids and the grown-ups.
Danielle here. I spent the day at the Roper Mountain Science Center’s Summer Adventure. From ways to learn while school’s out to energizing activities to burn energy, here’s how you can Try This.
What we tried:
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
Learning by doing. | Photos by GVLtoday
I started my exploration at the seasonal exhibit “How People Make Things.” Inspired by Mr. Rogers, you’re immediately transported into a colorful, hands-on learning experience about how objects like crayons and sneakers are made + how people, ideas, and technology turn raw materials into finished products. Look closely. You’ll see local manufacturers supporting the exhibit, giving kids a chance to connect what they’re learning with our community.
What not to miss:
Animal fans can spend all day at the Harrison Hall of Natural Science. | Photos by GVLtoday
Animal fans can spend all day at the Harrison Hall of Natural Science. | Photos by GVLtoday
Animal fans can spend all day at the Harrison Hall of Natural Science. | Photos by GVLtoday
Animal fans can spend all day at the Harrison Hall of Natural Science. | Photos by GVLtoday
Animal fans can spend all day at the Harrison Hall of Natural Science. | Photos by GVLtoday
You can’t miss the animal interactions. From insects to sting rays to snakes (I met Elon and Elvis), you can touch and hold different species as staff and volunteers share fun facts.
I learned a walking stick has red “armpits” because its advanced camouflage matches young leaves.
What we’re still talking about:
We’re still talking about the nature exchange. Did you know you can bring items found in nature and exchange them for points to be used on other items from nature? Think: Swap shells you found at your beach trip and save up points for a Megalodon tooth.
Roper Mountain Science Center has one of the largest Nature Exchange programs in the world with 7,088+ participants at the time of my visit.
Pro tip: Check out the clear jar on the Nature Exchange Desk. If you can guess the mystery item (which is something found at the Center), you’ll earn bonus points. When I visited, the mystery item was caterpillar poop.
How you can experience this:
Experience Summer Adventure every Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. now until Saturday, July 29.
It’s $12 per adult (13+), $10 per child (3-12), and free for kids under three. Memberships start at $90, and entry into Summer Adventure is included for members.
EBT card tickets can be purchased on-site for $5 each (four ticket max).
Things to know if you go:
- Experience: Summer Adventure at Roper Mountain Science Center
- Price: $10-$12
- Website: www.ropermountain.org
- Address: 402 Roper Mountain Rd., Greenville
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. now through Saturday, July 29
- Social: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube *
