Places to visitNorth DakotaAttractions

North Dakota's Gateway to Science

4.7
(315)
•
4.2
(30)
4.7
(315)
•
4.2
(30)
•#12 on "Top 50 things to do and attractions in Bismarck"
Science museum
Museums
Conference center
Education center
Event venue

About

Gateway to Science in North Dakota is a state-of-the-art science center that offers interactive exhibits, programs, and special events for visitors of all ages. The museum aims to inspire an interest in science and technology through its over 90 hands-on exhibits covering topics such as electricity, robotics, nanotechnology, weather, space, and even a real human brain specimen. Located in Bismarck, the museum provides educational and experimental experiences for families and children throughout the year.
Why you should go
    1
  1. Engaging exhibits covering various STEM topics
    2. 2
  2. Interactive displays and experiments for children of all ages
    3. 3
  3. Beautiful view of the river from the center
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Highlighted reviews

Slide 1 of 3
My kids love visiting here! There's something for each of them (8, 6, and 4), and they keep wanting to come back for more. Make sure you have plenty of time to spend here, the variety of exhibits and activities available keep kids excited and engaged!
My kids (2 & 4) and myself love gateway to science! The water table is their favorite and they also like the area that's blocked off for smaller children. They could easily spend hours here! Here are my gripes after visiting a few times. I'm not sure why there is such a strict limit on having/food drink around. It is a pain to try to drag my kids back to the lobby to get a drink or a snack. Also it is expensive! $9 for a child + adult fee means we can't visit as often as we'd like.
Gonna be honest, I didn't think I would enjoy this place, especially since it's only one floor. But don't let that fool you—this place is truly awesome! As a parent with children of various ages, I can confidently say that everyone loved the interactive displays and everything else it has to offer. I cannot praise it enough; we had such a great time and absolutely will be coming back. It exceeded all our expectations and proves that fun and learning can happen in a compact space. Highly recommend for families looking for an engaging and enjoyable outing.
My kids love visiting here! There's something for each of them (8, 6, and 4), and they keep wanting to come back for more. Make sure you have plenty of time to spend here, the variety of exhibits and activities available keep kids excited and engaged!
My kids (2 & 4) and myself love gateway to science! The water table is their favorite and they also like the area that's blocked off for smaller children. They could easily spend hours here! Here are my gripes after visiting a few times. I'm not sure why there is such a strict limit on having/food drink around. It is a pain to try to drag my kids back to the lobby to get a drink or a snack. Also it is expensive! $9 for a child + adult fee means we can't visit as often as we'd like.
Gonna be honest, I didn't think I would enjoy this place, especially since it's only one floor. But don't let that fool you—this place is truly awesome! As a parent with children of various ages, I can confidently say that everyone loved the interactive displays and everything else it has to offer. I cannot praise it enough; we had such a great time and absolutely will be coming back. It exceeded all our expectations and proves that fun and learning can happen in a compact space. Highly recommend for families looking for an engaging and enjoyable outing.
See all reviews
Map
Address
1600 Canary Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Website
https://gatewaytoscience.org/
Phone
(701) 258-1975
1600 Canary Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
People typically spend 1 hr to 2.5 hr here
(701) 258-1975
https://gatewaytoscience.org/

Know before you go

  • Consider bringing your own snacks or drinks as there are restrictions on having food around
  • Plan enough time for your visit as there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained
  • Visit during weekdays or non-peak hours to avoid crowds
  • Check out special events hosted at the center for added fun

Reviews

North Dakota's Gateway to Science is a beloved destination for families, offering a wide variety of engaging exhibits and activities that cater to children of all ages. Visitors rave about the cleanliness, friendly staff, and the excitement their kids experience while exploring the different areas. From circuits to working robotic arms and brain teasers, there is something for everyone at this science center. The stunning view of the river adds an extra charm to the experience, making it a must-visit spot in Bismarck.
Review score
4.7
out of 5
Exceptional
315 reviews
From Google
Review score
4.2
out of 5
Very Good
30 reviews
From Tripadvisor
5 stars
252
4 stars
44
3 stars
10
2 stars
3
1 star
6
5/5Liz K
•
Mar 21, 2024 from
Google
My kids love visiting here! There's something for each of them (8, 6, and 4), and they keep wanting to come back for more. Make sure you have plenty of time to spend here, the variety of exhibits and activities available keep kids excited and engaged!
4/5Jessica M
•
Feb 28, 2025 from
Google
My kids (2 & 4) and myself love gateway to science! The water table is their favorite and they also like the area that's blocked off for smaller children. They could easily spend hours here! Here are my gripes after visiting a few times. I'm not sure why there is such a strict limit on having/food drink around. It is a pain to try to drag my kids back to the lobby to get a drink or a snack. Also it is expensive! $9 for a child + adult fee means we can't visit as often as we'd like.
5/5JOSH K
•
Aug 6, 2025 from
Google
Gonna be honest, I didn't think I would enjoy this place, especially since it's only one floor. But don't let that fool you—this place is truly awesome! As a parent with children of various ages, I can confidently say that everyone loved the interactive displays and everything else it has to offer. I cannot praise it enough; we had such a great time and absolutely will be coming back. It exceeded all our expectations and proves that fun and learning can happen in a compact space. Highly recommend for families looking for an engaging and enjoyable outing.
5/5Lydia
•
Jul 21, 2025 from
Google
We LOVE Gateway to Science ND! Our experience at their summer camp truly exceeded our expectations. The staff is exceptional—always friendly and eager to help. A memorable highlight for us was during Shark Week, when our child had the opportunity to dissect a real shark. The camp is managed with outstanding professionalism and is well-kept. We highly recommend this place, whether you're visiting or participating in their summer camps!
5/5Cassady R
•
Jul 28, 2022 from
Google
My kids spent hours here and i still had to drag them away! Our family has been to a lot of science and museum places but i have never seen a lot of the items they have here. My 10 year old loved the circuits and my 5 year old loved the working robotic arm. I myself loved the Brian teasers. We all had a ton of fun!
All Google Maps reviews
All Tripadvisor reviews
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North Dakota throughout the year

Map
Address
1600 Canary Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
Website
https://gatewaytoscience.org/
Phone
(701) 258-1975
1600 Canary Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA
People typically spend 1 hr to 2.5 hr here
(701) 258-1975
https://gatewaytoscience.org/
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