Impression 5 Science Center

Impression 5 Science Center’s name come from the five senses and is an interactive space for families to play, create, and challenge their understanding of science. Visitors of all ages will enjoy their hands-on exhibits and have fun playing while learning basic science principles. A First Impression Room is a dedicated space for birth to four years of age with opportunities to crawl, play, splash, climb, read and explore. Other exhibits include a bubble room called Pop!, Flow!, a two-story water room, Spectrum with a giant light screen, electromagnetic exploration, prisms, mirrors, and a shadow wall. Throwing Things and the Build Zone are also popular. 
 

Hours

Tuesday - Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Admission

$15.00: Adults, Children 2 and older
$13: Seniors, Military members (and immediate family)
FREE: Members, Children 23 months & younger
$3.00: Museums for All (up to 6 guests with valid ID and EBT, Medicaid, or WIC card)

Last Updated March 2026

Reciprocal Admission

FREE: ASTC Travel Passport 90+ miles
50% OFF: ASTC Travel Passport under 90 miles
50% OFF: ACM Reciprocal Network (up to 6 guests)

Don't Miss at Impression 5 Science Center

• FLOW: A Water Experience - A two-story water room where guests can build sailboats, explore a vortex, and power a giant flywheel that shoots a geyser high into the air.
• POP! A Bubble Experience: Experiment with surface tension by creating giant bubble films or even stand inside a full-sized body bubble.
• Spectrum: A light-focused exhibit featuring a life-size Light Moasiac and a "Shadow Wall" where you can strike a pose and watch your shadow remain on the phosphorescent wall for several seconds. 
• Throwing Things: An energy-themed space where you can test your pitching form, launch air cannons, and use a trebuchet to hurl tennis balls while learning about kinetic and potential energy

Bring your own snacks or lunch to enjoy in the dedicated Delta Dental Gathering Place, which features indoor seating and vending machines. The museum offers sensory toolkits and designated sensory-friendly times with reduced sound and lighting stimuli for guests with specific needs. 

Know Before You Go

Where should I park?

Parking is free and is on-site. 

What other activities are nearby?

Because Impression 5 is located in the heart of downtown Lansing, you are within walking distance of several major attractions. 

Within 5 Blocks (Easy Walking Distance)

• Jackson Field: Home of the Lansing Lugnuts minor league baseball team.
• Michigan State Capitol Building: Take a guided tour of this historic building.
• Michigan History Museum:  Explore interactive exhibits on the state's past.
• R.E. Olds Transportation Museum: Dive into Lansing's automotive history right next door.
• Riverwalk Theatre: Catch a local community production, just steps away.
• Planet Walk: Step outside to the Lansing River Trail for an outdoor science experience with this scale model of the solar system.
• Lansing River Trail: A paved pathway over 20 miles long, most of which follows the Grand & Red Cedar Rivers.

Nearby Food & Recreation

• Lansing Shuffle: A food hall with multiple vendors and indoor shuffleboard, just a short walk north.
• Play Michigan! Playground: A fully accessible, inclusive playground.
• Preuss Pets: A legendary local pet store with an indoor zoological tropical paradise experience located a short drive north in Old Town.

Are there any featured exhibits at the Science Center?

Yes! Impression 5 frequently hosts traveling and temporary exhibits. You can visit the official Impression 5 website for the most current updates on special exhibits.

Where can I buy a souvenir or gift?

Impression 5 offers a large on-site gift shop, Spark STEM Toys & Gifts, which is full of educational treasures and toys for young scientists.

Does Impression 5 offer science programs for kids?

Yes! Impression 5 offers a variety of Science Programs, including workshops, camps, and pop-up activities. More information is available on their website.

How long should I plan on my trip to Impression 5 Science Center?

Most families spend between 2 and 3 hours exploring the two floors of exhibits, though many stay longer to participate in special pop-up activities and hands-on demonstrations.

Is Impression 5 Science Center accessible?

Yes. The building features wheelchair-accessible entrances, wide button-pressed opening doors, and an elevator equipped with Braille controls. They also offer sensory backpacks (including noise-reducing earphones, social stories, and fidgets), a Delta Dental Comfort Zone, and a designated sensory room for visitors needing a quiet break

For more accessibility features, visit Impression 5 Science Center.