Discovery Cube Orange County is a must-visit destination for curious minds of all ages, offering hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences that make learning fun. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of space, diving into the science of healthy living, or discovering the secrets of environmental conservation, the Cube is packed with engaging activities to spark creativity and curiosity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the must-see exhibits, share insider tips for families, and help you plan an unforgettable day of exploration and discovery.
As a Cube Creator, I’m honored to share our experiences here and on social media. The mission of the Discovery Cube is one that makes me proud to support. Want to know more? Keep reading!
Inspire – Educate – Impact
“We inspire and educate young minds through engaging science-based programs and exhibits to create a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.”
Tickets to the Discovery Cube
Discovery Cub Membership
My family of six prefers to purchase memberships for family-friendly outings to save money. A Discovery Cube membership pays off in less than three visits. Our family membership includes parking and discounted companion tickets when we bring friends! Plus, we get discounts on retail purchases, camps, etc.
There are tiers for membership to suit your needs. Check out Discovery Cube Membership Tiers.
My favorite membership benefit is the ability to come and go! We prefer less busy days (obviously!). As members, we opt to skip holidays or first days of holiday breaks. Recently, the Discovery Cube rolled out Members Only mornings as an added benefit for passholders!
How to get into the Discovery Cube for Free
There are promotions throughout the year to get free entry into the Discovery Cube.
- Santa Ana Free Days – The first Tuesday of the month, Santa Ana residents can get 4 four tickets with government-issued ID. OC-only
- Bank of America – Museum on Us – Bank of America card holders can get 1 free ticket per cardholder on Sunday the first full weekend of the month. OC-only
- Members – Once you secure your membership, your unlimited visits are free!
For more opportunities, check out Discovery Cube Promotions. Make sure to follow the official Discovery Cube accounts on social media to be notified of more.
Plus, the Discovery Cube has teams of ambassadors for both locations. Check out #CubeCreators to find your favorite family-friendly influencers who will share updates and opportunities.
Best Ages to Enjoy Discovery Cube
Curiosity knows no age limit! With that said, we have found the majority of exhibits to be of interest to our kids as preschoolers through elementary-aged.
We love celebrating the various events at the Discovery Cube which include fun for a variety of ages. For example, Pumpkin Palooza in the fall has corn mazes, carnival games, trick-or-treating, and toddler “tractor” ride-on toys. My littlest loved in! My bigger elementary-aged kiddo rode bumper cares, and then moved on to the hands-on exhibits and the dance party.
Sensory-Friendly Mornings at the Discovery Cube
Children engage and explore in their own ways. We appreciate the Discovery Cube’s accessibility for all types of learners.
The Discovery Cube rolled out Sensory-Friendly Mornings every third Sunday of the month from 8 AM – 10 AM at both campuses.
What to Expect During a Sensory-Friendly Morning:
- Reduced crowds
- Sensory friendly maps
- Visual cue cards
- Welcoming staff allow guests independent exploration that targets specific interests and needs
*Free admission for one aide per family (with badge or medical ID)
The Sensory-Friendly Morning is ideal for little scientists on the autism spectrum. However, it’s a great opportunity for anyone who would benefit from reduced stimulation (yes, parents, that’s you, too!).
My timid toddler loves to explore and the Sensory-Friendly Mornings have been a perfect way for her to get comfortable at the Cube. At 2, she’s very uneasy about being anywhere indoors or dark. But we got to see the Winter Lights show during their Sensory-Friendly Mornings, and she not only experienced the full show but she participated!
Is Discovery Cube Good for Toddlers
It’s never too early to start a love of science! Little ones love hands-on exploration available at the Discovery Cube. There’s plenty to do!
Some of my toddler’s favorite exhibits:
- Dino Quest, especially the sand area
- Rainforest Area
- Sea Lab
- Physics Labs, especially the car raceway and the cloud rings
Don’t miss the water play patio for a toddler-sized retreat.
With a toddler, I plan on spending a few hours each visit. All that fun can work up an appetite. The Bean Sprouts Cafe has the most adorable kids meals! Grab a Whoopsie Daisy meal with plant-based chicken tenders arranged as a flower with veggies & ranch or Grilledzilla, a grilled cheese with veggies.
Must-See Exhibits at Discovery Cube OC
The Cube, as we call it, has permanent and visiting exhibits. Let’s dig into our favorite permanent exhibits!
Permanent Exhibits
Dino Quest
Reopened in 2024, the reimagined Dino Quest features handheld Dino Tracker devices that allow you to complete one of four engaging missions. There’s also a Dig Excavation pit filled with sand and the tools needed to unearth “fossils.” Find out more about Dino Quest.
Sea Lab
You’ll sea so many cute creatures at the Sea Lab. The hands-on tanks have sharks and other fish to safely touch. Staff shares facts, plus tips for safely greeting sea life.
Eco Challenge: Discovery Market
It’s like Amazon Fresh without the price tag. Go on a challenge through a grocery store and scan products to answer questions. The kids love pushing the carts and taking their photo at the end.
You can find a full list of permanent exhibits on their website.
Discovery Cube Address
Orange County:
2500 N. Main Street
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Los Angeles:
11800 Foothill Blvd
Sylmar, CA 91342
Discovery Cube Hours
Both Discovery Cube locations are daily from 10 AM-5 PM.
A visit to Discovery Cube Orange County is more than just a day of fun—it’s an opportunity to ignite curiosity, inspire a love of learning, and create unforgettable memories with your family. With its wide range of hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences, the Cube offers something for everyone, from young explorers to lifelong learners. So, plan your trip today, and get ready to embark on an adventure that’s as educational as it is exciting!
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