If you're looking for the perfect family destination in Happy Valley, Discovery Space and The Rivet are the places where fun meets learning in a way that will captivate visitors of all ages.

Nestled in the heart of central Pennsylvania, this interactive museum is more than just a stop on your vacation itinerary — it’s an experience that will ignite curiosity and creativity in both kids and adults alike. With a blend of immersive STEM exhibits, hands-on workshops, and special events, Discovery Space and The Rivet make science, technology, and engineering fun for everyone.

An adventure for tourists and locals

Whether you’re a tourist visiting Happy Valley or a local looking for something new to do with the family, Discovery Space offers something for everyone. The center’s engaging exhibits and workshops are designed to make learning science and technology exciting, with interactive experiences that encourage visitors to explore the world around them.

For families traveling with children, Discovery Space is an ideal addition to any itinerary. Not only does it provide a unique opportunity for kids to engage in STEM learning, but it also offers parents the chance to participate in hands-on activities with their children. It’s a place where families can bond over shared experiences, all while learning something new.

Immersive STEM experiences for all ages

At Discovery Space, you’ll find a variety of immersive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) experiences that spark the imagination. The exhibit gallery hosts a wide range of interactive exhibits, each offering something different for curious minds.

The Hive, one of the center’s standout exhibits, is perfect for younger children. Designed with preschool-aged kids in mind, this exhibit allows little ones to explore the world through sensory play. What might look like simple play to some is actually the foundation for future STEM learning, where children can begin to understand cause and effect, explore mechanics, and interact with the world around them. Local artist Will Snyder added to the magic of this exhibit by painting a mural that brings The Hive to life, creating a vibrant environment that inspires the youngest of learners.

For those who love the arts as much as science, the Color House exhibit introduces kids to the world of color theory. Inside this interactive space, children use pretend play to explore how colors mix and interact, helping them understand complex ideas in a simple, fun way. The outside of the house features a mural of native Pennsylvania wildlife, painted by local artist Hannah Simon, making the connection between art, science, and the natural world.

Another exciting feature is the Marine Life Center, which brings the ocean to landlocked Pennsylvania. Here, kids can explore the wonders of marine biology up close, observing fish, crabs, coral, and other fascinating sea creatures in the center’s tanks. Through interactive activities, children are encouraged to dive deeper into their understanding of marine ecosystems, and they might even discover an interest in marine biology as a potential future career.

An AccuWeather exhibit gives young meteorologists the chance to learn about weather patterns and even step in front of a green screen to deliver their very own weather report. Using a teleprompter and green screen, children (and adults!) can practice their skills and see firsthand what it takes to be a meteorologist — making the science of weather not just informative but also exciting.

Rotating exhibits: Engineering in Action

Discovery Space also partners with Penn State University’s ME340 class, where students studying Mechanical Engineering Design Methodology work to create real‑world exhibits. These rotating exhibits offer an opportunity for visitors to engage with new content throughout the year, as Penn State students develop prototypes and bring them to life within the museum.

These exhibits provide not only a hands-on experience for visitors but also an opportunity for Penn State students to gain valuable experience in mechanical engineering design. Through the process of problem-solving, conceptual design, and testing, students produce functional prototypes that become part of the rotating slate of exhibits at Discovery Space. It’s a unique collaboration that enhances both the museum’s offerings and the educational experience for students.

The Rivet: Hands-on making and learning

Adjacent to Discovery Space is The Rivet, a maker space where both kids and adults can get hands-on with tools and materials. Whether you’re interested in 3D printing, woodworking, or electronics, The Rivet offers workshops and classes that allow visitors to dive into the world of making. The space encourages creativity, problem-solving, and hands-on learning, making it the perfect complement to the STEM-focused exhibits at Discovery Space.

For older kids and adults, The Rivet provides an opportunity to learn new skills and try out new technologies. It’s a place where anyone — from beginners to experienced makers — can bring their ideas to life. And with a variety of workshops available, there’s always something new to learn or create.

A destination for learning and fun

Discovery Space and The Rivet offer something truly special: an opportunity for families to experience the joy of learning together. Whether your child is fascinated by marine life, loves to tinker with gadgets, or just wants to explore the world of colors and sensory play, this unique destination has it all. It’s the perfect blend of education and entertainment, designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of STEM learning in kids of all ages.

Next time you’re planning a trip to Happy Valley, be sure to add Discovery Space and The Rivet to your list of must-see attractions. Not only will your kids leave with a new appreciation for science and technology, but you might just find yourself inspired as well.