Don Harrington Discovery Center
The Don Harrington Discovery Center is a science museum and educational facility located in Amarillo, Texas. It was founded in 1980 by a group of local educators and community leaders as a way to promote science and technology education in the region. The Discovery Center is named after Don Harrington, a local philanthropist and businessman who donated the land and funds for the facility’s construction.
The Discovery Center is housed in a modern building that features numerous exhibits and interactive displays focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). These exhibits cover a wide range of subjects, including space, physics, biology, and geology, and are designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages. The museum also features a number of special exhibits and programs, such as planetarium shows, science demonstrations, and workshops.
One of the main features of the Don Harrington Discovery Center is its IMAX theater, which is equipped with a large-format screen and state-of-the-art projection and sound systems. The theater shows a variety of educational and entertainment films on a variety of scientific and cultural topics. The museum also has a café and a gift shop that sells a variety of science-related products, books, and souvenirs.
In addition to its public exhibits and programs, the Don Harrington Discovery Center also serves as a resource for local educators and students. The museum offers a range of educational resources, such as lesson plans and teacher guides, and hosts field trips and other educational programs for school groups. The museum also hosts a variety of camps and after-school programs for children and young people, as well as special events and workshops for adults.
Over the years, the Don Harrington Discovery Center has become a popular destination for families and tourists in the Amarillo area. It has also gained a reputation as a leading institution for science education and research in the region. The museum has received numerous accolades and awards for its educational programs and exhibits and has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
In recent years, the Don Harrington Discovery Center has undergone a number of renovations and expansions to update and enhance its facilities and exhibits. In 2012, the museum opened a new exhibit called “DinoDig,” which allows visitors to search for and excavate real fossil specimens. In 2016, the museum unveiled a new state-of-the-art planetarium, which features high-definition projection and surround-sound systems that offer an immersive experience for visitors.
Today, the Don Harrington Discovery Center continues to be a vital resource for science education and research in the Amarillo area. It serves as a hub for learning and discovery, inspiring curiosity and a love of science in people of all ages.
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