Policies and FAQ
Guest Guidelines
Smoking and Tobacco Use
We ask that visitors refrain from smoking on the front patio, and near all entrances. If you would like a designated smoking area, please ask at the Front Desk. This includes e-cigarettes. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Food and Drink Policy
Food or drink is prohibited on the exhibit floor. A water fountain is available onsite for public use. At this time, Discovery Space does not have a designated area for visitors to eat or drink. However, food and drink can be consumed in the coatroom. There is also a picnic table located outside our entrance that anyone is welcome to use, weather permitting.
Classroom Policy
Discovery 1 and Discovery 2 are our classrooms used to host a variety of programming. This includes, but is not limited to, camps, birthday parties, pre-K classes, etc. If you are not participating in a program or asked to be in the classrooms, we ask that visitors refrain from being in, or using that space due to safety. If you would like more information or wish to tour the classrooms, feel free to ask the Front Desk and they will accommodate you based on availability.
Drop Off Policy
We require adult supervision of all children on the exhibit floor. Dropping your child off to play on the exhibit floor is strictly prohibited. Some educational programs are drop-off programs and require pre-registration. Those programs will be clearly marked. If you have questions, please ask the Front Desk. In order to ensure the safety and security of all visitors and staff, when Discovery Space is closed to the general public and a child is participating in a special event or pre-registered program, parents or guardians are not permitted to stay in the science center.
Program Cancellation Policy
Day Camp Cancellation Policy
If your child is no longer able to attend camp, a $15 cancellation fee will be charged and a refund will be issued. If canceling less than 7 days before the first day of the camp, no refund requests will be honored.
Summer Camp Cancellation Policy
If cancelling more than 7 days prior to the first day of camp, you may transfer to another session, space permitting or receive a refund less the $50 non-refundable deposit. If canceling within 7 days of the first day of camp, you may transfer to another session, space permitting. No refund requests will be honored.
Dress Code
We require that all visitors have tops, bottoms, and shoes.
Weapons Policy
Weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited from the premises.
Inclusion and Personal Safety
Discovery Space is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and diverse learning environment regardless of gender, age, race, religious background, language, socio-economic status, ability, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. Please let a member of our Front Desk staff know if you have questions, or concerns.
Pets and Service Animals
While we love pets, we ask that you please leave them at home when visiting our facility.
However, in accordance with the law, service animals are welcome to accompany their owners.
General Visit FAQ
Are you a daycare?
No, Discovery Space is a hands on science center. We encourage families, friends, and children to learn about STEM in a variety of applications through interactive play. We also offer a variety of programming both in house and around our community. Check out our calendar to see what fun and exciting things are coming up at Discovery Space!
My child is 3 or younger. Are there things for them to do?
Yes! We strive to reach a variety of ages with our exhibits and programming. We run three Pre-K classes during the week that are free with admission or membership. These classes will explore a new STEM related topic each time that will engage you and your child together in learning, play, song, or dance! We also have an area of our exhibit floor called “The Hive” that is specifically curated for babies and toddlers.
Where can I nurse my child?
We have benches and seating strategically placed around the science center that you are always welcome to use. However, if you prefer a private space, please inquire at the Front Desk and a staff member will accommodate you.
Is there parking?
Yes, there is a free parking lot available to visiting patrons.
Membership & Admission
Do I need a membership to visit?
No, a membership is not necessary to visit the science center. If you do not wish to purchase a membership you can pay admission for the day, or use a community pass available from local libraries and organizations.
What is your admission cost?
$7 a person ages 3 and up. Children under the age of 3 will be admitted for free.
Why do adults need to pay admission?
Our mission is to provide engaging science experiences that spark creativity, curiosity, and imagination. Our exhibits are designed to encourage families and friends to collaborate and learn together. While volunteers may be available on the floor for questions, adult supervision is always required.
I purchased admission, but have to leave. Can I still access the science center later in the day without paying admission again?
Yes! Just let a member of our team know and we can give you a hand stamp. If you leave prior to receiving the stamp, we can still admit you if you have a copy of your receipt reflecting the same day of purchase.
Do you ever offer free, or discounted admission?
We offer $1 off admission on the back of our brochures, bring one in when you visit and we will be happy to reduce the fee. Yelp also offers $1 off admission when you visit their website and go to “Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania.” Or, you can check out one of Discovery Space’s family passes for free from one of the seven surrounding libraries.
I paid admission, but had a great time! Can I buy a membership before leaving the center without being double charged?
Yes! If you paid admission, but decide to purchase a membership prior to leaving our space we can adjust the cost of the membership and deduct the cost of admission that was already paid. Unfortunately, we only have the ability to do this on site and this adjustment would not be available when purchasing a membership online. Questions? Call the front desk at 814.234.0200.
I am a member, but wish to bring additional family or friends who are not a member. Is there a discount for them?
Yes! As an added benefit for members, members can bring their family or friends and receive $1 off their admission for up to 4 guests.
Can I purchase a renewal membership before my current membership has expired?
You can purchase a membership at any time but your new membership will expire the month you purchased it.
What happens if I buy my membership today and want to use it at another science center tomorrow?
We no longer print cards at the front desk so that our staff can be attentive to visitors. We recommend calling the science center you intend to visit ahead of time; most science centers will accept your confirmation email or receipt as proof. Additionally, science centers that are a part of the ASTC Passport Program may be willing to call Discovery Space during our business hours to verify that you have a current membership.
How does my membership work at other science centers?
Discovery Space pays a yearly fee to remain a part of the ASTC Travel Passport Program. This allows you benefits at other ASTC science centers across the country and around the world. Visit the ASTC website to look for participating science centers.
Can I still get into science centers that are a part of the ASTC Passport Program if I don’t have my cards with me?
We recommend calling ahead to the science center you intend to visit. Science centers that are a part of the ASTC Passport Program may be willing to call Discovery Space during our business hours to verify that you have a current membership. You may also be able to use your membership email confirmation or receipt.
Can I add a caregiver to my membership?
Yes, a caregiver card is available upon request for all memberships except Lunar. Note: There is a $35 fee for Terrestrial.
Is there a separate membership for grandparents?
No, everyone is eligible for the new levels of membership benefits.
Can grandparents purchase a Lunar membership?
Yes, as long as the grandchildren are listed on another family membership.
Do all children and grandchildren need to be listed on the membership application?
Yes, any children and grandchildren that will be using the membership must be listed. The only way to receive discounts on programs, parties, facility rentals and gift shop purchases is to list all members of the family.
Can I get a replacement card?
Yes, for a $10 fee if you lost your card or are making any changes to your membership.
Where can I update my address?
Use our change of address form to update your address.
Is my membership tax-deductible?
Lunar, Terrestrial, and Stellar memberships are not tax-deductible. Of the $250 paid for Galactic memberships, $97 is tax-deductible, and for the $500 paid for Quasar memberships, $333 is tax-deductible.
Media Release for Events
Media Release
(Policy acknowledgement as part of RSVP for specific events)
I hereby grant Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania (DSCP) my irrevocable permission, without compensation, to photograph, film, record or quote me during this event.
All copies of photographs, videos, recordings or quotations taken under this agreement shall constitute the sole property of DSCP, which has my permission to edit, alter, reproduce, distribute or use the images in any medium whatsoever, including, but not limited to, print and electronic promotional materials, news releases, and web site.
I further consent that name(s) may be revealed therein or by descriptive text or commentary. I hereby release DSCP, its Board of Directors, staff, representatives, agents, successors and assigns, from any and all actions and claims which I, my family members, heirs, executors or administrators may have arising by reason of this authorization.
Diversity and Inclusion Commitment
We are dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace. Below is an outline of the steps that staff management will take. We recognize that this not a comprehensive list, and that in order to be diligent on this matter, we must make a continuous effort to listen, learn, and adapt.
Staff Training
Implement and prioritize implicit bias training for all employees and key volunteers to ensure cultural sensitivity. Build cultural competencies into recruitment and hiring practices.
Communication
Evaluate job descriptions and all internal communication for language that promotes inclusivity. Refine document policies and procedures so that they may reflect and protect the best interests of the organization:
- Code of conduct
- Non-discrimination policy
- Compensation and benefits policy
- Employment conditions and termination
- Zero tolerance policy
- A method for safely reporting instances of discrimination
General Operations
Stay informed of diversity laws. Encourage employees to work in diverse groups, expand vendors to include more minority-owned businesses.