Summer is heating up in Greenville, and Roper Mountain Science Center is ready to transform those lazy summer days into exciting adventures for the whole family. With a lineup of engaging programs and special events, the science center offers a wonderful mix of education and entertainment to keep curious minds active during the school break. From close encounters with beautiful butterflies to immersive space experiences, there’s something to intrigue visitors of all ages in the coming months.
Roper Mountain Science Center stands out as a leading destination for families looking to combine fun with learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Their thoughtfully designed summer offerings provide a refreshing alternative to screen time and structured camps, allowing families to explore together at their own pace. With extended hours and varied programs running from late May through July, parents have plenty of options to plan memorable outings that will have kids talking long after the visit ends.
The signature Summer Adventure program returns to Roper Mountain Science Center for another season of discovery and excitement. Running from May 28 through July 26, this popular program welcomes visitors Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The centerpiece of this year’s adventure is the always-intriguing Butterfly Encounter, where families can walk among free-flying butterflies, observing these delicate creatures up close in their habitat. The immersive experience provides a magical opportunity for children and adults alike to connect with nature and learn about butterfly life cycles and behaviors.
Adding to the excitement this year is the special traveling exhibit “Wild Kratts: Creature Power!” Based on the popular PBS Kids series, this interactive experience invites young wildlife enthusiasts to step into the world of the Kratt brothers. Children can explore animal habitats, discover unique creature powers, and engage in hands-on activities that bring science concepts to life. The exhibit aligns perfectly with the center’s mission of making science accessible and enjoyable for young learners, combining the familiar characters kids love with educational content that sparks curiosity about the natural world.
When the summer heat reaches its peak in mid-July, Roper Mountain Science Center offers a cool retreat with their Laser Days of Summer in the Planetarium. From July 17 through July 26, Thursday through Saturday, visitors can escape into the air-conditioned comfort of the planetarium for an extraordinary sensory experience. These special laser light shows transform the dome into a canvas of dancing lights choreographed to popular music that appeals to various age groups and musical tastes. The vibrant colors and patterns synchronized to familiar tunes create an entertaining experience that feels both relaxing and exhilarating.
Beyond the limited-run laser shows, families can continue to enjoy the center’s Friday Starry Nights throughout the summer. The state-of-the-art T.C. Hooper Planetarium features a 360° full immersion dome with 4K projection, cutting-edge lighting, and dynamic 5.1 surround sound that brings the cosmos to life. These weekly programs offer an accessible introduction to astronomy, allowing visitors to explore distant galaxies, understand celestial movements, and gain perspective on our place in the universe. The immersive technology makes complex astronomical concepts tangible even for the youngest space enthusiasts, creating memorable learning experiences for the entire family.
