Hickory – Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear is a traveling exhibition that allows guests to safely explore the physical, mental, and social aspects of fear! What causes sensations like clammy hands and a racing heart when we become scared? Learn all of this and more through this exciting and engaging exhibit. Embark on the fear challenge course, exploring the fear of falling, animals, electric shock, and more!

Located in Carpenter Hall. Cost included in admission.

Open to CSC Members Only: November 21st – November 29th; Open to Public: December 2nd.

Where do I enter?
CSC would like to ask all guests to please use the North Lobby entrance to the Arts & Science building for check-in to the Science Center. A one-way predetermined path has been established through the exhibits to ensure consistent movement, and your adventure will begin at the North check-in desk! The Planetarium/Aquarium and North admissions desk will be used for CSC check-in, and the South Lobby Science Shop will be for gift shop purchases only. The South Lobby entrance will be reserved for Hickory Museum of Art guests.

Unavailable Areas
Millholland Planetarium: Due to the close proximity and inability to socially distance in the planetarium, it will remain closed at this time.

Touch Experiences: All aquarium touch tanks will be hands-off for the safety of guests, our animals, and animal care staff.

Water Fountains: For your safety, the SALT Block foundation has turned off all water fountains. Guests may purchase water in the Science Shop.

Exhibit Experiences: We have limited certain high touch areas and have limited quantities of exhibit pieces such as the items in Treehouse Adventures area, so that we can frequently rotate them for sanitization.

New Hours
Monday: Closed to the public; Tuesday: Closed to the public; Wednesday: 10:30 am – 4:00 pm; Thursday: 10:30 am – 4:00 pm; Friday: 10:30 am – 4:00 pm; Saturday: 10:30 am – 4:00 pm; Sunday: 1:00 – 4:00 pm.

Catawba Science Center is located in The SALK Block, 243 Third Ave. NE, Hickory, NC 28601. To purchase tickets online or for more information, visit website at www.catawbasciencecenter.com.