About Us

Catawba Science Center is a 35,000 sq. ft. science technology museum whose purpose is to change lives and inspire learning through science and wonder.

Our institution opened its doors in 1975 as the Creative Museum for Youth, founded by the Service League of Hickory (a local volunteer organization) in the historic John Cilley house, a 4,000 sq. ft. Victorian-era structure.

In 1978, the name was changed to the Catawba Science Center (after Catawba County) to reflect a mission of science education for a broader spectrum of the public. Staffed initially by volunteers, the Museum provided visitors with a variety of small exhibits and activities in science and art.

Catawba Science Center (CSC) moved into the space in April of 1986 with several other cultural organizations: the Hickory Museum of Art, the Catawba County Council for the Arts (offices), the Western Piedmont Symphony (offices and rehearsal area), and the Hickory Choral Society.

Along with our featured and long-term exhibitions, the Science Center has facilities like the Millholland Planetarium, a state-of-the art, 65 seat digital planetarium theater, and saltwater and freshwater aquarium galleries. All of this possible due to the continued help and support from community members like you.