The Seattle Traveler

Speeding Through Life at the Pacific Science Center

by Mary Jo on July 14th, 2008

If you feel like you’re racing through the day, the Speed exhibit at the Pacific Science Center will be just your. . . well, speed!

With interactive displays suitable for all ages, and an underlying educational message that encompasses math, velocity, acceleration, friction, and technology, it’s easy to see why this exhibit is a visitor favorite.

Don’t let the educational theme put you off – there’s tons of fun things to do here!

• Drag Racing:  Kids can sit in their dragsters, side-by-side, and once the light turns greens push the throttle forward and see who makes it to the end first.  Don’t go too fast, or you’ll find yourself spinning out.
• LEGO Race Cars:  Build your own, then race them on a metal track.  Play around with different designs and see how design and performance are related.
• Crash-test Dummy:  It’s the stopping that can kill you, as you’ll see in this display.  Learn about what happens in an impact by smashing a coin with the penny smasher.  OUCH!
• Virtual Ski Machine:  Nearly like the real thing, and an opportunity to learn how using edges and turns can change your rate of speed.  It also seems to be the display that’s the most fun – and has the longset line.
• Horsepower Pedaling:  Learn how much horsepower you can create with your pedaling power.  Although it starts out pretty hard, it gets a little easier as you pick up speed, and it’s fun to see how much horsepower you can generate.  This display seemed to bring out the competitive side of everyone.

Check out the video to get a little feel for speed:

If you’re not ready to slow down after viewing Speed, you can head over to the Imax theater for the movie, Super Speedway: Racing with the Andrettis. Check the schedule for times.

Location:  Seattle Center Campus, under the arches near the Space Needle, 200 2nd Ave North (map it) 

Dates & Hours:  Daily, 10 am - 6 pm (summer hours)

Tickets:  There is all sorts of special summer pricing available, including combo tickets, so check for details.

Photo credit:  flickr

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POSTED IN: Attractions, Family Fun, People Watching, Sports & Recreation