After nearly 13 years of being closed, Fresno’s Discovery Center reopened its science museum Saturday. The building had to be completely refurbished after a fire destroyed it back in May of 2000.
The refurbished facility is once again filled with lessons in: Ocean life, electricity, rocks and reptiles.
“Many young people came here as elementary students for their science program and for some fun and now that they're adults they've not had the opportunity to comeback. So now they can bring their grandchildren and children,” said Gary Pigg, President of the Discovery Center.
The closure of the Met Museum some years ago makes the science arcade here even more of a city jewel.
“It's a really good thing to be back. It makes us all really happy. It's one thing Fresno kids can enjoy and from all over Central California,” said Janette Lomeli, a volunteer.
What makes The Discovery Center so unique is the interactive experiences it offers.
“This is a place to come play. This is real play. This is play where you get your hands on it,” said Pigg.
That’s what sold Mark and Rosario McKinney, who brought their three children.
“It's tough to find a place for kids to play and touch and not worry about breaking things. They always hear the word no all the time and now they hear yes go ahead, so that's a good thing,” said Mark McKinney, a visitor.
“I'm all for learning and anything that can get kids interested and away from bad things,” said Rosario McKinney, a visitor.
The Discovery Center is located at 1944 N. Winery Ave. in southeast Fresno.
It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. - 5p.m.
Admission is $6 for adults. Children are $4. Kids 3 and under are free.