Don Harrington Discovery Center
The Don Harrington Discovery Center in Amarillo, Texas, is an educational and interactive science center with exhibits and programs for individuals of all ages. The center functions as a regional hub for science education and exploration, with a mission to stimulate curiosity, encourage discovery, and promote lifelong learning.
In 1976, the Don Harrington Discovery Center, also known as DHDC, first opened its doors. Since then, it has expanded and transformed, becoming a popular destination for families, students, and science enthusiasts. The center is named for local philanthropist Don Harrington, whose contributions made the facility feasible.
The Discovery Center’s extensive collection of interactive exhibits is one of its primary draws. Through interactive displays and activities, visitors can engage with various scientific concepts. From the marvels of the human body to the mysteries of outer space, there is something for everyone to appreciate and learn from. Children can explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through interactive exhibits intended to make learning enjoyable.
The Space Theater at the Discovery Center is a notable exhibit due to its state-of-the-art digital projection system. Visitors can embark on a virtual journey through the cosmos, encountering distant galaxies, planets, and astronomical phenomena. The Space Theater provides captivating performances that educate and excite guests about the marvels of space exploration.
The Discovery Center also hosts numerous educational programs and events throughout the year, in addition to its exhibits. These programs are designed for various age groups and encompass a vast array of scientific topics. From summer camps and seminars to special guest lectures and science festivals, the center offers numerous opportunities for expanding knowledge and engaging in experiential learning.
Additionally, the Discovery Center is dedicated to fostering scientific literacy among educators and students. It provides instructors with innovative teaching techniques and resources to enhance science education in their classrooms through professional development workshops. The center collaborates actively with local schools and educational institutions to support STEM initiatives and provide students with enriching educational opportunities.
An additional attraction of the Discovery Center is its outdoor space, Helium Monument Park. This distinctive park features expansive displays highlighting the significance of helium, an abundant natural resource in the Texas Panhandle. Through interactive displays and sculptures, visitors can discover the history, production, and applications of helium.
The Don Harrington Discovery Center is profoundly rooted in the community of Amarillo. It fosters a passion for learning and exploration among families, educators, and science enthusiasts. Its dedication to providing accessible and engaging science education has made the center a valuable resource for the region, inspiring generations to pursue careers in STEM disciplines and fostering a scientifically literate society.
The Don Harrington Discovery Center in Amarillo, Texas, is a premier scientific education facility that provides a variety of interactive exhibits, educational programs, and special events. The center’s mission to spark inquiry and encourage lifelong learning has made it a popular destination for people of all ages. The Discovery Center continues to influence the minds of individuals and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge in the community through its innovative approach to science education.