I can't say that I understand the negative reviews! I took my grandson there today, and even tho it is spring break and it was a little crowded (but not too much so) we had a great time. And as for the prices, has anyone checked out the membership? There is a special going on right now for a family of 4 for $65, a screaming deal.
My grandson loved the exhibits, and I also don't understand why people are saying they are for kids only. I enjoyed them equally! We also thought the planetarium and the Pompei exhibit were exceptional.
Yes, some of the exhibits were not working but probably 95% were.
If you want a museum experience that is a disaster, with screaming, unsupervised kids, with totally destroyed exhibits, then go to the Children's Museum on 7th Street. We won't EVER return there, but plan on returning to the Science Center next week!