We have held a family membership here since the day they opened their doors (It includes the Carnegie Museums in Oakland, and the Andy Warhol Museum as well . . . money well spent in my opinion), and even though our daughter is now grown, and married, we still enjoy our membership, and visit occasionally. Yesterday I had the pleasure of seeing the new Star Wars movie, "The Last Jedi," here at the newly-refurbished, Rangos Giant Screen Theater (formerly the Omnimax) for the noon matinee. Let me tell you, I was totally impressed with the new set-up, from the brand-new comfy seats, to the new screen (no longer is it projected onto a dome, which is now much better viewing in my opinion). The sound was great, the 3-D was great, and I really enjoyed the film (My rating by the way, is 90% Excellent on the film, a solid A). The rest of the Science Center is mostly great. Some of the exhibits are a little stale, and although they do change it up occasionally, and sometimes bring in temporary national exhibits (Like the one on guitars some years ago was incredible). I don't like that they removed some of my favorite things (like the Earthquake Cafe' for one), and added some other things that are probably more for kids than adults, but still, this is a fun place. I think the trains, and the submarine are worth the price of admission alone, and the Sportsworks building has some fun things to do (when they are not broken). Lastly, the cafe' has never been that wonderful, and I think it has actually declined in quality the last few times I have been here. I had a Black-Bean Veggie Burger for lunch yesterday, right before the movie started, and the menu said it was supposed to have salsa, but none was given. Instead they asked me if I wanted lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickle, and I said yes, except for the onions. I added mayo, the last few dollops that were available in the dispenser by the way, and ate my lunch (Tip: Food is discounted for members, just show your card (Gift Shop also)). The bun was very dry, stale, and easily fell apart (I wonder if they gave me a gluten-free bun by mistake, as it sure had the consistency of one). So overall, this place is five stars for the exhibits, minus a star for the cafe' . . . but if I could, I've give the cafe back half a star for having a few local-craft-brews available to drink. In conclusion, you really cannot go wrong here, and if you wish, feel free to pack your own lunch.
Cheers, and May the force be with you . . . !!!
P.S. Parking is $5 in their lot. They used to give a members discount but that is no longer the case (sad face). TIP: Bring your ticket inside and use the automated machine to validate your parking immediately when you come in, and then you don't have to wait in line at the end of the day when everyone else is leaving at the same time.