About SciTrek

A legacy of curiosity and innovation

SciTrek began as a bold vision to bring hands-on science education to life for communities across Georgia. Today, that same spirit lives on in a new way: expanding access to science education and initiatives throughout the Southeast. What started as a beloved science museum has evolved into a mission-driven organization focused on inspiring curiosity, learning, and opportunity for future generations.

  • 1988 Doors opened at the Atlanta Civic Center
  • 140+ Interactive exhibits, including KidSpace
  • 350,000 Visitors in the first year alone
  • 750,000 Annual attendance by 1991
01 1982

From Vision to Reality

In 1982, Mary O’Connor and Sue Trotter set out to create something Atlanta had never seen before: a dedicated science and technology museum designed to inspire learners of all ages. With early support from the Metropolitan Foundation, the City of Atlanta, and major contributors like the Robert W. Woodruff Foundation, that vision became a reality.

On October 29, 1988, SciTrek officially opened its doors at the Atlanta Civic Center, launching a new era of interactive science education in the region.

02 1988

A Hub for Discovery

SciTrek quickly became one of the Southeast’s most dynamic educational destinations. With more than 140 interactive exhibits, including a dedicated KidSpace for young learners, visitors could explore everything from mathematics and physics to energy and innovation through hands-on experiences.

Within its first year, the museum welcomed 350,000 visitors, and by 1991, attendance had grown to over 750,000, many of them schoolchildren experiencing science in a whole new way.

Named one of the country’s top science museums, and a leader in science education.
03 1990s

Innovation in Action

Beyond exhibits, SciTrek was home to innovative programs that brought science to life in unforgettable ways. Programs like these helped bridge the gap between education and real-world application, inspiring countless students to explore futures in science and technology.

Signature program

Challenger Learning Center. A simulated space shuttle mission that put participants in the roles of astronauts and mission control, turning a field trip into a first taste of a career.

04 2004

Challenges and Resilience

Like many educational institutions, SciTrek faced increasing financial challenges in the early 2000s. Despite strong community support and determined efforts to sustain operations, reduced funding ultimately led to the museum’s closure in 2004.

While the physical space closed, the impact of SciTrek did not. Its programs, educational materials, and legacy continued through partnerships, ensuring its mission lived on beyond its walls.

  • Fernbank Science Center
  • Valdosta State University
05 Today

A Legacy That Lives On

SciTrek inspired hundreds of thousands of visitors, sparked curiosity in young minds, and helped shape the future of science education in Georgia. Today, that legacy continues and is reimagined for a new generation.

Carrying it forward

Through initiatives like the SciTrek Pecan Sale, we are continuing a tradition of community support, now with a renewed focus on expanding access to science education across the Southeast.

Our mission today

Science, made accessible to the whole Southeast.

SciTrek is dedicated to advancing science education by supporting programs, initiatives, and opportunities that inspire learning, exploration, and innovation. By combining a rich history with a forward-looking mission, we aim to make science more accessible, engaging, and impactful for communities throughout the region.

SciTrek is also committed to helping create pathways to future educational opportunities for young people. As we grow, we hope to support initiatives that encourage continued learning, career exploration, and access to higher education resources, helping students build bright futures beyond the classroom.