Updated March 27, 2019
Do you have a pint sized Neil Degrasse Tyson or Sid the Science Kid in residence? If so, you may want to experiment with a spooky science theme for their next birthday party. Kids will have so much fun, they won’t notice they’re learning. Here are a few venues in Des Moines that host science or STEM related birthday parties for little scientists.
Science Center of Iowa
401 W Martin Luther King Jr Parkway • Des Moines, IA 50309 • (515) 274-6868
A SCI Team Member will lead party guests through a hands-on science activity. Afterwards, your guests can spend time exploring the Science Center of Iowa’s two floors of exhibits, hands on experiments and interactive programs and events going on throughout the day. To book a birthday party at SCI, contact the Sales Office at 515-274-6868 ext. 222
Details: Birthday bashes are available Saturdays and Sundays for kids 4 to 12 years of age. You and your guests will be in a private party room to enjoy opening presents, having treats and other birthday fun. You will also receive three parking passes to the Science Center parking ramp and printable birthday invitations.
Cost: SCI Member – $250 (up to 20 guests) and Non-member – $275 (up to 20 guests). Additional guests beyond the 20 limit are $5 per person. Also note: All catering except the cake must be purchased from SCI’s Food Chain Café.
Sylvan Learning Center
8707 Northpark Court • Johnston, IA 50131 • (515) 867-8000
Sylvan Learning Center in Johnston hosts Robotic Birthday Parties for kids. Sylvan’s friendly and helpful staff will encourage your child and their friends through an age appropriate robotics creation. All of the kids work together to plan and build new robots using LEGO bricks, letting their creativity and imaginations loose.
Details: Parties are for second through sixth graders and include: customized invites and thank yous; the activity and goodie bag as part of the package. Call (515) 867-8000 for questions or to schedule a party.
Cost: $150 for six guests (including birthday boy or girl). $20 each additional guest with a 12 person maximum.
West Des Moines Parks and Recreation
Raccoon River Nature Lodge • 2500 Grand Avenue • West Des Moines, IA 5026 • (515) 222-3424
You’ll love birthday parties at the Raccoon River Nature Lodge in West Des Moines, because they take care of everything! Bonus, teaching kids about animals and nature help show them the fun side of science. Choose the “Amazing Animals” theme and they provide matching decorations cake, ice cream and activities. Kids will love the fun themed activities and parents love the party host or hostess who facilitates everything.
Details: Party packages for kids ages five to seven. You will get two hours in the space, set-up, activity, cake, ice cream, juice, paper goods and clean-up! Call (515) 222-3424 at least two weeks in advance to schedule party.
Cost: $150 for 12 participants (including the birthday kiddo). $15 for each additional child.
Have you ever thrown your kid a science-themed birthday party? Brag about it in a comment below.
