Discovery Center LLNL - Livermore, California

Sasha Voinov

A bit of a wait to get checked in, but very interesting site to visit and learn more about projects at the lab. This is the only spot on the campus that people who are not affiliated with LLNL can explore without special clearance, so it's definitely worth the stop.

PlaneMaster1768

It was a relatively interesting museum, though its overall size and scope was rather lackluster. We were the only visitors there at the time, so it was rather quiet and peaceful. We were given a pamphlet with a map on it, though it seemed kind of redundant considering that the entire discovery center was only about the size of a family living room.

Still, it was interesting to learn about some of the functions of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. They had an actual used fuel capsule from the lab’s inertial confinement fusion reactor there on display, as well as a mockup of the fusion reactor in the center of the room.

All in all, the experience was interesting, though I just wish they had more to see and do.

TJ Lewis

It's fairly small, but for being free everything was of amazing quality. They provide a plethora of useful facts without being overwhelming. Several fun activities to do. They are pretty strict about security even though the Discovery Center is separate from the lab. Make sure you bring a valid driver's license or other identification (such as a passport) as they have to keep a log of all visitors. Not something I would recommend going out of your way for as we did everything in about an hour or so, but worth it if you're already in the area.

Erica Santella

This was a fantastic visit. And it certainly is just not for children. Unless the children are Einstein. It was Only a few rooms, but spent well over an hour there. Looking at all the different exhibits. If you want to know about chemistry, physics, the environment, this is a place to go.

Dal J

Cool little museum but they’re very touchy about photography outside. When attempting to photo a display out front, I was told to stop using my camera and delete any photos or I would be asked to leave.

I apologized and mentioned that there should be signs if they didn’t want visitors taking photos and the docent told me there were. Upon leaving I looked everywhere for anti-photography signs: there are none.

If they’re willing to kick visitors out for for taking photos, there should at least be clear indications that it isn’t permitted. It’s especially ridiculous because anyone with nefarious intentions could easily conceal a camera, but they’re worried about tourists and their iPhones.

Donna Earle

Great exhibits - fun way to spend an afternoon with kids!

Ankit Patel

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is one of the area’s largest employers. Though much of the facility is off-limits to the prying eyes of nosy visitors, it features a Discovery Center chock-full of unique and educational exhibits designed to engage inquisitive minds.

The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Discovery Center is a great place to spend a few hours when the weather isn’t conducive to outdoor activities. It’s generally a big hit with young and old visitors alike.

Due to the sensitive nature of much of the research conducted onsite, you’ll need to sign up for a guided tour in advance.

Amber K Willburn

This is a cool, strange little place. We spent about an hour there, but you could spend more if your kids are older or super into nuclear anything. My kids were 5, 7, 9. They had a cool scavenger hunt for the kids and everyone had an awesome time.