Quick Picks for Your Plzeň Adventure

Planning a family trip can be stressful. We have simplified the process for you. Here are our top recommendations for different ages and interests. These picks ensure everyone in the family has a great time. Use these quick tips to prioritize your day at the center.

• Best overall: The Edutainment Hall for hands-on physics.
• Best for teens: The 3D Planetarium for immersive space films.
• Best for toddlers: The Little Scientist area for gentle play.
• Best for rainy days: The Water World exhibit for indoor fun.

12 Best Sights in Our Techmania Science Center Family Guide

This list covers the essential experiences at the center. We have included exhibits, shows, and nearby trips. Each item is designed to spark curiosity. Make sure to check the official Techmania Science Center website for show times. Here is what you should see during your visit.

1. Name: Edutainment Hall Type: Sight Why go: It is the heart of the center with over 150 exhibits. You can test your strength or learn about optics. Best for: All ages. Where: Main building. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Included in basic entry. Tip: Start here early to avoid the afternoon crowds.
2. Name: 3D Planetarium Type: Experience Why go: It features a 14-meter dome for stunning space projections. It was the first of its kind in the Czech Republic. Best for: Space enthusiasts. Where: Separate building next to the main hall. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Extra fee applies. Tip: Book your seats online to guarantee a spot.
3. Name: Entropa Sculpture Type: Sight Why go: This famous and controversial art piece by David Černý is on display. It depicts European nations with sharp humor. Best for: Art lovers and older kids. Where: Near the entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free with entry. Tip: Read the description to understand the satire.
4. Name: Science Shows Type: Activity Why go: Professional performers use liquid nitrogen and electricity for live experiments. It is loud, flashy, and very educational. Best for: Families. Where: Show arena in the main hall. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early for a good seat.
5. Name: Water World Type: Indoor Why go: Kids can play with locks, dams, and water wheels. It teaches the principles of hydrodynamics through play. Best for: Elementary school children. Where: Main hall, ground floor. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Bring a spare shirt as kids often get wet.
6. Name: Top Secret Exhibit Type: Experience Why go: Become a spy and solve puzzles using forensic science. You will learn about ballistics, fingerprints, and coding. Best for: Teens. Where: Main hall. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Work as a team to solve the final mystery.
7. Name: The Universe Type: Sight Why go: Walk through a scale model of the solar system. You can feel the weight of objects on different planets. Best for: Curious minds. Where: Planetarium building. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Try the "gyroscope" to feel like an astronaut.
8. Name: Nutrition Exhibit Type: Indoor Why go: Learn how food fuels the human body. This interactive zone uses games to explain healthy habits. Best for: Health-conscious families. Where: Main hall. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in entry. Tip: Visit the nearby independent cafes and roasteries for a snack after.
9. Name: DEPO2015 Type: Day trip Why go: This creative zone is just a short walk away. It hosts rotating art exhibitions and family workshops. Best for: Creative souls. Where: Presslova Street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by exhibit. Getting there: 15-minute walk from Techmania. Tip: Check our DEPO2015 visiting guide for current events.
10. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Experience Why go: While famous for beer, the tour is a masterclass in industrial history. It is a key part of Plzeň’s identity. Best for: Parents and history buffs. Where: U Prazdroje 7. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take the tram from the city center. Tip: Book the tour through the official brewery site.
11. Name: Historical Underground Type: Sight Why go: Explore the labyrinth of cellars beneath the city. It is cool, dark, and full of medieval secrets. Best for: Adventurous families. Where: Veleslavínova 6. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: 10-minute tram ride from Techmania. Tip: Read about the historical underground tour before you go.
12. Name: Bolevec Ponds Type: Nature Why go: Relax by the water after a day of science. There are trails for walking and spots for swimming. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Northern edge of Plzeň. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram line 1 to Bolevec. Tip: Our guide to Bolevec Ponds hiking has the best routes.

Practical Planning for Your Visit to Plzeň

Getting the most out of your visit requires a little planning. First, consider the timing of your trip. Techmania can get very busy during school holidays. We recommend visiting on a weekday morning if possible. You can find more details on the best time to visit Techmania in our dedicated guide. This will help you avoid long lines at the most popular exhibits.

Tickets are another important factor for families. Buying online can save you time and sometimes money. Look for family bundles that cover two adults and up to three children. For a full breakdown of costs, see our guide on ticket prices and discounts. Most families find that the 3D Planetarium is worth the extra cost. Always keep your tickets handy as you move between buildings.

Finally, think about your meals and breaks. The on-site cafeteria offers basic snacks and drinks. However, Plzeň has much better options nearby. The city center is just a short tram ride away. You can find helpful travel info on the Visit Plzeň tourism portal. Exploring the local dining scene is a great way to end your day of discovery.