Our Story
Founded in January 1970, the Science Museum of Western Virginia was the first science museum in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Established by local teachers and volunteers, the museum was created to provide an informal educational environment that encourages students to explore science beyond the traditional classroom. Initially housed in a modest 400 square-foot space, the museum has grown significantly over the decades, relocating to larger venues to accommodate its expanding collection and programs.
Today, the Science Museum of Western Virginia occupies a state-of-the-art 50,000 square-foot facility in Downtown Roanoke, following a remarkable $27 million renovation. The mission remains steadfast: to make science and technology accessible to everyone, fostering a passion for lifelong learning.