Why this Birmingham gem is the ultimate date spot

Sponsored

A movie and a meal will always be a classic date combo. But if you’re looking for something more interactive, truly unique and a lot more memorable, we have an idea: head to McWane Science Center in downtown Birmingham. And no, it’s definitely not just for kids or family outings!

Perfect for first dates, anniversary celebrations or just catching up with your best friend, here are a few reasons McWane Science Center makes a surprisingly awesome Magic City date spot—from hands-on activities to plenty of opportunities to laugh, learn and connect.

Plus, meet a local couple who went from McWane dates to hosting their wedding reception there—and learn how you can do the same.

Explore McWane Science Center’s hands-on exhibits

The easiest way to keep first (or 101st) date conversation flowing? Choose a spot where you can skip the small talk and jump right into the fun.

McWane Science Center’s Adventure Halls are packed with hands-on exhibits that make it easy to break the ice, share a laugh and connect with your date.

Must-see stops include:

• Bed of Nails: Lie down on one of McWane’s oldest and most popular exhibits + discover why it doesn’t hurt. A pretty memorable first-date story, if you ask us.
• Bubble Room: Discover the magic of making shapes and sizes you probably didn’t know were possible + embrace your inner kid together.
• Pulley Chair Lift: Grab the rope, pull yourselves into the air and see who’s really pulling their weight on your date.

Meet live animals + discover new exhibits on your next great date

(L-R) Meet Sash, a two-toed sloth, and Covi, a blue-tongued skink, at Survival of the Slowest at McWane Science Center. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

A great thing about a McWane date is there’s always something new to discover together. This summer, you can meet a sloth, snakes and other fascinating creatures at Survival of the Slowest: Counterintuitive Adaptations, McWane Science Center’s first traveling exhibit featuring live animals.

Open through January 4, 2027, it’s a fun way to learn together—and watching a sloth nap or seeing a snake up close gives you something to talk about besides Birmingham’s weather (hopefully your date goes equally steamy!).

Catch a movie at McWane’s IMAX Dome Theater

Looking for a movie experience with a twist? You don’t have to leave McWane Science Center to find it. Head to the first floor to experience the IMAX Dome Theater, home to an immersive five-story IMAX Dome screen.

Whether you catch a daytime documentary or an evening blockbuster, it’s the perfect way to relax after exploring the museum and enjoy one more unique experience together.

See what’s playing at the IMAX Dome Theater and plan your visit. Tickets are available online in advance or at the theater the day of your visit.

Experience McWane After Dark for 18+ fun

McWane offers more than daytime adventures. If you and your date are 18+ (must be 21+ to drink!), be on the lookout for McWane After Dark events as they pop up throughout the year. They give you the chance to explore the museum after hours, enjoy drinks and dive into a themed night just for adults.

Coming up: McWane After Dark: 20 Years of Taylor Swift

• What to expect: A silent disco, Taylor-themed trivia, drinks (valid ID required) + plenty of opportunities to embrace your inner Swiftie
• When: Sat, Oct. 24, 2026 from 7PM–11PM
• Cost: $40 advance tickets | $45 at the door
• Details + Tickets

Celebrate special moments at McWane Science Center

_{(L-R) Delaine and Lee Green outside McWane Science Center today, holding a photo from their wedding reception at the museum; the couple on their wedding day 26 years ago. (Jacob Blankenship / Bham Now)}

Some Birmingham dates lead to the unexpected—and some become part of your love story. For Lee and Delaine Green, McWane Science Center was the setting for several special moments, including their wedding reception in July 2000.

“We’ve always been big kids at heart. We had a few dates here, and when we were choosing a place for our wedding reception, we wanted something unique and fun that represented our creativity and spirit.

Delaine is an artist, and I do some work with Birmingham’s Theater Downtown. We’re both very involved in the local art, theater and film community, so McWane was a perfect fit for us.”

Lee Green

Want to take your McWane date to the next level? If you’re looking for a unique place to say “I do” in Birmingham, reach out to events@mcwane.org for availability and pricing information.

Plan your next Birmingham date at McWane

• Address: 200 19th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: Open 7 days a week through August 9, 2026!
  • Monday–Friday: 9AM–5PM (closed Monday + Tuesday starting Aug 10, 2026)
  • Saturday: 10AM–5PM
  • Sunday: 12PM–5PM
• Cost: 
  • General Admission to McWane’s Adventure Halls:
    • Adults (13-64): $20.95 each
    • Kids (2-12): $16.95 each
    • Seniors (65+): $19.95 each
    • Kids Under 2: FREE
  • Combo Tickets (includes IMAX documentary): 
    • Adults (13-64): $25.95 each
    • Kids (2-12): $20.95 each
    • Seniors (65+): $24.95 each
    • Kids Under 2: FREE
• Tickets

Ready to plan the perfect Birmingham date? Get your tickets to McWane Science Center now.

Sponsored by: