Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to HandsOn!

Hands On! Discovery Center welcomes visitors of all ages, abilities, ethnicities, genders, and income levels to play and discover in a place where learning and fun go hand-in-hand! Here you can find answers to some of our most Frequently Asked Questions to ensure a fun and safe experience for you and all of our visitors!

What items can I bring?

Small backpacks
Water is allowed in a secure bottle. No other liquids or food are permitted
Strollers and front-facing baby carriers are welcome
Mobility scooters are allowed
Service animals are welcome

What should I leave at home?

Large bags, luggage, musical instruments, electronics, and large recording equipment
Glass containers
Food and beverages (other than water in a secure bottle) are only allowed in outdoor areas
Marking materials, paint, adhesives, glues, or epoxies
Pets or emotional support animals
Firearms, weapons, or hazardous materials
Oversized strollers, jogging strollers, wagons,
Bicycles, skateboards, roller-skates, rollerblades, ice skates, and scooters
Knives, sharp tools, screwdrivers
Costumes (other than Halloween event)
Masks that obscure the face
Any other item that could put the staff or visitors at risk, as determined at the sole discretion of HODC/GFS staff

How can I ensure a safe experience for everyone?

HODC/GFS does not tolerate verbally abusive, harassing, discriminatory, or threatening statements or behavior toward the staff, volunteers, students, or other visitors.
The principles of diversity, inclusion, and equal access apply to all aspects of operations, across all categories of individuals.
Conduct that poses any risk to other visitors, the staff, volunteers, or to the museum’s collection, such as running, rough play, and disruptive behavior is prohibited.
Leafleting, signature gathering, picketing, merchandise sales, and press conferences by visitors are not permitted.
Solicitation of business and unauthorized for-profit activity is not permitted.
The unauthorized playing of music and video, unauthorized performances, and sound amplification or noisemakers (except for assistive-listening devices) is prohibited.
Keep doorways, stairs, and hallways accessible to other visitors; do not sit on the floor.
Please do not carry children or other guests on shoulders.
Smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is prohibited in the Museum or near the entrances.
Use of electrical outlets in the Museum is prohibited.
For health and safety reasons, shirts and shoes are required at all times.

Is My Animal a Service Animal?

Qualified service dogs that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability are welcome. Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted entry to any buildings or outdoor exhibit areas.