Experimenta in Heilbronn

Whoever thinks a museum is a quiet place filled with dusty display cases has clearly never been to experimenta in Heilbronn. At Germany’s largest science center, everything revolves around participation, amazement, and hands-on experience – whether you're an elementary school student, a university student, retiree, or on a family outing. Here, science isn't simply explained – it's brought to life.

Research, Tinker, Discover – Across Seven Floors

You won’t find a typical museum exhibition at experimenta. Instead, it’s a universe of discovery. More than 270 interactive stations spread across seven floors bring physics, biology, technology, and more to life. Whether you’re taking off in a flight simulator, turning into a shadow figure in the light lab, or getting creative in your own stop-motion film studio – curiosity and a hands-on spirit are essential. The exhibits are divided into four themed worlds exploring natural phenomena, technical adventures, humanity and environment, and communication.

Science You Can Touch: Science Dome, Student Labs, Experimental Theater & AI Pavilion

Whether it’s a laser show under the dome or a deep dive under the microscope – at experimenta, science becomes a real-life experience. The futuristic Science Dome offers a 360-degree multimedia spectacle of science shows, films, and live experiments. Right next door, the student labs invite you to get involved yourself: whether you’re a school class, kindergarten group, or attending a holiday workshop – this is a place for experimenting, exploring, and coding, not just watching. Adding to the immersive experience is the Experimental Theater, which transforms current scientific research into creative storytelling formats. A particular highlight is the brand-new AI Pavilion, where everything revolves around artificial intelligence – clearly explained and interactive. Visitors learn how algorithms "think," how AI already impacts our everyday lives, and where its limitations lie.

Relax, Explore, Take Home: Experiences Beyond the Exhibits

After all that exploring, the top floor of experimenta offers a chance to relax: the restaurant with panoramic views over Heilbronn and the Neckar is the perfect place to recharge with coffee, snacks, and scenery. If you'd like to take some of the discovery spirit home with you, the shop has plenty to offer: from experiment kits and books to hands-on games, there’s something for curious minds of all ages. The experience is rounded off by rotating special exhibitions and events, ensuring your second visit is just as exciting as the first. And for those wanting to aim even higher, a glimpse through the observatory’s telescope on a clear night is a true highlight – especially for astronomy fans.

In 2009, the science center first opened its doors in the renovated Hagenbucher warehouse on the banks of the Neckar River in Heilbronn. Even then, the focus was on interactivity rather than information boards. However, the great success of the center soon led to expansion: between 2015 and 2019, a spectacular new building with a futuristic glass tower was constructed on the neighboring site. Since its reopening in March 2019, experimenta has combined old and new into a modern hub for science and education – covering a total area of around 25,000 square meters.

By Car

There is a paid parking garage called Parkhaus experimenta located directly across from the museum. It is open 24/7.

By Public Transport

The science center is located just a short walk from Heilbronn main station (Hauptbahnhof).