Public Tours- Science Center Opening Soon!

Located at the base of Mt. Hopkins in the Santa Rita Mountains, 47 miles south from the University of Arizona in Tucson and just within the boundary of the Coronado National Forest, the Fred Lawrence Whipple Observatory Science Center features displays and exhibits on astronomy and astrophysics, natural science, and cultural history. The Science Center will open on October 4. The Science Center is currently open on Fridays only from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed on Federal holidays).

In order to ensure the best experience possible for the many guests we expect to visit in 2024, timed ticketed entry is required (but free) to visit the Science Center. Every guest who enters the Science Center must have a ticket. Guests who arrive without tickets will be asked to wait or to return at a later time with tickets. Tickets are available now.

Tours up the mountain to the MMT and Ridge telescopes are currently closed while we work on developing new tour programs. VERITAS Walking Tours are open. Tickets for Up Close with VERITAS are $15 + taxes and fees per person. Every guest requires their own ticket. Tickets must be purchased in advance online. Reservations are required and can be made here.