Orlando Science Center 777 E. Princeton St. Orlando, FL  32803 Phone: (407) 896-7151 Hours:  Tue-Thu 9am-5pm; Fri-Sat 9am-9pm; Sun 12pm-5pm; Open on Mondays 9am-5pm during spring break and summer holiday. Payment:  ATM, American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, Gift Certificate, MasterCard, Travelers Check, Visa

The Background: Many of the attractions are designed with fun in mind, so forget the rides for a while and become one with the how and why of our universe. The Center holds 10 elaborate exhibits on the application of science in the world, including an ever-popular insider's guide into the tricks of the movie world, called "ShowBiz Science."     The Draw:  The facility boasts an 8,000-square-foot domed screen--the largest in the world--which displays IMAX films year-round. Also, its Planetarium features Florida's largest public refractor telescope, as well as some fantastic shows, such as ones focusing on laser-light and meteors. The building's artwork, part of the city's collection, changes regularly and often spotlights some of the best artists in the area.