LRS, which stands for Louisville Regional Science, is a science museum located in Louisville, Kentucky. LRS first opened in 1873 as the Polytechnic Society of Kentucky, making it one of the oldest science museums in the United States. Today, LRS serves over 250,000 visitors annually through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and community outreach.
Quick Facts About LRS
Here are some quick facts about LRS:
- Location: 727 West Main Street, Louisville, KY
- Opened: 1873 (originally as the Polytechnic Society of Kentucky)
- Size: 120,000 square feet
- Annual Visitors: Over 250,000
- Number of Exhibits: Over 100 interactive exhibits
- Key Attractions: Planetarium, Foucault Pendulum, Trains Exhibit, Science Playground
History and Background of LRS
LRS first opened in 1873 as the Polytechnic Society of Kentucky, founded by a group of local academics and professionals who wanted to provide a place to cultivate science education and discovery. Some key milestones in LRS’s history include:
- 1873 – The Polytechnic Society of Kentucky opens in Louisville.
- 1876 – The museum relocates to a new building on Fourth Street and rents space to the Louisville Public Library.
- 1900 – A new building is constructed for the museum on Second Street.
- 1927 – The museum is renamed the Louisville Municipal College of Technology.
- 1969 – The museum moves to its current location on Walnut Street and is renamed the Louisville Science Center.
- 1996 – The museum merges with the Louisville Museum of Natural History and Archaeology and is renamed the Louisville Science & History Museum.
- 2012 – The museum is renamed the Louisville Science Center.
- 2016 – The museum undergoes $27.5 million in renovations.
- 2018 – The museum is renamed LRS – Louisville Regional Science.
Over its 100+ year history, LRS has gone through several name changes but has remained committed to its mission of science education and engagement. Some of LRS’s directors and leaders who have shaped its development include Reuben Tice, Arthur Yager, Margaret Brownlee, Donald Cobb, and Kim Flottum.
LRS Exhibits and Attractions
LRS is home to over 100 interactive exhibits and displays spread out over 10 galleries. Some of the major exhibits and attractions at LRS include:
- Science Playground – a multi-level indoor play space with science-themed structures and activities.
- Trains! Exhibit – features model trains and railways, historical locomotives, and interactive displays.
- Foucault Pendulum – suspended pendulum demonstrates the rotation of the Earth.
- Science Center – hands-on exhibits focused on physics, chemistry, biology, and technology.
- Kentucky Showcase – exhibits on Kentucky’s ecology, geology, industry, and culture.
- KidZone – play-based learning exhibits designed for young children.
- Planetarium – immense domed theater used for immersive space shows.
- Theaters – Multiple theaters show educational films, demonstrations, and programs.
In addition to its standing exhibits, LRS also debuts limited-time traveling exhibits on topics ranging from marine biology to forensic science. The museum aims to provide dynamic, engaging exhibits suitable for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
LRS Educational Programs
In addition to informal learning through its exhibits, LRS also provides structured educational programming to schools and groups. Some of their educational offerings include:
- Field trips – Interactive themed visits for school groups tied to curriculum standards.
- Homeschool programs – Special programs for homeschool families and groups.
- Summer/holiday camps – Science and technology themed camps during school breaks.
- Scout programs – Specialized programming for Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and other scouting groups.
- Adult programs – Lectures, speaker series, and classes for adult learners.
- Teacher workshops – Professional development for educators on teaching STEM disciplines.
LRS also sends staff members directly to schools, community centers, and festivals with portable science demonstrations and activities. In the past year, LRS educational programs reached over 50,000 students and campers.
LRS Community Outreach Initiatives
In keeping with its mission, LRS strives to make science education accessible to all communities through the following outreach initiatives:
- Free admission programs – Free museum entry certain nights or for certain groups, like SNAP benefit recipients.
- Neighborhood passes – Free annual museum memberships and passes for those in low-income neighborhoods.
- Early childhood programs – Interactive exhibits and programs tailored for very young learners.
- Accessibility resources – Tools like audio tours and sensory rooms to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
- Bilingual resources – Exhibit guides and programs offered in Spanish as well as English.
LRS also partners with local schools, libraries, community centers, and social service agencies to tailor outreach, identify community needs, and promote STEM learning across Louisville.
LRS Events and Public Programs
LRS offers special events, lectures, and public programs to bring science alive. Some recurring events and programs include:
- SciencePublicKey speaker series – Lectures from eminent scientists and experts.
- 21+ Night – Adult-only evenings with science entertainment and cocktails.
- TOTally Science – Learning activities parents and toddlers can enjoy together.
- Homeschool Hangout – Monthly program for homeschool families.
- Scientific Salons – Nighttime social event with arts, music, food, and science.
- Summer Carnival – Outdoor festival with music, food, and science fun.
LRS also offers science-themed birthday parties, sleepovers, and private event rentals. The museum aims to provide unique and memorable science learning experiences suitable for guests of all backgrounds and ages.
Visiting LRS – Hours, Tickets, and Location
LRS is open 363 days a year. Current hours are:
- Monday-Thursday: 9:30am – 5:00pm
- Friday: 9:30am – 9:00pm
- Saturday: 9:30am – 5:00pm
- Sunday: 12:00pm – 5:00pm
LRS is closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Extended holiday hours are offered during spring and winter school breaks.
General admission tickets are $14 for adults, $13 for seniors, and $12 for children. Children under 2 are free. Discounted memberships, bundles, and group rates are available. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter, online at www.lrs.org, or by phone at 502-561-6100.
LRS is located in downtown Louisville at 727 West Main Street, Louisville, KY 40202. Metered street parking and nearby garages are available around the museum. LRS is also accessible via public transportation on TARC buses.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Address | 727 West Main Street, Louisville, KY 40202 |
| Hours |
|
| Tickets | $14 adults, $13 seniors, $12 children. Discounts available. |
| Parking | Metered street parking, nearby garages |
| Public Transit | Accessible via TARC bus routes. |
Joining and Supporting LRS
There are a few ways to join and provide support to LRS:
- Become a member – Memberships start at $90/year for families and provide free admission, discounts, and other benefits.
- Make a donation – One-time or recurring tax-deductible donations help support exhibits, programs, and outreach.
- Volunteer – LRS welcomes volunteer assistance with exhibits, visitor services, education, and special events.
- Attend events – Purchasing tickets for 21+ Nights, fundraising dinners, and other special events provides financial support.
- Spread the word – Reviews, social shares, and word of mouth recommendations help increase awareness and visitation.
Support from members, donors, volunteers, and attendees sustains LRS’s mission of accessible science education and helps transform lives across the Louisville region.
Conclusion
LRS has educated and inspired Louisville residents since 1873. With diverse exhibits, immersive theaters, outreach programs, special events, and hands-on learning experiences, LRS provides exciting science engagement for visitors of all backgrounds and ages. LRS continues to innovate and evolve, but remains committed to its founding mission of science education and illuminating the wonders of science, technology, and nature. Today, LRS serves over 250,000 visitors annually and aims to nurture a lifelong love of science across the Louisville region.