Impactful learning
You’ve seen the star at the holidays, perched just off I-385 atop the highest point in Greenville’s city limits, and maybe you’ve visited for an event or two. But do you really know the wonders that await at the Roper Mountain Science Center?
Owned by Greenville County Schools, RMSC is a public-private partnership and is truly one of a kind, designed to ignite the natural curiosity of all learners. Thousands of students regionally visit each year — and thousands more from across the U.S. and beyond participate in virtual field trips and outreach programs.
“Our vision is to be a national leader in science education, and we take that very seriously,” says Thomas Riddle, assistant director.
Top draws include a planetarium with a 360-degree full-immersion dome and 4K projection, a living history farm with 13 historic structures, an indoor rainforest, and Daniel Observatory, home to a historic 23-inch refractor telescope, the eighth-largest of its kind in the nation. A new environmental science and sustainability building is set to open in early 2021.
“People always come here and say, ‘I had no idea all this was here,’” says Amanda Lenar, community engagement specialist. “We’re a hidden gem that doesn’t need to be so hidden — we want people to experience all we have to offer.” They serve students during the school day, but summer camps, Second Saturdays, Friday Starry Nights, Butterfly Adventure, and seasonal laser shows are just a few options available to visitors throughout the year. “The community’s support allows us to offer all of these unique hands-on experiences,” she says.
402 Roper Mountain Rd. Greenville
864.355.8900
