Fort Discovery facts for kids
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| Established | April 1997 |
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| Dissolved | December 2010 |
| Location | 1 7th Street Augusta, Georgia,  United States |
| Visitors | 200,000 (2007) |
Fort Discovery was a cool science museum for kids and teens. It was located in Augusta, Georgia, right by the Riverwalk Augusta. The museum was a big place, about 128,000 square feet (which is about 11,891 square meters). It opened its doors in April 1997.
Contents
Exploring Fort Discovery's Exhibits
Fort Discovery was famous for its many hands-on exhibits. There were over 250 different displays! These exhibits helped visitors understand how science works in the real world.
Fun Rides and Physics
The museum had some exciting rides that also taught science. You could try a high-wire bicycle, which showed you about balance and gravity. There was also a human gyroscope, like a spinning cage, that demonstrated how things move in space. Another popular ride was the space Moon walk, which made you feel like you were on the Moon. All these rides helped explain basic ideas in physics.
Fort Discovery's Journey and Closure
Fort Discovery had a few ups and downs during its time. It was a popular spot for learning and fun.
Funding Challenges and Support
In late 2003, the museum faced a challenge when state funding stopped. This meant Fort Discovery was in danger of closing down. But the community and the city of Augusta stepped in to help! They provided money to keep the museum open. By January 2005, the state started funding the center again, which was great news.
The Museum Closes Its Doors
Sadly, Fort Discovery closed permanently on December 31, 2010. The National Science Center, which ran Fort Discovery, moved to Washington, D.C. after the museum closed.
What Happened to the Building?
After Fort Discovery closed, a company called Unisys bought part of the building. They turned it into their new center in Augusta.
