WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is celebrating the end of an exciting year by shining a bright light on their contribution to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education in the community. Year-round, WonderWorks plays an essential role in providing locals and vacationers alike with a fun, hands-on way to get introduced to STEM-related concepts. The WonderWorks team is excited to continue and expand their educational offerings in the new year by building off the momentum from last year and even developing an exciting new exhibit that will focus on inventors.
“Part of the WonderWorks mission is to share our love of all things STEM with the community, so we love hosting various events, programs, and other fun things that get everyone involved in learning,” says Robert Stinnett, general manager at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach. “It’s always enjoyable to look back on the year and all the exciting things we were able to offer.”
Throughout 2023, WonderWorks Myrtle Beach offered many educational experiences and events, making it an excellent place for families, students, and groups to play and learn. The upside-down house mainly focuses on the critical areas of STEM, providing hands-on learning activities to inspire the next generation of scientists and leaders.
Research published in the Annual Review of Sociology journal reports that improving STEM education is pivotal to our country's long-term economic growth and security. The report states that STEM plays a crucial role in modern society, helping to promote technological innovation and sustained economic growth. Getting kids involved in hands-on, STEM-themed activities that are also fun can go a long way toward getting them interested in the field at a young age.
Some of the STEM programs offered at WonderWorks over the past year include:
- A National STEM Day Celebration –On November 8, WonderWorks recognized National STEM Day with interactive demonstrations and science experiments throughout the building. The special activities allowed guests to have up close and personal experiences with topics such as chemistry, origami, pressure, and more.
- A New Career Highlight in the STEM Careers Exhibit – WonderWorks partnered with SeaWorld and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to unveil a new exhibit that introduces guests to the fascinating career field of a marine biologist. Through this new display, visitors can learn about the common responsibilities of a marine biologist, areas of specialty within the field, how to start a career in marine biology, and more.
- WonderKids Webinar – WonderWorks’ annual student achievement program concluded with the winners attending a live webinar with Dr. Don Thomas, a former NASA astronaut. The students and their families could ask Dr. Thomas all their burning questions about being an astronaut and the wonders of space travel.
- Appreciation Events for Educational Groups, Educators, and More – WonderWorks Myrtle Beach hosted several special events throughout the year for different types of educational groups, including Homeschool Days, Scout Appreciation weekends, Teacher Wonder Days, and more. They also offered special discount opportunities for first responders, hospitality professionals, and locals.
- Successful Fundraisers for Local Organizations – WonderWorks loves to give back to their community, so they are proud to have partnered with several organizations over the past year by holding fundraisers and donation drives. They worked closely with Help 4 Kids, SOS Care, and The Collective Myrtle Beach's Bringing Joy x Toys during the holidays.
“2023 was a great year here at WonderWorks, but this coming year, we are excited to bring several of our programs and events to the next level!” added Kaitlin Barnes, education sales manager at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach. “Follow us on social media and keep an eye on our website to be the first to hear about all the exciting things coming in 2024.”
In 2024, WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is planning a new exhibit that puts inventions and inventors in the spotlight. They are working with area teachers to develop the new exhibit so that it aligns with what they are teaching in the classroom. The exhibit is being developed in honor of National Inventors Day, February 11, 2024, which is a time to reflect on and celebrate the ingenuity and creativity of inventors, past and present.
WonderWorks Myrtle Beach offers over 100 interactive exhibits on STEM/STEAM themes. They provide an excellent way for guests of all ages to spend the day exploring, learning, and creating memories. Each exhibit offers unique hands-on learning opportunities that are engaging and memorable for everyone. Additionally, there is a 6D XD theater, indoor ropes course, laser tag arena and more for the thrill seekers in each family.
Located at 1313 Celebrity Circle, WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is open daily. There are many options for group visits, birthday parties, special events, team-building events, and more. For more information about tickets, visit the site at: https://www.wonderworksonline.
