Elder Museum of Science and Technology, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Activity, Attraction and Museum in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Elder Museum of Science and Technology
Elder Museum of Science and Technology
CC BY-SA 2.0 / hh oldman

The Elder Museum of Science and Technology is a hands-on museum in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, set close to the city's waterfront and the busy Las Canteras area. It's designed for curious minds of all ages, with interactive galleries that make science feel like play.

Inside, you’ll find a mix of permanent displays and rotating exhibitions that cover everything from physics and engineering to space and local context, making it an easy, weather-proof stop between beach time and city exploring.

History and Significance of the Elder Museum of Science and Technology

The Elder Museum of Science and Technology was created to bring scientific learning into everyday life, using interactive exhibits rather than “look but don't touch” displays. Its focus on participation makes it especially relevant in a city that welcomes both residents and a steady flow of visitors.

Beyond entertainment, the museum plays an educational role for the island, hosting programs that help kids and adults engage with STEM topics through demonstrations, screenings, and hands-on experimentation. For travelers, it's also a useful window into how the Canary Islands connect to wider themes like navigation, astronomy, and innovation.

Things to See and Do in the Elder Museum of Science and Technology

Plan to spend time moving floor to floor, trying interactive stations that explain scientific principles through games, experiments, and practical challenges. Visitors often enjoy the variety: you can go from classic physics-style demos to technology-focused displays without it feeling repetitive.

Look out for temporary exhibitions, which can be a major highlight and change the feel of the visit each season. If you’re traveling with kids (or you’re a big kid yourself), prioritize the most hands-on zones first, then circle back to the more reading-heavy displays once everyone’s curiosity is warmed up.

If available on the day, the planetarium-style presentations and science shows add structure to your visit and are a great way to cool down and reset during a hot afternoon. They also make the museum feel like more than a gallery walk, especially for families.

How to Get to the Elder Museum of Science and Technology

The nearest airport is Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), which is the main gateway for flights from mainland Spain and across Europe. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria on Booking.com.

Gran Canaria does not have an intercity passenger rail network, so you won't be arriving by train; instead, most visitors use buses or taxis to get around Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re driving, aim for paid parking garages around the Las Canteras/Santa Catalina area and walk the last few minutes to avoid circling for street parking. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Elder Museum of Science and Technology

  • Entrance fee: Check official website.
  • Opening hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00-20:00.

Sunday: 10:00-18:00. Closed on Monday.

  • Official website: https://www.museoelder.es/
  • Best time to visit: Go on a weekday afternoon for a calmer experience, or arrive near opening time on weekends to get first pick of interactive stations.
  • How long to spend: 1.5-3 hours works well for most visitors; add time if you plan to catch a show or linger at hands-on exhibits.
  • Accessibility: Expect an indoor, multi-level museum environment; check ahead for lift access and any show-specific seating arrangements if you have mobility needs.
  • Facilities: Typically includes restrooms and family-friendly amenities; plan a quick break between floors so kids don’t burn out on the interactive zones.

Where to Stay Close to the Elder Museum of Science and Technology

Base yourself around Las Canteras and Santa Catalina for the easiest walkable access to the museum, beach time, and plenty of places to eat.

For a polished, design-forward stay near the action, Hotel Cristina by Tigotan Las Palmas is a strong pick thanks to its beach-facing location and easy access to the Santa Catalina area. If you want a stylish boutique feel with a rooftop scene, Hotel LIVVO Lumm is well placed for quick museum visits and evenings out.

Travelers who prefer apartment-style flexibility often like Sercotel Playa Canteras for its practical comfort near the promenade. For a more classic city-hotel option with dependable service, AC Hotel Iberia Las Palmas works well if you’re mixing museum time with business or port-side plans. If you’re after a higher-end, tranquil base with a resort-like feel, Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel is a standout for its heritage atmosphere and gardens.

Is the Elder Museum of Science and Technology Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy interactive museums or you’re traveling with kids: it’s good value, easy to fit into a half-day, and makes for a refreshing indoor break from the sun. The mix of hands-on exhibits and changing temporary displays helps it feel lively rather than static.

Honest Pivot: If you only like traditional art museums, dislike interactive/noisy spaces, or you’re short on time and prioritizing beaches and Old Town sights, you may want to skip it. It shines most when you can slow down, experiment, and catch a show rather than rushing through.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (6,193)

Google reviewers rate the museum very highly, often describing it as excellent value and a fun, educational stop for both kids and adults. Common highlights include the many interactive exhibits, engaging temporary exhibitions, and add-ons like science shows or planetarium-style presentations, plus the comfort of an indoor visit during hot weather. A minor downside mentioned implicitly is that the experience can depend on timing and crowd levels, with some visitors preferring quieter weekday slots to fully enjoy hands-on stations.

Mike Keogh Personal
a month ago
"9/12/25 Tuesday afternoon- Museo of Technology We two middle aged guys from London are interested in science and technology and had heard from afriend this was a good museum. In fact we were to meet him after our visit (about 5pm) as he was arriving from Maspolomas. We arrived at 3:45 to an empty of people museum. I paid by card for the two of V us (only €4 each as both over 65). Inside I saw a display of events and demonstrations. My friend needed a sit down after the long walk. I asked the reception about what was on and she explained a science based cooking session was on the first floor in a white room. We checked out the colourful and informative exhibition on the creation of the Canary Islands and headed by lift to the first floor white kitchen room where we took a sat down on a tiered bench. A family of six also joined us. At 4 a bubbly guy entered and processed to amaze us with cooking popcorn in a microwave and then chilling it in liquid nitrogen! 12 minutes later we were eating it. We thanked him and said we only partially understood his rapid delivery of his routine whereby he said we should have told him so he would have showed down and added English. He then gave us a personal tour of the skeletons from a veterinary school. By then we had only half an hour to explore most of the museum. Whilst we were given the skeleton tour we noticed a presenter in one of the VR demonstrations waiting for participants. By the time we got to the display she was gone and I had to get the receptionist to call her back do we could fit in the Ricky's Plank Walk and the White Water Canoe experience before we had to leave to see our friend outside. Luckily she came quickly and the activities were great, just try them. There is no judging if you 'fail'. We only had a few minutes to take the lady to the top and work our way down by the back stairs. The other exhibitions were very good and informative. The poisons one especially curated well as lots of information and artefacts with English translations. We did not have time for the planetarium. We saw our friend waiting outside from the top balcony and told him we needed another ten minutes. This place deserves at least a couple of hours to do it justice. Unfortunately half the poisons exhibition was closed for some reason. Even at €8 each it is worth it for the experiences alone! Enjoy!..."
Diana Boeșan
3 months ago
"For such a looow price, this place is AWESOME! Perfect for children, students, or curious people. A lot of exhibits about science and also history!The interactive ones are such a great experience. The temporary exhibit was also really cool, each floor giving you many new different things to learn about. Also great staff! Very friendly and helpful. The only downside would be the lack of English descriptions. Some exhibits do have English text...."
Szabina B
5 months ago
"I absolutely love this museum. It was a great get away from the heat and discovering the history of the Canary Islands 🇮🇨. With my little one reallyenjoyed how interactive this museum was with stimulation programmes, movies, knowing more about the starts with a projector presentation, checking our body composition. However some of the parts were closed, and not many things were translated to English. I know we were in Spain, I am desperate to speak Spanish. The overall experience was great we spent 3 hours discovering the whole place...."

For Different Travelers

The museum is flexible: you can treat it as a quick rainy-day backup plan or build a fuller visit around shows and temporary exhibitions. Your experience depends on whether you lean into the interactive elements.

Families with Kids

This is one of the easiest “yes” activities in Las Palmas for families, because children can touch, try, and repeat exhibits without feeling like they’re breaking museum rules. It’s also a helpful reset between outdoor activities.

To make it smoother, pick a few must-do zones first and let kids lead for a while, then finish with calmer areas or a screening. If you time it well, you can pair it with a beach walk afterward as a reward.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples who like playful, low-pressure activities will enjoy wandering the interactive galleries together, especially if you’re looking for something different from the usual beach-and-dinner routine. It’s also a smart option on hotter days when you want air-conditioned downtime.

If you’re not both equally into science, keep it short and focus on the most hands-on exhibits and any temporary show that looks fun. Then head out to the waterfront for sunset to balance the day.

Budget Travelers

Reviews consistently point to strong value, and the museum can fill a solid chunk of time without adding much cost to your trip. It’s also a good alternative to pricier excursions when you want a structured activity.

To stretch your budget further, combine the visit with free nearby walks along Las Canteras and Santa Catalina. Bring a water bottle and plan your meal at a local café rather than relying on impulse snacks.

History Buffs

While it’s not a traditional history museum, there’s enough context around technology, exploration, and local themes to keep history-minded travelers interested. Temporary exhibitions can also add unexpected depth.

Approach it as a “history of ideas and inventions” stop rather than a chronology of the Canary Islands. You'll get the most out of it by reading the interpretive panels around the bigger installations.

FAQs for Visiting Elder Museum of Science and Technology

Getting There

Yes, it’s typically an easy walk from the Las Canteras/Santa Catalina area. Exact time depends on where you’re staying along the promenade.
Yes, city buses serve the Santa Catalina area, which is close by. Check routes and stops based on your starting neighborhood.
It can be a good option if you’re docked nearby and want a short, self-guided activity. Allow extra time if you’re visiting during peak port hours.

Tickets & Entry

Usually you can buy on arrival, but booking ahead can help during busy periods or if you want a specific show time. Check the official site for any timed-entry rules.
Many science museums offer reduced rates for children, students, and seniors, but specifics vary. Confirm current categories and required ID before you go.
Sometimes they’re included, sometimes they’re ticketed separately depending on the exhibition. Look for the day’s pricing details before you commit.

Visiting Experience

Yes, especially if you enjoy science, technology, or interactive learning. Adults often appreciate the temporary exhibitions and demonstrations.
Weekends and school-holiday periods can be busier, while weekday afternoons may feel quieter. Arriving earlier helps you get more hands-on time.
Yes, it’s a comfortable indoor activity and a nice break from midday heat. Pair it with an early morning or late afternoon beach plan.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Some museums offer guided visits or educator-led sessions on certain days. Check the program schedule if you want more structure.
Yes, it pairs well with Las Canteras and the Santa Catalina area, plus a waterfront stroll. You can also add Old Town in the evening if you’re moving efficiently.
Show schedules can vary by season and day of week. Confirm times on the day so you can plan your visit around them.

Photography

Photography is often allowed for personal use, but rules can differ for temporary exhibitions. Look for signage and follow staff guidance.
Many museums restrict tripods and flash to protect exhibits and reduce disruption. If you need special equipment, ask in advance.
It can be, since interactive exhibits are engaging on video, but be mindful of other visitors. Keep clips short in busy areas.

Accessibility & Facilities

Many modern museums are accessible, but layouts and exhibit interaction heights can vary. Confirm lift access and any restricted areas before visiting.
You can generally expect restrooms, and family facilities are common in kid-friendly museums. If you’re traveling with a baby, it’s still worth checking specifics.
Some museums provide lockers or a cloak area, but availability varies. Travel light if you’re unsure.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Some museums have a small café or vending, but it’s not guaranteed. The surrounding neighborhood has plenty of cafés for a proper break.
The Santa Catalina and Las Canteras areas are packed with casual spots. Choose somewhere close so you can keep the day relaxed.
Policies vary, and eating may be limited to designated areas. If snacks are essential, check rules and plan a nearby café stop.

Safety & Timing

Weekday afternoons can be quieter, and arriving near opening helps on weekends. If you want hands-on time, avoid peak family hours.
The nearby districts are lively in the evenings, especially around the promenade. Use normal city awareness, particularly late at night.
Yes, if you want the planetarium or demonstrations, build your route around the schedule. It’s an easy way to structure the visit.

Nearby Attractions to the Elder Museum of Science and Technology

  • Las Canteras Beach: A long urban beach promenade that's perfect for swimming, sunset walks, and people-watching.
  • Parque de Santa Catalina: A central plaza near transport links, events, and cafés, ideal for a quick break.
  • Poema del Mar Aquarium: A modern aquarium with large tanks and family-friendly exhibits close to the port.
  • Puerto de Las Palmas: The harbor area is interesting for ship-spotting and gives context to the city’s maritime life.
  • Alfredo Kraus Auditorium: A striking seaside concert hall that's worth seeing for architecture and coastal views.

The Elder Museum of Science and Technology appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Las Palmas de Gran Canaria!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Tuesday- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Monday: Closed

Price:

Adults: €8

Address: Parque Santa Catalina, 35007 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 5 km
Telephone: +34 828 01 18 28
Official Website

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