Discovery Center of Idaho

The Discovery Center of Idaho is a downtown science museum packed with hands-on exhibits — a giant bubble station, a coding wall, a magnet board, a wind tunnel, animal encounters, and rotating traveling shows. The Exclusive Birthday Party Package rents the entire museum on a Sunday for the birthday family and up to 40 guests, two hours of run-of-the-house with no other visitors. That's the unique pitch: kids have full unguided access to every exhibit instead of waiting for turns.

The package includes a dedicated party host, setup of tables and chairs in the lobby and program room, paper goods, and the birthday kid's name on the marquee. Outside food and cake are allowed; some families bring pizza, others contract with downtown restaurants for catering. The format works best for ages four through twelve, since older kids tend to age out of the exhibits. Sunday dates book six to eight weeks ahead. Free street parking and easy walk to downtown if family is staying nearby.