About the Science Center

The reimagined St. Petersburg Science Center stands poised to redefine innovation, education and community engagement in the Tampa Bay region.

Building on its nearly 60-year legacy of inspiring children in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics), the Science Center is being reborn as a cutting-edge emerging technologies hub, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI).
It will be a vibrant ecosystem where education, research, creativity and community converge to shape the future of AI in our region.

At the heart of the facility is its mission to be a center of excellence for all things AI.

The center will house specialized AI labs, develop content and training and provide a platform for forward thinking strategies in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

The AI village will prepare thousands of students annually to thrive in the careers of tomorrow. 

LaunchAI, a beautiful two story space punctuated by the sky conference room will accelerate Tampa Bay’s next great new companies.

But the Science Center is so much more than AI.

It will be a multi-faceted community destination that will serve students, professionals, organizations, government and even tourists.  

Behind the Science Center, the Historic Mosaic Trail, a cherished part of the center’s heritage, winds through a lush garden, inviting visitors to reflect and connect with the natural world. This tranquil space is a testamentto the Center’s commitment to preserving history while embracing the future.

The Star Garden, a high-end rooftop garden event space, is a crown jewel on top of the facility. This half-indoor, half-outdoor venue nestled in the Garden canopy of old growth trees is designed to host elegant gatherings, from corporate events to weddings, under the star lit sky.
The Star Garden is a place where technology meets beauty, creating unforgettable experiences for all who visit.

For larger events, the state-of-the-art Hybritorium is a game-changer. This innovative venue seamlessly integrates in-person and virtual experiences, ensuring every attendee feels equally engaged no matter where they are. Perfect for conferences, workshops, and presentations, the Hybritorium embodies the center’s commitment to accessibility to Science Center goodness.

The planetarium, a cherished feature of the original Science Center, will come back to life as a place to inspire and entertain.

Cafai, the AI-themed café, will offer a unique culinary experience where technology and creativity collide. 

For professionals and startups, the center’s class A office space will provide an ideal environment to work, collaborate and innovate.

Designed with modern amenities and flexibility in mind, these spaces will attract top talent and foster a thriving community of thinkers and doers. 

By bridging the past and future, the center is not just revitalizing a beloved institution but also transforming it into a dynamic force for innovation and community enrichment.

Together we will elevate Tampa Bay as an AI destination that attracts companies, talent and investment. And we’ll have a lot of fun doing so.

Elected supporters

Darryl Rouson
Florida State Senator
Berny Jacques
Florida State Representative
Kenneth Welch
St. Petersburg Mayor
Copley Gerdes
St. Petersburg City Council
Robert Blackmon
Former St. Petersburg City Council
Charlie Crist
Former Florida Governor
Linda Chaney
Florida State Representative

Foundational organizations