Cap Sciences is a science and technology centre in Hangar 20 on Bordeaux’s Quai de Bacalan. Its exhibitions turn topics such as space, the human body and nature into hands-on activities for children and adults. You can assemble skeletons, try excavation activities, tackle family games or explore an exhibition built around an escape-room format. Temporary exhibitions change, so check the current programme before you go. Workshops are available for children from age three, and some displays have descriptions in both French and English.
Science you can explore
Cap Sciences is a science, technology and industry culture centre in Hangar 20 on Bordeaux’s quays. Its exhibitions are designed to make scientific ideas accessible through activities and experiments. Topics span areas such as space, nature and the human body, with interactive displays for younger visitors as well as adults.
The format changes with the exhibitions on show. Past examples have invited visitors to assemble skeletons, try excavation activities and take part in question-and-answer sessions. Some exhibitions use games or puzzles, and virtual reality activities are another option. Check the current programme to see which topics and activities will be available during your visit.
Workshops and family activities
Children can join workshops from age three. The programme has included activities in areas such as astronomy, filmmaking, photography, green chemistry and cooking experiments. The centre also hosts events and conferences on scientific topics, and guided visits may be available.
Some exhibitions connect science with other subjects. One circus-themed exhibition, for example, used interactive installations to examine the physical mechanics behind performers’ acts. Other past activities have explored sport and the human body through virtual reality. These examples give a sense of the centre’s hands-on approach, but exhibitions and workshops change, so check what is scheduled before planning around a particular activity.
Planning your visit
Cap Sciences is at Hangar 20, Quai de Bacalan, in Bordeaux’s Bacalan neighbourhood. It is housed in a former storage hangar on the riverfront. Tram line B stops at Les Hangars, and river boat services are also mentioned as a way to reach the area.
Descriptions are available in French and English for some exhibitions. Advance tickets are recommended, and the cost depends on the exhibition and any workshops you choose. If you are visiting with children, look over the programme first so you can decide whether to focus on a particular exhibition or add a workshop. The centre has a café and restaurant on site.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Cap Sciences in Bordeaux?
It is in Hangar 20 on Quai de Bacalan, in the Bacalan neighbourhood. Tram line B stops at Les Hangars, and river boat services are another way to reach the area.
Is Cap Sciences suitable for children?
Yes. Exhibitions and activities are aimed at children and adults, and workshops are available for children from age three.
Should I buy Cap Sciences tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended. Prices depend on the exhibition and any workshops you choose.
Are the exhibitions at Cap Sciences in English?
Some exhibitions have descriptions in both French and English. Check the current programme for details.
