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Planning on bringing a small or large group? Get answers to our visitors most common questions. FREQUENTLY ASKED GENERAL QUESTIONS FOR PROGRAMS AT THE SCIENCE STATION
Q. How do I make my reservation request?
A. Requests may be made by phone, fax, or email. You may reach our reservation office by calling (319) 363-4629 ext. 110. Voice mail is available 24 hours a day. All requests are tentative until confirmed by Science Station.
Q. How do I handle payment?
A. All reservations must be paid in advance. Payments should be received a minimum of 5 business days before your visit. Checks may be mailed to: Science Station Group Reservations, 427 1st Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401-1808. Please be sure to note your confirmation number(s) on your check. Please pay with one check only. For your convenience, you may also pay by telephone with Visa, MasterCard or Discover. We also accept purchase orders.
Q. What if our attendance numbers change?
A. Please call our reservation office, 319 363 4629 x 110, one week prior to your visit to confirm your numbers. All changes to reservation numbers should be made with our registrar. Should a refund be necessary, a $5 administrative fee will be charged. The Business Office will mail the refund to the issuing department.
Q. How many chaperones should I bring?
A. For programs at the Science Station, the Science Station requires one adult for every ten students for elementary and middle school students. The ratio is 1/5 for pre-school students and 1/15 for high school students. We do encourage you to bring more than the required amount, but they would pay our group rate for admission. Required adults are admitted free to the Science Station. Adults need to stay with their group and be actively involved with the students. Download Visiting the Science Station Suggestions and Rules for Groups now.
Q. What are my lunch options?
A. For programs at the Science Station, in good weather, we suggest that groups take advantage of our outdoor space. Many groups have enjoyed the riverwalk and surrounding area. It is important that you deposit trash in the appropriate containers, as you may be subject to city fines for inappropriate use of dumpsters. We are located in downtown Cedar Rapids, and there are many lunch options within walking distance, including a food court and a city park. In the event of inclement weather, or in winter, you may eat your sack lunches in the Cedar Rapids Public Library’s lobby, located directly across the street from the Science Station. They have graciously allowed our school groups this option in the past. Please make sure you deposit your trash in appropriate containers. Or, you may wish to reserve a room in the Science Station for lunch. There is a charge of $15 for room use, and such rooms are available by reservation only, subject to availability.
Q. What are parking options?
A. Metered parking is available in the Ground Transportation Center Parkade, 5th Ave. and 2nd St. SE, a block east of the Science Station. Limited metered parking is available on the street in front of the Science Station.
If arriving by school or charter bus, you should unload in front of the Science Station. Bus parking is available in the city lot just north of the Police Station at 505 First Street SW.
Q. How can we get the most out of our visit?
A. Identify goals for your visit and discuss them with your students and chaperones. Be clear about expectations and acceptable behavior. Choose activities that can be worked into your curriculum. Most importantly, let us know how we can help you make the most out of your experience. Our staff understand the challenges of teaching and can offer an innovative, hands-on approach to learning. They encourage you to take advantage of the classes we offer as it allows students to experience a guided lesson outside of their regular classroom. A Science Station Quest is available on our website, and you can download it to make copies for your students prior to your visit.
Download Science Station Quest now. |
