After Seven Years, EPIC Discovery Center Opens Its Doors to the Community on Friday, June 5

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — On Friday, June 5, EPIC Discovery Center will officially open, marking the culmination of years of planning, fundraising, community collaboration, and construction. The $13.5 million project is a transformative investment in the future of children and families across Central Nebraska, creating a destination for exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning.

Designed to serve youth ages 0–18 through STEAM-based exhibits, immersive environments, and experiential learning opportunities, EPIC Discovery Center was intentionally developed as more than a traditional children’s museum. The facility offers state-of-the-art interactive experiences comparable to those at nationally recognized destinations.

What started as a conversation among community members in 2018 has grown into one of the most ambitious educational and family-focused projects in Central Nebraska. For Executive Director Alison Larson, the opening marks the fulfillment of a dream shared by countless community members, supporters, and partners.

“After seven years of dreaming, planning, and building, we are thrilled to finally welcome the community to EPIC Discovery Center,” Larson said. “This project has always been about creating opportunities for children and families to learn, explore, and grow together. Seeing that vision come to life is humbling and inspiring.”

The journey to opening day has been driven by the dedication of donors, volunteers, educators, civic leaders, and community advocates who believed in creating a space where curiosity could flourish and learning could come to life through play and discovery.

As families step through the doors, they will experience immersive exhibits and interactive environments that spark imagination, encourage problem-solving, and foster creativity. From young children discovering new concepts to older students engaging in STEAM-focused experiences, EPIC Discovery Center was created to serve learners of all ages and backgrounds.

Larson believes the center’s impact will extend well beyond its walls.

“EPIC was built to inspire curiosity and create memorable experiences that bring families together,” Larson said. “We are proud to offer a destination of this caliber in Grand Island and Central Nebraska, and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our community for generations to come.”

The grand opening marks not only the completion of a major community project but also the start of a new chapter in educational enrichment, family engagement, and experiential learning in Central Nebraska.

EPIC Discovery Center’s mission is reflected in its guiding purpose: to engage families to explore creativity and community through experience-based learning and play. 

GRAND OPENING DETAILS
EPIC Discovery Center Grand Opening Celebration
When: Date: Friday, June 5, 2026
Where: EPC Discovery Center, 2900 W Old Potash Hwy, Grand island, NE 68803
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony | 1:00 p.m.
In partnership with the Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce

Featured Speakers
Dan Quick, Nebraska State Senator
Roger Steele, Mayor, City of Grand Island
Mary Berlie, President, Grand Island Area Economic Development Corporation and Chamber of Commerce
Alison Larson, Executive Director, EPIC Discovery Center

Facility Tours
Immediately following the ribbon cutting through 3:00 p.m.
 
FREE Admission Sessions
Advance registration is recommended for the free admission sessions, as space is limited. Limited walk-up admission may be available based on capacity.
Session 1: 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Session 2: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Each session includes:
Free admission (June 5 only)
Exclusive grand opening offers
Hands-on exploration throughout the center

About EPIC Discovery Center
EPIC Discovery Center is a $13.5 million project that has been seven years in the making. The center serves youth ages 0–18 through STEAM-based exhibits, immersive environments, and experience-based learning opportunities. Designed as a state-of-the-art discovery center for all ages, EPIC provides interactive experiences comparable to nationally recognized destinations and museums across the country. Through hands-on learning, creativity, and exploration, EPIC Discovery Center helps families Explore Possibilities and Inspire Creativity.

For more information, visit www.epicdiscovery.org, call 308-392-3457, or email [email protected].