Discovery Lab at Gathering Place Progresses
GOING UP: Construction of the Discovery Lab at Tulsa’s Gathering Place is progressing for the scheduled opening in the fall of 2021. This photo was taken in early October as construction was beginning. The facility is located along Riverside Drive near East 31st Street at the south end of the Gathering Place.
The new 50,000 square-foot Discovery Lab, being constructed at 31st Street and Riverside Drive on the south end of the Gathering Place, is currently on schedule for the Fall of 2021 opening.
The facility will feature interactive exhibits and programs focused on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) and health and wellness curriculum. With over 250,000 visitors projected annually, the museum will serve families and all area schools, as well as, house, develop, and deliver programming for the Tulsa Public Schools STEM Center.
The facility received a boost from the Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation, which announced a $6 million gift to Discovery Lab’s $45 million capital campaign. This contribution will support education through play and include the naming and dedication of the Central Gallery in memory of Anne Zarrow. This area within the museum will allow children to explore independently using their imaginations and taking risks while building skills like collaboration, problem solving, critical thinking, and innovation.
“We are forever indebted to The Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation for this gift,” Ray Vandiver, executive director/CEO of Discovery Lab, said. “This gift to Discovery Lab is a unique opportunity to celebrate Anne Zarrow’s caring concern for children and families.” Bill Major, executive director of The Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation, said.
In addition, Hardesty Family Foundation has announced a $3 million gift to Discovery Lab’s capital campaign. The significant contribution will finance a 300-person, outdoor amphitheater to be set at the entrance of the museum facing Gathering Place.
ENTRANCE FROM THE PARK: The Discovery Lab will be a popular addition to Tulsa’s award-winning Gathering Place.
“Discovery Lab facilitates meaningful educational and family engagement opportunities for our community and we are excited to invest in more of these opportunities for future generations of Tulsans,” Michelle Hardesty, executive director of Hardesty Family Foundation, said.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and vision of the Hardesty Family Foundation. The Hardesty Family Foundation Amphitheater will be a community space and act as an important outdoor extension of the programming and experiences inside Discovery Lab,” Ray Vandiver, executive director/CEO of Discovery Lab, said.
The Hardesty Family Foundation Amphitheater will feature regular museum events and programs with an outdoor stage and seating built into the landscape. The spaces fit in Hardesty Family Foundation’s goals to support local programs and projects that meet the needs of Tulsans and create a better future for residents of the region.
The Discovery Lab is currently located at 560 N. Maybelle Ave. in Tulsa. For more information, visit discoverylab.org.
FUN FOR ALL: The Discovery Lab works to inspire children, connect families, and build community through exploration, exhibits, programming and play.
