Here is some practical information that might be useful to know before visiting the Science Factory. We look forward to welcoming you!
When is the Science Factory open?
Normal opening hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10.00-15.00
Wednsday: 10.00-20.00
Thursday: 10.00-15.00
Friday: 10.00-15.00
Saturday: 11.00-17.00
Sunday: 11.00-17.00
How much does it cost?
Children under 4 years old: Free
Children form 4 to 17 years old: NOK 75
Adult: NOK 145
Student: NOK 75 upon presentation of a valid student ID
Maxiticket: NOK 390 (2 adults + 3 children)
Please note: The ticket you purchase is valid for all Jærmuseet sites and Hå gamle prestegard on the same day.
Children visiting Vitenfabrikken alone must be over 10 years old. Only adults can accompany children under 10 years old.
Pre-book your ticket or drop-in!
Annual pass
Family annual pass: NOK 1100 (2 adults + 4 children)
Mini family annual pass: NOK 760 (1 adult + 3 children)
Grandparents annual pass: NOK 1000 (2 adults + 4 children)
Grandfather/grandmother annnual pass: NOK 700 (1 adult + 3 children)
Adult annual pass: NOK 450
Student annual pass: NOK 250
Child annual pass: NOK 250
Senior/concession annual pass: NOK 300
Note: annual passes are personal and can only be used by the registered cardholders. Valid for the immediate family. The annual pass is valid at all Jærmuseet sites and runs from date to date for 52 weeks.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
You can buy admission tickets both online and at the reception when you arrive.
Planetarium screenings and other shows at the center are included in your admission ticket, but seating is limited. These are very popular, so please collect your ticket for the planetarium or show as soon as you arrive.
What is happening at the Science Factory today?
Every weekday there is an exciting show in our planetarium at 1:30 PM.
Every weekend and during school holidays we host multiple science shows, additional planetarium screenings, and other fun public activities, such as drop-in creative workshops featuring everything from slime to clay and other exciting projects!
Creative days at the Science Factory Makerspace:
Every Wednesday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM children and teenagers are invited to a creative afternoon at the Makerspace. This creative afternoon takes place on the second floor of Vitenfabrikken and is open to anyone in the 5th grade and above. You are also welcome to bring an adult along. The activity is free, and no prior registration is required.
Every Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM we host a creative called Youth Makerspace for anyone between the ages of 13 and 20. Here, you can make whatever you want using all our machines, including sewing machines, 3D printers, vinyl cutters, and a variety of creative programs and tools. This activity is free, and no prior registration is required.
Every Friday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM we hold Friday drop-in sessions at the Makerspace for anyone over 13 years old. No prior experience is needed. We will be there to help you get to know the tools and techniques, whether you are just curious or have a specific project in mind.
One weekend a month we organize a creative weekend for anyone in the 5th grade or older. Each weekend spans two days and features a predetermined theme, ranging from sewing a stuffed animal to building your own wall clock.
Check our Facebook page for updated information on all Makerspace activities.
Do you offer guided tours?
Yes, upon request! Please contact our sales coordinator, Ingunn Aase Hovelsrud, at bedrift.vitenfabrikken@jaermuseet.no for a friendly chat and more information.
How do I get to the Science Factory?
The Science Factory is located right in the heart of Sandnes city center and is easy to reach by bus, train, and car. The Science Factory is located at Storgata 28, 4307 Sandnes.
Bus
The Science Factory is located 550 meters from Sandnes bus station, where all buses in Sandnes stop. Plan your journey at kolumbus.no.
Train
The train station in Sandnes is also 550 meters from the Science Factory. Plan your journey at vy.no.
On foot or by bike
There are several bicycle racks located by the Schience Factory. The bikes are slightly hidden there, but please remember to lock your bike anyway!
Is there parking nearby?
Due to upgrades on Oalsgata, the parking lot outside the Science Factory is closed. Therefore, the nearest parking options are:
- Nygaardshagen parking garage at Jærveien 16, Sandnes. A 2-minute walk from the Science Factory. Please note that you cannot pay directly by card at the barrier. You must always get a ticket, which you can pay for using coins, bills, or a card at the payment machine. EasyPark code: 849.
- The intersection of Oalsgata and Postveien. Two blocks from the Science Factory. NOK 15 per hour. Note: Card payment is not available at this location.
The accessible (HC) parking spaces at the Science Factory remain open, even though the rest of the parking lot is closed.
Is the Science Factory universally accessible?
The Science Factory aims to be a place for everyone. We provide:
- An elevator serving all floors
- Good access via sidewalks, spacious hallways, and open rooms
- Ground-level entrance
- The café and restrooms on the same floor
- Accessible (HC) restrooms
- Accessible (HC) parking. This remains open even though the rest of the parking lot is closed due to roadwork on Oalsgata
- A wheelchair available for loan. Please ask at the reception, and we will assist you!
- When the building is busy, it can get quite noisy. Feel free to ask at the reception about quieter areas, or plan your visit for weekdays after 1:00 PM, when the volume is usually a bit lower.
Are you wondering if the Science Factory is suitable for your needs? Send us an inquiry at vitenfabrikken@jaermuseet.no or call us at 477 76 020 for a friendly chat.
Can I use a companion certificate?
Yes! People with a companion certificate enter for free, and the cardholder pays for a regular admission ticket. Welcome!
What can I eat at Vitenfabrikken?
Brain Food Café serves a selection of hot and cold dishes suitable for both children and adults. We offer pasta salad, hot dogs, Norwegian waffles, and many other delicious treats! Please ask our café staff if you have any allergies.
You do not need an admission ticket to th Science Factory to enjoy food or drinks at our café. Welcome!
Unfortunately, outside food and drinks cannot be consumed in the café. An exception is made for school classes and kindergartens visiting as part of an organized school or daycare trip.
Is the Science Factory giftshop open?
The shop at Vitenfabrikken is the first thing you see when you walk through our doors. Here, you will find fun and educational gifts for all ages! Open throughout Vitenfabrikken’s regular opening hours.
Who are the exhibitions at Vitenfabrikken suitable for?
Children aged 3–6 usually spend most of their time on the second floor, which features a fun crane and large tables filled with Duplo and Lego.
School-aged children up to 13 spend a lot of time exploring the brain exhibition on the first floor, the Abelloftet, or the energy exhibition.
The Planetarium is suitable for everyone! Different shows are screened every day – just ask at the reception to find out what is playing during your visit.
Is it possible to rent the Science Factory?
Yes! The Science Factory can be rented for everything from courses and conferences to team building events.
Is there a nursing room at the Science Factory?
There are restrooms on the 1st and 3rd floors equipped with baby changing and nursing facilities.
Which languages are the exhibitions in?
Norwegian and English.
Hello Teacher!
Admission is free for primary and lower secondary schools to visit Vitenfabrikken, and discounted rates are available for kindergartens, after-school programs (SFO), and upper secondary schools. Pre-book your visit here!
Can’t find what you are looking for? Contact us at vitenfabrikken@jaermuseet.no, and we will figure it out together! Check out our programs on the school and kindergarten page.
Can`t find what you are looking for? Contact us at vitenfabrikken@jaermuseet.no