Drop-in Visits

The LIGO Exploration Center (LExC) welcomes drop-in visitors!

LIGO Hanford Observatory welcomes drop-in visitors of all ages to freely explore fun, interactive, and static exhibits housed in the LIGO Exploration Center (LExC). LExC's exhibits include informational video clips, hands-on experiences, and many artifacts from LIGO's history. LExC is also home to the historic Weber Bar, one of the earliest devices designed to detect gravitational waves. There is no fee to enter this engaging, interactive, family-friendly science facility.

 

 

For current directions to LIGO Hanford Observatory, please see "Driving Directions"

Please note that the LIGO Exploration Center will be CLOSED from September 7th -11th.

We will be open on September 12th for our monthly Second Saturday Public Tours. We apologize for any inconvenience, and hope you will visit us another time. 

LExC drop-in hours (excluding holidays):

• Sunday: CLOSED 
• Monday: CLOSED
• Tuesday: 9:30am - 4pm
• Wednesday: 9:30am - 4pm
• Thursday: 9:30am - 4pm
• Friday: 9:30am - 4pm
• Saturday: CLOSED (except on Second Saturday tour days)

2026 Holidays (CLOSED)

• January 1-2
• January 19
• February 16
• May 25
• June 19
• July 3
• September 7
• November 26-27
• December 25
• December 28-31