Join the Discovery Circles
The Discovery Circles are our premier donor membership program designed for those who believe in the power of science to transform lives. Partners in our mission, the generosity of these inner circles enables us to:
- Develop educational programs for students and teachers
- Expand access to our Museums to underserved communities
- Advance global biodiversity
- Reduce our environmental footprint through sustainable initiatives
Discovery Circles membership is more than a donation—it’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences.
Discovery Circles membership includes unlimited admission to ALL Discovery Place Museums including Charlotte Museum of Nature (opening summer 2026). You’ll also get exclusive VIP access to special events, new exhibitions, and an opportunity to tour behind the scenes on top of all the standard museum benefits like pre-sale access and discounts on camps, birthday parties, guest tickets, IMAX, and more.
Discovery Circles
Discovery Circle members are not just supporters—they are insiders, visionaries, and changemakers. This community of passionate individuals is committed to shaping a brighter future for the Carolinas and enjoys exclusive VIP benefits.
Member Circle – $1,000
Receive all of the benefits that come with our standard memberships, plus:
- All Museum access for up to 6 members
- 20% off tickets to Science on the Rocks
- An invitation to our Annual Behind the Scenes Tour
- Invitations to VIP Exhibition Premieres + Receptions
Fair Market Value: $109 ($891 Tax Deductible)
Supporter Circle – $5,000
Receive all the Member Circle benefits, plus:
- All Museum access for up to 8 members
- Complimentary tickets to Science on the Rocks
- A Caregiver Membership card (2 adults + 2 kids)
- An invitation to our Nature Expedition
Fair Market Value: $706 ($4,294 Tax Deductible)
Patron Circle – $10,000
Receive all the Supporter Circle benefits, plus:
- All Museum access for up to 10 members
- Free Parking at Discovery Place Science
- Planetarium Shows
Fair Market Value: $706 ($4,294 Tax Deductible)
Member Benefits
- FREE Museum admission all year long
- Discounted IMAX documentaries
- 20% off concessions
- Members-only events
- Pre-sale access to Summer Camps
- Discounted Birthday Parties and Summer Camps
- Discounts in Museum stores and café
- 25% off guest admission tickets
- Discounted parking at Discovery Place Science
Honor Someone Special with a Memorial Gift
If you have a loved one whose passion for science, education or our community has inspired you, making a memorial or gift tribute to Discovery Place is a meaningful way to honor them or celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday, while supporting our mission.
Your gift will extend the legacy of your loved one and make a difference that impacts generations.
All memorial and tribute gifts will be acknowledged through a personal note to the person or family of the person being honored.
Employer Matching Program
Did you know you can easily double your impact on Discovery Place by having your employer match your donations?
That’s right.
Here are a few other facts you might not know:
- 65% of Fortune 500 companies offer matching gift programs and 92% of surveyed companies offer at least one kind of employee matching gift program.
- Over 25 million people work for companies with matching gift programs.
- An estimated $2-3 billion is donated through matching gift programs annually.
By doubling your donation of:
- $15, you can supply a new book for one of our Storytimes
- $25, you can provide all the materials for a hands-on activity in the exhibition galleries
- $50, you can cover a full day of internship assistance for our Living Collections
- $125, you can support a wow-inducing science show at our Cool Stuff Stage in Discovery Place Science
Make a gift now and double your impact!
Here’s how:
1. Pick your donation amount and frequency, then click “continue.”
2. Click the “Employer matching” button and type in your company’s name.
3. Choose your employer’s name in the list and continue to the next page to fill out the remaining donation form.
4. Once the transaction is completed, you will receive an email containing a link that takes you directly to your employer’s matching gift program’s submission form.
5. Submit your match request!
Corporate Giving
Ever wonder how your company can support the next generation of doers, thinkers and innovators?
Invest in the future
With philanthropic investment and hands-on engagement from our corporate partners, we are working to develop a home-grown STEM workforce while building a scientifically literate community. There are many ways to engage in the delivery of Discovery Place’s mission, including joining our corporate circle, sponsoring an exhibition, film or program and volunteering.
To discuss designing a partnership that meets your business objectives and advances our mission, contact:
Audra Acey
Director of Government and Institutional Relations
AAcey@discoveryplace.org
Other unique ways to support Discovery Place
Donor-Advised Fund (DAF)
Discovery Place has established relationships with organizations managing Donor-Advised Funds (DAF), including community foundations and sponsoring charities. Donating through your DAF is easy and rewarding. Your generous support helps us continue to deliver engaging exhibits and educational programs. Take action now and make a lasting impact by contributing through your DAF today!
EIN: 56-0529944
Stocks, Bonds and Wire Transfer
Donating to Discovery Place through wire transfer is quick, secure, and ideal for larger gifts. It ensures your donation reaches the Museums promptly with minimal fees, maximizing the impact of your contribution. Plus, it’s a straightforward process with your bank, making it a convenient option for generous donors like you.
You can also donate your publicly-traded securities to Discovery Place and enjoy potential savings on income and capital gains taxes.
This could be a great option for you if:
- You’ve owned publicly-traded securities for at least a year
- These securities have appreciated in value since you acquired them
- They provide little or no income
Planned Giving
Have you ever thought about making a significant contribution towards igniting curiosity and sparking a love for lifelong learning in generations to come?
Planned giving allows you to eave your lasting legacy at Discovery Place while also providing potential financial benefits for you and your loved ones.
What is Planned Giving? Planned giving is a way to support charitable organizations through your financial or estate planning. You can make these gifts during your lifetime or include them in your will. This can involve donating assets like cash, stocks, real estate, or even life insurance policies.
Ready to show your support?
Your gift helps Discovery Place spark a love for lifelong learning in thousands of Charlotte residents and visitors from across the world every year.
Interested in donating by check?
Please be sure to include your name, address and phone number, and mail it to:
Discovery Place
Attn: Development
301 N Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28202
Yes, Discovery Place is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, making your donation to us is tax-deductible as allowed by current law. Please be sure to keep a copy of your receipt.
To request a donation, please complete this form.
For all in-kind donations, please contact Lucy Livingstone (704.972.4904 or llivingstone@discoveryplace.org).
We may accept animal surrenders on a case-by-case basis. Animals that we do not accept are dogs, cats, parakeets, cockatiels, green iguanas, bearded dragons, Pacman Frogs, Leopard geckos, and most turtles and freshwater fish.
If your animal’s species is not listed above, please contact Lucy Livingstone (704.972.4904 or llivingstone@discoveryplace.org) for more information.
