the center has grown to be one of the most popular cultural attractions in the state of arizona. arizona science center has served more than three million patrons since opening its downtown phoenix facility in 1997. the current facilities include more than of gallery space; an imax theater seating 289 people; the dorrance planetarium, which can seat 210 people; a suite of multimedia classrooms; amenities including a gift shop, food service and lunchroom; and support facilities.