The Mersin 100 Science Center in Yenişehir has become a prominent family entertainment destination in Mersin: according to a November 4, 2026, municipality report, the center has welcomed over 210,000 visitors since its opening. It introduces topics such as climate, the environment, marine science, astronomy, and robotics—not only through exhibitions but also through classes and planetarium sessions.
For families, this is a weekend option when they want to enjoy an indoor activity. Before traveling, it's important to understand the sign-up process and age requirements.
What Mercan offers families in Yenişehir
Mercan is a center where science connects with everyday topics: the sea, climate, nature, and the sky. The municipal announcement about the center lists classes in marine science, natural science, climate and environment, as well as astronomy and space. The center's official website specifically lists robotics and coding.
A visit can include a tour of the science center and a planetarium session. The center's information describes this format as approximately 50 minutes of tour time and 30 minutes of viewing time. This is not a self-guided tour of the halls at your own pace: weekend visits are held in groups and accompanied by a staff member or instructor.
How does visiting work on weekends?
The center's official website lists several weekend showings. The schedule lists group tours starting at 8:30 AM, 9:30 AM, and 10:30 AM, and after the lunch break at 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. The tour is followed by a planetarium show. The times listed on the website are helpful for planning your day, but they don't necessarily confirm availability on a specific date.
According to the center's rules, to visit on Saturday or Sunday, you must pre-register for a suitable session by phone or through the booking system on the official website. School group visits are available on Tuesdays through Fridays by appointment; this differs from weekend family visits.
General opening hours are 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays. The visiting rules specify a lunch break from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Please refer to your confirmed session: special events and program changes may affect the schedule.
How to choose the right program for your child
If your child is interested in stars and planets, check the planetarium's schedule and times in advance. Those more interested in the sea, climate, or technology can check which exhibits and activities are available on their chosen day. The municipality provides information on the center's various educational programs, but the full range of activities and their availability for individual visitors depends on the current program.
Planetarium shows are intended for visitors aged six and up. The contact information lists this age as the minimum age for attendance, but the FAQ specifically mentions the "Minik Mucitler" workshop for children aged four to six and weekend visits for all ages. Therefore, if you have a child under six, please check the terms of your chosen program in advance, without assuming they will be able to participate in the general session.
The planetarium may include visual effects and loud sound; restrictions for visitors with certain medical conditions are listed separately on its website. Please check these restrictions before booking if your child or accompanying person has any special needs.
Where is the center and how to get there
Mercan is located in the Yenişehir district, in Deniz Mahalla: the official address is Deniz Mah. 17. Cadde (4. Çevreyolu), 3030. Sokak, Yenişehir/Mersin. For individual visitors, the center's website lists municipality buses 13, 23, 74, and 131, as well as two Pozcu Cooperative routes.
Public transport routes and schedules are subject to change, so checking the bus number isn't a substitute for checking the departure time on the day of travel. Check the current route from your point in Mersin and allow some time before the departure. This is especially helpful before booking to choose a time that won't require rushing.
A quick plan before the visit
- Choose a family session or a private workshop and clarify its terms. The school program is coordinated separately.
- Check the schedule and sign up for your chosen session; availability on the website does not guarantee a seat.
- If you are traveling with a child under six years old, please inquire separately about the age requirements for the specific program you have chosen.
- Before entering the planetarium, check the restrictions and arrive at least 10 minutes in advance: entry is closed once the show begins.
- Check public transport routes and arrival times instead of relying on an old route schedule.
- Avoid eating inside the exhibition halls: the center specifies restrictions on food and drink in certain areas.
Sources
Accessed November 6, 2026: Municipality announcement from November 4, 2026 (cumulative visitor numbers, from the opening of the center); Mercan visiting rules; contact information and questions; planetarium conditions.