Universe (then called Danfoss Universe) was my first introduction to Sonderborg 3 years ago, way before we had any plans to move to Denmark. It is a science theme park where people can interact with science in a fun and enjoyable way through hundreds of hands-on activities, from Segway rides, to themed exhibits. I loved my time in the park then so now that the new season has started it was well worth visiting again to check out what was new.
The Name
The biggest change that cannot possibly escape you is in the name. In 2013 Danfoss Universe dropped the Danfoss part of the name to become Universe, an independent foundation. This should enable the park to become bigger (and, better?). A number of changes could, in fact, already be seen in place!
Weekend Events
Prior to this year most of the main events have consisted of the daily science show, as well as workshops, such as this rocket-building workshop. However, this year there is a whole programme of events during the weekends. This weekend it was Jimmy Enoch with his circus act. It was great fun watching him (if a bit scary!) and having a workshop with him on how to use different circus tricks and the unicycle.
If you missed it there is still a lot to come. From gymnasts (Flying Super Kids) to Children’s tv personalities (Hr Skraeg, Sofie Ostergaard), to Soapbox car building and rally, your kids should be happily entertained.
Speed: This year’s theme
Every year Universe celebrates one particular theme. Last year it was ‘The body’. This year the theme is ‘Speed‘. One of the highlights appears to be the ‘race room’, where up to 8 people can race together to see who comes out fastest. There is also a leaderboard with the top times so far. Other connected attractions include the hands-on exhibits in the Cumulus and the 5D simulator of being in a race car. If you’ve been before visiting this part of the place is possibly worth it.
New Attractions
The waterworks part of the park has been extended! When I’ve been there before I loved playing around in this part of the exhibit. I do come from an island after all, so water is in my genes! This has now been extended with more set-ups for kids (whatever their age) to play around in.
All in all, Universe is a good place to spend an enjoyable day, especially if the sun is out as it has been this weekend. There’s enough variety to keep kids entertained as well as the bigger kids (also known as adults). So a definite place to put on your list if you’re visiting the area, as well as if you live here.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mogello/7983294257/Disclaimer: Michael works at Universe as a Web developer.
