Some buildings disappear from the cityscape over time. Others are given a second life and become places that once again attract residents and tourists. EC1 Łódź is one such example – a former power station transformed into a modern centre of science, culture and entertainment, where the history of industrial Łódź creates an engaging duo with interactive exhibitions and modern technologies.
EC1 is located in the centre of Łódź, just a few minutes’ walk from Piotrkowska Street and Łódź Fabryczna railway station. You can spend several hours here visiting the Centre for Science and Technology, the Planetarium, the spherical cinema or areas designed with the youngest visitors in mind. It is an appealing destination both for families with children and for adults interested in science, technology and the history of the city.
The history of the former Łódź power station
The history of EC1 dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, when Łódź’s first commercial municipal power station was launched. For decades, the complex supplied energy to residents and the developing industry, becoming one of the symbols of the city’s dynamic growth.
After operations ended, the former combined heat and power plant waited for a new purpose for many years. Instead of disappearing from the map of Łódź, however, it underwent comprehensive revitalisation, thanks to which the historic buildings acquired new functions while retaining their post-industrial character and many original architectural elements.
Today, EC1 Łódź – City of Culture is one of the best-known examples of successful revitalisation in Poland. The former power station is now home to, among other facilities, the Centre for Science and Technology, the Planetarium and exhibition halls, while the history of the site has become an integral part of it.
What can you see at the EC1 Centre for Science and Technology?
A visit to the EC1 Centre for Science and Technology takes you through the successive levels of the former power station, where historic infrastructure blends with modern exhibits. Many of the displays are interactive, so instead of viewing exhibits from behind glass, you can conduct experiments, operate devices and find out in practice how phenomena encountered in everyday life work.
Several permanent exhibitions await visitors, each presenting science from a slightly different perspective:
- Energy Processing – discover the journey energy takes, from fuel to the electrical socket. You will see original elements of the former power station, look inside a boiler and find out how turbines, generators and transformers work together;
- The Development of Knowledge and Civilisation – interactive displays show how successive scientific discoveries influenced the development of technology and everyday life. You can conduct experiments yourself and learn how various inventions work;
- Microcosm – Macrocosm – this exhibition takes visitors on a journey from the smallest structures of matter to the distant corners of the Universe, showcasing phenomena invisible to the naked eye;
- Climate at a Turning Point – this exhibition explains the causes and effects of climate change in an accessible way and shows how everyday decisions affect the environment.
The tour route also includes historic equipment, including an impressive Brown Boveri turbo-generator set and a reconstructed Director’s Office. As a result, discovering science naturally intertwines with the history of a place that supplied energy to the residents of Łódź for decades.
The Planetarium, spherical cinema and attractions for the youngest visitors
After visiting the Centre for Science and Technology, you can continue exploring EC1 in other parts of the complex. It is this variety of attractions that makes the venue suitable both for a family trip and for a visit with adult enthusiasts of science or new technologies.
One of EC1’s biggest attractions is the Planetarium, equipped with a modern projection system that allows you to take a virtual journey through the Solar System, distant galaxies and the most fascinating astronomical phenomena. The programme includes screenings for different age groups, so you can easily choose a show suited to the age and interests of the participants. Planetarium shows are intended for children aged 5 and over.
Another interesting addition to the visit is the spherical cinema, where films are projected onto a dome that surrounds viewers on every side. Screenings devoted to space, the microcosm or technology offer a completely different perspective on the subjects presented. Please note, however, that a ticket to the spherical cinema must be purchased separately.
If you are visiting EC1 with young children, be sure to also visit Ulica Żywiołów – an interactive space designed for playing together and discovering the world through experiences engaging all the senses. The displays encourage experimentation, cooperation and active exploration of the surroundings – allowing the youngest visitors to learn through action while parents discover the successive displays alongside them.
Ticket prices and visiting the EC1 Centre for Science and Technology
EC1 in Łódź is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. The individual areas of the complex have their own price lists, so it is worth checking which attractions you would like to visit before your trip.
EC1 Centre for Science and Technology
- Tuesday – Friday:
- standard ticket – 32 zł,
- reduced-price ticket – 24 zł;
- Saturday – Sunday:
- standard ticket – 39 zł,
- reduced-price ticket – 30 zł.
EC1 Planetarium
- Tuesday – Friday:
- standard ticket – 25 zł,
- reduced-price ticket – 19 zł;
- Saturday – Sunday:
- standard ticket – 27 zł,
- reduced-price ticket – 20 zł.
Spherical cinema
- Tuesday – Sunday:
- 2D screening ticket – 12 zł.
A ticket to the spherical cinema can only be purchased together with an admission ticket to the EC1 Centre for Science and Technology.
Ulica Żywiołów
- Tuesday – Friday:
- ticket – 30 zł;
- Saturday – Sunday:
- ticket – 35 zł.
Guests of Hotel Traugutta 12 can purchase EC1 tickets directly at reception. This is a convenient solution if you want to plan your visit before heading out.
Group tickets are also available for most attractions. Reduced-price tickets are available to children, school pupils and students up to the age of 26, seniors over 60, people with disabilities and their carers upon presentation of a document entitling them to the discount. Children under 3 can visit the Centre for Science and Technology free of charge, while children under 2 can visit Ulica Żywiołów free of charge.
Frequently asked questions about visiting the EC1 Centre for Science and Technology in Łódź
Planning to visit EC1 in Łódź? Below you will find answers to the questions most often asked before a visit – from visiting times and tickets to practical information about transport and nearby accommodation.
What can you see at EC1 in Łódź?
At EC1 in Łódź, you can visit interactive exhibitions devoted to energy, the development of civilisation and climate change, as well as the Planetarium, the spherical cinema and Ulica Żywiołów, designed with the youngest visitors in mind. The complex also hosts temporary exhibitions, cultural events and screenings, so every visit can be slightly different.
How long does it take to visit EC1 in Łódź?
You should allow approximately 2–3 hours to visit the Science and Technology Centre itself. If you are also planning to visit the Planetarium, the spherical cinema or the Street of the Elements, your stay at EC1 may take up a larger part of the day. It all depends on the number of attractions you want to visit.
Is EC1 in Łódź suitable for children?
Yes. EC1 has prepared attractions for different age groups – from the youngest children to teenagers and adults. Younger visitors enjoy spending time on the Street of the Elements, while older children can experiment independently at the interactive stations in the Science and Technology Centre and attend Planetarium screenings.
Do you need to buy a separate ticket for the EC1 Planetarium?
Yes. The Planetarium operates independently of the Science and Technology Centre, so a separate ticket and screening schedule apply. Before your visit, it is a good idea to check the programme and screening times so that you can conveniently plan your entire stay at EC1.
Where can I buy tickets to EC1 in Łódź?
You can buy tickets to EC1 online, at the venue’s ticket offices and – if you are staying at Hotel Traugutta 12 – directly at the reception desk. This convenient solution allows you to plan your visit before heading out and take care of everything in one place.
Is there parking at EC1 in Łódź?
Yes. Free parking for passenger cars and vans weighing up to 3.5 tonnes is available at 7 Dowborczyków Street. If all spaces are occupied, you can use the paid underground car park at Łódź Fabryczna railway station or parking spaces available on the surrounding streets.
Where to stay near EC1 in Łódź?
If you want to explore the city centre comfortably, staying near EC1 is a good choice. Hotel Traugutta 12 is just a few minutes’ walk from the complex, and after sightseeing you can relax in a comfortable apartment or enjoy a meal at Acanti Restaurant.
How long does it take to walk from Hotel Traugutta 12 to EC1 in Łódź?
You can walk from Hotel Traugutta 12 to EC1 in approximately 10 minutes, while the drive takes around 5 minutes. Thanks to the hotel’s central location, you can easily combine a visit to EC1 with a walk along Piotrkowska Street or a visit to other Łódź attractions.
Distance from the EC1 Science and Technology Centre in Łódź to Hotel Traugutta 12 – 650 metres
The prices and opening hours provided are valid in 2026. To be sure, before your visit check the current information on the website of the EC1 Science and Technology Centre in Łódź or contact the staff directly.
