A Guide to the Best of Southern California : FOR KIDS : Self Discovery

Some grand openings are a bit more spectacular than others: At Universal City’s Science Carnival & Maze, the ceremonial ribbon was frozen with liquid nitrogen, then shattered.

That feat is one of many demonstrations and hands-on experiments in the temporary kids-oriented exhibit. Others include cow eyeball dissection, a mini laser show, catching your shadows with phosphorescence and clocking your pitching speed. Those entering the life-size maze wear a wristband timing mechanism that evaluates their problem-solving skills.

Organizers hope the exhibits, open through March 29, will become models for a permanent San Fernando Valley science museum called Discovery Pavilion. Admission if $6 for adults, $3 for children. A trip through the maze costs $2.

Science Carnival & Maze, across from Cineplex Odeon, 100 Universal City Plaza, North Hollywood; (818) 752-2250.