Tidesmanian Devil

Review of Arizona Science Center

Went to Pompeii Exhibit yesterday. Probably the b...

Went to Pompeii Exhibit yesterday. Probably the best display and/or event they have had at the Arizona Science Center (although Technopia was pretty cool). I'm giving 5-stars for display itself as it is simply amazing to be looking at artifacts and items over 2,000 years old dug from a volcanic eruption.
My only complaint/nitpick is how they handle the castes of the entombed bodies. First, we all admit on some level that that THIS is what we're all paying for. However, why make it into some grand finale that people feel they have to rush through the other areas of the display in anticipation of finally seeing what they are really paying for. And what the heck is the deal with the Blue Coat guides and how they play a hand in the final presentation?? Cheesy at best and tasteless at worse, especially when the cheesy 4D movie (whatever that was supposed to be) with smoke and vibrating floor were added. Again, cheesy at best, tasteless at worse (I know it was 2,000 years ago and a natural event, but imagine something similar for a 9-11 event display!).
To top it off the display ends at . . . a gift shop!! Way to go Science Center! Way to cheapen this amazing display where people are literally leaving the final area speechless and funneling them into an area where we have to pass through sales on T-shirts and paddle and ball sets.
Even with the questionable presentation, Pompeii is well worth the price, especially if you are a member.