The Grand Rapids Children's Museum celebrates childhood and the joy of learning by providing an interactive, hands-on experience that encourages self-directed exploration. The 1916-era building is hard to miss: large expanses of plate glass give passerby a view of the fun inside and one exterior wall is covered with a large mosaic that was originally installed for ArtPrize 2009.
Covid Safety: All guests and staff ages 2 and up are required to wear a mask at all times, and will have temperature checks upon arrival at the museum.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How to Experience the Grand Rapids Children's Museum
How to Experience the Grand Rapids Children's Museum:
What can I see and do at Grand Rapids Children's Museum?
The Grand Rapids Children's Museum includes two floors of hands-on interactive exhibits geared for kids two to ten years old. Exhibits range from a train table and bubble tower to a “little” version of Grand Rapids that lets kids count money, shop for groceries, mail a package and more. Exhibits rotate on a regular basis, so there’s always something new.
Is Grand Rapids Children's Museum good for kids?
The Grand Rapids Children's Museum is made for kids! It provides an environment for play that helps kids build creative thinking, collaboration, problem solving, physical skills and social emotional skills.
When is Grand Rapids Children's Museum open?
Noon-7pm Thursday, 9am-4pm Friday and Saturday, and noon-4pm Sunday and Tuesday. Members have the Museum all to themselves on Tuesdays from 9am-noon.
What is the admission price?
General admission is $10 for ages 1-64. Senior (65+) admission is $9 and proper IDs entitle school faculty members and active military family members to an $8 admission fee.
Are there any discounts available?
Through Museums for All, EBT and WIC cardholders can pay just $1.75 (up to 12 people can enter per card). ACM Reciprocal Network cardholders enjoy 50% off admission for up to six people.
Can I purchase or reserve tickets online?
No, tickets can be purchased on site.
Is Grand Rapids Children's Museum accessible for guests with special needs?
Yes, the Grand Rapids Children's Museum is accessible to all visitors. Push-button-activated entrance doors and wide, level paths accommodate strollers and wheelchairs. An elevator is available for transport between the two floors. Sensory tool kits can be checked out at the front desk to enrich the Museum experience for kids who need a little extra support. Scroll down for more accessibility info.
Where is Grand Rapids Children's Museum located?
In downtown Grand Rapids, at one end the Monroe Center dining and shopping district. The Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives and Grand Rapids Art Museum are just two blocks away. It’s also an easy walk (or free DASH ride) from downtown hotels.
Where can I park?
There is abundant parking throughout the downtown area. View the downtown parking map – the Grand Rapids Children's Museum is the white building (adjacent to a blue one) at Monroe Center and Division Ave., at the extreme east and middle part of the map.
Is food available?
No. The Grand Rapids Children's Museum encourages you to enjoy food and beverages before or after your visit. There are 130+ restaurants within comfortable walking distance (or a free DASH ride).
Is there a gift shop?
The Museum Gift Shop offers educational toys for all ages, including sensory play-inspired kits and ingredients.
Accessibility Information
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- 11 Sheldon Ave. NE
- (616) 235-4726
The Grand Rapids Children's Museum celebrates childhood and the joy of learning by providing hands-on exhibits that inspire learning and encourage self-directed exploration.
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Experience Grand Rapids, Michigan's diverse attractions including parks, the John Ball Zoo, museums, nature centers and sculpture gardens. Whether you're vacationing with the family or traveling for business, you'll want to take some time to enjoy these fun things to do in Grand Rapids.