If you’ve visited The Iowa Children’s Museum, you already know how easy it is for kids to lose themselves in play here. A membership makes it even better! Here are a few reasons families love being members.

1. Unlimited Play = Unlimited Possibility

When you’re a member, the museum becomes more than a special occasion destination. There’s no pressure to “see it all” in one visit. No rush to squeeze in every exhibit. You can pop in for an hour after school or stop by during a free afternoon. Spend an entire Saturday morning building, pretending, experimenting, and creating. Or make it your go-to winter escape when cabin fever hits.

Unlimited admission means your child can revisit their favorite exhibits again and again, discovering something new each time. Because play isn’t one-and-done. It evolves as they grow.

2. Member-Only Moments That Feel Extra Special

There’s something special about walking into the museum before it opens to the public. Member-only hours (Wednesday through Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m.) give families a chance to experience the exhibits in a calmer, more relaxed environment. It’s a quieter time to enjoy all that the museum has to offer and to meet up with other member families.

This exclusive playtime makes kids feel like VIPs and gives caregivers space to truly engage in the play alongside them.

3. Savings That Add Up

If you visit The Iowa Children’s Museum more than a couple of times a year, it often makes sense to become a member. For a family of five, a membership pays for itself by your third visit.

Members also receive discounts on birthday parties, special programs, and purchases in the Think Tank Gift Shop. If you’re already planning to celebrate milestones, sign up for camps, or grab that science kit your child can’t stop talking about, those savings add up quickly.

4. Your Membership Travels With You

Taking a road trip? Visiting family out of state? Your membership can save you money at other children’s museums across the country.

Through the Association of Children’s Museums Reciprocal Network, our members receive 50% off admission at hundreds of participating children’s museums nationwide. That means your weekend getaway or summer vacation can include hands-on learning and imaginative play at a fraction of the cost.

5. You’re Supporting Something Bigger Than a Visit

Every membership does more than unlock the doors for your family. It helps open them wider for others. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on a combination of revenue and donations to carry out our mission.

Memberships help fund outreach programs, community partnerships, and accessible play opportunities for children across Eastern Iowa. When you become a member, you’re investing in joyful learning experiences for the entire community.

Why Families Choose a Membership at The Iowa Children’s Museum

Being a member at The Iowa Children’s Museum isn’t just about admission perks.

It’s about having a place where:

• Your child’s imagination is celebrated

• Messy experiments are encouraged

• Questions are welcome

• Play is taken seriously

For many families, it becomes part of their weekly routine and a trusted, joyful space they return to again and again. If you’re looking for year-round family activities in Iowa, educational activities in Coralville, or hands-on learning experiences for kids, a membership is a great place to start!