Family Festival on May 3: Free outdoor performances and fun! LEARN MORE
Summer Camps: New ways to play and learn each week! LEARN MORE
Birthday Parties: There's no better place to celebrate! LEARN MORE

City Music

Explore the world of sound and discover the joy of music

With a variety of instruments to choose from–including drums, boomwackers, a piano, gongs, xylophones, and more–children can experiment with sound and discover the magic of music.

At City Music, kids can strike the drums, pluck the strings of wooden instruments, and even use flip-flops to play the PVC pipe organ. Along the way, children will explore their musical voice and express themselves in fun and creative ways.

Playing with musical instruments has been proven to have numerous benefits for children. In addition to being a fun form of expression, it can also speed up the development of speech and reading skills, help train children to focus their attention, and promote empathy for others.

Ways to Play

  1. Perform a song, dance, or scene on Sora’s Stage.
  2. Find two different Boomwackers that create a chord
  3. How many different instruments can you find in City Music?
  4. What are they?

This exhibit initiates

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Blue Room

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Children’s Hospital

Empower children to explore and better understand healthcare settings and STEM careers
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Shape the Future of Play!

Please take a moment to share your thoughts in our 5-minute survey. Your feedback will help us keep the museum’s exhibits and programs fun, accessible, and meaningful for every child.

Give the gift of play!

Fuel their curiosity and create lasting memories—memberships, gift certificates, and unique toys from our gift shop will spark joy, learning, and endless play!

Closed August 26th-30th

The Iowa Children’s Museum will be closed Monday, August 26th, through Friday, August 30th, for routine cleaning and maintenance. Thank you for your patience while we work to make our exhibits even better for your next visit!

Due to Winter Weather

We will be closing at 5:00 pm on 2/12

Thank you for your understanding!