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Explore our

learning laboratory!

Our exhibits are rich with unique hands-on educational components that promote the active exploration, problem solving, and discovery that lead to learning.

Most importantly, the act of play is respected and valued by museum staff and volunteers as a critical aspect of childhood that leads to healthy, happy adults.

  • All
  • Create
  • Discover
  • Explore
  • Imagine

Blue Room

Become an architect of imagination as you build and create with giant blue blocks
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Art Studio

Nurture your child’s creative potential and unleash their imagination
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Take Flight

Fly high and explore careers in aviation!
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Notion of Motion

Skateboarding and science come together in this gnarly exhibit focused on the fundamentals of physics
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Lights Out!

Light up your imagination in this playful exhibit for all ages
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Imaginacres

Life on the farm is a sensory-rich play opportunity for our youngest museum visitors!
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Courtyard of Curiosity

From alligator to zucchini, the alphabet comes to life in the Courtyard of Curiosity
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Coral Cove

Discover hidden treasures and daring adventures in this swashbuckling exhibit
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City Music

Explore the world of sound and discover the joy of music
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Farmers Market

Fresh fun and playful produce make our farmers market a great way to explore the farm-to-table process
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City Grocery

Create a playful learning experience for little shoppers as you explore a miniature grocery store
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Post Office

Become a mail carrier for the day as you practice sorting, delivering, and communicating in CityWorks Post Office
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All of our exhibits build skills that correlate to one or more of our five educational initiatives:

  1. Arts & Culture
  2. Financial Literacy
  3. Healthy Kids
  4. School Readiness
  5. STEM

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!