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ICM for Everyone programs are designed to remove barriers, meet community members where they are, and welcome all audiences to experience the Power of Play.

The Iowa Children’s Museum (ICM) is dedicated to providing quality active learning opportunities to ALL children. You can find our PLAYology team at free community events throughout the year or play in our exhibits during free museum events every week.

Play for free

Free Museum Admission

Families who participate in any of the qualifying programs below can play in the museum free of charge during normal open hours. 

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • WIC
  • Medicaid (Amerigroup/Iowa Total Care)
  • Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa (Hawki)
  • Head Start
  • Free School Lunch Program

Please let our friendly PLAYologists know that you qualify for free admission when you arrive at our front desk.

This pricing is available for everyone in the household covered by the qualifying program. The Iowa Children’s Museum reserves the right to ask for proof of your participation in the qualifying public assistance program.

Free Membership

Many families qualify for a free membership to The Iowa Children’s Museum, which provides a year of playtime in our exhibits as well as discounts for programs and purchases.

Applications may be obtained by contacting one of the numerous social service organizations or schools the museum partners with:

Questions about ICM for Everyone memberships, can be sent to memberships@theicm.org

Museums for All

Get free or reduced admission to over 1,000 museums across the US!

Free Museum Events

STEM Family Free Night

Join us on the last Friday of the month for free admission and a STEM activity, sponsored by Collins Aerospace.

Sensory Friendly Night

Guests with special health or sensory needs can enjoy a quieter and more welcoming environment on the last Sunday of the month, thanks to our friends at GreenState Credit Union.

Free Community Events

ICM2Go

Play can happen anywhere! Our ICM2Go programs remove transportation barriers by bringing play beyond our walls and into the community.

Outreach Programs

We offer outreach programs throughout the year at schools, libraries, and other community spaces. Museum-led experiences are perfect for schools, after school clubs, libraries, day cares, and more!

Join Our Mission

If you believe play is a universal right, join our mission to inspire a new generation of learners and provide valuable play opportunities to children in our community.

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!