Delaware Children's Museum

This riverfront museum, built in 2010, covers over 37,000 square feet. Within its walls are ten unique exhibits full of interactive fun. It is the only museum of its kind in the entire state of Delaware, making it a prime attraction for local and out-of-state families alike. The museum serves as a “town square” for Wilmington and its local area; children’s museums are unique in this aspect. Delaware Children’s Museum was developed with the help of the country’s other leading children’s museums, making it especially imaginative. 

The museum’s exhibits offer something for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. It has certain rotating exhibits, but most are permanent. Together, the exhibits allow for playful learning and creative and cognitive development. For example, the ECOConnect exhibit allows kids to get hands-on with nature, exploring everything from planting trees to utilizing clean energy. Another exhibit, Training Wheels, is transportation-themed. Meant for toddlers, the exhibit uses miniature vehicles to encourage motor skill development.

Other exhibits at Delaware Children’s Museum include Structures, which teaches children about careers in the building industry; Stratosphere, made up of a 30-foot climbing structure; S.T.E.M, where science programming is regularly held; and Bank on It, which allows kids to explore the world of financial management. The museum is also home to the Earth Balloon, an inflatable, 19-foot globe that fits 30 participants at a time. It is an interactive experience meant to teach children about the world. 

The museum also hosts periodic events for children and families. A recurring Open Studio on Wednesdays allows participants to explore different visual art styles and mediums. Another class, Plant Pals, teaches kids how to take care of their own plants. Other educational activities include Numberpalooza, a mathematical extravaganza; Aviation Adventures, a physics lesson; Exploding Sidewalk Chalk, a chemical experiment; DCM Gym, a mobility test, and more. 

Delaware Children’s Museum is also a great venue for birthday parties, field trips, summer camps, and other child-friendly programs. It provides focused field trips for schools to take advantage of, such as “Water Wise”, which teaches the water cycle, and “Healthy Body, Healthy Minds”, which teaches nutrition and fitness. 

The stimulating and innovative environment provided by the Delaware Children’s Museum makes it a must-visit destination for families with kids. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm Wednesday through Sunday. General admission is $12 for children and adults, but DCM members may visit for free.

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