Children’s Museum of Phoenix: A Fun and Educational Experience

Exhibits aren’t just for looking at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. This is a place where children, typically up to the age of 10, can crawl, climb, draw, build, read, slide, pedal, design, create, feel, and explore.

The site for the Museum was originally built in 1913. The Monroe School was, at the time, the largest elementary school in the West. In 1977, it was included in the National Register of Historic Places. The building was last used as a school in 1972 and was later purchased by the City of Phoenix.

Fast forward to 1998 when the concept for the Phoenix Family Museum was born. It operated without a physical location, traveling from school to school and engaging in community outreach, while supporters raised funds for a permanent home. Significant financial backing and grants led to the beginning of renovations at the Monroe School in 2006. The renamed Children’s Museum of Phoenix opened its doors to the public on June 14, 2008.

The Museum focuses on early childhood education and school readiness by teaching through play. It includes hands-on experiential exhibits as well as static exhibits created by and for children.

It’s essential to note that Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

1. A Museum for Families

Each exhibit area in the three floors of the museum has its unique focus and appeal, featuring varying colors, shapes, and textures. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix also offers daily educational programming for adults on topics relating to parenting and child development. The Pedal Power area encourages kids (and perhaps their parents) to ride a tricycle through the “trike wash.”

There are around 15 exhibits within a spacious 70,000 square feet.

Tip: For safety, adults must supervise their children.

2. Ballroom, Market, Texture Cafe and Book Loft

One of the standout areas is The Grand Ballroom, particularly for those fascinated with mazes and apparatuses that keep a ball rolling from point A to point B.

The Market is designed for future shoppers and aspiring clerks. Children engage in activities such as stocking shelves, making food choices while shopping, and checking out in this interactive market. They can also visit the kitchen and create imaginary meals at The Texture Cafe.

The Book Loft offers a quieter space where families can take a break and enjoy reading together.

Tip: Adults visiting the museum must be accompanied by at least one child. The museum typically appeals most to children under 10 years old.

3. The Place For Under Threes

Babies and toddlers have their space in the Children’s Museum of Phoenix. The Place for Under Threes is a specially designed area for young explorers. Visitors should park their strollers and leave their shoes at the door.

A captivating soft playground can be found on the main floor, which appeals to children of all ages. Parents may need to join in to coax their little ones out when it’s time to go!

Tip: Stroller rentals are not available at the Museum. It’s encouraged to leave strollers in the car.

4. The Art Studio

In The Art Studio, resident artists engage with schoolchildren and family visitors. Activities include large collaborative projects, take-home creations, and reproducing famous artworks, such as Vincent Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” The young artists’ creations are frequently displayed in the Studio, Hallway, and throughout the Museum.

Visitors might want to check the calendar for various special activities offered at the museum.

Tip: Staff members are available throughout the museum to assist children with activities and provide general help.

5. Birthday Parties and Corporate Events

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix offers several packages for birthday parties. Private party rooms and museum time for up to 15 children (with a minimum of three adults) make it an enjoyable experience with minimal hassle for adults.

The facility is also available for rental for holiday celebrations, corporate events, fundraisers, weddings, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, and more. If there’s a reason to celebrate, the Museum might just be the perfect venue.

Tip: The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is committed to being a green enterprise, making choices that support environmentally friendly initiatives for both buildings and programs.

6. Location, Admission, Hours

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is closed on Mondays. It is advisable to check the calendar, as the Museum may be open on specific Monday holidays.

Admission for non-members is $11 per person, with seniors (62+) paying $10. Children under the age of 1 are admitted free.

Children’s Museum of Phoenix Address:
215 N. 7th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85034

Phone: 602-253-0501

Directions:
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is located on 7th Street between Washington and Van Buren in Downtown Phoenix, situated on the east side of the street.

– From North Phoenix/Scottsdale: Take the Piestewa Peak Parkway (SR 51) south to I-10 West. Exit at 7th Street, drive south to Van Buren, and turn left to enter the parking lot.

– From East Valley: Take I-60 west to I-10 west and exit at Washington/Jefferson Street. Head west on Washington to 7th Street, go north, and turn right on Van Buren to enter the parking lot.

– From West: Take I-10 east to 7th Street, exit at 7th Street, and drive south to Van Buren, turning left to access the parking lot.

By Valley Metro Rail: Use the 3rd Street/Washington or 3rd Street/Jefferson station. Note that this is a split station, so which one you use depends on the direction you’re going. Here is a map of the Valley Metro light rail stations.

The entrance to the museum is located at the back. Go east on Van Buren at 7th Street for about ½ block, where you’ll find a large parking lot. Parking is free.

A snack bar is available on-site, and visitors may bring food into the museum to use in designated picnic areas. The Museum Gift Shop is an excellent place to shop for fun and educational items, including a dedicated Arizona-themed book section!

If you have any questions, contact the museum at 602-253-0501 or visit them online.

Tip: If you’re a local, consider a membership. It’s a worthwhile option if you plan to visit more than four times a year and a fantastic deal if monthly visits are on your agenda. Consider gifting an annual membership to a family!

_{All dates, times, prices, and offerings are subject to change without notice.}