The Museum is thoughtfully designed for children ages 0-12.

Why is the National Children’s Museum membership worth it?

Located in the heart of Washington, DC, National Children’s Museum is the city’s go-to destination for hands-on play. The Museum brings STEAM concepts—science, technology, engineering, art, and math—to life through immersive exhibits, interactive experiences, and playful educational programming. It’s the kind of place where kids don’t even realize they’re learning because they’re so busy having fun.

A Museum membership makes the perfect experiential gift for kids and their families, granting access to endless fun, special previews and discounts, and exclusive members-only events at one of the city’s most treasured destinations.

What kinds of exhibits can families explore at the Museum?

The Museum’s many exhibits are designed to spark curiosity and encourage kids to learn by doing. Families can dive into hands-on STEAM experiences, imaginative role play, and interactive challenges that evolve as kids grow. Think a climbable three-story, cloud-like “Dream Machine”; a green-screen-powered “Weather World,” where they can shoot lightning bolts and make it rain; and a “Tinkering Corner” that constantly challenges them to put their skills and creativity to the test!

The “Visiting Exhibit Hall” also keeps things exciting with seasonal, traveling exhibitions—so no two visits ever feel the same.

What are the best ages for National Children’s Museum?

The Museum is designed for children ages 0-12 while still engaging the whole family–including the grownups! For the smallest visitors, permanent exhibits like “Little Dreamers” invite infants and toddlers to flex their fine motor skills in a cloud- and flight-themed play area. Meanwhile, “Data Science Alley” welcomes bigger kids to explore figures and statistics through reactive gateways and wind-powered tubes.

Where is the Museum located?

The Museum is located in downtown Washington, DC, at 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, just minutes away from the National Mall and the White House. The main entrance on the Woodrow Wilson Plaza is between Pennsylvania and Constitution Avenues.

What are National Children’s Museum’s hours?

The Museum is open every day except Tuesdays from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm with some extended hours during the holiday season. The Museum is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Members often get early access to exciting new exhibits.

Are there exclusive perks included with a Museum membership?

A National Children’s Museum membership grants unlimited admission for a full year but, beyond the convenience of free entry, many value the exclusive members-only events, early access to exhibit previews, discounts, and special experiences that you can’t get with a single-visit ticket.

National Children’s Museum members can join in on “Early Learner Programs,” including a weekly music class for babies and STEAM story time for tots. Each month, there’s an exclusive “Member Magic Hour” with special access to the Museum before it opens to the public. And, every year, the Museum celebrates its member community with a “Member Appreciation Week.”

Members are always first to know—and first to go—to pop-up activations and special events throughout the year and when new programs or experiences launch.

What’s coming up at National Children’s Museum that families can look forward to?

The Museum has an exciting lineup ahead in its “Visiting Exhibit Hall”! A fun and colorful Mo Willems’ exhibit arrives in the spring, followed by Curious George in the summer, and a dramatic Dinosaurs display in the fall. Each one is thoughtfully designed for kids of all ages.

What are the different Museum membership levels?

When gifting a membership, you can choose from three different levels:

• “Magic Duo” for one child and one adult.
• “Wonder Crew” for two adults and up to four children.
• “Dream Makers” for three adults and up to six children.

All memberships include a year of unlimited admission, special member events, and “Member Magic Hours.” The “Dream Makers” package also includes 10% off birthday parties and the gift shop.

How do I purchase a National Children’s Museum membership as a gift?

Simply head to the National Children’s Museum website, review the membership levels, and click “Gift a Membership.” Your recipient will receive an email with a link to activate their membership. It’s a great last minute gift that’s sure to be remembered if you happen to ask next year!

All photos courtesy of National Children's Museum