Discover Fun and Learning at the Des Moines Children's Museum
Explore the Des Moines Children's Museum for a fun-filled, educational adventure that inspires creativity and curiosity in every child.
The Des Moines Children's Museum is an engaging destination for families, offering interactive exhibits that inspire creativity and curiosity in children. Located in West Des Moines, this museum provides a hands-on experience for young minds to explore and learn through play.
A brief summary to Des Moines Children's Museum
- 1551 Valley W Dr Suite 108, West Des Moines, Iowa, 50266, US
- +1515-218-8344
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit on a Wednesday for extended hours, allowing more time to explore.
- Check the museum's calendar for special events and programs that might be happening during your visit.
- Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as there are designated areas for families to take breaks.
- Dress your kids in comfortable clothes, as they will be engaging in plenty of hands-on activities.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and school holidays.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From Ankeny Station, take the DART Route 1 (Blue Line) bus heading towards downtown Des Moines. Stay on the bus for about 25 minutes and get off at the 42nd Street and University Avenue stop. Transfer to the DART Route 52 bus heading towards West Des Moines. After approximately 15 minutes, get off at the Valley West Drive stop. Walk south on Valley West Drive for about 5 minutes, and you will arrive at the Des Moines Children's Museum located at 1551 Valley W Dr Suite 108.
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Bicycling
If you prefer biking, you can start at the Ankeny Trail System. Follow the trails south towards the Des Moines River. Once you reach the river, take the trail west along the riverbanks. Continue until you reach the intersection with Valley West Drive. Turn right and bike along Valley West Drive for about 10 minutes, which will lead you directly to the Des Moines Children's Museum at 1551 Valley W Dr Suite 108.
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Walking
If you are near the Ankeny City Center, start walking south on S Ankeny Blvd. Continue straight for about 1.5 miles until you reach the intersection with 1st Avenue/US-69. Cross the street and head west on 1st Avenue. After about 0.5 miles, turn left onto Valley West Drive. Walk along Valley West Drive for approximately 10 minutes, and you will arrive at the Des Moines Children's Museum located at 1551 Valley W Dr Suite 108.
Discover more about Des Moines Children's Museum
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Valley West Mall
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