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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.

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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

  • 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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Discover more about Des Moines Children's Museum

The Des Moines Children's Museum is a joyful haven for families seeking an enriching experience in West Des Moines, Iowa. This vibrant establishment is designed specifically for children, encouraging exploration and imagination through a diverse array of interactive exhibits. With its age-appropriate activities, the museum fosters creativity and critical thinking, making learning an enjoyable adventure. Visitors are greeted with a colorful environment that invites children to engage in various themes ranging from science and technology to art and culture. Each exhibit is thoughtfully crafted to stimulate young minds, allowing children to learn by doing, which is essential for their cognitive development. In addition to the hands-on exhibits, the museum offers special programs and events throughout the year, providing unique opportunities for children to delve deeper into specific subjects. These programs often incorporate local culture and seasonal themes, ensuring that there is always something new to experience. The museum is also a fantastic venue for birthday parties and group outings, making it a popular choice for families. Parents can enjoy watching their children discover and learn through play, all within a safe and welcoming environment. The museum's commitment to educational play makes it a must-visit destination for any family traveling to the area, ensuring that children leave with not only fun memories but also valuable knowledge.

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