Phelps Youth Pavilion: Where Art Sparks Imagination
Ignite creativity and explore culture at the Phelps Youth Pavilion, Waterloo's premier interactive art museum for children and families.
The Phelps Youth Pavilion, an integral part of the Waterloo Center for the Arts, is a dynamic space where children and families can immerse themselves in the world of art and culture. This split-level children's museum boasts over 40 interactive exhibits, offering a wide range of creative, hands-on experiences. Visitors can explore a changing Junior Art Gallery, engage in make-and-take crafts in the Art's Workshop, and even star in their own plays. The Pavilion also features a digital arts lab, a ceramics studio, and a playscape for younger children. Exhibits like the Art History Time Travel machine and the Creativity Across Cultures exhibit offer unique learning opportunities. The Pavilion isn't just for kids; the young-at-heart can also enjoy the interactive galleries. The Waterloo Center for the Arts, which houses the Pavilion, also features collections of Midwest Art, American Decorative Arts, International Folk Art, and the world's largest public collection of Haitian Art. The Center also hosts events like live music concerts, film series, and community festivals. The Phelps Youth Pavilion was completed in 2008 as a 39,000-square-foot expansion to the Waterloo Center for the Arts. The project was funded by a combination of public and private donations, including a significant contribution from the Phelps family.
Local tips
- Check the Waterloo Center for the Arts website for upcoming events and special programs at the Phelps Youth Pavilion.
- Visit on the third Thursday of the month for extended hours during the fall and winter season.
- Consider becoming a member of the Waterloo Center for the Arts for free admission to the Phelps Youth Pavilion and other benefits.
A brief summary to Phelps Youth Pavilion
- 225 Commercial St, Waterloo, Iowa, 50701, US
- +1319-291-4490
Getting There
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Walking
The Phelps Youth Pavilion is located at 225 Commercial Street in downtown Waterloo, adjacent to the Cedar River. If you are in the downtown area, walking is a convenient option. From the corner of W 4th Street and Jefferson Street, head north on Jefferson Street towards the river. Turn left onto Commercial Street. The Waterloo Center for the Arts will be on your left. There is no cost associated with walking.
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Public Transport
MET Transit, the local public transportation provider, serves the downtown Waterloo area. Several routes stop near the Waterloo Center for the Arts. Check the MET Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. A single ride fare is $1.50.
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Driving
If driving, take Commercial Street into downtown Waterloo. The Waterloo Center for the Arts is located at 225 Commercial Street. Free parking is available at the Waterloo Center for the Arts and under the Hwy 218 overpass. Parking is also available in the Commercial Street parking ramp for $5.
