From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Discovery Playhouse.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Discovery Playhouse: Cape Girardeau's Hub for Playful Learning
Explore interactive exhibits and spark imagination at Cape Girardeau's Discovery Playhouse, a world of fun and learning for kids!
Discovery Playhouse is a vibrant children's museum in downtown Cape Girardeau, Missouri, offering interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity and learning for kids aged 11 and under. With over 29 engaging exhibits spread across two floors, it's a perfect place for families to spend hours laughing, playing, and discovering.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Discovery Playhouse
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Tuesday
10 am-5 pm
Wednesday
10 am-5 pm
Thursday
10 am-5 pm
Friday
10 am-7 pm
Saturday
9 am-7 pm
Sunday
1 pm-6 pm
Discover more about Discovery Playhouse
Discovery Playhouse, situated in a historic 1916 building that once housed one of Missouri's largest furniture stores, is a dynamic children's museum in Cape Girardeau. Spanning 7,500 square feet, the museum features over 29 interactive exhibits tailored for children aged 11 and younger. The exhibits are designed to stimulate imagination and provide educational experiences through play.On the first floor, younger children can enjoy role-playing scenarios at exhibits like a grocery store, bank, and hospital. Kim's Secret Water Garden offers hands-on fun with water flow and splash activities, while Pollywog Pond provides a shoe-free, kiddie-sized play area for those under 4 years old. Older kids can explore the second floor, which features a game room, a tinkering workshop, an art studio, and a theater. The Buzzi Unicem Cave exhibit allows children to explore a cave environment and learn about local Missouri cave creatures and mineral extraction. The Discover Dinosaurs Paleontology Lab offers the chance to work on a real fossil. The Critter Zone is home to live animals, including Manny the chameleon and Stevie the Ball Python.Discovery Playhouse also hosts birthday parties and group events, with dedicated party rooms available. The museum provides a private space for breastfeeding mothers and is staffed by approximately 18 employees. With its focus on imaginative play and learning, Discovery Playhouse provides a memorable experience for young visitors and their families.
Explore places near Discovery Playhouse
Getting There
Walking
Discovery Playhouse is located in downtown Cape Girardeau on Broadway Street. If you are already in the downtown area, walking is a convenient option. From the intersection of Main Street and Broadway, walk east on Broadway for a few blocks. The Discovery Playhouse will be on your left, at the corner of Broadway and Middle Street. There is no cost associated with walking.
Public Transport
Cape Girardeau County Transit Authority (CGCTA) offers public transportation within Cape Girardeau County. The fixed route bus system has stops near the Discovery Playhouse. Check the CGCTA website or call for route details and schedules. The bus fare is $2.00 per person each way; however, children under 6 ride free with a paying adult. Seniors (60+) and disabled individuals can ride for $1 each way with proof of age or disability. Bus passes are available for $20 for 2 weeks of unlimited use or $35 for a month.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Cape Girardeau. From anywhere in Cape Girardeau, you can request a ride to Discovery Playhouse at 502 Broadway Street. Fares vary depending on the distance and demand, but a short trip within the city typically starts around $7. Uber provides upfront pricing in their app.
Driving
If driving, navigate to 502 Broadway Street, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701. Discovery Playhouse is located on the corner of Broadway and Middle Street. Parking is available nearby. While there is no specific parking information available for Discovery Playhouse, downtown Cape Girardeau offers street parking and public parking lots. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around $1-$2 per hour.
A brief summary to Discovery Playhouse
Use Discovery Playhouse as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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More about Cape Girardeau
Discover Cape Girardeau, Missouri: A picturesque city on the Mississippi River, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, perfect for a memorable getaway.
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