Children's Museum Memphis
A vibrant hub for kids to play, learn, and explore through interactive exhibits, a carousel, and a splash park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Children's Museum Memphis
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub for kids to play, learn, and explore through interactive exhibits, a carousel, and a splash park.
"It's a one stop for us! From the splash pad, to Dino Dig, to their outdoor playground we have a blast."
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfortable footwear is a must for kids and adults alike.
Pack swim gear! :swimmer:
The outdoor splash park is a major attraction, so bring swimsuits and towels for a fun water play session.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Carousel
Indoor
A beautifully restored carousel that's a must-ride for all ages, offering a magical experience.
Outdoor Splash Park & Playground
Outdoor
Perfect for hot Memphis days, this area offers water fun and a playground to burn energy.
Interactive Exhibits
Indoor
From a mini-grocery store to a real airplane cockpit, these hands-on displays spark imagination.
Dino Dig & Skyscraper
Indoor
Kids can excavate fossils or climb through a towering structure, offering active play.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Membership Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfortable footwear is a must for kids and adults alike.
Pack swim gear! :swimmer:
The outdoor splash park is a major attraction, so bring swimsuits and towels for a fun water play session.
Check for exhibits :sparkles:
They often have traveling exhibits, so see what's new before your visit to maximize the fun.
Membership is key :money_with_wings:
If you live nearby or plan multiple visits, a membership offers great value and perks.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfortable footwear is a must for kids and adults alike.
Pack swim gear! :swimmer:
The outdoor splash park is a major attraction, so bring swimsuits and towels for a fun water play session.
Check for exhibits :sparkles:
They often have traveling exhibits, so see what's new before your visit to maximize the fun.
Membership is key :money_with_wings:
If you live nearby or plan multiple visits, a membership offers great value and perks.
Embrace the mess :joy:
It's a children's museum, so expect some playful chaos! Staff work to maintain cleanliness, but it's a busy place.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Children's Museum of Memphis for its engaging, hands-on exhibits and the fun provided by the Grand Carousel and outdoor splash park. It's described as a huge, fantastic place for imaginative play, offering hours of entertainment for children aged 2-10. While some find it smaller than other children's museums, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its cleanliness, friendly staff, and perfect blend of education and play.
"The Children’s Museum of Memphis is absolutely amazing! It’s one of the best places in the city for kids to play, learn, and explore. Every exhibit is hands-on and interactive—whether it’s climbing through the Skyscraper, shopping in the mini-grocery store, exploring the firetruck, or even stepping inside a real airplane cockpit. The Grand Carousel is beautiful and a must-ride, and the splash park outside is perfect for hot days.
The museum is clean, safe, and very well maintained. Staff members are friendly, welcoming, and clearly love working with kids. My family always spends hours here, and there’s something fun for every age. It’s the perfect mix of education and play, and you can easily come back again and again without running out of things to do."
Mustafa Hajjeh
"Someone else called this place small...I think they missed a turn or two, it's HUGE. There is so much to do, and is such a fantastic place for imaginative play. There is something for everyone, and we spent 4hrs here, and could have easily stayed longer! Highly recommend for ages 2-10!"
Ryan S
"We enjoyed ourselves because when we went it wasn’t busy. My daughter loved the carousel, bank room, dentist room, and painting screen. Compared to other Children’s museum that we’ve been, it’s relatively small. But fun overall."
Girly Girl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 2525 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Public transportation options may also be available; check local Memphis transit schedules for routes and times.
Yes, there is parking available at the Children's Museum of Memphis. It's generally sufficient for visitors, but can fill up during peak times.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach the Children's Museum of Memphis. Just set your destination to the museum's address.
Yes, the Children's Museum of Memphis is designed to be stroller-friendly, with wide pathways and ramps to accommodate families with young children.
Depending on your starting point in Memphis, major roads like Central Avenue and Poplar Avenue are common routes. GPS navigation is recommended for the most direct path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but generally, there's a set fee per person. It's always best to check the official Children's Museum of Memphis website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance online is recommended, especially for weekends or holidays, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Operating hours can change seasonally. It's crucial to check the museum's official website for their current daily hours before planning your visit.
Discounts may be available for military personnel, seniors, or through specific community partnerships. Check the museum's website or inquire at the ticket counter. Memberships also offer significant savings for frequent visitors.
Refund policies typically vary. It's advisable to review the museum's ticketing terms and conditions or contact them directly regarding refund or exchange options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the Grand Carousel, the outdoor splash park and playground, the Skyscraper climbing structure, and interactive areas like the mini-grocery store and airplane cockpit. 
Yes, the museum offers many engaging exhibits suitable for toddlers, with plenty of hands-on activities designed for younger children to explore and learn.
Absolutely! While geared towards children, the interactive nature and nostalgic elements like the carousel make it enjoyable for adults too, especially when seeing the kids' excitement.
The museum is quite large, so grab a map upon entry. Prioritize exhibits based on your children's interests or plan to explore section by section to ensure you don't miss anything.
While the museum is designed for active play, some areas might be less crowded. It's good to observe and find calmer spots, or take breaks in the lobby or outdoor areas if needed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a cafe or snack bar offering light meals, snacks, and beverages for visitors.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum exhibits. However, there might be designated areas for picnics or you can consume items purchased from the cafe. Check their policy.
Yes, the museum's cafe usually offers a selection of kid-friendly options like sandwiches, pizza, and snacks.
The museum is located in a vibrant area of Memphis with numerous restaurants nearby, ranging from casual eateries to family-friendly dining.
Typically, there are no food storage facilities available for outside food. It's best to consume any outside food before entering or after leaving the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed for non-commercial use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
The Grand Carousel, the colorful exhibits, and the outdoor splash park (weather permitting) offer great photo opportunities. Capturing candid moments of kids interacting with exhibits is also wonderful.
Professional photography equipment or tripods may require special permission. It's best to contact the museum in advance to inquire about their policy.
Always be respectful of other families. Avoid taking close-up photos of children who are not your own without parental consent.
You can share your photos on social media using hashtags like #CMOMemphis, #ChildrensMuseumMemphis, or #MemphisFamilyFun.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
The outdoor splash park and playground are also huge draws for younger kids, providing ample opportunities to burn off energy on warm days. Remember to pack swim gear! For families looking for a more relaxed pace, visiting on a weekday morning can offer a less crowded experience, allowing toddlers to explore at their own speed. The Grand Carousel is another guaranteed hit for this age group.
🎒 Budget-Conscious Travelers
To maximize your budget, pack your own snacks and drinks to enjoy outside the museum or in designated areas if permitted, rather than purchasing from the cafe. Visiting on weekdays can sometimes offer a less crowded experience, allowing your children to enjoy the exhibits more fully without feeling rushed. Look out for any potential community discounts or special offers that might be available.
🎓 School Groups & Field Trips
Teachers can leverage the museum's interactive displays to create engaging lessons. The Dino Dig, the airplane cockpit, and the Kroger area are particularly popular for educational exploration. Booking field trips in advance is essential to secure your preferred dates and times.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits: A World of Wonder
Beyond the permanent fixtures, CMOM frequently hosts traveling exhibitions that bring new themes and experiences to the museum. These temporary exhibits often align with popular children's interests, such as dinosaurs or specific characters, providing fresh reasons to visit throughout the year. The museum's commitment to providing a dynamic and evolving experience ensures that repeat visits are just as exciting as the first.
For younger visitors, dedicated areas offer age-appropriate activities, while older children can tackle more complex challenges. The Dino Dig allows aspiring paleontologists to unearth fossils, and the art area provides a space for creative expression. This thoughtful curation of exhibits makes CMOM a fantastic destination for families seeking both entertainment and educational value.
Making a Splash: Outdoor Fun at CMOM
Adjacent to the splash park is a well-equipped playground, offering a different kind of active play. This combination of water fun and traditional playground equipment means children have multiple options for outdoor recreation. Parents often appreciate that these outdoor spaces allow kids to run freely without the constant need to say 'don't touch that,' as everything is designed for exploration.
It's important to note that the splash park is a popular spot, especially during peak times. Visitors are strongly advised to pack swimsuits and towels to take full advantage of this fantastic amenity. The outdoor area, combined with the indoor exhibits, makes CMOM a comprehensive destination for a full day of family fun, regardless of the weather.
The Magic of the Grand Carousel
Many reviews highlight the carousel as a must-ride attraction, often being a favorite for both children and adults. The gentle motion and classic music evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder, making it a memorable part of any visit. It's a perfect opportunity for families to create lasting memories together, with parents often enjoying the ride just as much as their children.
Whether it's a quick spin or a few rounds, the Grand Carousel adds a special touch to the museum experience. Its presence offers a moment of classic entertainment amidst the modern, interactive exhibits, providing a well-rounded and enchanting visit for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit