
McKenna Children's Museum
A vibrant children's museum in New Braunfels, TX, offering hands-on exhibits for imaginative play, learning, and fun.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play

McKenna Children's Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant children's museum in New Braunfels, TX, offering hands-on exhibits for imaginative play, learning, and fun.
"This place is amazing! So much fun for the little ones, while not being too big and overwhelming."

🎯 All-Day Re-entry Pass
Take advantage of the all-day ticket to leave and come back, perfect for lunch breaks or avoiding peak crowds.
💧 Pack Swim Gear
Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the popular outdoor water play area!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pretend H-E-B Grocery Store
Indoor Exhibit
Kids can shop, stock shelves, and play cashier in a fun, miniature grocery store.

Outdoor Water Play Area
Outdoor Exhibit
Splash and play in a refreshing water zone, perfect for cooling off on hot Texas days.

Space Station Exploration
Indoor Exhibit
Blast off into imaginative play in a dedicated space-themed area for young astronauts.

Arts & Crafts Zone
Indoor Exhibit
Unleash creativity with drawing, painting, and craft supplies included with admission.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budget-Friendly Family Fun
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 All-Day Re-entry Pass
Take advantage of the all-day ticket to leave and come back, perfect for lunch breaks or avoiding peak crowds.
💧 Pack Swim Gear
Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the popular outdoor water play area!
💰 Budget-Friendly Fun
Admission is affordable, making it a great value for families. Pack snacks or lunch to save more.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfortable shoes for walking and playing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 All-Day Re-entry Pass
Take advantage of the all-day ticket to leave and come back, perfect for lunch breaks or avoiding peak crowds.
💧 Pack Swim Gear
Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the popular outdoor water play area!
💰 Budget-Friendly Fun
Admission is affordable, making it a great value for families. Pack snacks or lunch to save more.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfortable shoes for walking and playing.
👶 Dedicated Baby Area
There's a special section designed for infants and very young toddlers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise McKenna Children's Museum for its engaging, hands-on exhibits and affordability, making it a top choice for families with young children. The outdoor play area and variety of indoor activities, from a pretend grocery store to a space station, keep kids entertained for hours. While it can get busy, the all-day re-entry pass and option to pack food add to its appeal.
"We have been bringing our grandchildren here for several years and have always loved watching them enjoy the activities. Everything is generally clean and organized with plenty of places to sit and watch. The gift shop is one of the best I've ever seen. The staff was friendly and helpful. What more could you ask for."
Rick Schacher
"This place is amazing! So much fun for the little ones, while not being too big and overwhelming.
There's a great outdoor area, with water play, jungle gym to climb, big foam pieces that resemble tinker toys.
Inside, there's a special baby area, a dress up room, a medical play room, grocery store area, space play, painting room, and more!
The prices aren't as steep as comparable places, which is nice.
There's an inexpensive café in the same building, or you can pack a lunch and eat outside.
We'll be back!"
Ashley Ortega
"I brought my niece here recently and she absolutely loved every minute of it! There’s so much stuff for the kids to do here. There’s a fun little town with a bank, “ranch house”, grocery store, and even more. And that’s just the inside part! There’s also a wonderful playground outside. There’s just so much fun stuff to do here for kids I was amazed by it, I would definitely recommend bringing your children here if they’re ever feeling bored! Of course it is busy and full of kids so it’s best to get the early."
Madelyn Carter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McKenna Children's Museum is located in New Braunfels, TX, about a 30-minute drive from San Antonio. Take I-35 North and follow signs for the museum. Many visitors find it an easy day trip from the San Antonio area.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available at the McKenna Children's Museum. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on busy days, to secure a convenient spot.
Public transportation options directly to the museum might be limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the McKenna Children's Museum. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
The primary route is via I-35 North from San Antonio. From other directions, consult your GPS for the most direct path to 801 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130.
The museum is designed to be accessible for families with strollers. Most exhibits and pathways are wide enough to accommodate them comfortably.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally around $9 per person for ages 12 months and up. This price offers great value for an all-day experience.
While specific discounts vary, the general admission price is considered very budget-friendly. Check their official website for any current promotions or group rates.
Yes, the museum offers an all-day ticket that allows you to leave and re-enter as needed. This is perfect for taking a lunch break or escaping the heat.
Operating hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official McKenna Children's Museum website before your visit. They are typically open daily, but hours may differ on holidays.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, can save you time and ensure entry. Check their website for online booking options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include a pretend H-E-B grocery store, a space station, an outdoor water play area, an arts and crafts room, a baby area, and a 'little town' with various shops.
Yes, there's a fantastic outdoor area with a water play zone, a jungle gym, and large building blocks. It's a great spot to burn energy on a nice day.
The museum is ideal for younger children, particularly toddlers and kids up to kindergarten age. Many exhibits are designed for hands-on learning and imaginative play for this age group.
Absolutely! There's a dedicated baby area specifically designed for infants and very young toddlers, ensuring they have safe and engaging play options.
Expect a wide range of interactive exhibits, from role-playing in a miniature town (grocery store, bank) to exploring space, engaging in art, and enjoying water play.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an inexpensive cafe located in the same building as the museum, offering convenient food options for visitors.
Visitors are welcome to pack their own lunches and snacks. There are outdoor areas where you can enjoy your packed meals.
New Braunfels offers a variety of dining options. You can find restaurants close to the museum or enjoy your packed lunch in the outdoor picnic areas.
The cafe typically offers kid-friendly options and snacks. It's a convenient choice if you prefer not to pack your own food.
Generally, outside food is permitted for consumption in designated areas, such as the outdoor picnic spots. It's always good to confirm any specific policies upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. It's a great place to capture your children's joyful moments.
The colorful exhibits, the outdoor water play area, and the pretend town are all great backdrops. The space station and art room also offer unique photo opportunities.
While not explicitly stated, it's always courteous to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography in a way that might disturb them or the children.
Video recording for personal memories is usually permitted. Many parents share short clips on social media, showcasing the fun their kids are having.
Capture your child 'shopping' at the H-E-B, pretending to be an astronaut, or splashing in the water area. The interactive nature of the exhibits makes for dynamic photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Toddlers & Young Children
Many parents appreciate the affordability and the all-day re-entry pass, which allows for flexibility with nap times or breaks from the Texas heat. The interactive nature of the exhibits encourages exploration and learning through play, making it an ideal destination for early childhood development.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Compared to other attractions, McKenna Children's Museum provides a high level of engagement and fun for its cost. It's a great way to entertain children for an extended period without breaking the bank, making it a top choice for affordable family fun in the New Braunfels area.
☀️ Day-Trippers from San Antonio
Visitors can enjoy the interactive exhibits, the outdoor water play, and the creative arts and crafts stations. The ability to leave and re-enter the museum throughout the day is particularly useful for a day trip, allowing you to grab lunch in New Braunfels or take a break before returning for more fun. It's a perfect way to add a dedicated children's activity to a broader New Braunfels or Texas Hill Country itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits: A World of Play
Beyond the indoor attractions, the outdoor area is a major draw. It features a refreshing water play zone, perfect for cooling off during warmer months, and a jungle gym for active climbing. There's also a special area designed for infants and toddlers, ensuring even the youngest visitors have a safe and engaging space to explore. The museum's layout is generally spacious, allowing children to move freely between different themed areas.
Many visitors rave about the variety and hands-on nature of the exhibits. The ability to come and go throughout the day with an all-day ticket is also a significant plus, allowing families to pace their visit and avoid overstimulation. The museum's commitment to making play a form of learning is evident in every corner, making it a highly recommended destination for families.
Value and Practicalities: Making the Most of Your Visit
Planning your visit strategically can also enhance the experience. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is highly recommended to avoid the largest crowds and ensure easier access to exhibits. The museum's all-day re-entry policy is a key practical tip; it allows families to take breaks, perhaps for lunch outside or to escape the peak heat of the day, and then return to continue exploring. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in the Texas climate.
Comfort is also key for a successful visit. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential, as children (and adults!) will be on their feet exploring for hours. For those planning to utilize the popular outdoor water play area, bringing a change of clothes and a towel is a must. The museum's friendly and helpful staff also contribute to a positive experience, with many visitors noting their positive interactions. [^Review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit