McKenna Children's Museum
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McKenna Children's Museum

4.8
·2k reviews·New Braunfels, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
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McKenna Children's Museum

McKenna Children's Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(2k reviews)

"This place is amazing! So much fun for the little ones, while not being too big and overwhelming."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pretend H-E-B Grocery Store

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 Water Play Area

Outdoor Exhibit

Splash and play in a refreshing water zone, perfect for cooling off on hot Texas days.

Space Station Exploration

Space Station Exploration

Indoor Exhibit

Blast off into imaginative play in a dedicated space-themed area for young astronauts.

Arts & Crafts Zone

Arts & Crafts Zone

Indoor Exhibit

Unleash creativity with drawing, painting, and craft supplies included with admission.

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Planning Your Visit

Budget-Friendly Family Fun

Admission is around $9 per person, making it a great value for families. Many reviewers highlight the affordability for the amount of activities available. Consider packing a lunch to save even more, as there's an inexpensive cafe on-site or outdoor picnic areas.

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as it can get busy. The outdoor water play area is a hit, so plan for that during warmer months. An all-day ticket allows you to leave and re-enter, perfect for escaping the Texas heat or taking a midday break.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (with re-entry)
Why
Escape the midday heat
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Experience the buzz
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

McKenna Children's Museum✨ Admission is only $9 per person, which makes this museum a great option for budget friendly family trips. 📍801 W San Antonio St. New Braunfels, TX #NewBraunfels #NewBraunfelsTX #sahmsoftiktok #funn #toddlersoftiktok #fyp #TexasHillCountry #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #TexasToDo #TravelTexas #VisitTexas #ThingsToDoWithKids #FamilyTravel #fypppp #TravelWithKids #FamilyFun #...
@kimberly.grimaldo
10.5K likes • 149.5K views

🎯 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. TikTok

💧 Pack Swim Gear

Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the popular outdoor water play area! TikTok

Spring Break edition! 5 must visit places with kids in San Antonio San Antonio Zoo location: 3903 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212 Mckenna Childrens Museum: This one is about 30 minutes from San Antonio, Located at 801 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130 Lego Land Discovery Center located in Rivercenter Mall 849 E Commerce St Suite 600, San Antonio, TX 78205 The Doseum: 2800 Broadway...
@tricountymom.tx
6.9K likes • 271.3K views
Mckenna Children's Museum is one of our favorite Museum close to home ❤️ It features a little land of art, creativity, science, culture, health, and history! Their exhibits are all hands where your child can learn and use their imagination throughout. Entrance Fee is $8 for 12 months & up. Location: 801 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130 Open: Monday - Saturdays 9am to 4pm (Check ho...
tricountymom.tx
0 likes • 2.8K views

💰 Budget-Friendly Fun

Admission is affordable, making it a great value for families. Pack snacks or lunch to save more. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfortable shoes for walking and playing. Reddit

Have you visited the McKenna Children’s Museum @mckennakids in New Braunfels yet? It’s a fun place to play and learn, and it’s not far from most areas of San Antonio. #mckennakids #mckennachildrensmuseum #newbraunfels
discoverschools
13 likes • 458 views

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. TikTok

💧 Pack Swim Gear

Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the popular outdoor water play area! TikTok

💰 Budget-Friendly Fun

Admission is affordable, making it a great value for families. Pack snacks or lunch to save more. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfortable shoes for walking and playing. Reddit

👶 Dedicated Baby Area

There's a special section designed for infants and very young toddlers. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

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

Affordable admission price
Variety of interactive exhibits
Engaging for young children

What People Dislike

Can get crowded on weekends
Height measurement wall removed

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

The museum is designed to be accessible for families with strollers. Most exhibits and pathways are wide enough to accommodate them comfortably. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTokInstagram

While specific discounts vary, the general admission price is considered very budget-friendly. Check their official website for any current promotions or group rates. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! There's a dedicated baby area specifically designed for infants and very young toddlers, ensuring they have safe and engaging play options. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is an inexpensive cafe located in the same building as the museum, offering convenient food options for visitors. Reddit

Visitors are welcome to pack their own lunches and snacks. There are outdoor areas where you can enjoy your packed meals. Reddit

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. Reddit

The cafe typically offers kid-friendly options and snacks. It's a convenient choice if you prefer not to pack your own food. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. It's a great place to capture your children's joyful moments. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

Video recording for personal memories is usually permitted. Many parents share short clips on social media, showcasing the fun their kids are having. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Toddlers & Young Children

McKenna Children's Museum is a paradise for toddlers and young children. The dedicated baby area provides a safe and stimulating environment for infants, while the 'little town' exhibits, like the pretend H-E-B and ranch house, are perfect for imaginative play. InstagramReddit The outdoor water play area is a huge hit on warm days, so be sure to pack swim gear and a towel! TikTok The museum's manageable size and hands-on approach mean little ones can engage deeply without becoming overwhelmed. Reddit

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. TikTok+1 The interactive nature of the exhibits encourages exploration and learning through play, making it an ideal destination for early childhood development. Instagram+1

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

This museum is a fantastic option for budget-conscious families. Admission is very reasonably priced at around $9 per person, offering a full day of entertainment. TikTokInstagram To maximize savings, consider packing your own lunch and snacks, as there are picnic areas available. Reddit The all-day re-entry pass means you can get maximum value from your single admission fee, allowing for breaks without losing your spot. TikTok

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. TikTokReddit

☀️ Day-Trippers from San Antonio

McKenna Children's Museum is an excellent day trip destination for families in San Antonio. Located just about 30 minutes north on I-35, it's an easy drive for a few hours of fun or a full day of exploration. TikTok+1 The museum offers a diverse range of indoor and outdoor activities that can easily fill half a day or more. Instagram

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. TikTok It's a perfect way to add a dedicated children's activity to a broader New Braunfels or Texas Hill Country itinerary. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Exhibits: A World of Play

McKenna Children's Museum is packed with interactive exhibits designed to spark imagination and learning. Inside, kids can step into a miniature town, complete with a pretend H-E-B grocery store, a bank, and a 'ranch house,' allowing them to engage in role-playing scenarios. TikTokReddit The space station exhibit offers an opportunity for young explorers to imagine themselves as astronauts, navigating the cosmos. For budding artists, the dedicated arts and crafts room provides supplies for drawing, painting, and creating. Instagram

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. TikTokReddit There's also a special area designed for infants and toddlers, ensuring even the youngest visitors have a safe and engaging space to explore. Reddit The museum's layout is generally spacious, allowing children to move freely between different themed areas. Instagram

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. TikTok The museum's commitment to making play a form of learning is evident in every corner, making it a highly recommended destination for families. TikTokInstagram

Value and Practicalities: Making the Most of Your Visit

One of the most frequently praised aspects of McKenna Children's Museum is its affordability. With admission typically around $9 per person, it's considered a budget-friendly option for family outings. TikTokInstagram Many reviewers emphasize that the price offers excellent value given the extensive range of activities available. TikTokReddit To further enhance the value, visitors are encouraged to pack their own lunches and snacks, as there are designated outdoor picnic areas. Reddit While there is an inexpensive cafe on-site, bringing your own food can significantly reduce overall costs. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. TikTok This flexibility is particularly beneficial in the Texas climate. TikTok

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. Reddit For those planning to utilize the popular outdoor water play area, bringing a change of clothes and a towel is a must. TikTok The museum's friendly and helpful staff also contribute to a positive experience, with many visitors noting their positive interactions. [^Review]

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