Children's Museum of Virginia
A vibrant hub of interactive learning, featuring hands-on exhibits on cities, space, music, and more, plus a captivating antique train collection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Children's Museum of Virginia
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub of interactive learning, featuring hands-on exhibits on cities, space, music, and more, plus a captivating antique train collection.
"One of the highlights of our vacation! My son loved all of the activities, and we would definitely come back."
🎟️ Ticket Deals
Look out for limited-time $5 ticket offers! Check their social media or website for current promotions.
🥵 Beat the Heat
Upstairs can be hot in summer. Visit on cooler days or during off-peak hours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Bubble Experience
Various locations
Step inside a giant bubble! A magical, hands-on activity that delights kids and creates unforgettable photo opportunities.
Interactive STEM Zone
STEM Room
Engage young minds with diverse projects, from physics experiments to creative building challenges. Learning through play!
Antique Train Collection
Train Exhibit
Explore a vast collection of trains, toy trains, and railroad memorabilia. A fascinating journey through transportation history.
Planetarium Shows
Planetarium
Immersive shows like 'Big' offer educational and entertaining cosmic adventures. Knowledgeable staff enhance the experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Plan for Interactive Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ticket Deals
Look out for limited-time $5 ticket offers! Check their social media or website for current promotions.
🥵 Beat the Heat
Upstairs can be hot in summer. Visit on cooler days or during off-peak hours.
🚀 Planetarium Booking
Book planetarium shows in advance, especially for popular showings like 'Big'.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Kids will be running and exploring! Wear comfortable shoes for a full day of fun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket Deals
Look out for limited-time $5 ticket offers! Check their social media or website for current promotions.
🥵 Beat the Heat
Upstairs can be hot in summer. Visit on cooler days or during off-peak hours.
🚀 Planetarium Booking
Book planetarium shows in advance, especially for popular showings like 'Big'.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Kids will be running and exploring! Wear comfortable shoes for a full day of fun.
🚗 Free Parking
Enjoy convenient and free parking in the walkable area around the museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Children's Museum of Virginia, calling it a highlight of their vacation with engaging, hands-on exhibits that keep kids entertained for hours. The planetarium and train collection are frequently mentioned as favorites. Some guests noted that the upstairs area could get uncomfortably warm during hotter months, but this did not detract significantly from the overall positive experience.
"One of the highlights of our vacation! My son loved all of the activities, and we would definitely come back in the future if in the area. I will say that it was hot upstairs and in the gift shop even with the fans on, and it was only in the 70s outside. The planetarium and planetarium manager were great. The manager was very knowledgeable and patient. Definitely in the right field, and we were very happy with our experience watching “Big.” The prices were fair, and we felt it was nicely organized and that the pictures online don’t do the museum justice. It was a great experience with a very walkable area around it with free parking as well. :)"
Danielle Lovejoy
"The Children’s Museum in downtown Portsmouth (aka P-Town) is a great spot for kids to learn,play, and burn off some energy. There are tons of hands on exhibits and activities that can easily keep little ones entertained for hours. It’s a place where kids get to explore, create, and have fun while parents can enjoy watching them discover new things. The only downside during our visit was that the A/C seemed to be out so it was a bit uncomfortably warm but even with that, the kids still had a blast."
Hitsa Pham
"This museum is a wonderful and thought provoking! My kids are very engaged from the start to finish of our reservation. I truly love the STEM room. It has many different projects for kids to learn from and explore. The physics area will surely teach every child a few things that they will forever remember."
Darrell Rice
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in downtown Portsmouth, VA. Many visitors find the area walkable with ample free parking available nearby.
Yes, there is free parking available in the vicinity, making it convenient for families arriving by car.
Information on public transportation routes to downtown Portsmouth can be found on local transit authority websites. Specific routes may vary.
The museum is designed to be accessible for all visitors, including those with strollers and wheelchairs, with interactive exhibits spread across different levels.
The museum is situated in a walkable area with shops and dining options, including a coffee shop across the street.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally considered fair. Keep an eye out for special promotions, such as limited-time $5 tickets, which have been advertised.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially for planetarium shows or during peak times, to secure your spot.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Children's Museum of Virginia website or their social media channels for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Some visitors mention getting in free with their membership, suggesting that membership programs or reciprocal agreements with other museums might be available.
Refund policies typically depend on the specific booking terms. It's advisable to review the museum's cancellation and refund policy at the time of purchase.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the giant bubble room, the interactive STEM zone, the antique train collection, and the engaging planetarium shows.
Yes, the museum offers many hands-on activities and exhibits that are perfect for toddlers to explore and learn through play.
Most visitors find that they can spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits, with many activities to keep children entertained for longer.
While the museum generally has air conditioning, some visitors have noted it can get warm upstairs, especially during the summer months.
The museum generally has friendly staff who are knowledgeable and patient, particularly in areas like the planetarium.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum has a coffee shop on-site, and there are also dining options available across the street, making it easy to grab a bite.
Policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's best to check with the museum directly or look for designated eating areas if you plan to bring your own.
The downtown Portsmouth area offers various dining options, and visitors have mentioned places with good kids' menus.
The coffee shop typically offers a selection of beverages and light snacks. Specific offerings may change seasonally.
Many children's museums offer party packages. Inquire directly with the museum about their birthday party options and facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially regarding flash photography or professional shoots.
The giant bubble exhibit, the colorful STEM room, and the detailed train collection offer great photo opportunities. 
While personal photos are usually allowed, avoid using flash in certain exhibits or areas where it might disturb others or damage artifacts. Check signage.
Short videos for personal social media are generally acceptable. For commercial filming or extensive content creation, you may need to contact the museum for permission.
The museum is generally well-lit, with natural light in some areas and good artificial lighting in others, making it suitable for capturing memories.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Parents can rest assured that the museum provides a safe and stimulating environment for their children to explore, learn, and burn off energy. The hands-on nature of the exhibits ensures that even the youngest visitors can participate and discover new things. Remember to check for any special programming or exhibits geared towards preschoolers.
💡 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Additionally, the museum's location in a walkable area with free parking saves on transportation expenses. Consider checking if a membership or reciprocal agreement with another museum can provide free entry, as some visitors have utilized this option.
🚀 STEM Enthusiasts
From physics demonstrations to building challenges, the STEM exhibits are designed to be both educational and exciting, fostering a genuine interest in these crucial fields. The planetarium further enhances the STEM experience with its cosmic explorations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Interactive Exhibits
Beyond STEM, the museum features immersive environments that allow kids to step into different roles and scenarios. The bubble room provides a unique sensory experience, letting children interact with giant bubbles, while the music room encourages creative expression through various instruments. These exhibits are not just about entertainment; they are carefully crafted to foster cognitive development, problem-solving skills, and a lifelong love for learning.
Many reviews highlight how the exhibits are designed to be thought-provoking and engaging from start to finish. The crane simulator for loading and unloading containers is a hit for those interested in logistics, showcasing the museum's commitment to diverse learning experiences. The overall design ensures that children can explore, create, and have fun while parents can observe and enjoy their children's discoveries.
The Fascinating Train Collection
This exhibit provides a unique opportunity for children to learn about transportation history in a tangible way. The sheer volume and variety of items ensure that there's something to capture everyone's interest, whether they are fascinated by the engineering marvels of full-sized trains or the intricate details of miniature models. It’s a journey through time that connects the past with the present.
The train exhibit is often cited as a favorite, demonstrating the museum's ability to blend educational content with captivating displays. It’s a testament to the museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing diverse aspects of history and industry, making it a memorable part of the visitor experience.
Planetarium Experience
Shows like 'Big' are particularly popular, providing an immersive journey through space that is both entertaining and informative. The planetarium is a key attraction that complements the museum's broader focus on science and exploration, offering a different dimension of learning.
It's recommended to book planetarium shows in advance to ensure you get a spot for your desired showing, as they can be quite popular. This adds another layer of wonder to an already stimulating museum visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit