NC Science Fest 2024
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Children's Museum Wilmington

4.4
·522 reviews·Wilmington, United States

A vibrant downtown Wilmington museum offering hands-on exhibits and imaginative play for children aged 1-10.

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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NC Science Fest 2024

Children's Museum Wilmington

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant downtown Wilmington museum offering hands-on exhibits and imaginative play for children aged 1-10.

4.4
(522 reviews)

"This was SUCH a wonderful children’s museum! My boys are still in awe from it."

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TIP

🎯 Hands-on Learning Fun

Interactive exhibits for ages 1-10, encouraging creative play and development.

🚗 Easy Downtown Access

Located downtown, perfect for combining with Riverwalk visits. Staff offer lunch suggestions.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ship Exhibit

The Ship Exhibit

Inside the museum

An awe-inspiring ship exhibit that captivates young imaginations, sparking tales of adventure.

Construction Zone

Construction Zone

Inside the museum

A dynamic space with blocks and building materials, encouraging creativity and collaborative play.

Outdoor School Bus

Outdoor School Bus

Outdoor play area

An engaging outdoor school bus where kids can pretend to drive and explore.

Mini Supermarket

Mini Supermarket

Inside the museum

A realistic mini-supermarket allowing children to practice shopping and role-playing.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan for Interactive Fun

This museum is designed for hands-on exploration, perfect for kids aged 1-10. Arrive early to maximize your visit, especially on weekends, as it can get busy. Check their daily activity calendar for special events and programs.

Downtown Wilmington Charm

Located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, the museum is surrounded by charming streets and eateries. Consider combining your visit with a stroll along the Riverwalk or a meal at a local restaurant, as suggested by staff.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Engaging activities and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Rainy days
Why
Perfect indoor escape
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

So lucky to have this just 15 minutes from us! #motherhood #MomsofTikTok #toddlersoftiktok #childrensmuseum @The Children’s Museum
@lindseybosway
43K likes • 1.1M views

🎯 Hands-on Learning Fun

Interactive exhibits for ages 1-10, encouraging creative play and development. Instagram+1

🚗 Easy Downtown Access

Located downtown, perfect for combining with Riverwalk visits. Staff offer lunch suggestions. InstagramReddit

Did you know downtown Wilmington NC has a Museum of the Bizarre? Similar to a Ridley’s Believe it or Not. Although it wasn’t my cup of tea, it may be cool for a Halloween activity if you are into the things mentioned. Great, friendly staff!!! 👏🏼 #wilmingtonnc #museum #bizarre #riverwalk #comewithme #downtownwilmington #capefearriver #wilmingtonnorthcarolina #summermashup #thingstodoinwilmingtonnc
@ladykristledown
22.5K likes • 252.5K views
Get the kids out of the house this weekend and take them Downtown to the Children's Museum of Wilmington! The Museum provides many exhibits that encourage creative learning for your little ones. ⁣ ⁣ The Museum also hosts special events — the next one is Mud Day on June 24th & 25th. Children get to play in the mud while connecting with and learning more about our earth! Visit playwilmington.org to ...
bringitdowntown
47 likes • 1K views

🧼 Clean & Organized

Staff constantly clean and organize exhibits, ensuring a pleasant experience. Reddit

⏰ Half-Day Adventure

Kids can easily spend 2-4 hours exploring all the engaging stations. Reddit

🚸Children’s Museum Fun🚸 📍 Downtown -116 Orange St, Wilmington, NC 📚Hands on exploring and learning activities 🚌 Outdoor fun space, including a school bus! 📆Daily activity calendars ☀️☔️ Perfect indoor activity for a hot or rainy day #wilmingtonnc #childrensmuseum #downtownwilmington #thingstodowilmington #kids #wilmington #workingmom #realestate #remax #fun
shanamorgan_realtor
23 likes • 502 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Hands-on Learning Fun

Interactive exhibits for ages 1-10, encouraging creative play and development. Instagram+1

🚗 Easy Downtown Access

Located downtown, perfect for combining with Riverwalk visits. Staff offer lunch suggestions. InstagramReddit

🧼 Clean & Organized

Staff constantly clean and organize exhibits, ensuring a pleasant experience. Reddit

⏰ Half-Day Adventure

Kids can easily spend 2-4 hours exploring all the engaging stations. Reddit

🚌 Outdoor Play Space

Features an outdoor area with a fun school bus for extra exploration. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(522 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Children's Museum of Wilmington for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that captivate children aged 1-10. The museum's thoughtful layout, cleanliness, and friendly staff contribute to a highly positive experience, with many families planning return visits. It's a beloved spot for both locals and tourists seeking fun and educational activities.

"This was SUCH a wonderful children’s museum! My boys are still in awe from it and won’t stop talking about the ship inside, the construction zone with the blocks we are asking Santa for now apparently, and the supermarket.

I loved how laid out the museum was. It was spaced out, easy to get around, bathrooms everywhere for those much needed potty breaks for my potty training 2 year old!

My boys (6 & 2 at time of visit) loved the bus outside too and I was thankful they got to experience many things like the dentist, the diner, and the water play table. I loved this museum and I was so happy they had so much fun!

The staff were incredibly helpful and friendly. They even gave great suggestions on where to walk to lunch to afterwards! Such a lovely experience! Highly recommend!"

Emily Hinson

"The kids love it here! They could easily spend a half day here with all the things there is to do. They ask to go back frequently as it’s one of their favorite places to explore. We will be back again!"

Nick Fischer

"Just took my toddler here for the first time and she had a blast! There are so many unique, creative, yet simple activities that help with children's development. I was very impressed, the staff were constantly cleaning and organizing with a smile as kids created chaos the moment the staff cleaned. My daughter loved the shopping with the cart at their mini supermarket the most. Looking forward to taking her again."

Gillian Messina

What People Like

Engaging hands-on exhibits
Clean and organized space
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Can get crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Children's Museum of Wilmington is located at 116 Orange St in downtown Wilmington, NC. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Many visitors enjoy combining their trip with a walk along the Riverwalk. InstagramReddit

Parking is available in the downtown Wilmington area, though it can be metered. Consider public transport or ride-sharing if you prefer not to worry about parking. Instagram

Yes, the museum is centrally located downtown, making it a convenient stop after visiting other attractions like the Riverwalk. InstagramReddit

The museum is generally stroller-friendly, with exhibits spaced out for easy navigation. Reddit

The museum is situated in downtown Wilmington, easily accessible from major routes like US-17 and US-76.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are affordably priced, with options for families. Many visitors find the cost reasonable for the hours of entertainment provided. Reddit

The museum typically operates daily, but it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially for special events. Instagram

While walk-in visits are common, booking in advance might be advisable during peak times or for special events to ensure entry. Reddit

Keep an eye on their social media and website for potential discounts or special event pricing. Instagram

Absolutely! The museum has many unique, creative, and simple activities perfect for toddlers' development, including a dedicated area for younger children. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the ship exhibit, the construction zone, the outdoor school bus, and the mini supermarket. Kids also love the dentist, diner, and water play table. InstagramReddit

Yes, the museum features an outdoor fun space that includes a school bus, offering additional opportunities for play and exploration. Instagram

Most children can easily spend a half-day, around 2-4 hours, engaging with the various interactive stations and exhibits. Reddit

Yes, the museum is well-equipped with restrooms and changing facilities, making it convenient for families with young children. Reddit

The museum is ideal for children aged 1 to 10, with interactive exhibits designed to engage and educate this age group. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a full-service cafe, but staff can provide excellent recommendations for nearby family-friendly restaurants. Reddit

It's best to check the museum's specific policy on outside food and drinks, but generally, it's recommended to consume food in designated areas or outside the exhibit spaces. Reddit

The museum staff are knowledgeable about local dining and can suggest great spots for lunch or dinner within walking distance. Reddit

Downtown Wilmington offers a variety of family-friendly eateries, from casual diners to pizza places, perfect for refueling after a museum visit. Reddit

Yes, the museum offers party rooms and packages, making it a popular venue for children's birthday celebrations. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed, allowing you to capture your children's joyful moments. Instagram

While personal photos are fine, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Always be mindful of other visitors. Instagram

The ship exhibit, the construction zone, and the outdoor school bus are popular and visually engaging spots for memorable photos. Reddit

It's best to avoid flash photography to not disturb other visitors or potentially damage exhibits. Check for any posted signage regarding flash use. Instagram

Capture your child's interaction with exhibits like the mini supermarket or the dentist's office for unique and fun photo memories. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

The Children's Museum of Wilmington is a dream destination for families with young children, particularly those aged 1-10. The interactive exhibits are specifically designed to engage toddlers and preschoolers, offering a safe and stimulating environment for exploration. From the mini supermarket where little ones can practice shopping to the water play table for sensory fun, there are countless opportunities for discovery. InstagramReddit

The museum's thoughtful layout, with restrooms and changing facilities readily available, makes it incredibly convenient for parents. The staff's commitment to cleanliness ensures a hygienic environment, even amidst the joyful chaos of young children. Don't miss the outdoor school bus for an extra dose of imaginative play! InstagramReddit

💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors

For families looking for affordable entertainment, the Children's Museum of Wilmington offers excellent value. The admission prices are reasonable, and the ability to spend several hours engaged with diverse exhibits means you get a lot of bang for your buck. Reddit Many visitors note that their children could easily spend a half-day here, making it a cost-effective way to entertain kids. Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday morning to potentially avoid larger crowds and have more space to explore. The museum's location in downtown Wilmington also means you can easily combine your visit with free activities like walking the Riverwalk, maximizing your budget for the day. Instagram

☔ Rainy Day Rescues

When the weather doesn't cooperate, the Children's Museum of Wilmington is the perfect indoor escape. Its extensive collection of interactive exhibits provides hours of entertainment, keeping children engaged and happy regardless of the forecast. InstagramReddit

From the ship exhibit to the construction zone and the dentist's office, there are plenty of imaginative scenarios for kids to dive into. The museum's well-maintained indoor spaces ensure a comfortable and fun experience, making it a go-to destination for families seeking shelter from the rain. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Interactive Exhibits for Young Minds

The Children's Museum of Wilmington is a haven for hands-on learning, designed to spark curiosity and creativity in children aged 1 to 10. Visitors consistently rave about the interactive nature of the exhibits, which go beyond simple observation to encourage active participation. From the popular ship exhibit that fuels imaginative voyages to the construction zone where little builders can create their own structures, the museum offers a diverse range of experiences. Other engaging areas include a mini supermarket for role-playing and a water play table that provides sensory fun. InstagramReddit

The museum's layout is thoughtfully designed, making it easy for children to move between different themed areas. This thoughtful organization ensures that kids can spend hours exploring without feeling overwhelmed. The staff's dedication to keeping the exhibits clean and organized further enhances the visitor experience, allowing children to fully immerse themselves in play and learning. Reddit

Beyond the indoor attractions, the museum also boasts an outdoor play space, complete with a fun school bus that adds another layer of adventure. This combination of indoor and outdoor activities makes the Children's Museum of Wilmington a versatile destination, perfect for any weather condition. Instagram

A Downtown Wilmington Gem

Nestled in the heart of downtown Wilmington, the Children's Museum offers more than just indoor fun; it's an integral part of the city's vibrant cultural scene. Its location on Orange Street makes it easily accessible and a perfect starting point for exploring the charming surrounding area. Many visitors appreciate that the museum staff are happy to provide recommendations for nearby eateries, encouraging families to extend their outing with a meal at a local restaurant. InstagramReddit

This proximity to other attractions, such as the famous Wilmington Riverwalk, allows for a well-rounded day trip. Families can enjoy a morning of educational play at the museum and then spend the afternoon strolling along the waterfront, taking in the sights and sounds of the Cape Fear River. The museum's central location makes it a convenient and enjoyable stop for both locals and tourists visiting Wilmington. TikTokInstagram

The museum's presence contributes to the family-friendly atmosphere of downtown Wilmington, offering a dedicated space for children to learn and play. Its accessibility and integration with the surrounding urban environment make it a valuable asset for the community and a delightful discovery for visitors. Instagram

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