Children's Museums
Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota
📍 224 Lamm St, Mankato, MN 56001🕐 Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM–7 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM–4 PM |
About Children's Museum of Southern Minnesota
Interactive exhibits & events for kids. Spacious, modern museum featuring a variety of interactive exhibits for children & regular events. The museum features a dedicated Butterfly House with interactive exhibits and live butterfly releases, opening June 13. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 846 visitors.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Children's Museum
- Best For
- All ages (infants 12 months and up)
- Highlights
- Hands-on STEAM activities, interactive exhibits, art studio, story time, play-based learning
- Admission
- $13 per person
- Membership
- Yes, from under $13/month with unlimited access
💡 Did You Know?
- The museum features a dedicated Butterfly House with interactive exhibits and live butterfly releases, opening June 13
- Incorporates Dakota Language education into exhibits, featuring voice work by Gwen Westerman, reflecting local indigenous heritage
- Offers memberships starting at less than $13 per month with unlimited access, making it more affordable than single-visit admission at $13 per person
- Features a tree climbing fort/treehouse that is prominently mentioned across 23 review mentions, making it a signature attraction
- Maintains rotating exhibits and regular programming including weekly STEAM Explorers sessions, monthly Art Explorers, and seasonal camps to encourage repeat visits
💬 What Visitors Say
- Plan for 2-6 hours per visit and wear play clothes - kids will get dirty exploring the water works area, tree house, and construction zones. The spacious layout means you may not see all exhibits in one visit.
- A yearly membership pays for itself quickly at less than $13/month with unlimited access. Reviews consistently mention the membership is 'great value,' especially since exhibits rotate regularly, making repeat visits feel fresh and new.
- The tree house/climbing fort and water works outdoor play area are the standout attractions that kids consistently mention. Start with these high-demand exhibits early in your visit before they get crowded.
- This museum successfully engages a wide age range (infants through 10+ years old) with exhibits like the tractor simulator, dramatic playspaces, and quarry that appeal to older kids. Plan activities accordingly if you have mixed-age groups.
- Consider visiting on weekday afternoons rather than Saturdays. Reviews mention extended Thursday hours, but note that current weekday evening hours may be limited during the school year, so plan ahead accordingly.
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