Children's Museum of Tacoma

"Designed around the belief that play is essential to every child’s development, the Children’s Museum of Tacoma offers a vibrant, hands-on environment where learning and imagination go hand in hand. "

Recommended For

Families: Bring kids ages 0–8 for fun, hands-on learning in an inclusive environment.
Creative Thinkers: Build forts, create art, or explore STEAM activities in engaging, themed spaces.
Special Needs Families: Enjoy sensory-friendly play sessions on Tuesday mornings.
Local Caregivers: Take part in parent workshops, training, and early learning programs year-round.

Highlights

Five Themed Playscapes: Explore water engineering, imaginative ship play, creative arts, and more.
Inclusive Programs: Weekly sensory play, art sessions, robotics, story time, and family workshops.
Pay-As-You-Will Admission: Welcoming to all families regardless of income or circumstance.
Downtown Location: Easy to access and close to other museums, shops, and local restaurants.

Trail Overview

Location: Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma, across from the University of Washington Tacoma campus.
Key Playscapes: Woods, Water, Voyager, Becka’s Studio, and Invention—each with interactive, skill-building features.
Programs: Preschool Powered by Play, Play to Learn outreach, STEAM workshops, and seasonal camps.
Visitor Access: Open Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00 am–5:00 pm, with dedicated sensory-friendly hours on Tuesdays.

Visitor Tips

Visit early to enjoy quieter play and take advantage of the Pay-As-You-Will admission model.
Check the website for daily programming and seasonal events like the Gingerbread Jamboree.
Bring an extra change of clothes—Water and Becka’s Studio can get joyfully messy!
Ask about memberships for access to exclusive events and year-round activities.

Local Vibe

Bright, joyful, and built with love for children’s developmental needs, the Children’s Museum of Tacoma is a welcoming, inclusive community gem. Whether you're watching toddlers navigate pulleys or older kids engineer boats in the Water exhibit, there’s a deep sense of curiosity and growth at play. With its thoughtful design, educational support programs, and community-driven mission, this museum is both a nurturing family hub and an inspiring model for accessible play-based learning.

Location

Address: 1501 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98402
Phone: (253) 627-6031
Website: greentrike.org