A trip to Akron and Summit County with little ones isn’t complete without a visit to Akron Children’s Museum. This vibrant, family-friendly destination in Akron is geared toward preschool to elementary school-aged children and provides hands-on play, exploration, inspirational learning, and problem-solving.

Akron’s top gathering place for children and families is packed with interactive exhibits, programs, and special activities. Whether you’re a local resident looking for fun museums for kids or traveling to Summit County with the family, we have you covered with everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Getting Here

Akron Children’s Museum is located in downtown Akron at 216 S. Main Street between W. State Street and W. Bowery Street. Parking is available in the O’Neil’s/State Street Parking Deck at 51 W. State Street, which can be found just behind Barley House. Parking is $2 with Akron Children’s Museum parking ticket validation (hang onto your ticket!) or free for members. Deck parking is also free on the weekends.

Hours and Admission

Akron Children’s Museum hours are Wednesday 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m., Friday 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 12 to 5 p.m. The museum is closed to the public on Monday and Tuesday for private field trips, as well as most federal holidays.

Admission is $7 for adults and kids, with infants under one free. Veterans also receive a $1 discount. Annual family memberships, which include free parking, are available and start at $65.

Akron Children’s Museum is also proud to be a member of Museums for All. Any guest who presents their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or WIC card upon arrival can receive a $2 admission price per person for up to four adults or children.

Interactive Exhibits

The museum is home to a variety of engaging and stimulating interactive exhibits with hands-on activities, like its beloved Down on the Farm exhibit. Kids can pick apples off trees, gather eggs from chicken coops, and pick vegetables from garden beds. Then, they can buy and sell produce at the Farmer’s Market.

Young visitors can also explore the medical field at Healthy Little Monsters, where they can care for baby doll patients just like a real doctor’s office. Another kid-approved favorite is Excavation Station, a place to sift through the sand to discover different material properties (and a great way to build fine motor skills).

In total, Akron Children’s Museum has 17 interactive exhibits, each offering something unique. From model trains to an art studio and outdoor music garden, kids can play and explore to their heart’s content.

Educational Programing

A world of discovery awaits at Akron Children’s Museum, where you’ll find a dynamic learning environment filled with educational programming. The museum hosts S.T.E.A.M. Team Saturdays every second and fourth Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., which is free with admission. Enjoy a new set of activities each week, like screen printing with Legos, catapulting pumpkins, and creating balloon rockets.

The museum also offers home activity backpacks available for purchase. Kits start at $29.99 and include more than a dozen activities with introductory videos and materials to complete at home. The backpacks are designed for kids ages three to seven and are perfect for remote learners or homeschoolers.

Special Events and Birthday Parties

Celebrating a special event or birthday? Host your big day at Akron Children’s Museum, which has a dedicated party space. Bring your own cake, ice cream, and drinks, or cater from LockStop Cafe. There are many ways to customize your special event or birthday party package, such as by adding a special keepsake party pleaser activity, party favor, or plush companion for guests to take home.
 

Whether you’re planning a celebration or simply enjoying a day trip with the kids, Akron Children’s Museum is a must-visit for families seeking fun and educational experiences.