Looking for an exciting and educational adventure for the whole family in Little Rock? The Discovery Museum of Little Rock stands out as a premier destination, offering dynamic experiences designed to captivate minds of all ages, from curious toddlers to inquisitive grandparents. It’s not just for families either; this unique museum even makes for an enriching and engaging date spot!
Please note that for the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, guests younger than 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Adventures for the “Littles” at the Discovery Museum
The Discovery Museum of Little Rock deeply values early childhood education and provides numerous spaces and programs specifically tailored for its youngest visitors.
For children aged 4 and under, Curie’s Kiddie Corner is a delightful temporary early childhood classroom. This space is thoughtfully designed with soft play areas perfect for crawling babies and toddlers taking their first steps. Beyond soft play, you’ll find building blocks and other age-appropriate toys to spark creativity and early learning.
Currently undergoing exciting renovations, the museum is preparing to unveil two brand-new galleries on November 23rd: Small Fry Fish Camp and Curiosity Spot. Replacing the Room to Grow Gallery and WOW Gallery, these new additions promise to be even more engaging and immersive.
Small Fry Fish Camp is specifically crafted as an immersive exhibit for children aged 6 and under. Here, young explorers can delve into a world of aquatic discovery through play and interactive learning experiences. Imagine little ones exploring a simulated fish camp environment, engaging with water-themed exhibits, and learning about marine life in a fun and accessible way.
Curiosity Spot, on the other hand, is designed as a hands-on exhibition to ignite creativity and exploration in young minds. This space encourages children to ask questions, investigate, and discover through interactive displays and activities that stimulate their natural curiosity.
For more in-depth information about these exciting new spaces, you can visit New Early Childhood Galleries.
The PPG STEAM Studio further enriches the experience for young learners with its dedicated Tinker Tots section. This area focuses on sensory play and introduces basic art concepts, problem-solving, and critical-thinking activities in an age-appropriate manner. Children can engage in hands-on activities that stimulate their senses and lay the foundation for future STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) learning.
Recognizing the importance of inclusive family learning, the museum’s newer galleries, Science Lab and Dynamic Earth, are designed with dispersed early childhood exhibits. This thoughtful integration allows younger children, or “littles,” to participate in hands-on learning alongside their older siblings and adults. Families can explore these galleries together, with activities that cater to different age levels within the same space.
For a structured learning experience specifically for the youngest visitors, the Discovery Museum hosts a program called Wiggle Worms for children aged 6 and under. This engaging program introduces STEAM concepts through interactive storytelling and hands-on activities. Each Wiggle Worms session starts with a captivating book reading and culminates in a related hands-on activity, making learning fun and memorable. Wiggle Worms takes place at 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It’s always recommended to check the museum’s event calendar for the weekly schedule and specific topics to make the most of this enriching program.
Fun for All Ages at the Discovery Museum
While the Discovery Museum of Little Rock excels in providing enriching experiences for young children, the entire museum is designed to be engaging and educational for visitors of all ages. With its commitment to hands-on learning, the museum offers exhibits that range from simple concepts accessible to young children to complex scientific principles that can intrigue and challenge adults. Every gallery, with the exception of Curie’s Kiddie Corner (specifically for ages 4 and younger), contains exhibits perfectly suited for both kids and “big kids” at heart! This makes it an ideal destination for family outings where everyone can learn and have fun together.
Science After Dark: Adults-Only Fun
The Discovery Museum of Little Rock also offers unique experiences designed exclusively for adults with their Science After Dark events. Held several times throughout the year, these evening events provide a playful and sophisticated way for adults to explore the museum in a child-free environment. Each Science After Dark event revolves around a different theme or topic, offering a fresh and engaging experience each time. Attendees can explore the museum’s exhibits, participate in hands-on activities tailored for adults, and enjoy a social atmosphere. To enhance the experience, cocktails, beer, and food are available for purchase. Admission to Science After Dark is incredibly affordable at only $5, and free for museum members, making it a fantastic and budget-friendly night out.
Conclusion: Your Discovery Awaits
The Discovery Museum of Little Rock is more than just a museum; it’s a vibrant hub of exploration, learning, and fun for everyone. Whether you are planning a family outing, seeking an educational experience for your young children, or looking for a unique and engaging date night, the Discovery Museum offers something for everyone. From the dedicated spaces for toddlers and preschoolers to the engaging exhibits for all ages and the adults-only Science After Dark events, the Discovery Museum of Little Rock is a treasure trove of discovery waiting to be explored. Plan your visit today and unlock a world of wonder!
