Grand Rapids Children's Museum, Grand Rapids

The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum (GRCM) is a vibrant, hands-on learning environment in downtown Grand Rapids, dedicated to inspiring curiosity and creativity through play. Spanning two floors, the museum features interactive exhibits and daily programs designed to foster engagement and discovery for children and families. Since its establishment, GRCM has welcomed over four million guests, solidifying its place as a beloved educational destination in West Michigan.

GRCM started in 1993 as a “museum without walls,” hosting popular exhibits at Woodland Mall. Inspired by early success, its founders secured a permanent home on Sheldon Avenue in 1994, thanks to generous donations. A $4 million campaign funded renovations, leading to its grand opening in 1997. Today, GRCM welcomes over 200,000 visitors annually.

GRCM sparks creativity with hands-on exhibits like Little Grand Rapids, where kids can role-play as bankers, shoppers, mechanics, or doctors. Highlights include a bubble room, LEGO and Lincoln Logs areas, musical play, a real beehive, robotics, and sensory zones. Daily drop-in programs, from art and storytelling to science experiments, add fresh experiences with every visit.

GRCM’s impact on childhood education has been widely acknowledged. In 2017, Mayor Rosalyn Bliss declared July 31 as Grand Rapids Day of Play to honor the museum’s 20th anniversary and dedication to learning through play. As it grows, GRCM continues to inspire lifelong learning through interactive exploration, ensuring play remains central to childhood education for future generations.