Grand Rapids Children's Museum

If you’re looking for fun, laughter, and an incredible hands-on experience for kids, the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum (GRCM) is a must-visit destination. Since its inception, GRCM has been a beacon of creativity, exploration, and learning for children and families across West Michigan.

A Legacy of Play and Learning  

The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum began its exciting journey in August 1993 as a “museum without walls,” hosting interactive exhibits like Funstruction and Bubbles, Bubbles, Bubbles! that attracted over 30,000 visitors at Woodland Mall. These exhibits were so popular that the museum's founders—visionaries Georgia Woodrick Gietzen, Alyce Greeson, Carla Morris, Mary Smith, and Aleicia Woodrick—were inspired to create a permanent cultural and educational space exclusively for children.

By 1994, the dream became a reality as GRCM found its home at 11 Sheldon Avenue. The building—once abandoned after a devastating fire—was generously donated and transformed into a vibrant, family-friendly museum thanks to a successful $4 million capital campaign. Since officially opening in 1997, the museum has welcomed more than 3 million visitors and continues to delight over 200,000 guests annually.

What Sets GRCM Apart?  

One of the most remarkable features of the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is its commitment to keeping things fresh. Exhibits are frequently rotated and updated, ensuring there’s always something new for kids to explore and enjoy. Whether your child loves science, art, or physical challenges, GRCM caters to every curious mind with its thoughtful hands-on activities designed to inspire learning through play.

Some of the crowd-favorite exhibits over the years include building blocks, imaginative roleplay areas, and, of course, bubble stations that invite kids to laugh, experiment, and discover. It’s not just about entertainment—it’s about nurturing their creativity and curiosity.

A Community Treasure  

The museum’s impact reaches far beyond its walls. Over the years, GRCM has played a vital role in creating memories and fostering education within the Grand Rapids community. To commemorate its 20th anniversary in 2017, Mayor Rosalyn Bliss declared July 31 as the official “Grand Rapids Day of Play,” spotlighting the museum’s incredible contributions to childhood development in the region.  

Plan Your Visit  

The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that families return to time and again. It’s also the perfect place to spend some quality time while exploring the area; for example, you can visit GRCM while waiting for your candle to set at nearby Wax Poetic Candle Bar.

Located at 11 Sheldon Avenue, the museum is central to downtown Grand Rapids, making it an easy and convenient stop for everyone.

Whether you're a local or visiting from out of town, GRCM offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to make learning fun and memorable for children. Don’t miss out on exploring this lively hub of creativity and imagination!