The Kansas Children’s Discovery Center in Topeka is a fun place for imaginary, active and artistic play for kids from infants to elementary ages. Read on for our tips on enjoying this attraction with your family.
What Kids Will Love 
The Discovery Center has something for every kid! My kids like being able to easily run from different areas without having to check in with parents. They also enjoyed the variety of ways to play including creating, active play, imaginary and more.
What Moms Will Love
The main indoor attractions are all in one large room, which means less chance to lose sight of a kid and great for families with multiple ages interested in different things. The infant area is varied and engaging and even the outdoor space has a playground for littles as well as zip line for the older kids.
Who It’s Best For
Toddlers, preschoolers, and young elementary children that enjoy pretend play. Older kids will enjoy some spaces, particularly the outdoor areas and babies do have a cute area dedicated to their size. The exhibits ares specifically designed for ages 0-10.
Location and Parking
4400 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604 inside Topeka’s Gage Park, which also has a fun playground, mini train and the Topeka Zoo! Parking is free and next to the museum.
Admission Cost
Daily admission is $9 for kids and adults, $8 for seniors and free for kids 2 and under. The Discovery Center also participates in the Sunflower Summer program.
Hours
The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. – 8. p.m., and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. Closed on Mondays.
Free admission on Third Thursdays from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Membership
A membership includes a year of unlimited visits for up to two named adults and up to four named dependent children or grandchildren under 18 per visit for $109.
Nursing Room Availability
Breastfeeding is welcome anywhere, and the infant area offers comfortable seating and positioning pillows for nursing mothers. Private space for pumping and a microwave for bottle preparation are available upon request.
Stroller and Wheelchair Accessibility
Strollers are welcome. However, it might be easier to leave in your car when it’s crowded. Wheelchairs are welcome and with the museum all being on one level, it’s fully accessible.
Seating Areas
There is comfy bench seating in the infant area and around some of the play space perimeters. Ample benches outside.
Food Policies and Purchase Options
Snacks and drinks are sold at the front desk. Visitors are also welcome to bring in their own food and drinks. There are indoor and outdoor spaces to enjoy food.
Special Events
Sensory Friendly Wednesdays are offered each week at 10 a.m. Sensory-Friendly Sundays are on the second Sunday of every month from 10 a.m. to noon.
Special programs are offered often featuring nature play, bubbles and more. Be sure to check the calendar to plan your visit.
Don’t Miss This Hidden Gem
The outdoor space is really a fantastic addition to the indoor imaginary areas. The pond and stream area allows for wading through (be careful as the rocks can get slick), which is always a win for my kids! Be sure to explore all the paths where you can find a pirate ship play structure, treehouse and more.
