Children's Museum of Memphis

2525 Central Ave., Memphis, TN

Hours

Museum open Tuesday - Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Closed Monday

H2OH! Splash Park and Dino Dig open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day

Holiday closures: Easter, Mother's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day

Cost

Below are the costs to visit the CMOM:

Admission (1-100): $18
Free for children under 1 year old
Grand Carousel: $3 per token
Parking (non-members): $4
Parking (members): free

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

(901) 458-2678

Visit Website

About

The website for the Children's Museum of Memphis (CMOM) says it all: "Kid-friendly environment. Brain-shaping results."

This child-centric facility combines entertainment and education in a way that inspires children and adults. Since opening its doors in 1990, it has become a staple of Memphis, sparking creativity and learning in young minds.

What makes CMOH a favorite with little ones is that it's a hands-on playground. Here, children freely explore science, art, and history in ways they'll never forget. From healthcare to aviation to the wonders of the human brain, there's something for every curious mind.

One of its standout features is the way many exhibits reflect the area's history and culture. Such forethought creates a sense of community and belonging with children. With over 30 exhibits, diverse programs, and evolving events, there is always something new and exciting happening at CMOM!

Families who visit will appreciate the facility's accessibility, enabling all children, regardless of their abilities, to enjoy the museum.

Another perk of visiting is its proximity to some of the top attractions in Memphis. Only a few blocks away is Overton Park, with trails, a golf course, and special events. Also at Overton is the Memphis Zoo, adding to the allure of visiting. Such convenience makes it easy to plan a fun-filled day on your Bluff City getaway.

Children's Museum of Memphis: Fun Facts & Cool Features

A must-see feature at the museum is the Grand Carousel. Built in 1909, this restored vintage wonder has 32 jumpers and 16 standing horses for families to enjoy. The colorful carousel is a popular attraction, making it ideal for photographs.

The STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) exhibits are an immersive experience. With so many exhibits to choose from, your biggest challenge will be deciding where to begin! Options range from an air traffic control tower to the Let's Dance room and tornado generator!

Career-themed exhibits provide endless inspiration for young dreamers. While pretending to be doctors, firefighters, or news reporters, children learn and discover possible futures. Another popular exhibit is the Airbus A320 Cockpit Simulator, where budding pilots learn about flying.

From Memorial to Labor Day, children and adults flock to the H2Oh! Splash Park. The 7,700-square-foot exhibit has over 40 sprayers, including jet streams, mists, geysers, and water tunnels! Add the bubble-blowing garden, and the Splash Park is the perfect spot to cool off when Memphis temperatures soar!

After working up an appetite at the Children's Museum, head to any of the nearby restaurants to refuel. Brother Juniper'sis your go-to for breakfast and lunch, while The Beauty Shop offers New American cuisine in the refurbished 1950s beauty parlor.

For the ultimate museum experience, combine your CMOM adventure with one of the nearby landmarks, such as the Memphis Museum of Science and the Memphis Botanic Garden. It's a superb way to combine learning with family time.

So, grab the kids some swimsuits for the splash pad, and let their imaginations soar at the Children's Museum of Memphis.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown to the Children's Museum of Memphis:

Head east on Poplar Avenue for 2.5 miles.
Turn right onto East Parkway South; continue for 1.3 miles.
Turn left onto Central Avenue.
Address: 2525 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104.

Local Tips

The target range for CMOM is 2-10 years of age.
There are changing facilities at the Splash Park. Remember your towels!
There are only vending machines on site. Picnics are welcome at designated areas.
Plan on spending two to three hours.

Location

2525 Central Ave., Memphis, TN

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best place for BBQ in Memphis?

Just as music is part of Memphis’ royal legacy, BBQ is also king in the “Bluff City.” Determining the best place to eat BBQ in Memphis is a question of where you are and where’s the closest pork shoulder. If visiting in May, you can also kick it up a notch at the World Barbeque Championship Cooking Contest.

Your tastebuds will not be disappointed with the traditional pork BBQ in Memphis cooked over a low, slow fire. With so many to choose from, some of the top BBQ spots in Memphis include the Charlie Vergos Rendezvous, and the renowned Central BBQ. Check the Memphis BBQ Trail map for a full plate of delicious discovery.

What are the biggest main events in Memphis?

Memphis is home to several fantastic events that celebrate the area’s culture, music, and food. The biggest main events include:

Memphis in May – RiverBeat Music Festival (May) – This music festival features a diverse lineup of artists across multiple genres, all on the iconic Mississippi riverfront of Tom Lee Park.
World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (May) – Another major event during Memphis in May, it’s a celebration of the city’s love for barbecue, with pitmasters from around the world competing for top honors.
Cooper-Young Festival (September) – The trendy Cooper-Young neighborhood transforms into an all-out festival with live music, food vendors, maker booths and more.
Mempho Music Festival (October) – One of the city’s biggest music events, Mempho is three days of national touring acts and local superstars on stage at Radians Amphitheater at Memphis Botanic Garden.
RiverArts Fest (October) – Make your way Downtown for this annual arts festival where nearly 200 artists from around the U.S. will be showcasing their works along the riverside.

Where can I hear live music?

When you’re looking for live music in Memphis, the home of rock ‘n roll and a breadth of blues up from the Mississippi Delta, well you can follow the beat to just about anywhere.
Be sure to check live music venues up and down the popular Beale Street in Downtown Memphis. This is home to the likes of B.B. King’s Blues Club and Rum Boogie Cafe, not to mention theatres and the Beale Street Entertainment District.
Midtown Memphis, east of downtown about 3 miles, is another go to destination for music venues, eclectic bars, walkable streets, and vibrant entertainment. The Cooper-Young neighborhood in Midtown has been named among the top 5 ‘coolest’ in the nation and is inviting for anyone looking for an authentic Memphis experience.
What would a trip to Memphis for music look like without a stop at Graceland? Check their Events calendar to see whose coming to the Graceland Soundstage.

What are the must-see attractions in Memphis?

Memphis is full of rich history and unique attractions. Here are some of the top points of interest:

Beale Street – Known for its vibrant nightlife and live music, Beale Street is the heart of Memphis’ legendary music scene, especially for blues and jazz lovers.
Graceland – The home of Elvis Presley, Graceland is a must-see for fans of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll and anyone interested in music history.
National Civil Rights Museum – A powerful museum built around the former Lorraine Motel, offers a deep and moving look into the history of the Civil Rights Movement.
Sun Studio – Often called the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, this historic recording studio is where artists like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis made their marks.
Memphis Zoo – A family-friendly attraction with over 3,500 animals from around the world, it’s a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Outdoor lovers should check out Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., offering hiking, biking, and paddleboarding on the lake.