Welcome to the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota in Mankato, a vibrant place where learning is synonymous with play. This museum, officially opened at its current location in May 2015, has quickly become a cornerstone of the community, drawing families from across the region. But before it found its permanent home, the museum was a dream shared by educators, business leaders, and community members who saw the need for a dedicated space where children could explore and grow through interactive learning.
The journey of the Children’s Museum started in 2006 when it was granted official nonprofit status. Driven by the mission to provide a safe and inspiring environment for children, the museum operated in several temporary locations around Mankato. These early iterations of the museum provided a glimpse into what would become a beloved institution, hosting over 50,000 visitors from 53 counties and 25 states even before settling at 224 Lamm Street.
The museum’s exhibits are designed to ignite curiosity and foster learning through play. Notable attractions include the Coughlan Quarry, a massive construction-themed play area complete with a giant sandbox and conveyor belt system, and the towering Mankato Clinic Tree of Forts Climber, which offers bridges and tunnels that stretch through the roof. These spaces, along with many others, are crafted with input from community experts, ensuring that they are both educational and engaging.
One of the most significant expansions occurred in April 2022 when the museum acquired an adjacent lot to further enhance its outdoor play space. This expansion underscores the museum’s commitment to providing more opportunities for children to discover and engage with their environment.
The museum is not just about play; it serves as a cultural hub where the heritage of Southern Minnesota is celebrated. Through its exhibits, the museum highlights the region’s agricultural roots and Dakota culture, offering children a deeper understanding of their community’s history.
Since its establishment, the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota has welcomed over 650,000 guests, becoming a testament to the power of community collaboration in creating spaces that nurture the next generation. Its story is one of resilience and dedication, overcoming challenges like temporary relocations and natural disasters to emerge stronger and more vibrant.
Each visit to the museum is a new adventure, where the past and present collide in a celebration of learning and growth. Whether you are climbing through the Tree of Forts or exploring the Dotson Back 40 outdoor area, there is always something exciting to discover at the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota.
