Our little family loves a good outing. Local adventures keep things fresh, get us out of the house when our energy is buzzing, and give us something unique and engaging to look forward to.
As the days get brighter, warmer and my energy levels peak (summer vibes do that to me 😜), I am all about exploring new-to-us spots and sharing in a fun and vibrant life with the kiddos.
That’s what led my kids and I to Franklin recently to visit their Children’s Museum for the very first time. I had been eyeing this museum ever since it jumped out at me on social media this past year — especially as I’m always trying to diversify what I show my children (ages 4 and 6).
Getting Inside
When we arrived around noon on a Saturday, we were able to purchase tickets right at the front desk, no problem. Children under one are free; everyone else is $14 each. You can leave your coats or anything bulky on hangers by the door. Shoes stay on the whole time.
Beyond the lobby were a bunch of great sized bathrooms for individuals and/or families, complete with step stools and changing tables.
A few steps after that, an area with bubblers, handwashing stations and water bottle fill-ups awaited.
The Play Floor
Then, you enter a beautiful, colorful first floor of imaginative, creative and hands-on play, perfect for children ages 0-10 (I really did feel like mine were in that sweet spot for it all). There were so many little feet running around — partly because the museum also runs birthday parties in a back room area (I peeked and it looked really cute).
There are areas with so much to explore — fossils to dig out, a grocery store, veterinarian office, teeth to brush, gears to turn, a bank, a tractor and garden, a maze to crawl through, a sensory cave with fun colors and lights, race and train tracks, awesome air tubes, loaded craft area, and so much more (don’t want to spoil all the fun for you 😉).
Two hours was just the right amount of time for my two littles to work through each station, while enjoying each fully to their heart’s content. There was some skipping involved… And, I can tell when my son starts skipping, he’s really having fun.
I really loved how open the space was and how it was also on a smaller scale when it comes to museums. To me, this means I can manage an outing on my own with both kids — no problem — because I can keep my eyes on them at all times.
In case you’re curious to see more, here’s what my children got into when we made our first visit to CMF:
Other things to know
- The business was founded by two local moms (don’t you just love that? 🙌)
- They offer memberships, ways to save, and have tons of ongoing events and programs
- Parking is easy-peasy and just steps away from the front door
- They’re very inclusive — “From accessible exhibits and sensory-friendly supports to community programs that reduce barriers, we’re committed to creating a space where everyone belongs.”
Check out CMF’s website for all the details and definitely think about planning your first or next visit to this amazing non-profit today! 👉 www.childrensmuseumfranklin.org
