Here are six things you should know about the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Whether it’s your first time or hundredth, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis continues to entertain and educate its guests with new exhibits and long-time favorites. 

The museum, located at 3000 N. Meridian St., has exhibits aimed toward younger kids for hands-on learning experiences. However, public relations manager Leslie Olsen said its programming has emphasized engaging teenagers and adults as well.

“When I say kids of all ages, I truly mean several generations of families come to see these exhibits,” she said.

In addition to its exhibits, the museum has multiple opportunities for families, like science days, live shows and a sports park.

What exhibits are popular?

The Children’s Museum has a slew of permanent attractions as well as new exhibits opening throughout the year.

“Just because you came a few times last year, you might think, ‘Well, there's no reason to come again,’ but not so,” Olsen said. “We're always changing things up.” 

Its Dinosphere is reopening March 19 with an expansion of two new fossils measures at 80-feet and 65-feet long. Additionally, the Monsters of the Mesozoic Seas exhibit features fossils of prehistoric marine creatures. 

The “Scooby Doo Mansion Mayhem” exhibit will open June 4 and will ask patrons to help solve a mystery for a jewel-thieving ghost. Families can learn more about the history of the show, crack the case and make snacks.

A Doc McStuffins exhibit just opened in February to teach kids, or “doctors-in-training,” about performing check-ups, healthy habits and overall wellness. 

More:The Children's Museum's is about to reopen Dinosphere. Peek at the coming creatures.

Long-time exhibit "The Power of Children" details the stories of four kids who made a difference in history. This includes Anne Frank, Ruby Bridges, Ryan White and Malala Yousafzai.

All exhibits and related information can be found on the museum's website.

What else can my family do?

If your family is looking for a change of pace, the museum hosts a variety of programs, including science days and workshops. Olsen said they often bring in experts like engineers and architects to speak with patrons. Current events include puzzle rooms, a fairy garden and an egg hunt with Bunnysaurus Rex. 

More:9 exciting celebrations, venue upgrades and exhibits to look forward to in 2022

To participate, visitors must purchase a museum ticket and register for the program online. The museum asks people to notify it if they are bringing a child younger than 2. 

The Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience has 12 different sports, including basketball, hockey, golf and soccer. Within it is also the Avenue of Champions, which features tributes of athletes who made history in their sport and have a tie back to Indiana.

What are its hours?

Until March 18, the museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. From then on, it will also be open on Mondays.

Outdoor areas operate seasonally and will also open in March from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m..

How can I buy tickets?

Unless a child is 2-years-old or younger, everyone will need a ticket to get into the museum.

It encourages visitors to buy their tickets in advance online. It uses “Plan-Ahead” pricing, which means ticket prices are cheaper the farther in advance they are bought. When locking in tickets at least two weeks in advance, people can save up to 25%. 

Tickets can be also purchased in-person at the museum but will be the most expensive option.

Repeat visitors may also consider purchasing a membership for their family. For a family of four, Olsen said they will have paid off their membership in two and half visits compared to if they bought tickets. Afterward, she said essentially they are coming for free. Other discounts and benefits are included like free carousel rides and members-only events. 

More:Exhibit on Emmett Till will come to The Children's Museum

The museum also has some free and discounted days. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Fiesta de la Familia and Christmas Eve are free admission days. Admission is $6 from 4-8 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month, but it asks families to still reserve their tickets ahead. 

Some families may qualify for the Access Pass Program which lowers the admission price to make visiting the museum and other local institutions more financially accessible. More information and an application can be found here.

What are the current COVID-19 protocols?

Face masks or shields are required for all visitors 2-years-old and older. They are not required in the outdoor areas.

The museum is also allowing visitors in on a reduced capacity. It continues to urge people to follow social distancing, with some areas like the atrium and food court aiming to space out crowds with floor markings.

How else can I support the museum?

Beyond visiting the museum, people can pledge their support either through donating or volunteering. 

A person can make a donation online here. Donations help the museum to continue running as well as expand its current exhibits.

Volunteer opportunities are for adults over 18, but there are also opportunities for families and groups. To learn more and apply online, people can visit here.

Cate Charron is an intern at the IndyStar. You can contact her on Twitter at @CateCharron or email at CCharron@gannett.com.