Gently creating gigantic bubbles, building a castle, running a Korean restaurant and starring in a dance video are all part of the non-stop — occasionally messy — fun at this multi-level museum.
Even crawling infants have a place to play in the outdoor-themed Habitot, but curious and playful preschoolers will have the best time exploring the three main exhibits: Earth World with Minnesota habitats, Our World with neighborhood businesses and careers, and World Works, with a chance to make paper, run a factory, explore the power of water and the magic of light, color and shadows.
There are usually two traveling exhibits, as well as one of the Twin Cities’ best toy stores, and a seasonal Rooftop Art Park.
The museum is scheduled to close December 2016 through May 2017 to put the final touches on its expansion. New exhibits will include an expanded toddler gallery, multi-story climber and a café. If you work up an appetite, take a quick walk to two St. Paul favorites: Mickey’s Diner and Candyland.
Admission
$9.95, ages 1 and up; no admission on the third Sunday of each month and free Metro Transit to the museum on second Saturdays
Hours
Sunday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Parking
The World Trade Center ramp on the northeast corner of Seventh and Wabasha Streets is $5 for the first three hours and connects to the museum via skyway. The museum recommends not bringing strollers to exhibits.
