The Lincoln Children’s Museum

by Ellie Charter and Mandy Haase-Thomas 

The Lincoln Children’s Museum unlocks unlimited adventures throughout its expansive 23,000 square foot interactive exhibit spaces. Now featuring two new exhibits that joined the museum in the fall of 2024, the one-of-a-kind Luckey Climber and Instruments on Deck!

The Luckey Climber 

The first and only of its kind in Nebraska! It stretches three stories high, offering a view of each floor of the museum. As part of the new “Here We Grow” exhibit focused on Nebraska agriculture, the climber features a design reminiscent of a plant with “leaves” shaped like Pringles. These curved, colorful platforms encourage children to climb, explore, and play like never before!

Instruments On Deck 

Permanently located outside on the museum’s upper deck, where kids’ musical creations can chime through the air. Partnering with the world’s leading outdoor musical instrument manufacturer Percussion Play, the seven new outdoor play structures provide children and adults alike the opportunity to literally beat to their own drum with playful interactive percussion pieces. Percussion pieces represented in the exhibit include Tropical Cyclone, Bongos, Penta Post, Cavatina, Chimes, Sansa-Rimba, and Metallophone. 

In addition to the everyday draw to the hands-on exhibits, Lincoln Children’s Museum also hosts a variety of educational special events, programs and camps for kids to learn through the power of play. 

Day Camps are offered throughout the summer as well as when schools are out of session during the year, perfect for kindergarten through third grade.

Game Day Play Dates provide a kids-only tailgate during most Husker home games. Drop your 5-12 year-olds at the museum for football themed games and crafts, while you enjoy the big game. Then, pick them up when the game ends. Pre-registration required and space is limited. Follow on Facebook for upcoming event announcements or visit the website’s event calendar. 

Looking for the perfect place to celebrate your child’s next birthday party? Just reserve a date with the museum, select a theme and get ready for the best party ever. Don’t forget to feed your hungry crew of pirates, princesses, or superheroes with the addition of Valentino’s Pizza. 

Members receive 10 per cent off parties, discounted rates on programs and events, and unlimited play and fun. Membership is a cost-effective way to get awesome perks. Plus, it pays for itself in as little as two visits for a family of four. Join the fun today at www.lincolnchildrensmuseum.org/membership!