You might be asking, “Why should I get a Museum membership?”
There are so many reasons to get (or gift!) a membership to the Children’s Museum of South Dakota. Whether you’re planning ahead for chilly days or family vacations, looking for easier play dates, or saying “yes” to more hands-on fun, a membership opens the door to a full year of discovery. It’s practical. It’s playful. It’s permission to pop in, stay awhile, and let kids be kids, again and again.
#1. Unlimited Admission for 12 months
One visit is fun. Twelve months of visits? That’s amazing! With unlimited admission, you can come as often as you like for quick bursts of play or full-day adventures. No pressure to “see it all” in one trip.
#2. Discounts on classes, camps, and birthday parties
From slime-filled experiments to clay-covered creativity, members receive a 20% discount on classes, camps, and celebrations.
Pro Tip: Planning a birthday party with us is a piece of cake! We do all the prep work, set-up, and clean-up so all you have to do is enjoy the party. Book your next party with us!
#3. Member-only hours: 9-10 am on Saturdays
Early access = extra space to explore. Member mornings offer a quieter start to your Saturday, giving families a chance to settle in, connect, and play at your own pace.
#4. Discount on purchases at the gift shop
Play Central Toys & Books has everything from books, games, plush animals, puzzles, t-shirts, and a range of toys designed for kids of all ages. Save 10% on your purchases of Jellycat, Needoh, Magna-tiles, and more with a membership. Plus, your purchase helps support the Museum mission.
#5. Built-in bad weather backup plan
Too hot. Too cold. Too rainy. No worries! With a Museum membership you always have a plan for the day no matter the weather. Even when Mama T. Rex is in hibernation, you are always welcome to explore around her and the Outdoor Prairie.
#6. Easy play dates (organized and casual)
Whether it’s a planned gathering or a spontaneous meetup, membership makes social time simple and stress-free.
We also host free Play Dates designed for children ages 0-36 months and their grown-ups to connect, discover, play, and explore through hands-on experiences. Check our calendar for our next scheduled session.
#7. Pop in for 20 minutes or stay for the day
Some days call for a quick energy release, and other days unfold into hours of building, exploring, climbing, and creating. Membership gives you flexibility, no need to rush.
Pro Tip: Eat with us! Fuel your play with delicious lunch and snack options including pastas, wraps, salads, and grab-and-go selections at our Cafe Couteau.
#8. Support imagination and play for everyone
Your membership doesn’t just benefit your family. It supports a place where children of all backgrounds can learn through play. You’re investing in a community that values curiosity, creativity, and connection.
#9. Something new to discover every visit
Loose parts move. Exhibits evolve. Interests grow. Every visit feels a little different because children approach play in new ways each time. Plus, we have a variety of staff-guided activities like Story Time, Messy Studio, Make-n-Take, and more!
#10. Meet new friends
Play sparks conversation and conversation builds connection. A membership means familiar faces, shared discoveries, and community that grows alongside your child.
#11. Take a break from cleaning your house 😉
Get wet in Splash, paint on the wall in the Art Studio, and dream up culinary creations in Cafe Oscar. You enjoy the fun without all the cleanup.
Pro Tip: Bring an extra set of clothes for when you end up in Splash or Streamside on our Outdoor Prairie.
#12. Create lasting memories
The house you built together. The restaurant you opened. The moment they finally climbed to the top of the Cloud Climber. These are the stories you’ll tell later and moments you will cherish for years to come.
Become a member today
A membership isn’t only admission
A membership isn’t just free admission; it’s your support of a place where people come together and play!
A membership is your family’s invitation to a year of play, creativity, and discovery.
Create a rhythm of discovery and play along with us again and again. (And again!)
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