In less than five years, the Children’s Museum of South Dakota will soon reach a major milestone by welcoming its 500,000th guest.
“This is an exciting time at the Museum,” Executive Director Kate Treiber said. “We’re continuing to build on the early successes, and really look forward to even further growth.”
To mark the occasion, a special giveaway is planned for the family that helps the Museum push past the half million number. This means the staff are paying extra attention to the number of visitors that arrive each day.
“We have field trip season underway, so that brings many new faces here,” according to Director of Guest Services Kati Hanson. “It’s also the time of year we see more and more vacationers making a point to stop by. We’re keeping a close eye on things, as we anticipate hitting that number in the very near future.”
We are proud to welcome guests from both near and far who not only visit our Museum, but also experience our wonderful community.
The lucky guest will receive a private party with behind-the-scenes access for up to 20 of their friends and family members. They will help turn on exhibits, learn how things work, and even help wake up Mama T.Rex and her son Max. They’ll be treated to a buffet breakfast from Café Coteau located in the Museum and have private play time just for themselves and their party, as well as surprises from the gift shop, and a Reciprocal Family Membership valid at approximately 200 Museums nationwide.
“This is an amazing opportunity to celebrate the learning and discovery that is inspired here at the Museum each day. We are proud to welcome guests from both near and far who not only visit our Museum, but also experience our wonderful community,” Treiber said.
Since opening in September 2010, the Museum has welcomed visitors from all 50 states and countries all around the world. It has received numerous awards and recognitions as a travel destination.
“The kind of positive response we receive is really impressive,” Director of Marketing Randy Grimsley said. “From the moment the Museum opened its doors, it has received attention because it really is unique. It’s easy to look past that when it’s right in your backyard, but then I see the Ambassador to Russia visiting the Museum with his family. So, I’d say the word is definitely spreading,” Grimsley said.
The Museum has received recognition as a ‘Must See Attraction’ from the Travel Channel, named as ‘Best of the Midwest’ by Midwest Living Magazine, received Governor’s Service Star Awards, named ‘Must See Museum’ by the Chicago Tribune, and won multiple awards for its design elements. It also is part of this year’s tourism promotions from the South Dakota Department of Tourism.
“The Children’s Museum has inspired fun and memories for the first 500,000 guests,” Treiber said. “We expect continued success as we move towards the one million milestone.”