Downtown Sacramento's wildly popular artBEAST Children's Studio is a must for anyone with children under the age of 7. There is a special area for those under the age of 1, and the rest of the building boasts many activities including painting, dressing up, water and sand play, drum and music circles and more. There is something new each day, so be sure to check artBEAST's calendar of events.
Proceeds help support Tubman House, a community for young, homeless parents and their children.
Parking and Public Transportation at artBEAST
Metered street parking is available on surrounding blocks. Public transportation includes Regional Transit bus 30, which drops patrons nearby. Because parking can be difficult to find, biking or taking the bus can sometimes be best.
When to go to artBEAST
There are no best or worst times to go. artBEAST is busy from open to close. Rain or shine, summer or winter, it is bustling with activity. Any time of day, and any time of year is great for visiting because people are always coming and going.
Admission to artBEAST
Children under the age of 1 are free. Daily admission is $8 per person for ages 1 and up. There is also club pricing and membership pricing which help save money on frequent visits, classes (four free classes per month depending on the membership package) and discounts on parties.
Must See/Do at artBEAST
Classes. Some are steeped in music and dance while others are based on science or art. Children are welcome to play in the studio after the class has finished for the day. Classes change depending on the day of the week, and new types of classes are added with each new season.
Other Places to Visit Near artBEAST
Sutter's Fort and the California State Indian Museum are within walking distance at 2701 L Street, and 2618 K street, respectively. They are located on the same property, though the addresses are different.
Insider Tip for artBEAST
Bring snacks or lunch and plan to sit outdoors at the table. The courtyard is lovely and there are many activities, including water play. Coffee and tea are sold on the premises, just in case.
Some locals buy a yearly family membership and utilize both frequent visits and the classes in place of preschool.
Author's bio: Shawna McGregor-King is a Sacramento native who spends her free time roaming Tamriel and shouting at dragons.