History
Throughout its history the Children's Discovery Museum has operated under various names at different locations in the Bloomington-Normal area but has always remained true to its mission of providing youth and their families with hands-on play experiences that promote learning and growth. The organization was first founded in 1988 as the McLean County Children's Discovery Museum. Responding to a need in the community, the museum founders spent six years planning for the museum finally opening the doors to the public on March 27, 1994, showcasing innovative, hands-on exhibits dealing with arts, sciences and communications. In 1995, to accommodate requests for field trips, birthday parties, hands-on classes, and educational programming the museum relocated. The new site provided 8,000 square feet of open space for additional exhibits and programming. In 1997, to better reflect the visitor population and independent, non-profit status, the museum changed names to the Children's Discovery.
Specialties
The mission of the Children's Discovery Museum is to inspire the love of learning through the power of play. Our mission is accomplished by providing hands-on exhibits, classes, and programs that actively engage the visitor in experiences that stimulate imagination, curiosity, and wonder.