Discovery Place at the Kansas Museum of History

One treasure Topeka has to offer is the Kansas Museum of History. The Museum is located at 6425 SW Sixth Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66615.

In honor of Kansas Day, on Tuesday, January 29th, admission to the museum will be free from 9am-3pm. Normal admission to the museum is $8 for adults, $6 for students and children under 5 are free.

Kansas Museum of History

www.kshs.org or call (785) 272-8681 (ext. 414)

Honestly, it had been years since I had visited the museum. A couple of weeks ago on a cold, snowy day, my daughter suggested we take a couple of the grandkids to the museum.  What I didn't know, is the museum offers a children's play area called the Discovery Center which is absolutely free. That's right, you do not have to pay the museum admission to visit the children's discovery area which is located  inside the front door immediately to your right. The area is designed for children up to age 9.

And, the Discovery Center can be reserved between 9am-1pm for playgroups or parties.  There is a charge for parties but you can visit during the public hours of 1:00-4:30 for FREE.   How fabulous is that?

The Discovery Center includes a Laura Ingles Wilder inspired play area. My grandson was fascinated by the miniature cooking stove.  The area also includes kid dress up clothes. What little girl doesn't look adorable in a prairie dress and bonnet?

A dollhouse, barn, farm animals and tractors provide a popular play area.

Or, put on your own puppet show....

Visit the tipi....

Play general store....

Have a Oz themed tea party.....

 Play a carnival game...

Ride a Horse....

 Conduct a train...

Or go inside the museum and visit the GIANT train (admission required)....

Or one of the many other Kansas inspired exhibits.

The Kansas Museum of History is a great winter activity and way to get the kids out of the house. I highly recommend it!!!