Children's Museum of Sonoma County — Attraction in Santa Rosa

This is a magical and exciting place! It is best for the toddler to age 9 set, although kids of all ages (including kids at heart) will enjoy spending time here. It is a great place to take your little ones, whether you are meeting up with friends or going it alone. There are so many things for the kids to do that they will probably fall asleep on the way home, tuckered out from all of the exploring they've done. The indoor part of the museum has two levels to explore. There is a model train that runs steadily along tracks which are mounted along the walls of the museum. The upper level has a train "station" with a small train booth, ticket counter and a train station with a plexiglass window where you can wait and watch as the train makes a stop there before heading off again. There are many fun and interactive displays throughout both the upper and lower levels. If you go, be sure and visit the bee room, where you can view the museum's busy hive and learn about pollinators. Then venture outdoors and play at the water tables, catch a (pretend) fish in the Russian River, tour the museum's garden and climb into the dragonfly helicopter. Follow the pathway to Ella's art studio where you can do some window painting and participate in an art project. There is a small vending machine outside with healthy snacks, a water filling station inside (so bring your water bottle) and picnic tables where you can sit and eat a home packed lunch. There are also restaurants and a Whole Foods market nearby and an In-n-out Burger that's a short drive away. Please note that the museum is closed to the public...

The Children’s Museum of Sonoma County is pure magic the kind of place where learning feels like play and every corner holds a new adventure waiting to be discovered. From the moment we walked in, our kids were captivated by the hands-on exhibits that seem perfectly designed to spark curiosity and creativity. What makes this museum truly special goes beyond the engaging displays and interactive stations. The staff genuinely cares about creating meaningful experiences for every child who walks through their doors. They’re patient, encouraging, and clearly passionate about what they do. Watching my shy daughter gain confidence as a museum volunteer helped her navigate the art station was a beautiful reminder of how the right environment can help kids flourish. But here’s what really sets this place apart: their incredible Open Door Policy. When you’re at the front desk, ask about it - this museum believes that financial circumstances should never prevent a family from enjoying this wonderful experience. You can make a donation in any amount for entrance, ensuring that every child in our community has access to this inspiring space. It’s rare to find an organization that so genuinely lives its values. The Children’s Museum doesn’t just say they welcome all families they remove barriers to make it happen. In a world that can feel divided, this feels like a beacon of what community should be. Your kids will leave with huge smiles, and you’ll leave feeling hopeful about the kind of place we’re raising them...

This museum is so much fun, a bit difficult to navigate with two under two and 6 and 7 year olds while solo parenting. However; we love the water features outside and the treehouse and there’s so much packed in. My downside was a few very poor customer service moments at the front desk. We drive six hours to come there and back. We use ebt. My first visit last week I was charged double by a grumpy youth and we had only an hour and a half of time before they closed not knowing their hours were quite early. I found out she double charged me today at our visit when I questioned the price and was told she incorrectly charged us. I would hope they would have given us a free entrance today or passes for next time to make it right, but they did not. Based on poor customer service I would probably not return a third time. Update: I spoke with Kelly and Colleen in the offices who apologized for someone not correcting the mistake and the interactions with a few younger desk staff employees. They refunded our visits and were very kind and understanding. Will return based on how they handled the...