Birthday Parties

Birthday party set up on the mezzanine of the Museum overlooking the whimsical Dream Machine

Birthday Parties

birthday parties

Make your child’s dream come true! Plan their next birthday party at National Children’s Museum for a day full of fun for everyone.

Offered on Saturdays and Sundays

Two rental start times: 10:00 am (9:30 am set-up) or 2:00 pm (1:30 pm set-up)

Birthday parties can be booked up to 4 months in advance and no later than 2 weeks in advance

Birthday party guests are welcome to play in the Museum during the party rental

Birthday party set up on the mezzanine of the Museum overlooking the whimsical Dream Machine

party packages

Celebrate your little Dreamer’s big day with hands-on play! Gather friends and family in a semi-private lounge that overlooks the Museum’s whimsical Entry Hall, and embark on an adventure to explore our interactive exhibits together. Recommended for all ages.

what's included:

  • Two-hour rental of a semi-private lounge area with communal tables, plus a 30-minute set-up period and a 30-minute take-down period
  • Maximum of 22 guests, capacity includes adults and children (per fire code capacity)
  • Museum admission for guests during party time slot
  • Special shirt for birthday child
  • Ability to bring your own snack and birthday treat

Ignite your child’s curiosity and ingenuity with hands-on fun in the Tinkerers Studio, the creative hub of National Children’s Museum. Recommended for ages 5+.

Activity must be confirmed at least 2 weeks ahead of the party date.


what's included:

  • Two-hour rental of private Tinkerers Studio, plus a 30-minute set-up period and a 30-minute take-down period
  • Maximum of 30 guests, capacity includes adults and children (per fire code capacity)
  • Special hands-on activity (see options below)
  • Special shirt for birthday child
  • Museum admission for guests during party time slot
  • Ability to bring your own snack and birthday treat


activities (approximately 30 minutes)
Party hosts who select the Tinkerers Treat party package may choose from one of the birthday activities below.

  • up + away: Explore the way things move through the air with handmade hovercrafts, whirly-gigs, and more! For all ages.
  • birthday story time: Strengthen social skills and build language development during this multi-sensory story time! For ages 1-2.
  • sensational slime: Explore chemical reactions and discover the special properties of slime! For ages 3 and up.
  • magical minis: Get creative and hone your artistic talents with an incredible shrinking art project! For ages 6 and up.

book your party

Use the calendar to book your birthday party. Once you have selected the date and party package, you will be asked to confirm these selections with payment.

A birthday party booking will not be considered complete until the Museum receives a signed agreement. Agreements are included in the confirmation email you receive after completing payment. 

important details

Parties are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis and must be booked at least two weeks in advance.

Table top decorations only. Nothing may affix to the walls, doors, fixtures, or ceiling.

Outside goodie bags are welcomed.

Guests are permitted to bring a snack and birthday treat. Please note that there will be no refrigerator in the Museum.

Children must be chaperoned at all times. No “drop off” allowed.

Party hosts are responsible for their own valuables at all times.

For additional details, please review our frequently asked questions.

With questions, please contact [email protected]