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placita mágica

A special 50th anniversary exhibit that pays homage to the Capital Children’s Museum.

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placita mágica

A special 50th anniversary exhibit that pays homage to the Capital Children’s Museum.

Explore Mexican cultural traditions in this enchanting plaza bursting with STEAM concepts and interactive play. The immersive setting includes decoration, architecture, and cityscape silhouettes of Mexican cities that expand the worldview and sense of place for young learners. In Mexico, plazas function as gathering spots where communities come together. Join us at Placita Mágica to gather, celebrate, and play.

recommended for ages 3 and older

Placita Mágica is sponsored by ABUELITA™ and in partnership with the Embassy of Mexico, the Mexican Cultural Institute and is partially supported through the District of Columbia Executive Office of the Mayor – Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development and Events DC.

exhibit experiences


turn table

turn table

Build and test your own spinning tops.


smell station

smell station

Activate your memory through smell at Abuelita’s cart.


bernoulli fountain

bernoulli fountain

Launch “water droplet” balls with moving air blowers at the central Bernoulli fountain.


projector table

projector table

Use tiles to design your own papel picado projection.


ball maze

ball maze

Design your own unique cityscape maze.


exhibit takeaways


  • exploration of Mexican culture and heritage

  • expanding our world and understanding our surroundings through culture-based experiences

  • experimentation through active play

  • working collaboratively with other children and taking turns

where is the exhibit located

all exhibits

where is the exhibit located

Placita Mágica is located on Floor 1, one level down from the main entrance, next to Data Science Alley and Engineering Games + Play.

museum hours


open: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
closed: tuesdays

admission


adults: $18.95 per person
children 1 and older
: $18.95 per person
children under 1: free
members: free