May 15-September 15, 2025: Parking downtown St. Joseph is PAID in all parking spots and lots on the west side of Main Street (our “side”) but free parking across Main Street (on the east side). You can find out which paid lots are all day, which paid lots are 3-hour and where to park on the east side of Main Street for free HERE. Curious Kids’ Museum does not own any lots around CKM or at the Silver Beach Center, where Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone is located, and therefore have no control over parking charges.
Please give us a call in November to plan for the spring 2025/2026 school year.
September- May: Bring your class to Curious Kids’ Museum or Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone for both an educational and fun field trip! We’re the place where learning is always fun! We have created a number of exhibits with you, the educator, in mind. Using any or all of our hands-on exhibits can help you meet your learning objectives in real-world ways. Plus, the kids will have a great time! Your trip needs to be booked at least 3 weeks in advance.
Curious Kids’ Museum
Our flagship location has been welcoming field trips for 35 years! Geared for Pre-School through 5th grade, Curious Kids’ Museum provides groups with 1.5 hours of hands-on learning and discovery with exhibits such as the vet clinic, child-sized farmer’s market, (new in 2025) On-the-Go! transportation gallery, along with long-time favorites, face painting and the new bubble chamber (now handi-capable!), plus more! Each visit starts off with a short orientation. Curious Kids’ Museum maxes out at 80 people total.
This indoor beachside setting is in addition to our flagship bluff-top location and is just below the bluff from the Curious Kids’ Museum. With enough space for permanent & traveling exhibits, Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone engages PreK-5th. Explore seven water tables, virtual reality educational exhibits, lighthouse climbing tower, pin wall, and traveling exhibit space. Visit include a one-hour hands-on tour with a brief orientation. Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone maxes out at 40 people total.
The group rate for Curious Kids’ Museum or Curious Kids’ Discovery Zone is $3.00 for children and adults. One teacher per classroom is free. This rate applies only to groups that have advanced reservations.
Tour times are based on Michigan (Eastern) Time. We know transportation can be difficult due to budget cuts, so please ask us for CHUMS fund help with your bus costs. Limited availability. We also offer Outreach Traveling Exhibits and Curious Classroom Science Units!
