Construct a House, Explore Robotics or Climb Through the Earth’s Core!

The Children’s Museum of Atlanta has always put kids first, but with its grand re-opening on Dec. 12, kids will be at the center of the world. The museum’s new central exhibit, Gateway to the World, includes a two-story climbing structure that takes kids through the layers of the earth into a one-of-a-kind rotating globe. The $8.2 million renovation and expansion has more surprises in store, including a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) focus that will create more hands-on activities for older children.

Opening Day Celebration

Festival activities all day, with a parade, ribbon cutting ceremony, Imaginators and more.

New Permanent Exhibits

Gateway to the World: Travel through six interactive “continents” tables, for hands-on activities involving geography, geology, astronomy, physics and aerodynamics. Build and launch a rocket!
Step Up to Science: Conduct real science experiments involving robotics, the human body, light and energy on the new 3,000-square-foot mezzanine level. Kids can watch live demonstrations at the permanent science bar, where they can order an experiment and more.

Reinvented Galleries

Fundamentally Food: Immerse in a farm experience, operate a fork lift and go to the grocery store. In the new “Village Diner” area, learn about the path of food from farm-to-table.  
Leaping into Learning: Enter a magical forest, catch a fish or create a dam.  Babies and toddlers will enjoy their very own house, bubble wall, play car and more. Learn a new word and strengthen alphabet skills with the new language kiosk.
Let Your Creativity Flow: Along with the sand tables and paint wall, find a new “Maker Space” that allows children to bring their building inventions and artistic creations to life.  
Tools for Solutions: Don’t worry, the ball machine is still there! Ages 6-9 also will be able to participate in wood making, circuitry and more with real tools and materials. A new construction house for all ages will teach what is “behind the walls,” using interactive activities.

The Imaginators now have a permanent home and place to perform.

The Mystery of the Mayan Medallion exhibit opens on Feb. 6.

– Hayley Markowitz