Exhibits
The Columbus Area Children’s Museum is a wonderland of learning disguised as fun. CACM’s exhibits lets kid’s imaginations soar as they roleplay in shops and adventures mirroring those found in Columbus, sparking an understanding of community and commerce. It’s all designed with a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineer
Welcome to Kidstown, Your Mini Columbus Adventure!
Step into Kidstown, a bustling mini-city shrunk down just for you! Here, in this pint-sized version of Columbus, Nebraska, kids can unleash their imaginations and explore the inner workings of their own community.
Shop ‘til you drop at the Founding Families Market!
Stock up on groceries for your pretend family at the market. Fill your basket with colorful play food, scan your pretend purchases at the miniature checkout, and practice counting out your play money
Craving a Runza? We’ve got you covered!
Head over to the iconic Runza restaurant, a Nebraska staple. Here, kids can dress up like chefs, take pretend orders, and whip up some delicious (imaginary) Runzas.
Feeling a little under the weather? The Columbus Community Hospital is here to help!
Take care of all your injuries at the Hospital. Become a doctor, nurse, or patient and learn about basic health practices through imaginative play.
Save your pennies at FNBO Bank!
Learn about saving and spending at the bank. Practice writing play checks, making deposits, and maybe even get a loan (with adult supervision) to buy a special toy at the museum’s Co-Op Gift Shop!
Need a tune-up? Visit the Columbus Garage!
Grease up your pretend wrenches and get ready to fix some cars at the garage. Kids can learn basic car maintenance in a safe and fun environment, pretend to change tires, and hit the race track.
Kidstown is more than just a museum exhibit – it’s a springboard for imaginative play and a chance to learn valuable skills through exploration. So come on down, grab your friends, and get ready for a fun-filled adventure in your very own mini Columbus!
Lights, Camera, Action!
Step into the Spotlight Theater and become the star of your own show! Choose your setting – bustling city or scenic countryside – and let your imagination soar. Dress up in a costume and transform into your favorite character.
Become the director, writer, and actor! Use the provided props to create your own play and bring your story to life. Don’t forget to add some drama with the sound effects station and turn up the excitement with the stage lights. The Spotlight Theater is your chance to unleash your creativity and have some fun on stage. So grab your friends and get ready for a show-stopping performance!
Can we build it?
Unleash your inner architect at the Build It Up! Build Wall.
Transform a flat wall into a world of 3D art using a variety of colorful blocks.
Stack, connect, and build your creations to come bursting out from the wall. Animals, buildings, fantastical creatures – the possibilities are endless!
So come on down and let your imagination take flight at Build It Up!
Welcome forest friends to the Discovery Den!
This special area is designed for our youngest explorers (infants and toddlers) and their caregivers.
Step inside and discover a world of wonder filled with age-appropriate toys that spark curiosity about the natural world. Little ones can crawl, climb, and explore textures while playing with soft leaves, buzzing bees, and other forest-themed toys.
The Discovery Den also provides a nursing room for caregivers, allowing for a seamless and stress-free exploration experience for everyone.
It’s Corn!
Calling all little adventurers! Get ready to climb to new heights at the Corn Climber, a giant, 24- foot-tall replica of a corn cob!
This supersized structure lets you explore climbing paths, all wrapped around a bright yellow core. Reach the top and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the museum from the lookout zone before zooming down the exciting slide for a thrilling finish!
Farm to Table!
Dive into the world of modern agriculture at this fun and educational exhibit! Kids can:
- Harvest: at the interactive Grow Wall, learning about planting and tending to real crops.
- Become a soil scientist: in the Soil Lab, exploring the wonders of what lives underground and how it helps plants thrive.
- Feed a pig: in the animal nutrition space, discovering the science behind healthy animal diets.
- Nurture baby animals: in the adorable animal nursery.
- Save the Day: By tending to the injured animals at the well-equipped vet stations.
- Deliver the Food: rush the fresh produce to market in the truck.
- Tend to the Farm: using the peddle tractors.
Set Sail!
Have an aquatic at the Loup River water table! This giant water basin lets you:
- Create a whirlpool with the water vortex.
- Be a dam builder and control the flow of the water.
- Cast a line and see what you can catch in the miniature fishing pond.
- Explore irrigation and learn how farmers use water to grow crops.
- Race boats using the water’s flow.
S.T.E.A.M Into Action
Unleash your inner inventor at the S.T.E.A.M. Area! Here, you can explore the world of:
- Picasso Pad: Discover the secrets of color on the digital drawing page.
- Sound Sensations: Listen to sound waves and see what your voice looks like.
- Be A-Mazed: Use hydraulic syringes to become a maze master.
- Circuitry Challenges: Light up your world by exploring the magic of electricity.
- Irrigation Icons: Master the world of crops by exploring the irrigator controls.
- Sample Specimens: Examine the soils and waters around us to find matches.
All Aboard!
Our electric train table takes you on a journey through Columbus. See miniature versions of famous landmarks zip by as the train chugs along the tracks. Can you spot the Community Center, Water Park, and Train Station?
Support the Museum & Spark Creativity at the Co-Op Gift Shop!
Find unique treasures for kids of all ages at the Co-Op Gift Shop! We offer:
- A thoughtfully curated selection of STEAM toys that nurture curiosity and ignite young minds.
- One-of-a-kind gifts you won’t find anywhere else, perfect for surprising and delighting your little ones.
- Museum members receive 15% off all purchases!
Sensory Room
Feeling overstimulated? Take a break in our calming Sensory Room! Designed for families who need a quiet moment, this relaxing space features:
- Calming sensory boards to engage the touch with various textures.
- Soothing light displays to create a peaceful atmosphere.
- Comfy seating for families to relax and regroup.
Space is limited, so please check with staff at the front desk for availability.
