Children's Museum Oak Ridge
A vibrant hub of hands-on learning and imaginative play, featuring interactive exhibits, a model train garden, and historical displays.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Children's Museum Oak Ridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub of hands-on learning and imaginative play, featuring interactive exhibits, a model train garden, and historical displays.
"A big museum with lots of interactive activities for your toddler! Highly recommend."
EBT Card for Free Entry
EBT cardholders get free admission for themselves and up to 3 guests! :moneywithwings:
Pack a Change of Clothes
The waterworks exhibit is a blast, but expect to get a little wet! :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Waterworks
Waterworks Exhibit
Splash and play in the engaging water exhibits, perfect for curious young minds. A guaranteed hit for hours of fun!

Model Train Garden
Train Garden
Marvel at the intricate model trains and their charming garden setting. A fascinating display for all ages.

Two-Story Dollhouse
Dollhouse Exhibit
Step into a magical world with a life-sized, two-story dollhouse that kids can explore and play in.

Flat Top House
Flat Top House
Explore the historic Flat Top house, offering a glimpse into local history and architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: EBT & Family Passes
Timing is Key for Toddlers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
EBT Card for Free Entry
EBT cardholders get free admission for themselves and up to 3 guests! :moneywithwings:
Pack a Change of Clothes
The waterworks exhibit is a blast, but expect to get a little wet! :droplet:
Family Pass Value
If you plan to visit often, a family pass is a great investment. :ticket:
Attached Playground
There's a play park right next to the parking lot for extra outdoor fun. :park_park:
Tips
from all over the internet
EBT Card for Free Entry
EBT cardholders get free admission for themselves and up to 3 guests! :moneywithwings:
Pack a Change of Clothes
The waterworks exhibit is a blast, but expect to get a little wet! :droplet:
Family Pass Value
If you plan to visit often, a family pass is a great investment. :ticket:
Attached Playground
There's a play park right next to the parking lot for extra outdoor fun. :park_park:
Model Train Open House
Check for their 3rd Sunday open house events for special model train displays. :train2:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Children's Museum of Oak Ridge for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that delight young children, with the waterworks and train garden being standout attractions. Many appreciate the reasonable admission prices and the value of family passes, with EBT cardholders noting free entry. While some wish for new exhibits, the overall sentiment is positive, highlighting it as a great day trip destination for families.
"This is a day trip if you bring your kid here. It is a big Museum and lots of interactive activities for your toddler! Highly recommend to go here. EBT card holder can get in for free plus 3 other guests!"
Krismae Esperanza
"Great place for kids! Admission prices are reasonable, and I'm happy to support the museum, simply because it's awesome. My boys love this place! We spent 3 hours there and could have stayed longer, but the boys needed sone time outside. Thankfully, there's a play park attached to the parking lot. We'll definitely be back as regulars."
Steph
"Not a real museum, just a bunch of romper rooms and ill-behaved children smashing everything up. If you're going for the NPS stamp just get your stamp and leave. Save yourself the $10."
The Man in the Hat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 461 West Outer Drive, Oak Ridge, TN. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors mention it as a great stop when visiting East Tennessee.
Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors. It's conveniently located near the entrance and adjacent to an outdoor play park.
Information on public transportation options to the museum is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of arrival for most visitors.
Absolutely! Many reviewers describe it as a perfect day trip destination, especially for families with young children. You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring.
Using GPS with the address 461 West Outer Drive, Oak Ridge, TN, is the most reliable way to navigate. It's a well-known local attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are considered reasonable by many visitors. EBT cardholders can get in for free for themselves and up to three guests.
Yes, EBT cardholders receive free admission for their party. Consider a family pass if you plan to visit multiple times a year, as prices have increased but are still considered worthwhile.
Yes, the museum welcomes visitors of all ages. While designed for children, adults can enjoy the exhibits and the historical aspects, especially during special events.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the museum's official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on daily hours and special event times.
Generally, advance booking isn't required for regular visits. However, for special events or group visits, it's always a good idea to check the museum's policy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the interactive waterworks display, the charming model train garden, and the unique two-story dollhouse. The Flat Top house also offers historical insights.
Yes, it's highly recommended for toddlers and young children, with many interactive activities designed for them. Plan for at least 2-3 hours of exploration.
While geared towards kids, adults can appreciate the historical context of exhibits like the Flat Top house and the intricate model trains. Some exhibits offer learning opportunities for all ages.
The museum offers numerous hands-on exhibits, including water play, art and crafts during events like Wonderful Wednesdays, and opportunities to explore the dollhouse and train garden.
Crowds can vary. Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends. Special events, like the 3rd Sunday open house, can draw larger crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not appear to have a dedicated cafe or restaurant. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
While not explicitly stated, it's common for children's museums to allow visitors to bring their own snacks and drinks for consumption in designated areas or outside.
Oak Ridge has various dining options available. You can find local eateries and family-friendly restaurants a short drive from the museum.
Many families opt for a picnic lunch at the nearby play park or visit a local restaurant after their museum exploration.
There are no regular dining events mentioned. However, special occasions or parties hosted at the museum might involve catering options.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. It's a great place to capture your children's enjoyment of the exhibits.
While personal photography is fine, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Always be mindful of other visitors.
The model train garden, the two-story dollhouse, and the waterworks exhibit offer visually appealing opportunities for memorable photos.
The interactive nature of the exhibits means kids are often engaged and happy, making it easier to capture genuine smiles and moments of discovery.
Yes, the Flat Top house is an exhibit that can be photographed, offering a glimpse into local history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Don't forget to pack a change of clothes for the water exhibits! And if you have an EBT card, admission is free for your family, making it an incredibly budget-friendly outing. Consider a family pass if you live nearby and plan on returning – it's a great value.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even without the EBT discount, admission prices are generally considered reasonable. Packing your own snacks or a picnic lunch to enjoy at the nearby park can further reduce costs. The museum offers hours of entertainment, making it a high-value experience for the price.
🚂 Model Train Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Interactive Exhibits
Another highlight is the model train garden, a meticulously crafted miniature world that captivates both children and adults. The detail and artistry involved are impressive, and it's a great spot for quiet observation. For those who love imaginative play, the two-story dollhouse offers a unique opportunity for children to step inside and create their own stories.
Beyond these popular attractions, the museum often hosts special events like 'Wonderful Wednesdays' featuring art, crafts, and singing, as well as reptile education programs. These events add an extra layer of engagement and variety to the museum experience, making each visit potentially different.
A Glimpse into Local History
Some reviews mention that the museum provides 'really interesting history about the area for adults' alongside the exhibits for kids. This suggests that while the focus is on interactive fun, there are elements that can appeal to a broader audience interested in the region's past. It's a nice balance that makes the museum a well-rounded destination for families.
Hosting Events and Celebrations
This capability makes the museum a versatile community resource. Whether it's a child's birthday or another gathering, the museum provides a distinctive setting. Information on booking and availability would likely be found on their official website or by contacting them directly.
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