Discovery Gateway Children's Museum
Interactive children's museum in Salt Lake City with hands-on exhibits, workshops, and a rooftop helicopter.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more play time
Discovery Gateway Children's Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more play time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Interactive children's museum in Salt Lake City with hands-on exhibits, workshops, and a rooftop helicopter.
"A perfect place to entertain your kids for hours and hours with so many things to do!"
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Weekends can get busy, especially with larger groups.
💰 WIC Discounts Available
Families with WIC can get discounted admission, making it more affordable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hive
Main Floor
An energetic zone with ball tubes, climbing structures, and a thrilling slide.

Construction Site
Main Floor
Engage with a conveyor system, giant foam blocks, and mini cranes for aspiring builders.

Life Flight Helicopter
Outdoor Terrace
A kid-sized emergency department rescue center with a real helicopter for imaginative play.

Miniature Train Area
Second Floor
A charming model train display that captivates young and old alike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Budget-Friendly Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Weekends can get busy, especially with larger groups.
💰 WIC Discounts Available
Families with WIC can get discounted admission, making it more affordable.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky in the area, but is available. Consider buying tickets online to skip lines.
🧸 Toddler Zone Limited
Exhibits are best for ages 4-8. Toddlers may find fewer engaging activities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Weekends can get busy, especially with larger groups.
💰 WIC Discounts Available
Families with WIC can get discounted admission, making it more affordable.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky in the area, but is available. Consider buying tickets online to skip lines.
🧸 Toddler Zone Limited
Exhibits are best for ages 4-8. Toddlers may find fewer engaging activities.
🚁 Rooftop Fun
Don't miss the outdoor helicopter and dispatch station for imaginative rescue missions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Discovery Gateway Children's Museum for its hours of entertainment, especially for kids aged 4-8, with popular exhibits like 'The Hive' and the construction site. While parking can be a challenge, the WIC discounts and online ticket options are appreciated. Some note that exhibits are less engaging for toddlers and the dinosaur area is a letdown.
"This place is a perfect place to entertain your kids 4-8 years old for hours and hours! There are so many things to entertain kids. Exhausted parents and sit and rest for a few hours! Be sure to walk to the upper level to see the miniature train. There is construction sites, supermarket, water feature, flying balls, home cooking, train track. Parking is easy and you can walk across to the Clark’s Planetarium which has free entry."
eva chan
"This children's museum is great for preschoolers and elementary school kids. My older kids have had fun but there are exhibits that don't appeal to them at all and they get bored more quickly, especially if there is a crowd at the museum making it harder to interact with the exhibits they do enjoy. There is very little for toddlers and only under 1 year-olds get in free.
There are many things to do (unless you're a toddler, see my review for that below). On the main floor there is the hive (balls and tubes for the balls to go in as well as climbing structures and a slide), the construction site (a conveyor sorting system, large foam stacking blocks, a slide, and some small cranes), water tables, a large playhouse with multiple rooms and an upstairs, a mini Macy's grocery store, a small cookie shop counter and stove, a small farm area (chickens with eggs, wooden plants to pick, a large plastic horse to sit on), a bank area, a car repair area, and an art room. On the second floor there is a pinewood Derby style car track, a dress-up area with puppets, a sensory room (I think), a new model train area that is only open for two hours a day (never made it in there), multiple small stem toys at a counter (like a small container of Lincoln logs), an indoor gross motor play area (small balance bikes, a short rock wall, a basketball hoop, large foam blocks, wind/scarf toy, a beanbag toss), an outdoor helicopter and dispatch station, and a Dino area (fossils in a lab and a fossil dig site without any sand or digging possible).
The best exhibits, in my opinion, are the hive, the construction site, Macy's, and the water tables. My kids also really enjoy the helicopter/life flight outdoor area though it is very minimal.
The worst exhibit in my opinion is the dinosaur area. My kids are always disappointed by the Dino area because there is practically nothing to do. They always hope for sand in the dig site, but there are only tools (goggles, brushes, hammers, picks) and the only things to brush at are the broken bits of the exhibit other kids have managed to break off in the dig site. I realize sand would be messy but then don't have a dig site. (Thanksgiving Point's ancient life museum successfully has a fossil dig site with sand or at least they did in the past.) The lab area has lots to look at and that's where it ends--not engaging and the only interactive elements are (1) drawers to open and close, (2) a microscope to look in, (3) lab coats to put on and hang up.
I personally would not bring a child who is between 1 and 2.5 because you pay full price and yet there is hardly anything for them to do. Most exhibits are taller so there isn't much for them to engage with. I don't feel like any of the exhibits are tailored to toddlers. Also the whole museum is very open concept (but at least the stairs have a gate at the top and bottom) so they can go everywhere easily and quickly which can be stressful if it is crowded."
Marie Pack
"Great place to visit! Love that it's open on a Sunday! My kids had a blast. Also love that if you have WIC your tickets are discounted. Makes it easier for us single moms to be able to get out without breaking the bank."
Kimberly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 444 W 100 S, Salt Lake City, Utah 84101, inside the Gateway mall.
Parking is available, though it can be challenging in the area. It's recommended to buy tickets online to save time.
The museum is located within the Gateway mall, which is accessible by public transportation in Salt Lake City. Check local transit schedules for routes and times.
Yes, the museum is located inside the Gateway mall, making it easily accessible for shoppers and visitors to the mall.
The Clark Planetarium is conveniently located across the street, offering another educational and entertaining option for families.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission can be around $27 for an adult and one child. Prices may vary, so it's best to check their official website.
Yes, if you have WIC, your tickets will be discounted to $3 for adults and $3 for children, making it a great option for families.
Children under 1 year old typically get in for free.
It is recommended to buy your tickets online to skip the lines at the admission desk.
Museum hours can vary, so it's essential to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum is ideal for children aged 4-8 years old, offering many interactive exhibits. However, older kids might get bored if it's crowded, and toddlers have limited activities.
Visitors often rave about 'The Hive,' the construction site, the miniature grocery store, and the water tables. The outdoor helicopter is also a hit.
There are very few exhibits specifically tailored for toddlers (ages 1-2.5), and they often pay full price. Most exhibits are designed for older children.
While not explicitly stated as having dedicated sensory-friendly hours, the open concept and varied exhibits might appeal to some autistic visitors. It's worth checking for any specific accommodations.
The dinosaur area is often a disappointment, with limited interactive elements. The dig site lacks sand, and the lab area has few engaging features.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities aren't detailed, many children's museums have snack bars or cafes. It's best to check their website for current offerings.
Policies on outside food and drinks vary. It's advisable to check the museum's rules or look for designated eating areas if available.
Being located in the Gateway mall, there are numerous dining options available within the mall complex, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Many family-friendly museums offer facilities for parents. Inquire at the information desk upon arrival about available amenities for infants.
Typically, museum cafes offer kid-friendly snacks, light meals, and beverages. Specific menus are usually available on their website.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed in most children's museums. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
Some exhibits might have restrictions, especially those involving delicate artifacts or performances. It's good practice to look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
The outdoor helicopter, the construction site with its large blocks, and the miniature train area often make for great photo opportunities.
Yes, capturing your children's joyful interactions is a highlight of visiting a children's museum. Just ensure you're not obstructing others.
The rooftop terrace with the helicopter offers a unique backdrop. The colorful and interactive nature of most exhibits provides ample photo opportunities throughout the museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Parents should be aware that there are limited exhibits specifically designed for toddlers (under 2.5 years old), and they often pay full admission. Visiting on a weekday morning is highly recommended to avoid crowds and ensure a more enjoyable experience for younger children who might get overwhelmed in busy environments. The WIC discount is a significant benefit for families looking to save on admission.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to make the most of your admission fee, as you'll have more space and less competition for exhibit access. The museum's location within the Gateway mall also means you can explore other free or low-cost activities in the vicinity, like the Clark Planetarium.
Autistic Visitors & Sensory Needs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Exhibits
The second floor expands the fun with a pinewood Derby car track, a dress-up area, and a gross motor play zone. A particular highlight is the outdoor 'Life Flight' helicopter and dispatch station, offering a unique role-playing experience. While the dinosaur exhibit is often cited as less engaging, the museum generally provides hours of entertainment for its target age group.
It's worth noting that while the museum is great for ages 4-8, toddlers may find fewer activities tailored to their size and developmental stage. However, the sheer variety ensures that most young visitors will find something to captivate their attention and encourage exploration.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
For budget-conscious families, the museum offers WIC discounts, significantly reducing the admission cost. Purchasing tickets online in advance is also a smart move, as it allows you to bypass the ticket counter queues, saving valuable time. Parking is available, though it can be a bit challenging in the busy downtown area. The museum's location within the Gateway mall also means there are numerous dining options nearby for when hunger strikes.
Beyond the Exhibits: Community & Accessibility
The museum's location within the Gateway mall provides easy access and proximity to other attractions like the Clark Planetarium, making it a convenient spot for a day of family fun. The availability of WIC discounts highlights a commitment to making the museum accessible to a wider range of families, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to educational and recreational experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit