Interactive Art Experiences at The New Children's Museum

Immerse Your Family in Interactive Art

Step into a dynamic space in downtown San Diego where contemporary art is not something to be viewed from behind a velvet rope, but an environment to be explored. The New Children's Museum focuses on stimulating imagination and critical thinking by commissioning artists to create "playscapes"—room-sized installations designed specifically for children and families to interact with.

The museum’s mission is rooted in the belief that engagement with art should be an active experience. Since opening its current home in 2008, the institution has collaborated with hundreds of artists to transform its interior into a playground of creativity. Unlike traditional galleries, this space encourages you to move through and engage with large-scale works, making it a unique destination for families seeking an arts-based experience.

Explore Playful Installations and Makerspaces

As you move through the museum, you will encounter various installations that challenge your perspective on everyday subjects. Previous and current exhibits have explored themes such as the complexities of waste, the whimsical nature of animals, and the art of playing with food.

• Interactive Playscapes: Experience large-scale installations designed for physical engagement and exploration.
• The Rosso Family Foundation Innovators LAB: Visit this creative makerspace where you can explore the intersection of art, design, and science through the creative process.
• Specialized Installations: Discover unique works such as "Wonder Sound," a piece created through the museum's artist-in-residence program, or "Sketch Aquarium."

Maximize Your Visit in Downtown

To make the most of your visit, allow yourself enough time to move slowly through the various installations and makerspaces. The museum is one of the first green museums in California, housed in a thoughtfully designed space by architect Rob Wellington Quigley.

A highlight of the experience is the sheer scale of the works; because these are room-sized installations rather than small objects on pedestals, they offer an immersive environment for children to inhabit. If you are looking for more cultural experiences nearby in San Diego, you might also consider visiting the San Diego Museum of Art.