7 Great Children’s Museums for Northwest Families

Why go: In 2017, KidsQuest Children’s Museum re-opened in its gleaming new building in the heart of downtown Bellevue. It features huge windows, beautifully (and spaciously) designed exhibits and an adventurous, two-story ropes-and-ladders climber in the opening gallery. Kids of all ages will love cranking boxes up and down conveyor belts and launching paper airplanes in the On the Go Gallery; building with real tools next door in the Recycled/Rebuild room; running the cash register at the Bellevue Mercantile; doing physics experiments on water; and much more.

Other highlights include lots of seating for grown-ups, an outdoor area with lots of “loose parts” for kids to build with; and fun sideline exhibits such as long Matchbox car ramps behind the Paccar semi (in the On the Go gallery). The Tot Orchard on the second floor has a small climber, blocks and other toys, and a quiet area for nursing.

Bottom line: It’s totally worth a drive from points beyond the Eastside, and has lots of attractions and activities for big and little kids.

Fees and discounts: Admission is $16.75 for ages 1 and older, with discounts for Microsoft Prime cardholders and military. Membership starts at $150 for one child and an adult. Reservations are encouraged; you can make them online. 

Good to know: The dedicated museum parking lot is small, and the museum is popular, so try to target your visit during a less crowded time, such as a weekday morning. At two stories, with clearly defined exhibit spaces, it can be tricky to keep track of more than one child.

Nearby fun: Bellevue downtown library is next door (but don’t park there!) and a fun park, Ashwood Playfield, is across the street. Bellevue Downtown Park and its fantastic, inclusive playground are a quick hop away.

More info: Visit KidsQuest’s website for hours, special events and more details; find the museum at 1116 108th Ave. N.E. in Bellevue.

Next stop: Just imagine