A Day at the Cayton Children’s Museum: Play, Explore, and Learn
This New Year, we were excited to kick off 2025 with a visit to the Cayton Children’s Museum in Santa Monica. After a long stretch of holiday colds (12 days of sniffles, anyone?), we were ready to burn energy, fun, and new experiences. And let me tell you—this museum delivered all that and more.
As a play specialist, I’m always looking for spaces that encourage children to explore at their own pace while providing opportunities to build on their abilities. The Cayton Children's Museum is a masterclass in scaffolding play. Every exhibit and activity offers layers of engagement, whether it’s a toddler discovering textures or an older child diving into imaginative role-play.
What We Loved About the Cayton Children’s Museum
1. Interactive Exhibits
The museum is packed with hands-on experiences. My little one’s favorites were the firefighter station (complete with uniforms and a fire truck!) and the ball pit water with boat. I thought the marketplace, where kids can shop, stock shelves, and “buy” their groceries was pretty cool.
2. Open Play Spaces
The museum also features large climbers and open areas where kids can burn off energy. It’s perfect for letting them move, climb, and explore freely in a safe environment.
3. Thoughtful Design for All Ages
What stood out to me as a play specialist was the intentional design of each exhibit. The activities naturally build on skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity. No matter your child’s age or stage, there’s something here for them to enjoy and grow from.
Things to Know Before You Go
If you’re planning a visit, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your day:
Hours of Operation:
The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly!
Admission Prices:
- Adults and children (1+): $16 each
- Babies under 12 months: Free
- Discounts: Seniors and military families get $2 off tickets.
- Offer the PLAYFORALL
- Reservations:
While walk-ins are welcome, they recommend booking tickets online ahead of time to ensure entry during busy times.
Rules to Keep in Mind:
- No outside food or drinks are allowed in the museum. There’s a designated area for snacks if you need a break. We ate lunch before.
- Socks are required in certain play areas, so bring an extra pair just in case! My kid didn’t wear his shoes the entire time just socks.
- Parents must supervise children at all times (trust me, you’ll want to join in on the fun anyway!).
Why You Should Visit:
The Cayton Children’s Museum is more than just a play space; it’s a community hub designed to empower kids through creativity, connection, and exploration. As a mom and play specialist, I was so impressed by how well this space encouraged kids to learn while playing—without any pressure or structure.
Whether you’re local or visiting Santa Monica, this is a must-visit spot for families. We left with big smiles, tired feet, and memories we’ll cherish for a long time.
