FAQs

How is the museum keeping people safe as it reopens?

  • Limited capacity in the museum at all times
  • Social distancing signage throughout the museum
  • Hand sanitizing and cleaning wipe dispensing stations for visitors use
  • Frequent cleaning intervals of all exhibits and high-touch areas
  • Reduced capacity and materials in some exhibits
  • Interactive materials will be available for family/individual check-out
  • Employees will be temperature checked, hand wash frequently and wear masks at all times
  • Masks are recommended and highly encouraged.
  • DO NOT enter the museum if you are sick, coughing, or have a fever.

 Why should I visit a children’s museum?
Children’s museums are places where children learn through play and exploration in environments designed just for them.  Our museum provides a fun learning experience in a clean, safe environment.  We encourage hands-on, participatory learning for children of all ages.  Discovery through observation, inquiry, creative construction, role-playing, problem-solving and free play motivates children to develop their cognitive, physical and social skills while enjoying fruitful interaction with adults and peers.

What is the suggested age range for the museum?
The museum’s exhibits and educational programs are designed for children newborn through ten years old.  Our Bear Camp Bayou exhibit is specifically designed for newborn through four years old.

Can adults come into the museum without a child?  Can children come without an adult?
For the safety of our guests, we do not allow adults without children, or children without adults.  Unaccompanied adults may request a free tour from available staff. As a nonprofit organization, we are not always staffed adequately to provide unscheduled tours. A donation is gratefully accepted for your tour to help manage staff costs. Please call (228)897-6039 ext 104 to schedule a tour.

Why do adults need to pay admission?
The museum’s mission is to inspire children, families and communities through the arts, interactive educational experiences and exploration.  All of our exhibits have been designed for adults and children to play and learn together.

Does the museum offer any discounts?
We currently offer $2 off per person for military and senior citizens 65+.  Coupons are available through various sources including on the website, www.GulfCoast.org.

Can I leave and then come back the same day?
Of course.  All you need to do is get your hand stamped at the front desk before you leave, or show us your receipt when you re-enter the museum.

What is your sick child policy?
Help us fight the cold and flu! If your child shows any signs of being sick. we ask that you please consider visiting us another day.

What are the quietest times to visit?
The number of people visiting the museum varies from day to day.  If you call in advance, we will be more than happy to give you an estimate of how many school children and regular visitors we are anticipating that day.

What is going on today?
Visit the calendar for a complete list of the day’s activities and events.

How long does it take to go through the museum?
Depending on your child’s age and which programs you attend, the length of your visit may vary.  We advise planning for 1-3 hours.

Do you have a café or a place to eat in the museum?
We do not have a café but we do sell assorted snacks, ice cream, water & sodas at admissions.

Can I bring my own food and drink into the museum?
Food and drink are not allowed in the museum, but you may bring your own lunch and picnic on our grounds.  Picnic areas are available with limited seating, weather permitting.  The museum can not accommodate unscheduled parties on the grounds of the museum. There are also a number of restaurants close to the museum.  Ask the front desk for a list of options.

Is the museum handicap accessible?
The museum and all exhibits are handicap accessible.  We offer wheelchairs at the front desk for use during your visit, and service animals are welcome in the museum.

May I bring my dog to the museum?
Dogs and other pets are not permitted inside LMDC with the exception of service dogs specially trained to assist disabled persons.

Are there restrooms with changing tables?
Restrooms are located on the first and second floors of the museum and they have countertop changing tables.

Where can I nurse my baby?
You may nurse your child anywhere in the museum, but if you prefer a more private space, there is a respite room on the second floor of the museum.

Can I bring a stroller into the museum?
Strollers are definitely welcome, but we do not have a stroller check.  If you leave your stroller unattended, please take out your valuables.

Are there lockers or storage areas at the museum?
There are no lockers or storage areas available at the museum.  There are coat hooks located in the hallway.

May we celebrate our child’s birthday at the museum?
We love to have children visit the museum on their birthday!  For the comfort of all visitors, the museum cannot accommodate unscheduled parties on the grounds. Please check out our Parties page to book your celebration.

Don’t forget your pennies! Stop by our Penny Press on the first floor to squish one lucky souvenir and take home a piece of the Museum.

What is your photography policy? Photography and filming are conducted by Lynn Meadows Discovery Center for marketing and educational purposes. Entering the museum and/or purchase of an admission or program ticket constitutes your consent for Lynn Meadows Discovery Center to use any photos, images or film it deems appropriate without payment, inspection or review.