Children's Museum of Virginia Winter Wonder STEAM Exhibits

About this adventure

The Children's Museum of Virginia in historic Olde Towne Portsmouth is the largest children's museum in the commonwealth, offering two sprawling floors of hands-on educational play and imaginative STEAM discovery. During the winter season, the museum buzzed with creative energy across immersive exhibits like the Beazley Planetarium, the Lancaster Antique Train Gallery featuring intricate working model railroad layouts, and the interactive Bank & Grocery play centers. Young engineers can manipulate pulleys, build geometric architectural arches, and experiment with pneumatic air tubes and bubble tables in the physics discovery galleries. For infants and toddlers under age 3, the enclosed Tot Spot provides a soft, safe sensory environment with gentle climbing structures and tactile motor puzzles. Rain or shine, this premier family attraction delivers hours of warm, stimulating indoor winter exploration where children learn through play and creative inquiry. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Completely ADA accessible with wide carpeted aisles, large elevators connecting both levels, and designated stroller parking zones outside the Tot Spot and train gallery. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Dedicated Nursing Mother's Nook equipped with glider rockers, privacy screens, and changing tables; family restrooms with child-sized toilets and sinks located on both floors. • Age Suitability: Specifically designed for children ages 0 through 12, with dedicated early-childhood zones for infants/toddlers and interactive physics labs for elementary schoolers. • Sensory Tips: Bubble zones and water play areas can produce background hums and splashes; sensory backpacks with noise-dampening earmuffs and fidget toys are available at the welcome desk.