A unique museum with plenty to offer kids awaits at the Ward Museum of Waterfowl Art.

I know what you’re thinking on this one: there’s no way a museum on Waterfowl Art is kid-friendly. However, I would encourage you to think again! While it may not be the best choice for a rambunctious toddler, read on to see why it might just be the perfect way to spend the afternoon with elementary-aged kids or older!

The museum features a 4.5-acre waterfront facility with 12,000 square feet of exhibition space situated next to Schumaker Pond. We recommend beginning your visit inside the building. While kids may not enjoy every exhibit in the museum, there are a few standouts. The Habitat Theater provides regular film screenings and also features an interactive puppet theater, a gallery space for student art as well as educational wall panels. Look up and you’ll see what appear to be free floating “flyer” decoys hanging from the ceiling. The area also features an interactive learning experience that features games to explore birdcalls, migration patterns, and more! You’ll also find opportunities for coloring, or other kid-friendly activities, depending on when you visit!

The world championship gallery features the winners of the annual decoy carving contest. Here you will see the most realistic waterfowl carvings you’ve ever laid eyes on. Kids will hardly be able to believe that the creations are made of wood and are not living creatures.

Once your little ones get tired of exploring the museum, head outside to enjoy the nature walk. The crushed stone path circles Schumaker pond and allows visitors an opportunity to see living examples of the decoys that are displayed in the museum. The path includes informational displays that describe the diversity of life that may be observed. The museum even offers Discovery Backpacks with all the tools you’ll need to explore the flaora and fauna along the way! (We recommend having a talk with the kiddos about walking quietly to have the best chance of spotting the many waterfowl that make their home on the pond.)

If you’re looking for a more structured activity, the Ward Museum has you covered. In addition to sporadic family-friendly events, the museum also offers a more regular schedule of free kid-friendly activities. Every Wednesday from 10:00 – 11:00 am you can enjoy Drop in Art Jr.. that features a story and a craft for the littlest visitors. You can also enjoy drop-in art for the whole family every third Saturday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm when the museum hosts local artists who will guide you in creating your own creation!

Topping out at just $7 for adult admission, the Ward Museum is an inexpensive option for indoor family fun. To sweeten the deal, take advantage of this coupon for ½ off your ticket!

While a museum of wildfowl art may not seem like the most kid-friendly option in the world, we recommend stopping by at least once to see what they have to offer!