by Leorah Avidor

—[ kid play ]—

Do it all at The New Children’s Museum, which celebrated its grand opening this spring in downtown San Diego’s Marina District. Designed by architect Rob Quigley, the two-story, “tilt-up” building is as much a work of art as the exhibits inside. Windows slant artfully skyward, and walls roll up to create flexible indoor/outdoor spaces. Exposed ceilings and concrete floors give the building an open feel, inspiring artists and visitors alike to fill the space with their ideas. With its natural lighting and fresh air convection cooling system, The New Children’s Museum is one of the first green museums in California. Upon entering, visitors cross artist Maurycy Gomulicki’s Pink Bridge to find themselves in the whimsical world of childsplay, the museum’s inaugural exhibit. Listen carefully for Céleste Boursier Mougenot’s musical vacuum cleaners or explore the tactile Texture Forest. Literally climb the walls to get a closer look at Dynamics or set a bubble free at the Bubble Fountain. If all that play gets tiring, rest on a beanbag chair while you decide what to do next. From toddlers to teens, all of the museum’s interactive installations are designed to engage and inspire.

See what’s current at thinkplaycreate.org

The New Children’s Museum/Museo de los Niños
200 West Island Avenue, San Diego, California 92101
619-233-8792