Children's Museum of Evansville | Evansville

The Koch Family Children’s Museum of Evansville (commonly known as cMoe) is a vibrant, interactive museum dedicated to early childhood education and family engagement, located in the heart of downtown Evansville, Indiana. Established in 2006, cMoe is housed in the historic former Central Library building, an architectural gem built in 1931 in the Art Deco style. This repurposing of a landmark structure combines Evansville’s cultural heritage with a forward-looking mission to inspire learning through hands-on experiences for children and families in the region.

Architecture and Location

The museum occupies a substantial multi-level facility, featuring three floors of exhibit space, educational programs, and play areas. The building’s distinctive Art Deco design elements, such as geometric patterns, ornamental detailing, and expansive windows, provide a grand and inspiring environment that merges history with modern functionality. Located at 22 Southeast 5th Street, the museum sits conveniently in Evansville’s vibrant downtown district, accessible to local families and visitors alike.

Mission and Educational Philosophy

cMoe’s core philosophy centers on learning through play, emphasizing that children acquire knowledge and develop critical skills best by exploring, experimenting, and interacting with their environment. The museum is designed primarily for children aged 0 to 12 but welcomes all ages, encouraging family participation and community involvement. Through its engaging exhibits and educational programs, cMoe fosters curiosity, creativity, problem-solving, and social skills in a supportive, inclusive setting.

Exhibits and Interactive Galleries

The museum features a diverse array of permanent and rotating exhibits, each crafted to stimulate different areas of development and learning:

Fantastic Plastic: This exhibit educates children about recycling, sustainability, and environmental stewardship through creative play with recycled plastic materials and imaginative art projects.

Live Well: Focused on health and wellness, this area encourages kids to learn about nutrition, exercise, and healthy habits using interactive displays and activities.

Quack Factory: A signature multi-level water play exhibit centered around Moe, the museum’s giant duck mascot. It includes a water table, fountains, and mechanical devices that demonstrate principles of physics and engineering through water flow. (Note: As of recent updates, some sections such as the Wet & Upper Decks are temporarily closed for renovation.)

Speak Loud: This gallery promotes communication skills, language development, and creative expression through music, storytelling, and interactive sound installations.

Work Smart: A pretend play area where children explore various professions such as construction, healthcare, and retail, helping them understand the value of work and community roles.

ArtMaker Studio: A creative art space where children can engage in painting, crafting, and other artistic endeavors, fostering imagination and fine motor skills.

Kids World: A culturally themed gallery introducing children to Evansville and its three sister cities-Tochigi-Shi (Japan), Osnabrück (Germany), and Tizimín (Mexico)-promoting global awareness and cultural diversity.

These thoughtfully designed exhibits encourage open-ended exploration, allowing children to learn at their own pace while guided by curiosity.

Programs and Community Engagement

Beyond the exhibit halls, cMoe hosts a variety of educational programs and special events that deepen the museum experience:

STEAM Saturdays: Held monthly, these sessions offer hands-on activities focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. They are designed to spark inquiry and critical thinking through fun experiments and challenges.

Summer Camps and Workshops: Seasonal camps provide immersive learning opportunities during school breaks, covering topics like robotics, nature science, art, and more.

Outreach Programs: The museum also partners with schools and community organizations to extend its educational mission beyond its walls, supporting underserved populations and promoting early childhood development.

Birthday Parties and Private Events: cMoe provides customizable spaces and activities for celebrations, helping families create memorable and enriching experiences.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

Hours of Operation: The museum operates Tuesday through Saturday, generally from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with Sunday hours from noon to 5 p.m., and is closed on Mondays. Last admissions are typically 30 minutes before closing.

Admission Fees: Standard admission is $15 for adults and children over 18 months. Reduced rates of $5 per person are available for Museums For All participants (with EBT card), and members of the museum receive free admission.

Facilities: The museum provides stroller rentals, accessible restrooms, nursing rooms, and seating areas to accommodate families with young children. It is committed to welcoming visitors of all abilities and backgrounds.

Parking: Visitors can find free street parking nearby with time limits or use paid parking garages within walking distance of the museum.

Impact and Recognition

Since its opening, the Koch Family Children’s Museum of Evansville has become a vital cultural institution in Southwestern Indiana, recognized for its innovative approach to early childhood education. It has attracted tens of thousands of visitors annually and serves as a model for engaging families through play-based learning. Its commitment to fostering a love of discovery and lifelong learning continues to positively influence the community and enrich the lives of countless children and caregivers.

Summary

The Koch Family Children’s Museum of Evansville combines historic architecture, interactive exhibits, and educational programming to create a rich, immersive environment where children learn by doing. Its carefully curated galleries promote intellectual, social, and emotional development, while its outreach efforts broaden access to quality educational experiences. As a cornerstone of family-friendly culture in Evansville, cMoe plays a crucial role in nurturing the curiosity and creativity of young minds, helping prepare the next generation for a bright and inspired future.