Frequently Asked Questions
Can I purchase tickets in advance?
There is no need to purchase advance tickets. You can purchase admission when you arrive at our front desk!
Is The Magic House designed for a specific age level?
The Magic House is fun for everyone! Toddlers enjoy For Baby & Me, an exhibit area inspired by nursery rhymes. Preschoolers love Wonder Works, an area designed especially for younger children to explore the wonders of the world around them. Children ages five to 11 especially like the Children’s Village, a kid-sized community with a market, pet clinic, bank, library, garage and even a fishing pond.
Older children enjoy our Make-It Workshop, where they sew on a real sewing machine, create a unique sculpture out of recycled materials, see a 3D printer in action and more.
Where can I park?
Parking at The Magic House is free and available in the large lot behind the Museum. During the summer and on weekends, additional parking is available at Nipher Middle School located south of the Museum and Concordia Lutheran Church across Kirkwood Road.
Is food service available?
The Magic House is committed to promoting healthy lifestyles for families by providing a variety of healthy food options in our Picnic Basket Cafe. Enjoy delicious meals and snacks made with whole grains and fresh ingredients, many grown on site.
Preorders are recommended! Order your snack or meal before your visit with our new online ordering system. Plus, extend your visit by enjoying your meal on our patio or pavilion.
We welcome you to bring a water bottle to fill at one of our water bottle stations.
Can I bring my own food into the Museum? Are picnic facilities available?
Families can bring food to the Museum’s outdoor Garden Pavilion. These facilities are available on a first come, first serve basis. Outside food is not allowed within the Museum or Picnic Basket Cafe. Families are also welcome to leave for lunch and return the same day with a Magic House admission sticker.
Are strollers allowed?
Visitors are welcome to bring strollers to The Magic House. Please note that the Museum does not rent strollers. Elevators and ramps are located throughout the Museum to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs.
How do I purchase a membership?
Memberships can be purchased online or in-person at The Magic House.
We are interested in making a donation or contribution to The Magic House, who should we contact?
Thank you for considering a gift to The Magic House. There are many ways to give. To learn more, visit our Support the Museum section or contact the Development Office 314-288-2516.
Is The Magic House accessible?
All floors of the Museum are accessible. In addition to elevators and ramps throughout the building, we offer additional accessible entrances at the Emerson Education Center and Members Entrance, located closest to accessible parking spaces.
Are there any days where the Museum offers free or discounted admission?
The Magic House host Free Family Nights on the third Friday of every month. Thanks to the support of Emerson, this event offers free admission to families (up to two adults and four of their own children) from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Due to capacity regulations, space is limited and reentry is not allowed.
Can I make an appointment for Safety Stop?
All appointments are made through St. Louis Children’s Hospital. You may find details here.