Our History
Museum Sprung from a Dedicated, Caring Community
The Children's Museum was incorporated as the NEW Children's Museum on June 9, 1989. The first year of the museum's existence was devoted to increasing public awareness of the concept of a hands-on museum. In 1990, the museum received a trailer to expand outreach capabilities. Museum exhibits traveled as far as Wausakee and Kewaunee. By the end of 1991, nearly 10,000 children and adults had experienced the museum.
During 1992, while traveling presentations continued, a search for a building location began. In November 1992, the museum opened a 1,700 square foot facility in Bay Park Square Mall. Opening day attracted over 500 visitors from as far away as Sturgeon Bay and Iron Mountain.
In August 1993, the Childrens Museum instituted a new and expanded Board of Directors. This board developed and executed plans to provide the Green Bay community a larger, permanent facility that would effectively serve the needs of the community.
In the fall of 1994, the museum implemented a strategic plan to move and expand, increase and enhance exhibits, hire an Executive Director, and generate greater awareness of the museum and its mission. Finally, in spring of 1998, the museum secured another 2,000 square feet and opened a new exhibit, "…Once Upon a Time." Also, the museum's name was shortened to The Children's Museum of Green Bay. Since 1989, the museum has fascinated, educated and entertained over 300,000 children, their families, and their caregivers.