Monsters at the Museum

Courtesy of Minnesota Children's Museum

This summer, friendly monsters are checking into the Minnesota Children’s Museum—and families are invited to join the fun.

The museum’s all-new special exhibit, “Monsters on Vacation,” opens this weekend on May 23, marking its world debut. Designed and developed by the museum, the hands-on experience blends imaginative play with opportunities for kids to build social-emotional skills.

Young visitors can explore a monster-themed beach getaway packed with interactive activities. Kids can climb through the Monster Obstacle Course, dance under colorful lights at the Underwater Dance Floor, feed foam fruit to hungry tree monsters, and even care for injured little creatures at the Lifeguard Station. There’s also the Scream Booth—a sound-reduced space where guests can “have a good scream, monster style!”—and the Octo-Tot Spot, designed especially for children under 3.

“We’re delighted to bring this playful and engaging new exhibit to museum visitors this summer and fall,” said Dianne Krizan, president of the Minnesota Children’s Museum, in a recent press release. “Visitors will discover countless opportunities for play, connection, and meaningful conversations about feelings and emotions.”

Courtesy of Minnesota Children's Museum

The exhibit was created with a strong focus on social-emotional learning, an area experts say many young children are still rebuilding after recent years of disruption.

“Social-emotional development is closely tied to learning and helps children build skills that will support them throughout life,” said Mary Weiland, senior exhibit developer and lead developer for this installation.

Monster-themed fun will continue throughout the museum this summer, including a Monster Puppet Studio, a build-your-own Monster Playground experience, and special events like Monster Spa Day and Monster Yoga.

“Monsters on Vacation” runs through Jan. 10, 2027. Admission is included with regular museum entry. Learn more and purchase tickets at mcm.org.