know before you go

Learn More

Museum Hours

☀️ Open for Play: Wednesday-Sunday: 10am-4pm
☀️ Members Only: Wednesday-Sunday: 9:30am-10am
🕙 Closed: Monday and Tuesday

Admission

Adults & Children (ages 1 & up): $13
Children under age 1: Free
Explore & More Members: Free
Buy Tickets

Explore & More offers free and discounted admission through multiple programs, including annual memberships.

Become a Member

Welcome to Explore & More!

A world-class children’s museum that celebrates the power of child-led play, Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum features four floors of fun in downtown Buffalo. The 43,000 sq. ft. museum sits at the crossroads of replica canals and bridges that have become year-round community destinations at Canalside.

The museum reflects that sense of place with thoughtfully crafted exhibits to create a welcoming community center that invites all families to play, wonder, discover, learn, and grow together.

Hear what our visitors are saying

  • It's worth a go! I took 3 kids that were 6, 10 & 12 and they all loved it, there was activities for all of them. The first floor is food, and the other 3 floors are things for the kids to do. On the 4th floor there is a rooftop that had some activities for the kids. I went on a friday midday, and it was busy, but it was the cleanest child museum I've seen.

    Shawn White Avatar Shawn White
    July 23, 2023
  • We absolutely loved our time at this museum! Our 8 and 4 year olds were captivated by each exhibit. There were activities for each type of learner. We spent about 3 hours inside but could’ve stayed even longer. The facility was very clean and the employees were super friendly. The materials for each activity were well kept and put away neatly for the next user.

    media thumbnail 0media thumbnail 1
    Laura Sosik Avatar Laura Sosik
    July 23, 2023
  • This place rocks! Many things for the kiddos to enjoy. Was advised that itngets busy with field trips in the mornings during weekdays, so best to come in the afternoon. Note that you must park (and pay, which just be done via an app)at the public parking area, under the skyway (or bridge). Or if you're lucky enough to get a spot on the road(however there's a 2hour limit)

    RR RRR Avatar RR RRR
    February 15, 2023
  • We LOVED so many things about this gem located downtown Buffalo located right near the Rink and military museum. First, the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. Everyone takes child safety seriously and the layout of the museum is perfect for small kids who excitedly dart from exhibit to exhibit. Speaking of exhibits, there are so many that I haven't seen elsewhere including the carwash, Erie Canal water play, and more. This museum would be great for ages 11 and under. So much to learn and so much to play with. Also, very clean and new. I highly recommend. We will go back! Edited to add we spent 3 hours here but could spend more!

    media thumbnail 0media thumbnail 1media thumbnail 2
    Melissa Macdonald Avatar Melissa Macdonald
    September 23, 2023
  • My kids loved it. Great exhibits, tons of fun! Cool building with great views. Car wash, tree house and water play area were my favorite! There are 4 floors, first floor has a cafe. There are multiple family style bathrooms on each floor. Staff is very friendly.

    Dea Minnick Avatar Dea Minnick
    April 23, 2021
Field trips are back! Please be aware that it will be busier than usual.