New Children's Museum in Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff has playgrounds, trails, and an observatory, but it's never had a museum built just for kids. That's changing. The Children's Museum of Flagstaff, a project of the Halflings' Association of Northern Arizona, is in the works, with hopes to open in Spring 2027. There's no building yet, but there's a plan, a growing list of partners, and a founder leading the charge.

We sat down with Meghan Lorenz, founder of the Children's Museum of Flagstaff, to talk about what's planned, when you can expect it, and how you can help get it there.

1. Why Flagstaff and why now?

Flagstaff has always been a community that values education, curiosity, the outdoors, and investing in families. As our region continues to grow, so does the need for spaces where children can learn through play, families can connect, and our community can come together. We believe the timing is right to create a place that reflects the unique character of Northern Arizona while serving children for generations to come.

2. What exhibits do you have in mind? Is there one you're most excited about?

It's hard to choose just one! The museum is being designed around hands-on experiences that celebrate Flagstaff vibes and values encompassing everything from science and creativity to health, nature, culture, and community. Some favorite concepts include our Curiosity Kitchen, where families can cook and learn together, an Innovation Gallery focused on STEM and building experiences, an Outdoor Classroom and Discovery Garden, and our Little Mountain Village where children can explore a child-sized version of our community through imaginative play.

If I had to pick one, I'd probably say the Curiosity Kitchen because it brings together so many things we value—healthy food, sustainability, culture, and family connection—all around one table.

3. What are three words you want kids to feel at the museum?

Curious. Confident. Connected.

We hope every child leaves believing they can ask questions, try something new, and discover that they belong.

4. Do you have a location yet?

We're actively exploring several exciting possibilities and are in conversations with community partners as we work toward securing the museum's future home. Our goal is to find a space that's welcoming, accessible, and allows the museum to grow alongside our community.

5. When do you hope to launch?

Our goal is to open in Spring 2027. Right now, we're focused on building partnerships, growing community support, and creating exhibits that truly reflect the families of Northern Arizona.

6. How can people provide support?

The biggest thing people can do right now is help spread the word! Share our vision with friends and family, introduce us to businesses or organizations that would love to partner with the museum, and follow along as we continue building this community resource.

If you'd like to support the museum financially, every gift—large or small—helps us move one step closer to opening our doors for Northern Arizona families. Most importantly, we hope people will continue sharing their excitement and becoming part of the journey. The Children's Museum of Flagstaff is being built with our community, not just for our community.

What you can do now

There's no ribbon to cut yet, but there are plenty of ways to help before opening day. Spread the word to other Flagstaff families. Introduce Meghan and her team to a business or organization that might want to partner. Give what you can — even a small amount helps. And follow along for updates on the location, the exhibits, and the timeline as Spring 2027 gets closer.

Learn more or support the museum at cmflagstaff.org.