Dream Big
A Capital Campaign to Transform the Future of Play & Learning
Inspiring for Generations
Since 1981, the Children’s Museum of Richmond (CMoR) has been a cornerstone of early childhood education, providing interactive programs, exhibits, and services that integrate development, parent education, and literacy. As a vital first cultural experience for many children, CMoR complements educational efforts from schools, childcare centers, and homes, fostering a love of learning in millions of children and their families across Virginia.
The Time for Transformation is Now
The Children’s Museum of Richmond’s Broad Street location has not undergone a sizeable renovation since its opening in 2000. After 25 years, the wear and tear on CMoR’s beloved exhibits is significant. The exhibits that have delighted and educated children for decades are now in need of an update for the Museum to maintain effectiveness and appeal.
By investing in the renovation and transformation of CMoR, we are not just improving a museum but also contributing to the future success of the Central Virginia community.
1. Expand educational impact and learning interactions
New and improved exhibits will provide dynamic and educational opportunities, promoting early learning, development of essential life skills, literacy, caregiver engagement, and diverse modalities of play.
2. Enhance accessibility and promote learning opportunities for all
Provide children from every background with the tools and experiences they need for school readiness and beyond.
3. Foster community engagement
Updated facilities and exhibits will support increased visitation and community engagement, making CMoR a central hub for family learning and play in Richmond.
The Children’s Museum of Richmond is poised to enter a new era of impact and innovation. Children’s hearts will leap and their imaginations will run wild in new and expanded exhibits. Your support will allow more children to grow with curiosity into lifelong learners through our dynamic new environment.
Transforming Dreams Into Reality:
Our Capital Campaign Vision
To ignite a lifelong love for learning in children through the transformative power of play.
CMoR fosters an environment where young learners and their caregivers are inspired to be curious, resourceful, and goal-directed explorers of their expanding world.
Fundraising Goal
Timeline
CMoR's Dream Big transformation is being completed in two phases, allowing the Museum to remain open and continue serving children and families throughout construction.
Phase I: Opened June 2026
The first phase introduced exciting new exhibits and play experiences, including the RVA Waterway, Grand Cavern, Magic Meadow, Seymour Studio, Nature Lab, Itty Bitty River City, and Skybox Climber.
Phase II: Planned for 2027
The second and final phase will complete the transformation of CMoR Downtown, introducing additional exhibits and improvements designed to inspire learning through play.
Completion of Phase II is dependent on securing the remaining campaign funding. With continued community investment, we hope to celebrate the fully transformed Museum in summer 2027.
Help Us Finish What We Started
The first phase of our Dream Big transformation is complete, and children and families are already discovering exciting new ways to play, explore, and learn at CMoR Downtown. But our vision isn't finished yet.
Phase II is the final step in transforming our Downtown location, and we need your help to make it happen.
Every gift brings us closer to creating a more engaging, accessible, and inspiring Museum experience for generations of children to come. To learn more or discuss giving opportunities, please contact our Development Department at development@cmorva.org.