Frequently Asked Questions

  • A: 116 Marion Street NE, Salem, OR 97301. 

  • A: Approximately 50 minutes and 46 miles away by car.  

  • A: Approximately 40 minutes and 26 miles away by car. 

  • A: Approximately 75 minutes and 66 miles away by car. 

  • A: Cross Center Street Bridge, take the Portland-99E exit, turn right on Front Street, then left on Union Street. 

  • A: Take Exit 256 (Market Street), head west, turn left on Commercial Street, take Front Street to Union Street. 

  • A: Yes, free parking is available under the bridge directly in front of the Museum. The lot next to the bridge is pay to park and you can use the beep beep app to pay for parking.  

  • A: Chemeketa Parkade, Liberty Square Parkade, Marion Parkade, and Pringle Parkade all offer free all-day or 3-hour parkin

  • A: Yes, metered and permit lots are free on weekends and legal holidays. 

  • A: Per City ordinance, buses cannot park in Riverfront Park; they must park at Wallace Marine Park. 

  • A: Yes, buses can circle the roundabout on Water Street to unload students in the grassy area near the museum entrance. 

LOCATION, DIRECTIONS & PARKING 

  • A: $16.00 for adults and children (ages 1 and up). 

  • A: Yes, Seniors (60+) pay $14.00 for admission. 

  • A: Yes, Military and Veterans pay $14.00 for admission with proof of military ID. This discount is not extended to spouses.   

  • A: Yes, children under 1 year old are admitted free.  A: Approximately 75 minutes and 66 miles away by car. 

  • A: Yes, Museum Members receive free unlimited admission. 

  • A: Yes, we sell tickets at the door. We do not offer online admission sales or over the phone. 

  • A: All sales are final and non-refundable. This includes admission tickets, event tickets, gift shop purchases, cafe purchases, memberships, and classes. 

  • A: Yes, re-entry is allowed on the same day if you keep your wristband on. 

  • A: No. For safety reasons, adults are not allowed entry without a child physically present. 

  • A: No. All minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult (18 years or older). 

  • A: Yes, parents under 18 are welcome with their own children. 

  • A: Our exhibits are designed for adults and children to play and learn together. We encourage active parent participation in the play experience. 

ADMISSION, TICKETS & RE-ENTRY 

  • A: Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed Mondays during the school year. 

  • A: Yes, we are open 7 days a week during the summer season. 

  • A: The gates close at 4:30 PM; no entry is allowed after this time. 

  • A: Yes, we are closed on New Year's Day. 

  • A: No, we are closed on Easter Sunday. 

  • A: No, we are closed on Independence Day. 

  • A: No, we are closed on Thanksgiving Day. 

  • A: No, we are closed both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 

  • A: We close annually for one week in September for deep cleaning and maintenance. 

HOURS & HOLIDAY CLOSURES 

  • A: Exhibits are designed for children ages 2-10, but all ages are welcome. 

  • A: Yes! It is now called Bill's Bubble Factory. 

  • A: A 20,000-square-foot outdoor space featuring the Erector Set climbing tower, mammoth dig, Tumble Land, Fort Gilbert, Discovery Campground, Sensory Garden, and Adventure Avenue. 

  • A: A.C. Gilbert was an inventor, Olympic gold medalist, and the creator of the Erector Set. 

  • A: The Rockenfield House includes: Welcome Desk, Airflow Alley, Salem Station, Forest Friends, and Recollections. 

  • A: The Gilbert House includes: Farm to Table, Science Lab, Gilbert Grill, Pixel Peg, Vet Clinic, Fortopia, Lights Camera Action, Grandma's Clubhouse, Sensory Portal, and the USS Gilbert Submarine. 

  • A: It is called Grandma's Clubhouse, located on the 2nd floor of the Gilbert House. It is filled with oversized foam building shapes from Imagination Playground. 

  • A: A specialized exhibit on the second floor of the Gilbert House designed for sensory exploration. 

  • A: The Parrish House includes: Creative Space, Engineering Studio, and the Test Lab. 

  • A: Bill's Bubble Factory is a dedicated space for hands-on bubble play and experimentation. 

  • A: An outdoor-focused learning space for exploration and discovery. 

EXHIBIT DETAILS & AGE RANGE 

  • A: We strongly encourage walking feet only inside the historic houses for safety. Running is encouraged in the Outdoor Discovery Area (ODA). 

  • A: No, toy guns and realistic weapon props are prohibited. 

  • A: No, costume masks are for children only. Adults may not wear masks. 

  • A: No, the museum is a tobacco-free environment. We are housed in Riverfront Park, which is a no-smoking and no-vaping zone. 

  • A: Clothing must be family-appropriate and not offensive or provocative. Shoes are required for all guests in general museum areas. In designated play areas like the sandbox and mammoth dig, children and participating adults may remove their shoes. 

  • A: Yes, abusive, threatening, or dangerous behavior results in immediate removal without refund. We reserve the right to refuse service at any time.  

CODE OF CONDUCT & RULES 

  • A: Creating a positive environment begins with how we treat one another. We ask that all guests engage with other visitors, Museum staff, and exhibits with kindness and respect. This includes: 
     
    • Positive Language: Using encouraging and appropriate language at all times. 
    • Indoor Safety: Walking inside the houses is highly encouraged and preferred—we do not allow running indoors to ensure everyone's safety. 
    • Outdoor Play: Running is allowed and encouraged in the Outdoor Discovery Area (ODA). 
    • Volume: Keeping voices at a reasonable volume to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. 
    • Sharing: Taking turns and sharing exhibit components, props, and play spaces. 
    • Patience: Being patient and understanding—especially with young children who are actively learning and exploring through play. 
    • Appreciation: Showing courtesy to our staff, who are here to help create an enjoyable experience for all. 

  • A: We ask that you treat exhibits and Museum materials with care. Please do not climb on exhibits unless they are specifically designed for climbing or active movement (such as the Erector Set tower in the Outdoor Discovery Area). 

  • A: You are your child's first teacher and playmate. We encourage a screen-free experience to help you stay present and engaged with your child. Of course, we welcome you to pull out your phone to capture those precious memories! 

RESPECT & KINDNESS 

  • A: Yes. Adults MUST stay with their children at all times. Supervision is key—children must be accompanied by a responsible adult (18+) throughout their entire visit to ensure safety and engagement. 

  • A: Please use exhibits, tools, and spaces as intended. If you are unsure how something works, our staff is happy to assist. We also ask that you use "Helping Hands"—explore, share, and put things away to keep the Museum tidy for the next family. 

  • A: Help us keep the Museum safe by reporting any spills, damages, or concerns to a staff member promptly. 

SAFETY & SUPERVISION 

  • A: Yes. For comfort and safety, shoes are required for all guests in general museum areas. 
     
    • Shoes-Off Areas: In designated play areas like the sandbox and mammoth dig, children and participating adults may remove their shoes. 
    • Public Space Standards: Please remember this is a public space; children and adults should remain fully dressed even while playing in sand or water. 
    • Cleanliness: If your child becomes wet or dirty, please use our restrooms to change into fresh clothes. 

  • A: Food and beverages are only allowed in designated areas. We ask that you refrain from eating or drinking in any of the gallery or exhibit spaces. 

  • A: Playful interaction is welcome, but physical aggression or roughhousing is not permitted. 

DRESS CODE & SHARED SPACE 

  • A: To maintain a safe and neutral environment, the following behaviors may result in removal without a refund: 

    • Offensive, abusive, threatening, or discriminatory behavior toward guests or staff. 

    • Endangering oneself or others (running indoors, unauthorized climbing). 

    • Use of tobacco, alcohol, or controlled substances on Museum property. 

    • Theft or vandalism of Museum property. 

    • Disregarding staff instructions or posted safety rules. 

    • Wearing costume masks (adults). 

    • Bringing toy weapons or realistic weapon props. 

  • A: The following items are not allowed: 

    • Toy weapons (including toy guns and realistic weapon props)

    • Firearms (except law enforcement), knives, pepper spray, stun guns, explosives, or fireworks

    • Adult costume masks

    • Tobacco products, vaping devices, alcohol, or controlled substances

    • Professional photography or videography equipment and tripods (without prior authorization)

    • Drones or remote-controlled flying devices

    • Pets (except service animals as defined by the ADA)

    • Hazardous materials

    • Hoverboards, skateboards, or shoes with wheels

    • Segways (unless required for accessibility)

    • Balloons outside of designated area

PROHIBITED BEHAVIORS & ITEMS 

  • A: Yes, the first floor of all three historic houses is wheelchair accessible. Upper floors are not accessible due to the historic nature of the buildings. 

  • A: No, there are no elevators in the historic houses. 

  • A: Yes, accessible restrooms are located throughout the museum campus. 

  • A: Yes, changing tables are available in most restrooms throughout the Museum campus. 

  • A: Yes, a private space is available in the Sensory Portal on the second floor of the Gilbert House. Caregivers are also welcome to nurse or pump wherever they feel comfortable on Museum property. 

  • A: If you become separated from your child, notify staff immediately. We have a strict reunification procedure. Our staff maintains radio communication and follows established protocols to respond quickly to lost persons. 

  • A:

    • •Rockenfield House (Floor 1): Welcome Desk and Airflow Alley. 

    • Gilbert House (Floor 1): Farm to Table, Science Lab, Gilbert Grill, and Pixel Peg. 

    • Parrish House (Floor 1): Creative Space, Engineering Studio, and Test Lab. 

    • Standalone Exhibits: The Bubble Factory and Nature's Workshop are both fully accessible. 

ACCESSIBILITY 

  • A: Changing tables are available in most restrooms throughout the Museum campus for your convenience. 

  • A: Caregivers are welcome to nurse or pump wherever they feel comfortable on Museum property. For those seeking a more quiet or private space, a dedicated area is available in the Sensory Portal on the second floor of the Gilbert House. 

  • A: Caregivers must stay with children (under 18 years old) at all times. If you become separated, please notify a staff member immediately. Our staff maintains radio communication and follows a strict reunification procedure to respond quickly to lost persons. 

  • A: Stroller parking is limited, and most indoor exhibits cannot accommodate strollers due to the narrow circulation of our historic rooms. We highly recommend using smaller, umbrella-style strollers or wearable carriers when possible. Strollers may be left at the Rockenfield entrance during your visit. 
     
    Warning: Please do not leave valuables in unattended strollers; the Museum is not responsible for lost or stolen items. 

FAMILY-FRIENDLY AMENITIES 

  • A: By entering the Museum, you agree—on behalf of yourself and any minor children accompanying you—to voluntarily assume all risks associated with your visit. This includes: 

    • The risk of personal injury, up to and including death. 

    • The risk of illness, including exposure to communicable diseases such as COVID-19. 

    • The risk of property loss, theft, or damage. 

  • A: You agree that the Museum shall not be liable for any such injuries, illnesses, losses, or damages. By entering, you release Gilbert House Children's Museum from any and all liability to the fullest extent permitted by law. 

WAIVER OF LIABILITY 

  • A: We do not allow outside photography or videography. To maintain a neutral, play-focused environment and to protect the privacy of our families, professional photo shoots, commercial filming, and the use of professional-grade photography equipment are strictly prohibited on Museum property without prior written authorization from Management. 

  • A: We love it when you capture precious memories! However, we ask all parents and caregivers to be mindful of others. When taking photos, please refrain from capturing guests who are not in your party. Respecting the privacy of other families ensures a comfortable experience for everyone. 

  • A: The Museum reserves the right to use any photography or video taken by our staff on the premises for educational, promotional, and advertising purposes. 

    • Consent: By entering the Museum, you consent to being photographed or video recorded. 

    • Privacy: We do not use identifying information (such as names) with a child's image. 

    • Opting Out: If you do not consent to being photographed by the Museum, please inform the Welcome Desk immediately upon arrival and you will be given a red dot to wear. 

  • A: No. Drones are not allowed on Museum property at any time for the safety and privacy of our guests. 

MEDIA, PHOTOGRAPHY & PRIVACY  

  • A: No, pets are not allowed on Museum property. 

  • A: Yes, service animals as defined by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) are welcome. 

  • A: No, Emotional Support Animals are not permitted. 

  • A: A service animal is an animal individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. 

  • A: Yes, service animals must be on a leash at all times unless the leash interferes with the animal's ability to perform their task. 

  • A: No, do not leave animals unattended in vehicles on Museum property. 

ANIMALS & SERVICE ANIMALS 

  • A: Yes, Playgrounds Café is opening March 20th, 2026 and will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. 

  • A: Yes, you may bring outside food, but it must be eaten in designated outdoor areas only. 

  • A: No, eating or drinking is not permitted in any exhibit spaces. 

  • A: Yes, the menu will cater to picky eaters and dietary challenges. 

  • A: Yes, specialty coffee and tea will be available for adults. 

FOOD, DRINK & CAFE 

  • A: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Monday through Friday. 

  • A:

    • 30+ days before camp start date: 100% refund (minus $20 processing fee) 

    • 29-8 days before camp start date: 50% refund 

    • 7 days or less before camp start date: No refund 

  • A: Yes, there is a $5 fee per 5 minutes after the first 10 minutes of being late. 

  • A: Yes, all campers must be restroom independent. 

  • A: No, camps are designed to be an independent experience for the children. 

  • A: Yes, we provide snacks twice a day. 

  • A: Yes, all campers must bring a sack lunch. 

  • A: Medication requires signed authorization and must be in the original prescription container. 

  • A: No, staff can only "dot on" liquid sunscreen; they cannot rub it in. Please apply sunscreen to your child before camp. 

SUMMER CAMPS 

  • A: Saturdays and Sundays only. 

  • A: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM or 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. 

  • A: Yes, the party fee includes museum admission for up to 25 guests for the whole day. 

  • A: Yes, Members get a $50 discount on the party fee ($350 for members vs. $400 for non-members). 

  • A: No, individual memberships cannot be used for party access. All party guests are covered under the party fee. 

  • A: There is a $25.00 fine if the Wilson-Durbin emergency door is used for non-emergencies. 

  • A: Yes, you have access to a refrigerator/freezer in the party area. 

  • A: Yes, food delivery is allowed but host must be present for delivery, welcome desk is not responsible for receiving or soring.

  • A: 1 adult for every 5 children. 

  • A: Painter's tape only. No other types of tape are permitted. 

  • A: The Wilson-Durbin House party room is 25 feet x 19 feet. 

  • A: No, existing Gilbert House memberships do not apply to birthday party guest admission. If a guest wishes to use their personal membership for museum entry, they are welcome to play in the museum exhibits, but they must not enter the party room. 

  • A: Yes, we strongly recommend providing a final guest list 7 days prior to your party. This ensures you are only paying for the guests you intended to join you in the party room and do not have to worry about going over your total allowed guest count. All guests entering the room must be on this list and paid for. 

  • A: The party package includes up to 25 guests (this count includes both adults and children aged 1 and older). The birthday child and up to 2 party hosts/accompanying adults are not included in the 25-guest count. You may have a maximum of 10 additional guests beyond the initial 25 for an extra fee. 

  • A: If children are dropped off without an adult, a host must meet them at the Welcome Desk for the 'hand-over' and to coordinate pickup. These children will receive a second wristband that must be returned to the desk at pick-up. The host is responsible for the supervision of all dropped-off children. 

  • A: Your rental includes 2-hour exclusive use of the Wilson-Durbin House, all-day museum admission for your group, 5 tables, 28 chairs, and 5 tablecloths. You also have full access to a refrigerator/freezer for your cake and snacks. 

  • A: You are responsible for providing all food, drinks, decorations, and utensils. Please remember to use only painter's tape for hanging any decorations to protect our historic walls. 

  • A: Yes! You can have food delivered (though late delivery will not extend your room time). While on-site cooking is not allowed, you are welcome to bring a crock pot to keep food warm. 

  • A: Yes! Museum admission is included for the entire day, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Even if your room rental is in the afternoon, your guests are welcome to arrive when the museum opens to start playing. 

  • A: A $75.00 portion of your party fee is strictly non-refundable. If you provide at least 3 days' notice, you will receive a 50% refund (minus the $75 deposit). No refunds are issued with less than 3 days' notice. If the museum closes unexpectedly, you may choose a full refund or to reschedule. 

  • A: Parking is in a public lot and is not guaranteed. However, you can reserve a temporary loading spot in advance to make unloading your decorations and food easier! 

  • A: All guests must follow our 'How We Play' rules. This means no rough play, offensive language, or damaging exhibits. For the safety of our visitors, hazardous materials and smoking/vaping are strictly prohibited. Groups that do not follow these rules may be asked to leave. 

BIRTHDAY PARTIES 

  • A: 15 students. 

  • A: $14.00 per student. 

  • A: Yes, teachers and chaperones are admitted free. 

  • A: 4:1 (four students to one adult). 

  • A: Minimum of two weeks in advance. 

  • A: No, payment must be made in one transaction. 

FIELD TRIPS & GROUPS 

  • A: Yes, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. 

  • A: Only about 35% of our operating costs are covered by admission fees. We rely on donations, memberships, and community support for the remainder. 

  • A: The Oregon Cultural Tax Credit is a way to match your donation and receive a 100% state tax credit on your Oregon state taxes. 

  • A: Yes, we accept in-kind donations including professional services and craft materials. Please contact us to discuss your donation. 

  • A: An Access Membership is a sponsored membership for a low-income family, providing them with the same benefits as a regular membership. 

  • A: Submit an interest form on our volunteer page on the website, and our volunteer coordinator will contact you. 

  • A: BottleDrop Give is a program where you can donate the funds from your recyclables directly to the Museum. Sign up through the BottleDrop website and select Gilbert House Children's Museum as your beneficiary. 

SUPPORTING THE MUSEUM