Visitor Services & Information

Visitor Services & Information

Visitor Information & Policies

Accessibility Statement

At Gilbert House Children's Museum, we are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors.

  • The first level of each of our three historic buildings is wheelchair accessible, but upper-level exhibits are not due to the nature of the buildings.

  • Visitors who cannot access upper-level exhibits due to mobility restrictions will receive 50% off regular admission.

  • If you have any accessibility questions or need assistance planning your visit, please call us at (503) 371-3631.

Visitor Expectations & Code of Conduct

To ensure a safe, welcoming, and fun experience for all visitors, we ask everyone to follow these guidelines:

Stay and Play Together

  • Children must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times. Gilbert House is designed for shared exploration!

Show Respect and Kindness

  • Engage with other visitors, staff, and exhibits with respect and kindness.

  • Please treat exhibits with care so everyone can enjoy them.

  • Our staff works hard to ensure a great experience—please treat them with kindness.

Food and Drinks

  • Food and drinks are not allowed inside museum buildings to protect exhibits.

  • Designated eating areas, such as the Picnic Pavilion in the Outdoor Discovery Area, are available.

Code of Conduct

By visiting Gilbert House Children’s Museum, you agree to uphold our standards of respectful behavior.

  • We reserve the right to deny or revoke access to anyone who violates these expectations or disrupts the experience of others.

  • Policies may be updated at any time to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for all.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Changing Tables

  • Available in every restroom.

Nursing & Pumping

  • Caregivers are welcome to nurse or pump wherever they feel comfortable.

  • A private space is available in the Sensory Portal.

Lost Persons

  • Caregivers must stay with children (under 17 years old) at all times.

  • If a child and caregiver become separated, please notify a staff member immediately. We have a reunification procedure in place.

Strollers

  • Stroller parking is limited, and some exhibits cannot accommodate strollers.

  • Smaller, umbrella-style strollers are recommended.

  • Strollers may be left at the Rockenfield entrance during your visit. Please do not leave valuables in unattended strollers.

Smoking

  • Smoking is not allowed on Museum property.

Museum Maps

  • Available at Admissions and the Information Desk.

Parking & Directions

Museum Parking

  • Free parking is available under the bridge in front of the Museum.

Metered & Permit Parking

  • City-metered and permit parking lots (marked by signs) are free on weekends and legal holidays.

  • Parking may be impacted by events at Riverfront Park. Check the City of Salem website for additional options.

  • More information: Click here

Directions

Gilbert House Children's Museum is located at the north end of Salem Riverfront Park, near the Willamette River, between the bridges.

Policies

Security Policy

  • Security cameras are in use throughout the Museum for visitor safety and the protection of Museum property.

  • Staff members maintain radio communication to respond quickly if a child and caregiver become separated.

  • If you need assistance, notify any staff member or visit the Front Desk.

Animal Policy

  • Service animals (as defined by the ADA) are welcome.

  • Emotional Support Animals (ESA) and other animals are not permitted.

Media Policy

  • The Museum reserves the right to use any photography/video taken on the premises for educational, promotional, and advertising purposes.

  • By entering the Museum, you consent to being photographed/video recorded.

  • We do not use identifying information with a child's image. If you do not consent, please inform the Front Desk upon arrival.

  • Drones are not allowed on Museum property.

Our Commitment to Inclusion & Equity

Gilbert House Children's Museum is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and equitable environment for all.

  • We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status.

  • This commitment extends to all aspects of our organization, including employment, volunteer opportunities, vendor partnerships, and the services we provide.

  • More information: Click here