Planning a Birthday Party at the Children’s Museum? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever hosted a party at home, you know how much time (and cleanup) it takes. At the Children’s Museum of Wilmington (CMoW), birthday parties are simple, engaging, and truly fun for everyone, including the adults.

With hands-on exhibits, creative themes, and full-day access for your guests, we’ve built a party experience that’s equal parts play and peace of mind.

Our 3 Birthday Packages—What You Get and How They’re Different

Each party package includes:

• 90 minutes of private party room time (or 2 hours of full Museum access with the Adventure Pass)

• Admission for all guests for the entire day

• Invitations are available upon request

• Return passes for all child guests

• Party host on-site to support setup and check-in

Note: The Museum does not include any food or drink in any of our packages. Please bring your own food and beverages.

Classic Party

• Great for families who want a simple, self-guided party

• Guests bring their own décor

• Access to all exhibits before or after party time

• Members: $250 | Non-members: $300

Learn more about Classic Birthday Parties.

Deluxe Party

• Our most popular option

• Includes choice of theme, all paper goods, activity (like slime or canvas painting), and themed decorations

• Set up and clean-up assistance from the CMoW team

• Members: $350 | Non-members: $400 

Explore Deluxe Birthday Parties.

Adventure Pass Party

• Exclusive private use of the entire Museum on Sunday from 10AM–12PM

• Great for larger groups (up to 50 guests / 25 kids)

• Includes all deluxe features: theme, activity, and decorations

• Members: $450 | Non-members: $500

Book an Adventure Pass Birthday.

Pick a Theme Or Build Your Own

Each Deluxe or Adventure Pass party includes a themed setup, matching activity, and paper goods. 

Popular Themes:

• 🦕 Dino Discovery: Prehistoric fun with dino-tastic decorations that’ll make your guests roar!

• 🚀 To the Moon: An out-of-this-world experience featuring space-themed setups that shoot for the stars.

• 🌊 Under the Sea: Dive into ocean adventure—choose from mermaids, pirates, or both!

• 🎨 Create Your Own: Build your theme around your child’s favorite color or concept. Choose up to two paper goods colors from white, black, red, blue, green, orange, pink, or purple.

Learn more about birthday parties at CMoW.

Included Activities:

Each activity lasts 15–20 minutes and is led by a staff member to ensure all children participate comfortably.

• Slime: Mixed in colors to match the party theme, and every child takes their slime home!

• Salt Dough: Includes rollers, themed cookie cutters, and stamps—great sensory fun! The dough dries and is sent home with guests.

• Paint on Canvas: Kids paint freely or use our theme-based stencils. A favorite for little artists! Art is sent home.

Need extra inspiration? We suggest getting inspiration from Pinterest Museum Birthday Inspiration if you’re bringing custom décor or party favors.

What to Pack (And What to Skip) for a Museum Birthday Party

YES to:

• Cake, cupcakes, drinks, and snacks

• Your own plates, napkins, or decorations

• Party favors or goody bags

• Candles (allowed under staff supervision)

NO to:

• Balloons (choking hazard for young visitors)

• Glitter, silly string, piñatas, or live animals

• Sparklers or any open flames (besides candles)

• Additional entertainment or multiple activities (one is included per party)

  
  

Frequently Asked Questions from Parents

How early should I book?

We recommend booking at least 1 month in advance. Party dates can fill up quickly.

• Non-members can book up to 2 months ahead

• Members get early access—up to 3 months out

  
  

What’s the guest limit?

• Classic & Deluxe: Up to 35 total guests (20 children max)

• Adventure Pass: Up to 50 total guests (25 children max)

  
  

Can we arrive early to decorate?

Yes! You may arrive about 30 minutes early to unload food, decorations, and supplies. If you bring your own décor, you’re responsible for setup and teardown.

What if it rains and we booked the courtyard?

Indoor space is available if your party remains within the 35-guest indoor limit.

Can we host a party on a weekday?

Currently, parties are only offered on Saturdays and Sundays.

Is cleanup included?

Yes, unless you bring your own decorations. In that case, please plan to take them down.Reminder: Staying more than 15 minutes past your reserved time will incur a $50 late fee.

Read our full Birthday Party FAQs | View Sample Contract

Make It a Smooth and Memorable Celebration—Tips from Our Team

• Keep the day flowing—flexibly: We’ll help guide your timeline, but the day is all about fun. If the schedule shifts, no stress.

• Simplify your menu: Finger foods and individual snacks are easy for little hands (and cleanup).

• Don’t over-plan: The Museum is the entertainment—kids love open-ended discovery.

• Take great photos with backdrops: Use our exhibits like Animal Alley, Port CMoW, and the Art Room as perfect backgrounds.

  
  

Let’s Make Their Birthday the Best Day of the Year

Planning a party doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At the Children’s Museum of Wilmington, we take care of the setup, the fun, and the smiles—so you can enjoy the celebration, too.

Ready to book? Visit our birthday party page, or email us at birthdayparties@playwilmington.org, and we’ll help you find your perfect date.