The Des Moines Children’s Museum is preparing to leave Valley West Mall, where it has welcomed families for nearly a decade. The museum must vacate the mall by the end of October after the property was sold last month.
Executive Director Ashlen Sheaffer said the museum’s staff and volunteers have been working around the clock to dismantle exhibits and pack the space. “We really went into action and asked for volunteers. We’ve had a plan for weeks now, so being ahead of schedule has been a relief,” Sheaffer told reporters.
Temporary home in Urbandale
City officials in Urbandale helped secure a temporary location along NW Urbandale Drive, just a ten‑minute drive from the former mall site. The new space will allow the museum to reopen as early as Monday, keeping its educational programs alive while a permanent facility is being developed.
Sheaffer expressed optimism about the transition. “Everyone’s very excited that we’re going to continue serving for the next year,” she said. The museum’s move is bittersweet for many families who have grown up with its hands‑on exhibits. “It is bittersweet happiness. We expected it, but it’s still hard to say goodbye to the walls our kids grew up in,” she added.
Plans for a permanent location
While the temporary site will keep the museum’s doors open, the organization is already planning a permanent home on 12th Street in Des Moines. That new campus is slated to open in 2027 and will feature expanded exhibit space, modern classrooms, and outdoor learning areas.
The museum’s relocation underscores the importance of community support for family‑focused institutions. Local volunteers, city leaders, and donors have all played a role in ensuring a smooth transition. By moving quickly and efficiently, the museum demonstrates the resilience and collaborative spirit that define Des Moines neighborhoods.
What this means for families
Parents can look forward to continued access to science, art, and play‑based learning at the temporary Urbandale site. The museum plans to maintain its regular schedule of workshops, field trips, and special events throughout the interim period.
Sheaffer encouraged families to visit the new location and share feedback. “We want to make sure the temporary space serves the community as well as possible while we work toward our permanent home,” she said.
As the museum prepares for its next chapter, the partnership between Des Moines, Urbandale, and the museum’s supporters highlights the power of local collaboration to preserve valuable educational resources for children and families.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
