Museum at Prairiefire

Natural history and science take center stage at the Museum at Prairiefire.

Through a mix of permanent and traveling exhibits, plus interactive spaces like the Discovery Room and the McCown Gordon Virtual Reality Theater, museum visitors can explore paleontology, geology, astronomy and more.

Sun sparkles off the colorful exterior of the Museum at Prairiefire
Things to Do
Signature Events
Where to Eat
Where to Stay

Plan Your Visit

What are the hours of the Museum at Prairiefire?

The Museum at Prairiefire is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The museum is open on Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How much is admission to the Museum at Prairiefire?

Admission to the Museum at Prairiefire is $5 for ages 3 and up, including adults and Seniors.

Admission is free for veterans and active-duty military members.

Is the Museum at Prairiefire accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?

Yes, the Museum at Prairiefire is ADA compliant and fully accessible, including elevators and restrooms. Wheelchair accessible parking is available at the front, and ample parking is available in the free garage just across the street.

If mobility is an issue, consider dropping off the group at the front door before parking. Coat and stroller storage is also available.

Things to Do

Walk With Dinosaurs

From towering T. rex to ancient sea creatures and soaring pterosaurs, the museum brings prehistoric giants to life. Kids can dig into dino facts, like how the first T. rex was discovered by a boy from Kansas, and explore interactive exhibits to uncover the fascinating world of these ancient creatures—no time machine needed!

The Discovery Room

Get ready to learn in the Discovery Room, where hands-on fun meets the sciences! This interactive space features every major field of museum research, from anthropology to zoology, and is designed especially for kids to touch, explore, and experiment.

Animal Encounters

Get an up-close look at some of the animals in the Discovery Room on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Different times feature different animals, including the Tiger Salamander (the Kansas State Amphibian!), chinchillas, and bearded dragons. Check the schedule before your visit. Each animal encounter lasts approximately 15 minutes and the experience is included in admission.

Explore the Wetlands

The learning doesn't stop at the museum doors! Just outside, the Wetlands at Prairiefire invites explorers to stretch their legs and connect with nature. Walk the winding paths, listen for frogs and birds, and enjoy a hands-on look at Kansas’ natural ecosystem.

Signature Events

JAM Sessions

JAM Sessions at the Museum at Prairiefire are lively, hands-on events designed for curious kids ages 6-10 and their families. These themed activity days blend science, art, music, and movement into one big interactive experience. It’s a great way to spend quality time together and enjoy the museum in a whole new way.

Little Explorers

These events are big fun for your littlest scientists! Little Explorers is a special program just for preschoolers ages 3-5, featuring storytime, songs, and sensory-rich science activities. Designed to engage young minds and grow imaginations, each session encourages discovery through hands-on fun.

Where to Eat

Rock & Brews

Where to Stay

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