Visitor FAQsYou’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers

General FAQ

• What is included with admission?

  Unlimited exhibits, live science shows, Dome movies and laser shows are all included with admission.

• Are gift cards available?

  Yes! Gifts cards are available to purchase at the ticket counter during regular business hours.

  Gift cards may be redeemed in person for exhibit admission, Dome shows, live science shows, at the Snack Lab and in the Explore Store. Vending machines in the museum are not able to accept gift cards.

  Gift cards can be used in person or over the phone for camp registration, tickets to special events and memberships.

  Gift cards are available in the amounts of $25, $50 or $100 and are not refillable. Multiple gift cards can be combined on a single purchase or registration.

• What is your refund policy?

  There are no refunds available for admission, exhibit, Dome movies, laser shows, live science shows or special event tickets. Camps, birthday parties and rentals have policies specific to those programs and are listed on the corresponding web page. If capacity allows, we are happy to transfer your tickets to another date. If you have an emergency and can’t attend, please contact us to discuss options.

  The only valid tickets are those purchased through Exploration Place. Please be careful of online bots/scams offering to sell their tickets, usually in the comments of our social posts. These are not authentic offers and should be reported and ignored.

• Is Exploration Place sensory inclusive?

  Yes! We have partnered with KultureCity to provide a more sensory-inclusive environment for people of all ages and abilities. This includes trained staff, marked quiet spaces and sensory bags that feature noise-cancelling headphones, weighted lap pads and more. Download the free KultureCity app to learn more about the partnership and the sensory-inclusive offerings at Exploration Place.

  If you, or your child, find yourself in a situation of sensory overload, find a staff member or locate one of our designated quiet spaces. These spaces are the Kansas in Miniature exhibit and the Sensory Garden. There are free sensory bags at the front desk that are available to borrow during your visit. The bags include noise-canceling headphones and more to help with sensory regulation.

  [Learn More]

   

• What age can kids be dropped off to explore alone?

  Exploration Place welcomes visitors of all ages; however, unless enrolled in a museum-sponsored program, children under 12 years of age must be accompanied and supervised by a chaperone 16 years of age or older.

• Is outside food and drink allowed in the museum?

  Yes! You are welcome to bring in outside food and drink during your visit. We ask that you do not bring glass containers or alcohol.

  Graze, located in the new Adventure Playscape, offers a variety of options including burgers, wraps, salads, flatbread, ice cream and drinks. [VIEW MENU]

  Snack Lab is located in the museum lobby and has quick concessions like pizza, pretzels, hot dogs, salads, popcorn, drinks, ice cream and snacks.

  Vending machines are located throughout for easy access to cold drinks.

• Do you have wheelchairs available to rent?

  A limited number of manual wheelchairs are available to borrow at no charge, on a first-come-first-served basis. Guests may bring their own wheelchairs or electric scooters as well

• Are strollers and wagons allowed?

  You are welcome to bring a stroller and/or wagon with you on your visit. There are a few places where we ask that strollers be parked outside of the exhibit/theater due to space restrictions. This includes the Kansas Kids Connect exhibit, the Live Science Theater and the Dome theater. There is designated stroller parking near the entrance to these areas. Please keep in mind to take your valuables with you as the parked strollers are not monitored by staff.

• Is the museum accessible for all?

  The Museum is committed to providing a quality experience for all our guests and all areas of the building and exhibits are ADA accessible. There is an elevator to access the administrative offices and board room on the second level as well as the offices in the basement. The Dome and Live Science Theaters have reserved spaces for those needing accessible seating.

• Is there a private space for nursing mothers?

  We offer a lactation room for nursing mothers. Please visit the ticket counter for access or more information. [TAKE A TOUR]

• Is re-entry allowed?

  Visitors are welcome to leave and reenter the museum during the same business day. Please show your receipt when visiting the ticket counter.

• Does Exploration Place offer reciprocal entry with other science museums?

  Exploration Place is a member of the Association of Science and Technology Centers Passport Program. Please show your participating location’s member card upon check in at the ticket counter to receive complimentary museum admission. Learn more about the program at https://exploration.org/astc/

  For guests visiting Exploration Place using reciprocal admission from their home museum, our admittance policy is two adults in the same household and all dependent children under 18/unmarried grandchildren under 18. Free admission limited to general exhibit areas; does not include digital dome theater and planetarium, or exhibits with an additional fee. Proof of Residence Required.

• What hotels are nearby?

  There are several great hotels within walking distance or a short drive. Visit Wichita has a great hotel guide!

  Exploration Place guests receive an exclusive discount at Home 2 Suites Hilton. Book online or request reservations directly with our property by phone simply call (316) 867-6505 select Option 1 and be sure to ask for the FRIENDS AND FAMILY Local Discount.

• Are animals allowed in the museum and shows?

  We do not allow animals and pets within the facility unless they are certified service animals.

Birthday Parties – party room only

• Where are birthday parties held in the museum?

  Indoor birthday parties are held in Discovery Room A or Discovery Room B. These rooms are located in the Island Building, between the Design, Build, Fly exhibit gallery and Kansas in Miniature. Each room has eight 6-foot tables. [TAKE A 3D TOUR]

  Outdoor birthday parties have two picnic tables reserved in the Adventure Playscape, near Graze.

   

• What times are available?

  Indoor/ Party Room:

  • Saturdays: 10:00 am, 11:45 am, 1:30 pm or 3:15 pm
  • Sundays: 10:00 am, 11:45 am, 1:30 pm or 3:15 pm

  Outdoor/Adventure Playscape

  • Saturdays: 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm
  • Sundays: 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm

  [CHECK AVAILABILITY]

• What add-ons are available?

  Party Favors

  • A variety of small toys and stickers from the Explore Store.

  Additional Birthday Child

  • Includes a second guest of honor who can share the spotlight, enjoy the fun together and receive all the same birthday gifts and perks. This is a great option for siblings/etc who celebrate birthdays together!

  [SEE PRICING]

  *NEW* Make party day easy – add hot, fresh pizza from our Snack Lab, delivered right to your party room. Add it onto your package during check-out, or call 316-660-0609 to add it if you’ve already booked or need to add additional pizzas.

  [LEARN MORE ABOUT PIZZA]

• Can I bring a cake into the museum for the party?

  Yes! Cakes, cupcakes, drinks and snacks are all welcome.

  Our newly renovated Discovery Room spaces include a counter space perfect to set up your cake and refreshments without using valuable table space, and there is a sink in the room to make cleaning up a breeze. Birthday candles for the cake are allowed – but don’t forget to bring a lighter! No refrigerator or freezer access is available, but coolers are welcome.

  *NEW* Make party day easy – add hot, fresh pizza from our Snack Lab, delivered right to your party room. Add it onto your package during check-out, or call 316-660-0609 to add it if you’ve already booked or need to add additional pizzas.

• Do parents and siblings count toward the 30-person capacity?

  Yes. Every person, no matter the age, is counted toward the 30-person included capacity.

• Can we decorate the indoor party room for our party?

  Absolutely! Ideas include table coverings (there are 8, 6’ rectangular tables per room), themed plates and cups, centerpieces, goody bags, party hats or glasses, and fun placemats or coloring sheets. Pinterest is a great resource for ideas! Things to leave at home include bubbles, confetti and helium balloons, which are not allowed in the museum. You are allowed to hang decorations on the wall with the use of command strips, not tape.

  Please be aware that any time that you spend decorating is a part of your 90-minute private room rental.

• Do you have birthday party invitations I can use to invite guests?

  We do! Download and print free invitations from home. [DOWNLOAD]

• What if I have more than 30 people on my guest list?

  Depending on availability, both party rooms can be rented, and the wall in between can be removed to create one large space. Since you would be booking two party spots, the cost would be the normal rate x 2 ($650, or $600 for members). The total capacity for the two party rooms is 60 people, adults and children included. To book this online, put two birthday parties in your cart and check out through the remaining steps.

  If you need a space for more than 60 guests, please fill out the rental inquiry form, and we will contact you to discuss options for larger groups or special requests.

• Who do I contact if I have questions or need help on the day or weekend of my party?

  Before booking and in advance of your party:

  • Contact our Rentals Manager at (316) 660-0642 or email [email protected]

  Day of your party:

  • Call Exploration Place at (316) 660‑0600 and ask for the Manager on Duty.

• What if I need to cancel my party?

  We would be happy to reschedule your event to a future date of your choice that is available. Our birthday parties are non-refundable.

Facility Rentals

General Questions

• How much time is included with my rental?

  Rental times vary depending on space and availability. Pricing, listed above, gives a general idea on 4-hour, 8-hour and hourly options for the various venue spaces.

  All rental times are subject to availability.

• When can I start to set up?

  Setup times vary based on your event details and the space you’re renting. Contact us to discuss your event timeline, and we’ll help coordinate the best setup options for your needs.

• What is your food and beverage policy?

  Exploration Place has a list of preferred vendors for catering and bar service. These approved vendors are familiar with our facility, policies and procedures. If your vendor of choice isn’t listed we are accepting applications and encourage them to apply.

• What is included in a rental?

  • Indoor rentals include tables and chairs, including setup/teardown
  • Security (when alcohol is being served)
  • Ample, free parking
  • Custodial duties

• Who is responsible for cleanup?

  You are responsible for anything you or your guests bring into the event. Exploration Place will be responsible for the breakdown of chairs, tables, removing trash etc. 

• If I have an outdoor event, is there a rain contingency plan?

  We encourage you to plan ahead for rain and make a contingency plan that includes using tents. We are happy to rearrange the layout of your event if rain is in the 48-hour forecast, but there are no guarantees for inclement weather. We ask that you notify the Events Manager of any major changes 48 hours in advance. If you need to cancel due to dangerous outdoor conditions beyond rain, we would be happy to find another date that is agreed upon by both you and Exploration Place. 

• What happens if I need to cancel?

  Exploration Place requires 30 days’ notice for all canceled rentals. Cancellations made more than 90 days prior to the event date: the non-refundable deposit will be retained by the venue; any additional payments made will be refunded. Cancellations made between 30 and 90 days prior to the event date: 50% of the total facility rental fee will be forfeited. Cancellations made less than 30 days prior to the event date: no refunds will be issued.

Membership FAQ

• When does my membership become active?

  If you are joining for the first time, your membership is active immediately after purchase for you to enjoy!

  • If you are renewing and your current membership hasn’t expired, 12 months will be added to the end of your current membership.
  • If your membership lapsed and you renew, your membership will be active immediately for use.
  • If you are purchasing this as a “gift,” you can select the start date.

• How do I receive my card?

  As soon as we receive notification of your new membership we will prepare some welcome information and print you an ID card that we will mail to the address on your account. There is no need to request a card, unless you are needing a copy of it immediately.

• Is there a digital membership card or an app?

  Yes! There’s an app for that!

  Search for “Exploration Place” on either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store and download the free app that features the Exploration Place logo. Once you have downloaded the app you will be able to use your member ID number, or the primary email on your account, to be able to access a digital membership card that you can use to check in at our museum as well as the 300+ partner locations around the globe. Please be prepared to show a picture ID along with the app for verification of account details and ownership.

  The app also gives you quick access to information including our daily hours of operation, upcoming events, member deals, renewing your membership, member perks, FAQs and the full list of ASTC reciprocal membership locations in an easy to use, clickable list that you can pull up on the go.

  We hope that you will find the app to be helpful as you enjoy the full benefits of your membership. If you have any questions on the app, please email us and we’ll get back to you asap. Thank you!

  Download the app now:   APPLE       ANDROID

   

   

• How do I buy a gift membership?

  To give a membership, use the “GIFT” button. In the online portal, you’ll fill out information for you and your recipient and choose a start date for the membership. All new members receive a welcome email and letter with their membership details immediately following the membership purchase. If you want the gift membership to be a surprise, select the Deliver Membership to Buyer option on the Gift Message page to have these sent to you instead of the gift recipient.

• Will you send me something with my gift membership that I can wrap up and give?

  Yes! We will send you a welcome letter that you can give to the recipient. Place your order by December 12 to receive it by Christmas. Please remember that postal service takes longer during busy seasons. Once we hand over packages to the post office, we have no control over delivery times.

• What happens if my membership isn’t ready for renewal yet?

  You can renew at any time. When you renew, we will add 12 months to your membership, extending your expiration date for the additional year. If you purchase the three year membership option, 36 months will be added to your membership end date.

• How many people are included on a membership?

  • Individual memberships include one person.
  • Household membership includes two adults in the same household and all dependent children and grandchildren under 18.
  • Supporter membership includes two adults in the same household and all dependent children and grandchildren under 18.

  All membership levels include one guest per visit.

• I’m a grandparent. Can I purchase a membership that allows me to bring my grandchildren in for visits?

  Yes, the Household and Supporter membership options include two adults in the same household and all dependent children and grandchildren under 18.

• Can my child use our Exploration Place membership on school field trips?

  Students must pay the field trip rate, regardless of membership. School staff are free for field trips. See our field trip page for more information.

  Adult chaperones who are Exploration Place Members can use their benefits for free admission to the exhibits and Live Science Show on field trips, if they sign in separately from their related school or organization. Please check in at the ticket counter when you arrive.

  If the class you are chaperoning will be watching a movie in the Dome, the ticket price for the parent or other chaperone is dependent on your membership type.

  Adults who check in and/or pay separately from the school are not guaranteed a seat in the Dome or Live Science theater because capacity is limited and priority is given to the students and staff in the reserved field trip group

Camps FAQs

General Questions

• What ages are included in camps?

  Summer Camps and Memorial Week Camp are divided into three age categories:

  • Ages 7 – 8
  • Ages 9 – 10
  • Ages 11 – 13

  Spring Break, Fall and Winter Camps:

  • Ages 7 – 10

• What is the cancellation policy?

  We offer a full refund of your camp fee if you inform us at least two weeks before the camp starts. In case of medical necessity, a major emergency, or military deployment any time before the camp begins, a full refund will be provided.

  If you decide to cancel 1 to 13 days before the camp, we are unable to refund your fee, but we are happy to transfer your registration to an available camp on a different date.

• What is a typical camp day like?

  Summer and Memorial Week Camps:

  • 7:30 – 9:00 Themed free play and group activities
  • 9:00 – 4:00 Morning STEM activities, lunch and recess, afternoon STEM activities, exhibit time
    • Each camp day consists of 3-4 STEM-themed activities, physical activities and exhibit time.
    • We provide two snacks each day.
  • 4:00 – 5:20 Themed free play and group activities

  Spring Break, Fall and Winter Camps:

  • 9:00 – 4:00 Morning STEM activities, lunch and recess, afternoon STEM activities, exhibit time
    • Each camp day consists of 3-4 STEM-themed activities, physical activities and exhibit time.
    • We provide two snacks each day.

• During Summer can I drop off my child before 7:30 am or pick them up after 5:20 pm?

  Unfortunately, we cannot accept children before 7:30 am or care for them after 5:20 pm. Guardians who pick up children after 5:20 pm should expect to pay additional fees. If a guardian consistently picks up children after 5:20 pm, the child will not be permitted to return to camp.

  • Check-in: 7:30 am 9:00 am
  • Camp activities are 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
  • Check-out: 4:00 pm – 5:20 pm

• Late arrivals (after 9:00 am) and early pickups (before 4:00 pm)

  Late arrivals (after 9:00 am) and early pickups (before 4:00 pm) are allowed. Please go to the front desk and ask for camp assistance.

• Do campers leave Exploration Place?

  We will be asking guardians to sign permission forms found in Playground App for children to play outside at the amphitheater, Exhibits, and Dome Theater. Any spaces where the public may be present with our campers is considered a field trip space and a guardian signature is required to go.

• What if I have concerns about safety during construction on the new Playscape?

  All construction zones will be completely fenced off at all times to camp staff and campers as well as to the public.

• Do campers spend any time outside?

  Yes! Weather permitting. If the heat index is 95 degrees Fahrenheit or higher or the wind chill temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit campers remain inside. Please dress appropriately for the weather so your child can enjoy playing outside.

• What should my camper bring and wear to camp?

  • Lunch, packed in a leak-resistant container, ice pack and labeled with the camper’s name
  • A water bottle labeled with the camper’s name
  • Clothes that can get messy.
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • If the weather is cool or cold, bring a jacket. We play outside.

  Exploration Place Camps are peanut and tree-nut free. We ask that guardians do not pack these items in camper lunches to avoid any allergies.

• Can my child bring personal items from home?

  Electronic devices are allowed only if required for a child’s medical or physical needs and approved by camp staff with prior notice.

  Campers should leave the following items at home:

  • Internet-enabled electronics (e.g., phones, smartwatches, tablets)
  • Gaming devices
  •  Toys
  • Cards or collectible items

  Items brought to camp will remain in backpacks throughout camp hours, including before- and after-care. Exploration Place is not responsible for lost or stolen belongings.

• My camper has special medical or behavioral needs. Whom do I contact?

  For any camper concerns, contact the Camp Director. There may be special forms that will need to be completed. You may reach the Camp Director at (316) 660-0600 or contact us online.

• How do I reach the Camp Director?

  You can chat with the Camp Director at check-in or check-out. If you need to reach them during the camp day, please call (316) 660-0600.

Behavior Guidance and Parent Information

• What are the behavior guidance and discipline policies for camp?

  All participants are expected to show respect for themselves and others; consideration for their own and others’ property; and to participate in the group activities.

  As you prepare for your child to attend camp, please read the Guardian Information and Policies.

  If you have concerns about the quality of care, policies, or procedures, please contact the Director of Education at (316) 660-0600.

Group Assignment and Classroom Questions

• What is a typical camp day like? Is this the right camp for my child?

  Exploration Place camps are somewhat like school with 16 to 36 children and 2 to 4 counselors. The days are filled with fun hands-on STEM activities. Children do these activities as groups of 2 to 4 just like engineers and scientists.

  • You will have the clearest insight into your child’s comfort and capabilities. Trust your judgment on whether this setting will suit them.
  • We can’t offer refunds after camp has started.
  • Exploration Place camps are open to any child 7 -13 years old.
  • We offer reasonable accommodations for children with disabilities. To request such, please reach out to our Camp Director at (316) 660-0600.

• What do I do if I need to speak to my camper’s group leader?

  Camp counselors and leaders are available during check-in and check-out. Other arrangements may be made to speak with a camp director if these times do not work. Guardians are also encouraged to share any problems with the assistant camp director or the camp director via phone, email or in-person at any time during normal business hours. Email us at [email protected] or leave a message at (316) 660-0600.

• Can siblings be in the same group?

  We take all requests into consideration. Our lesson plans are targeted to a specific age; if siblings or friends are the same age, they may be in the same group. The camp director has discretion over camper placement.

  Please make requests at least two weeks prior to your registered camp start date.

• Are the activity plans available for me to look at?

  We have an outline of activities available for parents to review upon request.

• How many campers are in each room or group?

  Onsite camp groups each have 15-30 students. Each camp group is guided by 2-3 counselors. Additional staff float between rooms to support camper STEM and play activities, restroom runs, and brain breaks for children who need them.

• Do campers go to the exhibits?

  Campers who attend camp at Exploration Place have scheduled time in the exhibits throughout the week. Permission forms are required and can be found in the Playground App.

• Do campers go to the Dome and Live Science Shows?

  Campers who attend camp at Exploration Place go to Dome movies or Live Science Show when it applies to the week’s theme. Permission forms are required and can be found in the Playground App.

Lunch, Snacks and Drink Questions

• Does my camper need to bring a lunch?

  Yes, campers should bring a lunch labeled with their names in a leak-proof container (no paper sacks), silverware if needed, with an ice pack. Microwaves are available as needed.

  Exploration Place Camps are peanut and tree-nut free. We ask that parents do not pack these items in camper lunches to avoid any allergies.

• Can campers get lunch at Graze or the Snack Lab?

  No, lunch staff are not available to take campers to Graze or the Snack Lab.

• Can I bring my camper a lunch?

  Yes, check with an Exploration Place staff member at check-in to confirm your camper’s lunch time. You are welcome to check out your camper for lunch, drop off lunch at the front desk or bring lunch to eat with your camper.

• What if my child has food allergies?

  Exploration Place Camps are peanut and tree-nut free. We ask guardians not to pack these items in lunches. If your camper has any food allergies, please share this with a staff member at check-in and add the information into Playground App

Registration Form Questions

• Do I have to fill out all of the forms in Playground App?

  Yes, all forms are required to be completed. If information is missing we will require you to complete the information before leaving your child in our care.

Illness Questions

• My child has been exhibiting signs of sickness what should I do?

  We use the current CDC recommendations. If your child has symptoms, keep them home until they are free of fever and other symptoms for 24 hours. Please contact the camp director to inform them of their absence.

• My child requires medication for a condition that is not contagious. What do I need to do?

  Please fill out the appropriate medical information on your Playground App account.

  For more information on Medication Policies, please read the Guardian Information and Policies.