Thinkery, formerly known as Austin Children’s Museum, has continuously grown over the past 40 years. Starting as a museum without walls, to finding a home for Austin Children’s Museum, and now having a large focus on expanding beyond the four walls with the help of community relationships and partnerships, Thinkery celebrates 40 years of joyful learning.
Since opening in 1983, Thinkery has brought joy to learning through STEAM exploration for more than ONE MILLION children and families. To celebrate the impact that Thinkery has created on the Central Texas community throughout the years, Austin Mayor, Kirk Watson, has proclaimed December 7, 2023 – the 10th anniversary of the grand opening of Thinkery’s home in Mueller, the Meredith Learning Lab – as Thinkery Day!
I’m so glad that [Thinkery] is here and it’s continuing to be a great resource for people here and people that come visit. There’s just a sense of good energy and respect and curiosity that permeates the whole place. You can just feel it in every little corner.
Deborah Edward, Austin Children’s Museum Co-Founder
We have a lot to celebrate as we turn 40! Take a look at the evolution of Thinkery to see how our work and space has evolved since 1983.
Thinkery, formerly known as Austin Children’s Museum, began as a grassroots, mobile effort to expand learning opportunities in Austin. Our founders drove tabletop exhibits around town in a station wagon presenting activities and programs in schools, parks, libraries, and malls.
Our First Building
We settled into our first brick-and-mortar home – a 5,000-square-foot building on W. 5th Street.
A Big Step Forward
We relocated to our Colorado Street location which offered 12,500 square feet of permanent exhibit space.
Full STEAM Ahead
We rebranded as Thinkery with a new focus on STEAM learning and moved into our 40,000-square-foot home in Mueller – the Meredith Learning Lab.
Joyful Learning in Del Valle
We partnered with Del Valle ISD to create a Thinkery STEAM Learning Institute site and neighborhood museum projected to open August 2024.
Thinkery is committed to expanding our joyful learning experiences with community through new learning hubs, neighborhood museums, and the work that happens in our STEAM Learning Institute.
As we celebrate this special milestone, we know that there is still more we can do! With your help, we can ensure ALL children – and the people caring for and educating them – can learn, play, and grow with Thinkery – today and for years to come. Learn more about how you can join us in sparking joyful learning for EVEN MORE children in our community.