Just for Kids
The gardens at Tohono Chul are made for curious kids. From spotting lizards and butterflies to floating boats down the Snake Stream in the Children’s Garden, there’s plenty of space to explore, imagine, and play. Along the way, kids will discover the plants, animals, and habitats that make the Sonoran Desert so special without it ever feeling like a lesson. It’s a place where learning happens naturally and family memories take root.
I’ve been bringing my granddaughters to play here since they were toddlers and even now that they’re teenagers they always want to come back with me.
Julia Wait Bonse
Children’s Museum Oro Valley at Tohono Chul
Open Tuesday – Sunday
9 AM – 12:30 PM
Free with Admission/Free for Members
Kids 3 & Under Free!
Let your child run wild at CMOV@TC! The Children’s Museum Oro Valley at Tohono Chul is a unique place that inspires children to learn through play. The museum offers hands-on exhibits and programs that engage kids of all ages in nature, art, culture, and so much more. It’s a great place for kids to learn about what makes their community special. Click the link below for more information and plan your visit today!
Clay Play at CMOV
Sundays & Tuesdays
11 AM – 12 PM
Children’s Museum Oro Valley
Free with Admission/Free for Members
Kids 3 & Under Free!
Unleash your child’s creativity at the Children’s Museum Oro Valley with Clay Play!
Every Tuesday and Sunday from 11 AM to 12 PM, little ones can explore the joys of hands-on sculpting and crafting with clay. This interactive activity encourages imagination and creativity, perfect for curious minds and tiny hands.
Explorer Backpacks – Discover & Learn!
Available for Checkout at Admissions
Free with Admission/Free for Members
Experience the natural wonders of the Sonoran Desert up close with our brand-new Explorer Backpacks! Equipped with binoculars, a magnifying glass, a compass, and other adventurous tools, these backpacks offer a hands-on experience of our beautiful gardens and all their hidden treasures.
Grab an Explorer Backpack at Admissions and get ready to unleash your child’s inner explorer!
Special Events
There’s always something happening for families at Tohono Chul. From cool summer evenings at Chillin’ at the Chul and festive favorites like Holiday Nights and the Chiles, Chocolate & Day of the Dead Festival, to special programming at CMOV@TC, our events turn the gardens into a place of discovery and imagination. With summer camps and hands-on activities for kids, there’s no shortage of ways to play, learn, make memories together.
Check our event calendar or sign up for our newsletters to see what’s coming up next!
Children’s Garden
Open 8 AM – 5 PM Daily
The Children’s Garden is a whimsical space that is a favorite with families visiting the park. The snake stream and shade structure make this an ideal place to visit during the heat of the day, while the open design and ample lighting make this a great place to program evening children’s activities. The plant palette is based on the “Sensory garden” concept, with fragrant, thornless plants that are safe for children to touch.
COLORING PAGES
We have a wide range of coloring pages that has pieces from the current exhibition and our Permanent Collection. Discover the artist in you as you color textiles, ceramic, photographs, and more.
If you are looking for even more activities to do from home, visit our Tohono Chul @ Home page.
Coloring pages from our The Elements – Water exhibit:
The Elements – Fire exhibit:
The Elements – Air exhibit :
Roy J. Kurtz Collection
