Columbia’s hidden gem for toddlers is the Columbia Museum of Art. This past summer The Art Bridges Foundation sponsored Free Summer at CMA. This allowed any South Carolina resident to receive free admission all summer long. We did not waste any time taking advantage of this and it is safe to say my toddler and her friends loved it. We loved it so much that we will be purchasing a membership!
We got in the habit of going to the museum after our time at the Soda City Market and it made for the perfect Saturday morning. Walking into the museum you are greeted by friendly and helpful staff. The museum has accessible automatic doors, great for strollers too! When you arrive you will be given a sticker to enter the museum.
The Cross Hatch
There are galleries and exhibits throughout the museum but The Cross Hatch is where we spent our time. Here your child can let their imagination run wild from drawing a self portrait to building with magnatiles and blocks. Each element in this room was carefully thought out with our smallest artists in mind. There are also books, crayons, colored pencils, easels, even a space to hang your art. Not only is this a perfect spot for your little artist but there is seating for you too!
Join Gladys’ Gang!
Gladys’ Gang is designed for children ages 2-5 and their caregivers. There are two sessions each month, divided into toddler and preschool audiences (siblings are welcome at both!). Each month enjoy a story, gallery time, and an age-appropriate studio activity that emphasizes the process of art-making rather than the final product. It’s free, but registration is required.
Stroller Tours
Take a tour of featured exhibitions! Bring your little ones along for the ride on a stroller-friendly tour for caregivers with babies and toddlers up to age two. Fussy, crying, or wigglers welcome! Baby wearing is encouraged. Free with membership or admission. Registration required as space is limited.
And More…
The Columbia Art Museum also hosts events featuring local artists and experts in their craft, such as yoga and Tai Chi. Check out their website for their event page and stop by and visit next time you are in the downtown Columbia area.
