Those who prioritize play lead happier, more successful lives. This simple yet powerful tool for building our minds encourages new neural connections that lead to better critical thinking, problem-solving and overall learning. It also expands our worldview by understanding different cultures and perspectives, fostering empathy and a sense of belonging. As children grow, play builds resilience, helping them adapt to new situations and reducing stress. Plus, it is so much fun! 

At the Cayton, we understand the profound impact of play in fostering a deep love for self-discovery and exploration of the world around us. We encourage families to discover their creativity, connect with one another, and create lasting memories with the power of play. From our hands-on exhibits like a real-life helicopter, fire truck, veterinary clinic and bustling community market to our daily sensory, arts and movement activities, the Cayton will spark curiosity and ignite imaginations.

Membership
As a Cayton member, open the door to a world of endless play! All members enjoy 12 months of general admission and priority access to special programs and events. With expedited check-in, member early entry, and discounts on our classes, you can maximize your play time exploring our exhibits and participating in our engaging activities. Plus, Cayton members receive a 10% discount on purchases in our Museum Store and 50% off admission to over 400 children’s museums nationwide.

Through April 14th, receive 15% off unlimited family play for 12 months when you join, renew or gift a membership. Whichever tier you choose, joining today opens the door to a world of endless possibilities and unforgettable experiences at the Cayton.

Launchers
At $204, our entry-level tier provides unlimited visits for two members (one adult and one child) and two guest passes, ensuring quality bonding time for you and your little one.

Climbers
Ready to take your adventures to new heights? For $306, our Climbers membership tier offers unlimited visits for four members and four guest passes, allowing the whole family to explore and discover together.

Reachers
For families seeking even greater value and benefits, our Reachers membership tier includes unlimited visits for six members, eight guest passes, and exclusive discounts on event rentals, buyouts, and classes for a vital contribution of $500.

Cayton Classes
We acknowledge the benefits of play in all life stages, and our Cayton classes are designed to enhance a child’s social, creative and cognitive abilities through immersive play experiences tailored to their age. Led by experienced Play Guides and specialists, these intimate and interactive classes provide the perfect opportunity for children to learn and grow in a supportive environment. Whether it is our Art Crawl — an introduction to sensory art and play for infants and toddlers — or our Paint the Walls: Art Explosion — a sensory art experience for preschoolers — our classes inspire creativity on a grand scale! 

Bridging the Play Divide
More than 1.7 million children in Los Angeles County have limited access to play. Without access to safe playgrounds and public spaces dedicated to unstructured play, children in these underserved communities are denied the physical, social and emotional benefits play offers.

At the Cayton, we call this the Play Divide and work to bridge it in multiple ways. Through our PLAY4ALL equity and inclusion initiatives, we provide PLAY4ALL passes that provide free entry for families facing financial hardship. Through this program, families can apply for a free annual pass for up to four guests to visit the museum for 12 months. 

Through PLAY4ALL Field Trips, we offer subsidized transportation to the museum and enriching programs for Title 1 Schools, Transitional Kindergartens, and Head Start Programs. This program expands access to fun and immersive learning opportunities and has benefited more than 60 schools this past year alone.

We recognize that play looks different for everyone. Our Sensory-Friendly Hours are designed for families with sensory-sensitive children and community organizations that support families with children of diverse abilities and special needs. Held every Sunday from 9 am to 10 am, families and members with children with sensory sensitivities or differing abilities can explore our exhibits at their own pace.

Celebrating at the Cayton
Looking to inject more fun into your next celebration? Look no further than the Cayton. From birthday parties to social gatherings and corporate events, the Cayton Children’s Museum provides a full-service experience to accommodate your needs. When you rent space at the Cayton, our event professionals work with you to create a suitable package with our network of preferred event vendors like caterers, performers, artists, photographers, so you can focus on your celebration!

Room options include private-party rooms, a state-of-the-art theater and option to book a museum buyout. Each celebration includes free play admission to our exhibits and activities for you and your guests. For additional play, you may want to consider activities, or a private class facilitated by our Play Guides to create a more memorable impression.

Cayton Children’s Museum
As a nonprofit organization, Cayton Children’s Museum offers 21,000 square feet of discovery-based exhibits situated steps from the Santa Monica beach and pier. We activate the power of play to enrich the lives of children and their families, build stronger, more connected communities, and create a better world.

Our 20+ interactive exhibits and daily activities are an immersive play experience for children ages 0–8. From collaborative play and hands-on sensory, art and movement activities to exploring different cultures and perspectives, the Cayton helps to expand a child’s imagination, creativity and curiosity. 

Join us to play every day and discover how your family can play your way to a better world.

Cayton Children’s Museum is located at Santa Monica Place, 395 Santa Monica Place, Level 3 in Santa Monica. Open Wednesday-Sunday from 10 am to  5 pm with Member early entry at 9 am. For more information, visit caytonmuseum.org or contact us at 424-416-8320 or at info@caytonmuseum.org