Welcome to The Cowboy Carousel Children's Discovery Center

What is a children’s museum or discovery center? A play space? A gymnasium? A park? We know it can get confusing! By definition, a children’s museum or discovery center is a place that serves the interests of children by providing exhibits and programs that stimulate curiosity and learning. So, what does that mean?

Visitors are often surprised to discover that children’s museums and discovery centers are more similar to play spaces than to museums in the traditional sense. But there’s more to stacking blocks and playing with wind tunnels than meets the eye. Stacking blocks provides crucial motor development skills for toddlers; playing with wind tunnels teaches children the intricacies of aerodynamics and natural forces.  Through hands-on learning experiences, children can explore on their own terms and at their own pace.

The Cowboy Carousel Discover Center is a nonprofit educational and cultural institution committed to serving the needs and interest of children by providing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) exhibits and programs that stimulate curiosity and motivate learning. In the coming years, as we move forward, everything will be designed to inspire children to explore, imagine, and experiment. Interactive experiences are an integral element of learning. When children are given the freedom to play, they develop life skills like curiosity, confidence, and creativity. These skills strengthen a child’s potential to excel in school, their future careers, their communities, and beyond. The Cowboy Carousel Center is excited to provide these programs to the families of Johnson County.