1 / 2Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert
📍 Rancho Mirage, CA
Interactive children's museum in Rancho Mirage with hands-on exhibits and educational toys designed for toddlers through age 8. Families routinely spend 3–5 hours across the three-building campus. No café — bring your own food.
This museum has so many thoughtful displays and nooks and crannies to explore. Bring lunch, no vending or cafe onsite, but cute outdoor tables to eat. I’ve been to a couple children’s museums in my hometown, but visited this one while out of town. This one blows ours out of the water for actual kid engagement. Even their secondary building with their original humble pretend kid town offerings are very engaging and it seemed there were more kids there than in the big slick displays in the main building. There’s more for big kids here too, some children’s museums are really catered to the small ones. But there is a whole room of brain puzzles that would really speak to many kids. The trike track is cute, but considering bringing your own helmet if you don’t want to share theirs. Finally, the only criticism I have is nitpicky. that they have so many hands on deck (yay for volunteers!) it can feel a little invasive when you’re trying to have a memorable moment with your kid and there is always a stranger involved in the conversation.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children aged 1 to 8 seeking a full-day immersive play experience. The three-building layout gives enough variety to hold attention for hours, and the exhibits are calibrated for the age range rather than skewed toward older kids.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →616 Google reviews
Sahara Anderson
3 months ago
“This museum has so many thoughtful displays and nooks and crannies to explore. Bring lunch, no vending or cafe onsite, but cute outdoor tables to eat. I’ve been to a couple children’s museums in my hometown, but visited this one while out of town. This one blows ours out of the water for actual kid engagement. Even their secondary building with their original humble pretend kid town offerings are very engaging and it seemed there were more kids there than in the big slick displays in the main building. There’s more for big kids here too, some children’s museums are really catered to the small ones. But there is a whole room of brain puzzles that would really speak to many kids. The trike track is cute, but considering bringing your own helmet if you don’t want to share theirs. Finally, the only criticism I have is nitpicky. that they have so many hands on deck (yay for volunteers!) it can feel a little invasive when you’re trying to have a memorable moment with your kid and there is always a stranger involved in the conversation.”
Arlenemg97
10 months ago
“Wow this museum was so perfect! Took my 16 month old and we spent well over 1.5 hours here. It has so many kid friendly things to do and it’s so age appropriate! They keep the place so neat and tidy, and the floors have A/C vents which kept it nice and cool inside! I will be bringing my mini back here for sure. And the staff, SO NICE thank you guys for the awesome visit today.”
Aubry Lybbert
a year ago
“My kids (7 + 6 years) LOVED the museum. We spent 3 hours here on a Wednesday morning, but we could have enjoyed the rest of the afternoon with the amount of activities and exhibits available. I definitely feel like the price of admission was well worth the amount of fun, learning and stimulation. My kids have been begging to go back!”
Tim Felbel
3 months ago
“Great spot to keep the kids (and even adults) busy for a couple hours + There isn’t a concession so bring your food in (you can eat in the park space between buildings). Staff are friendly and engaging. I would recommend!”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert spans three buildings with age-calibrated exhibits for ages 1 through 8. Activities include a trike track, sensory play, and themed interactive stations maintained by engaged volunteer staff. Outdoor tables between buildings serve as a designated lunch area. Strollers park in the lobby; parents accompany children throughout.