Kids exploring creative learning at the Grand Rapids Public Museum's Camp Curious.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is introducing its summer ‘Camp Curious’ program, catering to children from pre-K through high school. This year’s camp features new initiatives, including a ‘Young Wizards Academy’ and a Reporter Camp that offers journalism insights. Families can choose from one-day or multi-day sessions filled with engaging activities. In addition, a new exhibit honoring veterans will launch shortly, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end, while the museum undergoes a significant expansion to enhance visitor experiences.
Grand Rapids – The Grand Rapids Public Museum is launching its summer “Camp Curious” program for children of all ages, offering several exciting new features and educational opportunities. Enrollment is now open for kids from pre-K to high school, with a range of programs designed to foster creativity and learning in history, science, and culture.
This year’s camp introduces a new “Young Wizards Academy,” where participants can immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter while exploring various aspects of wizardry and magic. In addition to this whimsical camp option, older students will have the chance to enroll in a Reporter Camp, giving them a real-world taste of journalism careers and skills.
Camp Curious offers both one-day and multi-day sessions, allowing families to choose the best fit for their summer schedules. With hands-on activities tailored to various age groups, the program aims to engage young minds and inspire a love for learning.
Alongside the launch of Camp Curious, the museum is set to honor veterans with a new exhibit titled “Veterans,” in collaboration with the Michigan Heroes Museum. The exhibit will premiere on May 23, 2025, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Visitors will view a collection of artifacts, including personal items, military gear, and historical documents that commemorate the sacrifices made by veterans.
A highlight of the exhibit will be the display of a preserved Blue Star Service Banner from Grand Rapids resident Mary Platte, symbolizing the commitment of families who had members serving in the military. To recognize this important occasion, the museum will offer free admission to active or retired veterans and their families from May 23-25.
In a broader context, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is currently undergoing a substantial $50 million expansion project slated for completion by fall 2025. This renovation aims to enhance the visitor experience, incorporate educational opportunities, and increase accessibility throughout the facility.
Key features of the renovation include updates to the iconic 1928 Spillman Carousel, which will now feature refurbished painted figures and improved accessibility with a newly designed chariot. The project will also provide expanded access to the Grand River and a redesigned north lawn that enhances outdoor exploration.
Future phases of the renovation will include new elevators, collaborative gathering spaces, a redesigned entry, a new gift shop, and an indoor/outdoor café. These improvements are strategically aligned to draw back annual visitor numbers from approximately 200,000-250,000 to pre-pandemic levels of around 359,000.
As part of the renovations, the museum is actively seeking community support to fund updates for its Community Archives and Research Center (CARC). This center is crucial as it houses approximately 90% of the museum’s collections, underscoring the need for expanded public access and engagement while also preserving the cultural heritage of the region.
Through these initiatives, the Grand Rapids Public Museum underscores its commitment to education, history, and community engagement. Families and individuals are encouraged to participate in Camp Curious this summer, and to look forward to both the new exhibit honoring veterans and the exciting developments within the museum itself.
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