What makes the Discovery Center the best spot in Topeka for birthdays?

Birthdays at the Kansas Children's Discovery Center create special memories for children, full of fun and adventure. At the Discovery Center, we know birthdays are a big deal. We'll help you create an experience your child will never forget.

What does the party room include?

Our party room is a bright, colorful space designed for celebration! You will have access to one standard refrigerator with a freezer and 2 sinks during your scheduled party time. The room includes 8 child tables and chairs, adult chairs, as well as up to 3 full length tables for food and gifts.

Does booking a Discovery Center birthday support the museum?

Revenue from birthdays is a significant source of funding for the Discovery Center, a nonprofit children's museum. Birthdays help fund new exhibits, develop educational outreach programs and provide access to the museum for children in need. Learn more about how we make play accessible to every child. 

Booking

How do I book a party?

You can book a party conveniently and securely online. Just click and celebrate!

When can I book a birthday party?

Birthday parties at the standard rate must be held during regular museum operating hours. For an epic, after-hours, private birthday party, see our facility rental page.

What if I can’t select the date that I want to book?

Unfortunately, it means that all the slots on that day are completely booked. Please see alternative available dates on our calendar.

What is your payment, cancellation, and schedule change policy?

Full payment is due at the time of booking. Please review our reimbursement schedule below:

• Canceling more than 15 days in advance, A refund may be issued, with a deduction of a $50.00 non-refundable booking fee.
• Canceling between 14 -7 days, will result in a 50% refund.
• Canceling under 6 days will result in forfeiture of the full payment. Contact us about rescheduling.

Your Party

How long do I have the party room for?

You have the party room for 2 hours. This includes your set up and pack up time. For example, you could have 15 minutes to set up, 90 minutes for your party activities and 15 minutes to pack up.

Can I purchase additional time?

Yes! Purchase an extra 30 minutes for $50. Once your party has been booked, Please call us to purchase an extra 30 minutes and we will complete the transaction over the phone or in person.

What if I have more than 30 guests?

You can pay regular admission, currently $9 plus tax, for any additional guests. Please note that the maximum people allowed in the party room is 40, (this includes adults, children and infants).

Can I arrive before the start time of my party?

Yes! While you won’t have access to the party room, you can still play until it's time for your scheduled event. You can also play after your event is over.

If I arrive early, do I have access to the party room for setup?

No, the Discovery Center is unable to extend the time of the reservation. Please arrive as close to your set time as possible. We can provide a cart to store your belongings temporarily until the start of your party.

Will Discovery Center staff be available to help with my party?

Discovery Center staff members are available to answer questions and make sure your party room is ready for celebrating! We can provide a cart and help with loading and unloading party supplies. We also clean up, though we appreciate help with putting trash in the cans provided and removing leftover refreshments.

What if we stay past our scheduled time?

We ask you to be ready to leave the room at the end of your scheduled time. If you would like to book a longer party window, please give us a call ahead of your scheduled party date.          On the day of your party will give your group a reminder that you have 15 minutes remaining. If your party extends beyond its scheduled window, we will charge late fees in 15 minute increments.

 

Guest Check In

How do my guests check in for the party?

In order for your guests to check in they will be asked to share the first and last name of the birthday child. Then, they will receive a birthday wristband (adults and children). A team member will be at the front desk to escort them to the party room. If your guests are early, they will be invited to play until the designated in-room party time.

At check in, can my guests use their Discovery Center membership, library tickets or gift admission passes?

Party hosts or guests may not use their Discover memberships, Museums for All discount (WIC or EBT), library passes, gift passes or other promotions to attend a birthday party.

Are my unused admission tickets transferable or able to be used at a later date?

Unused admissions are not transferable to other non-guests.

Can you reimburse me for my unused admission tickets?

Unused birthday admissions are non-refundable.

How long can my guests play at the Discovery Center?

Guests of your party are welcome to unlimited play the day of your party while the Discovery Center is open. With over 15,000 square feet of indoor education exhibits, including science, careers, building, art, and a 4.5 acre certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom, your guests will find plenty to do!

Will my guests be asked to pay for activities, extra playtime and other experiences at the party?

Absolutely not, your guests are our guests! All play and programs at the Discovery Center are included in the price of admission. Your guests won't have to reload game cards or buy more play time to enjoy your party. Their admission is good all day, before or after the party.

Party Decorations and Food

Do you provide decorations?

We do not, but you are more than welcome to bring your own! Decorations may be attached to the orange panels in each room with the push pins provided. Tape and other adhesives are not allowed on any walls in the Discovery Center. Your two hours in the party room includes your decoration and pack up time. Please schedule your party accordingly if you would like extra time for decorating.

Can I bring balloons?

Yes! All balloons must stay in the party room during your event, otherwise they will need to be taken to your vehicle.

What decorations are not allowed?

We do not allow piñatas or open flames (birthday candles are permitted).

Can I see the birthday room before my party?

Yes! We can schedule a quick tour of the birthday party room. Please call us at 785-783-8300 to schedule a time.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, you can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. You can also have your food delivered to the Discovery Center during your scheduled party rental, a party host must present. Our team are not able to accept deliveries or store food onsite.