Mission

Ignite a community of compassionate problem solvers
through intentional and inclusive play.

The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, a Smithsonian Affiliate, opened in 2009 to provide an inclusive, explorative space for children across the Upstate to learn, play, and connect with the community. With a main location in downtown Greenville and a satellite young-learner space in Spartanburg, TCMU’s high-touch model has met extreme and unique challenges with the onset and spread of COVID-19. Nonetheless, in the true spirit of creative problem-solving, the museum staff and leadership have truly lived up to their mission to “create a world where no barrier is bigger than a dream.”  With a deep desire to provide continuous service to the community, TCMU immediately pivoted in response to the viral threat by moving to digital storytime and clubhouse activities via Social Media, mobile birthday parties, and online resources.   In accordance with CDC guidelines, summer camps were scaled back to allow for social distancing, with the highest priority on cleaning and sanitation. These health and safety regulations were developed, tested and adjusted as needed, all while remaining responsive to culture movements and providing allyship with the community.  The good news? The hard work, thoughtfulness and research has paid off. TCMU reopened to the public on July 7th. As you can imagine, though the Museum is open, things do look a little different to ensure the health and safety of all visitors:

• Masks are required for all adult visitors
• Masks are encouraged, but optional, for children
• TCMU staff are required to wear masks at all times and have their temperatures taken upon arrival to the museum  
• New sanitizing wipe stations have been installed throughout the museum 
• Frequent sanitation and cleaning schedules have been implemented
• High-touch toys and props have been reduced on the museum floor, and various exhibitions that are deemed difficult to keep safe have been closed

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But there is no less fun, learning, and creativity to be explored at TCMU! As a non-profit, TCMU depends on donations and entry fees to continue to provide this invaluable resource to the Upstate community. If you are unable to visit, you can donate in any amount here. Or, if you are able, beat the South Carolina heat and take a young mind (or two) to TCMU for one of the best experiences in the Upstate!   

Hours of operation:

T-F: 10-3;

Sat: 10-5;

Sun: 11-5 

Website: https://www.tcmupstate.org/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TCMUpstate

TCMU seeks to ignite a community of compassionate problem solvers through intentional and exclusive play and create a world where no barrier is bigger than a dream!

Information/Sales: 864-233-7755