Children's Museum of Oak Ridge

The Children’s Museum was started in 1973 as a Girl Scout project by Troop 69 and its leader, Joyce Maienschein. It was formally opened on March 11, 1973 in the library of the former Jefferson Junior High School. In January 1974, the Museum moved to the former Highland View Elementary School. Nine years later, the museum purchased the building and land from the city of Oak Ridge, and now operates in 54,000 square feet with indoor and outdoor exhibits, classes, camps, and events for all ages. The mission of CMOR is to provide fun and diverse educational programs and exhibits emphasizing play and hands-on learning for all ages in arts, science, history, culture, and healthy living, while collecting and preserving objects in a historic Manhattan Project Community. Our Core Values These are guiding principles that represent our highest priorities, deeply held beliefs, and fundamental driving forces. They are the heart of what CMOR stands for in the world. *To conduct our operations with integrity, adhering to the highest ethical standards. *To work with, serve, and learn from people with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, showing respect and compassion for all. *To be stewards of our community’s unique history, preserving it for future generations. *To provide excellent educational experiences – through exhibitions and programs – that are innovative, impactful, engaging, and inspirational. *To be of service to our community and to provide a safe place for people to learn, have fun, and spend quality time with each other.

The Children's Museum of Oak Ridge is a unique and educational resource, providing children of East Tennessee with the opportunity to learn while playing-to create, discover, solve, and experience, within non-traditional, interactive exhibit galleries. We bring teachers, parents, caregivers, and children together in an educational environment where classroom learning is supplemented, imaginations are kindled, and learning opportunities in the arts, sciences, and history abound.