About Us

At Gilbert House Children’s Museum, we believe learning should be an adventure! As a nonprofit dedicated to hands-on, play-based exploration, we provide immersive experiences that spark curiosity, creativity, and discovery. Located in the heart of Salem’s Riverfront Park, our museum has been inspiring young minds since 1989.

Named after A.C. Gilbert—an inventor, Olympic gold medalist, and champion of learning through play—we celebrate his legacy through interactive exhibits and innovative programs. His most famous invention, the Erector Set, serves as inspiration for our 20,000-square-foot Outdoor Discovery Area, where children can climb, build, and explore.

With 29 hands-on exhibits, an expansive outdoor play space, camps, field trips, and educational programs in science, art, and humanities, we offer endless opportunities for children to imagine, create, and grow. Housed in five historic buildings, our museum is more than a place to play—it’s a community where curiosity leads the way.