Camps
& Classes
Camp Curious
This Summer, campers will experience the Grand Rapids Public Museum like never before during Camp Curious. Pre-K through high school campers will explore the wonders of history, science, culture, and more through a variety of one and multi day camp options. With artifact explorations, hands-on experiences, behind-the- scenes adventures, exciting experiments, and creative crafts; campers will enjoy an immersive and unique camp experience.
Pricing varies, starting as low as $40 for single-day camps, with discounts available for family and grandparent members.
Camps are available by the grade level students will be entering in the Fall of 2025.
Family and Grandparent Member registration opens January 31, 2025 at 9 a.m.
Not a Family or Grandparent Member? Become one today!
Registration for the general public opens February 15, 2025 at 9 a.m.
Contact Us!
Please reach out to campcurious@grpm.org with any questions.
Multi-Day Camps: Grades 1-3
The Art of Nature
Explore the beauty and creativity that abounds in the natural world! This session introduces a variety of art techniques while exploring the Museum’s Natural Science exhibitions and beyond! Campers will marvel at the patterns, colors, shapes, and textures while making connections to everyday objects influenced, and inspired by nature.
Builders and Makers
What does it take to be an inventor? What do engineers do? Learn this and so much more as you explore a variety of building materials and complete building challenges. Test your problem-solving and creativity skills during this fun week of building and making!
Fossil Hunters
Dig into the mysteries of the Earth! Fossils tell a story about our exciting geological past. Campers will become junior paleontologists as they learn about, discover, and create fossils. In this camp, you will excavate cookie fossils, examine dinosaur poop, and investigate fossils from our Museum Collection. Let’s dig into a fun week!
LEGO® Bricks Adventures
Drawing inspiration from the Museum, campers will create their own original LEGO® creations. From building toys to creating amazing animals, campers will test their creativity, problem-solving, and building skills. Get ready to experience this familiar building toy like never before.
River Explorers
The Grand River is home to more than 90 different kinds of fish! In this camp, we will explore the different creatures that call our river home. Discover where water comes from, design solutions for pollution, and create fun art projects inspired by this amazing ecosystem. Get ready to splash into a fun week of learning!
Space: The Final Frontier
Learn about space like never before as you create models, conduct experiments, and enjoy a special visit to the Chaffee Planetarium. You will even learn how to identify stars in your backyard. Prepare to build your own spacecraft and create cool celestial-inspired art projects. This week of camp will be a blast!
Time Travelers
Experience history like never before as you step back into 1890s Grand Rapids. Explore our Streets of Grand Rapids, interact with shop owners, go shopping for supplies, complete an AR mission, and create your own printmaking project. Campers will compare the past to the present and learn how kids lived over 130 years ago!
Multi-Day Camps: Grades 4-6
Culinary Laboratory
Campers will learn about the science of food, now and in the past. This learning lab will explore topics such as the history of tools and appliances, food preservation like canning, and the amazing chemical reactions that occur in the kitchen.
July 22- 24, 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Digging Deep: Fossils, Rocks, and Gems (New!)
Uncover the treasures beneath your feet as you learn about the fascinating worlds of geology and paleontology. The camp will be packed with unique experiences from examining unique specimens from the Museum’s Collection and conducting interesting experiments, to creating art inspired by gemstones. Campers will also get the chance to meet the GRPM’s science curator Dr. Cory Redman. This camp rocks!
June 17-19, 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Exploring Space
Prepare for a mission to a new, unexplored planet as you create landing gear, engineer tools, and test for life. You will learn about the planets, constellations, and space exploration. You will also get the chance to visit the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium. Blast off into a great week of learning!
July 15- 17, 9 a.m. - noon
Incredible Innovators
Put your engineering and creativity to the test as you complete a variety of challenges. Learn how circuits work, experiment with robotics, and use found materials to invent solutions to real-world problems. If you enjoy tinkering and trying new things, this camp is for you!
July 8- 10, 9 a.m. - noon
LEGO® Bricks Masters
Experience LEGO® like never before. Create your own minifigure, solve challenges, and create builds that move. You will explore the Museum to find inspiration for your next creation and learn about simple machines. Explore science and engineering principles as you create amazing builds.
July 15- 17, 1:30 p.m- 4:30 p.m.
Mars: Human Future
Mars, is a dry, distant desert, or humanity’s future home? Long has the allure of Mars engrossed us here on Earth, motivating the ascent of orbiting satellites and beloved rovers while inspiring countless tales of science fiction along the way. Mars: Human Future will challenge campers to tackle authentic obstacles facing a human presence on the planet. From the launching of spacecraft equipped for the extended voyage to the safe and secure landing on the dusty Martian terrain, campers will mirror the critical thinking and cooperation skills employed by scientists and engineers to confront and conquer these challenges that afflict the journey from our blue world to the red planet.
July 8-10, 1:30 p.m- 4:30 p.m.
Museum Makers
What does it take to create an exhibit at the GRPM? Meet the teams behind our exhibits and learn how to create your own! Campers will dive into the history of museums, investigate artifacts and specimens, explore the archives, and work with a team to create a mini-exhibit to be showcased on the last day of camp.
July 22-24, 9 a.m. - noon
Nature's Palette
Nature and art come together for an amazing week of exploration and creation. Explore art techniques as you create masterpieces inspired by the Museum’s Natural Science collection. You will be amazed at the incredible patterns, textures, and colors you will find in the world around you.
August 5- 7, 1:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Predator and Prey: Nature's Survival Game (New!)
Dive into the wild world of predators and prey! In this hands-on camp, campers will explore how animals in both land and marine ecosystems survive in the ultimate battle for survival. Investigate the unique adaptations of predators and the clever strategies of prey as you study real-life animals, from sharks to reptiles. Through exciting engineering challenges, they’ll design and create tools or models that mimic nature’s survival techniques. this camp is an adventure in discovering the balance of nature and how life thrives in the wild.
This camp is a collaboration between Van Andel Education Institute (VAEI) and the GRPM. Instruction will be held at the GRPM July 28 & 29, and at VAEI on July 30 and 31.Â
July 28- 31, 9 a.m- 11:30 a.m.
Watershed Wonders
The Grand River plays a huge role in our community and state. Explore the past, present, and future of this watershed as well as the role you play in protecting this resource. You will design solutions for pollution, test water quality, explore food chains, and examine the tiniest creatures that call the river their home. Prepare to study real samples taken from the Grand River and learn to look at this resource in a new way!
August 5- 7, 9 a.m- noon
Young Wizards Academy
Don’t miss the GRPM’s acclaimed Young Wizards Academy at the Camp Curious School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You will enter your favorite book series as you get chosen by a wand made on our lathe, sorted into a Museum house, and compete for house points. Harness the power of imagination to create potions, craft your own mandrake, study the stars and meet fantastic creatures. Campers are encouraged to come dressed for the part.
Multi-Day Camps: Grades 7-9
Curating Creativity
Explore the GRPM with an all-access pass behind the curtain! Meet the teams that run the Museum and learn about their jobs, dive deep into the Museum’s archives, and learn what it takes to create an exhibit. You’ll put your learning into action as you work with a team to create a mini-exhibit to be showcased on the last day of camp.
July 14- 17, 9 a.m. - noon
Eco-Chic: Designing Fashion with Nature in Mind (New!)
Get a behind-the-scenes look into the GRPM’s original Fashion and Nature exhibit, discovering how designers draw inspiration from the natural world and the impact of fashion throughout history. Through hands-on activities and engaging discussions, campers will learn about sustainable fashion, and the environmental impact of the fashion industry. Campers will get to channel their creativity by designing and crafting their own wearable fashion pieces inspired by the colors, textures, and patterns found in nature. It’s a perfect blend of art, science, and style!
June 17- 19, 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Digital Me
Explore the future of Digital Museum Technology with behind-the-scenes access to our next-generation tools and devices. Using computer code and design thinking, you’ll be able to leverage the Museum’s digital collection to build the next generation of interactive exhibits. We will scan Artifacts in 3D, use AI to generate content, build multiplayer mobile experiences, and customize a 3D globe to make your own Museum metaverse.
July 29-31, 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Kitchen Crash Course (New!)
Join Chef Lauren for a one of a kind culinary camp at the Museum. This hands on camp blends food science and creativity. Campers will explore the science behind everyday meals, learn how ingredients work together, and experiment with flavor. They will put their new learning to the test as they create their own signature dish combining the skills and knowledge they gained during the week. Whether you are a budding chef or just love to cook, this camp is the perfect way to unleash your culinary potential!
August 5-7, 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Museums in Focus: A Photography Journey (New!)
Grab your cameras! The natural history of Grand Rapids and the Museum Collections serve as inspiration for campers to create their own photographic masterpieces. Explore the Museum and surrounding area while interacting and learning from professional photographers. Campers will learn the basics of photo editing, photo effects, portrait, landscape, and urban photography, and spend some time with Museum curators learning about photographing objects in the Museum’s collection. On the last day, campers will share their favorite images with family and friends through a printed exhibit display. Cameras can be borrowed from the Museum or brought from home.
June 23- 26, 9 a.m.- noon
Planetarium Masters
Are you a stargazer or have you dreamed of exploring deep space? Work side by side with planetarium experts to learn about planetary topics and develop a show for the GRPM’s Chaffee Planetarium. Campers will present their planetarium masterpieces on the last day of camp.
July 21- 24, 9 a.m.- noon
Remarkable Mathematics (New!)
From building bridges to managing money, mathematics underscores many of the structures and processes that permeate our daily lives. Yet, is that the extent of its potential? In this new Camp Curious experience, campers will prospect intriguing and unexpected applications of mathematics. From the art of M.C. Escher to the games of Martin Gardner, Remarkable Mathematics will broaden campers’ numerical horizons as they delve into the quantitative facets of artistic expression, recreation, and more.Â
July 29- 31, 9 a.m.- noon
Single Day Camps: Pre-K & Kindergarten
Amazing Animals
Calling all social butterflies and eager beavers! If you love animals, this camp is for you! Learn about all sorts of amazing animals as you explore what they eat, where they live, and the role they play in our world. You will love seeing interesting specimens from our collection and exploring our West Michigan Habitats exhibit.
Be the Builder
From bricks to blocks to boxes building materials are all around us. The GRPM is budding with construction to inspire future engineers and construction workers. What can you create? Grab your hard hat and get ready for a fun day of building. Learn what it takes to be a builder and try your hand at building using a variety of fun materials. If you like to tinker and create, this camp is for you!
Bug Buddies: Exploring Insects (New!)
Buzz into adventure! Campers will dive into the world of bugs by exploring the Museum’s West Michigan Habitats Exhibit, where explorers will discover where insects live and how they help our world. With hands-on activities, stories, crafts and lots of learning, your little one will have a “buzzing” good time discovering the amazing world of insects!
Dream it, Build it, LEGO® Bricks
Explore different types of LEGO® bricks as you create your own amusement park with the rest of your team. Learn how to make projects that move. Grow your creativity and problem-solving as you create fun projects!
Fin-Tastic Ocean Adventures (New!)
Let’s splash into a fun day of ocean exploration as we learn about Finny the whale and his friends that can be found in the deep blue sea. With sea-sational stories, imaginative play, and hands-on activities this camp is going to be fun.
Fun with Fossils
What are fossils? What do paleontologists do? How do we learn about dinosaurs? Learn the answers to these questions and so much more as you dig up fossils and create fun art projects inspired by our favorite prehistoric creatures. Get ready for a dino-mite day!
Junior Engineers
Junior Engineers will build and solve problems as they explore the role of architects and engineers in our world. Help your favorite fairytale characters solve problems, create tasty towers, and create your own loopy rollercoaster.
River Critters
Beavers, sturgeon, and turtles..oh my! Learn about these critters and so many more as you explore the Grand River and the animals that call it home. Dive deep into your learning as you examine our West Michigan Habitats exhibit, create art projects, and touch real specimens from our collection.
S is for Space
Blast off into a fun day of space exploration! Experience a show in our Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium, create celestial crafts, and try your hand at creating your own space vehicles. Enjoy an amazing astronaut adventure.
Single-Day Camps: Grades 1-3
Engineering Curiosity
Calling all builders and makers! Flex your creativity and problem-solving skills as you design your own creations and engineer solutions to problems. From recycled materials to fun toys, you will test and explore a variety of materials. You will be amazed at what you can create!
Flying High: Animal & Aviation Adventure (New!)
Soar into a day of adventure at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Campers will learn how animals like birds, bats, and insects take to the skies and discover the science behind flight. They’ll create their own flying projects, and explore Museum specimens and artifacts including the amazing Driggs Skylark. Campers will take off on a day of soaring fun and discovery!
LEGO® Adventures
Campers will draw inspiration from the museum as they create amazing LEGO® brick creations. From machines to animals, the museum is home to many unique artifacts to spark your creativity. You will be amazed at what you can create.
Play with Your Food (New!)
If you like to play with your food, then this is the camp for you! Explore topics like edible sculptures, vegetable shapes for art and architecture, dumplings from different cultures, and experimenting with recipe variations. Campers will learn about the importance of ingredients and the fun of experimenting with new foods!
Underwater Mysteries (New!)
Dive into the wonders of the ocean in this fin-tastic camp. Learn about some fierce and adorable animals that call the ocean home. Chomp into some fun ocean crafts, learn about the science of the sea, and get up close to some Museum specimens. Grab your snorkel and get ready to splash into a day of fun.
Make Some Noise! (New!)
Explore some of the interesting instruments that are part of the Museum’s collection and learn about the science of sound. You will also get the chance to experience the Museum’s largest instrument, The Mighty Wurlitzer Organ! You will also get the chance to create your own instrument. Get ready to make some noise!Â
World of Bugs
Did you know some caterpillars are camouflaged as snakes or even bird poop? Learn all about the adaptations that help insects survive in their world. Enter the world of bugs as you learn the important role they play in our world and even the food you eat! Become a pollinator and complete fun science experiments and beautiful art projects inspired by the world of bugs!
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Refund Policy
The GRPM may cancel camp with insufficient enrollment or for any emergency reason; registrants will be notified and given a full refund. There are no refunds after the start of class. Campers are not enrolled until complete payment is received. The GRPM will not prorate or offer make-up days for student absences. If campers need to cancel their registration, the Museum will provide a full refund if it is two weeks or more before the start of the Camp session. The Museum will offer a 50% refund on cancellations one week prior to a scheduled Camp date. No refunds will be given for cancellations less than one week prior to the Camp’s start date.
Family Handbook.
Every summer, the Museum offers camps for preschool through high school students. Some camps are offered each year while others are specific to the exhibits in the Museum. Some of our popular themes include: fossils, slime, LEGO®, watersheds, and space. We offer one day camps on Mondays and Fridays and three day camps from Tuesday to Thursday. We host AM (9am-12pm) sessions as well as PM (1:30-4:30) sessions. Our goal is to open up the Museum as a learning lab to inspire curiosity.
The GRPM may cancel camp with insufficient enrollment or for any emergency reason; registrants will be notified by a camp director via email and given a full refund. There are no refunds after the start of class. Campers are not enrolled until complete payment is received. The GRPM will not prorate or offer make-up days for student absences. If campers need to cancel their registration, the Museum will provide a full refund if it is two weeks or more before the start of the Camp session. The Museum will offer a 50% refund on cancellations one week prior to a scheduled Camp date. No refunds will be given for cancellations less than one week prior to the Camp’s start date.
Check in will take place on the first floor at the table set up by
the A is for Auto exhibit. This table will open 15 minutes prior to
the start of the camp session. Morning sessions start at 9am and
afternoon session begins at 1:30. Campers will check in, receive
a camp shirt, and be instructed where their classroom is by
museum staff. If another adult will be picking up your camper
from camp, inform the camp instructor so that they can make
note of the change. Doors to the camp classrooms will open 15
minutes prior to the start of camp. This ensures camp instructors
have adequate time to prepare for the best camp experience
possible.
The GRPM’s parking ramp is located behind the Holiday Inn and across the street from the Blue Bridge. The parking ramp offers a 30 minute drop off and pick up window. This will offer adequate time to drop off or pick up your camper without having to pay for parking.
Campers should bring a water bottle and a peanut-free snack for snack time. Campers are also encouraged to wear comfortable shoes to walk around the museum and participate in possible outdoor activities. Please encourage your camper to leave electronics, toys, valuables, money, and trading cards at home for safe keeping. The GRPM is not responsible for any lost items. Items that are left at camp will be brought to the security office where they can be picked up. Items left beyond the summer camp season will be donated to local charities.
Campers are required to be able to use the bathroom independently. We are not authorized to assist campers with toileting needs. If your child has health concerns or requires additional support in this area, a parent or another adult is encouraged to stay with the camper.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is committed to providing a safe and fun learning environment for all of our campers. If a camper’s behavior is disruptive or unsafe to the Camp Curious program or experience of other campers, the following steps will be taken. Disruptive and unsafe behavior include but are not limited to: bullying, inappropriate language or actions, and destruction of Museum property.
- The camp instructor will pull aside the camper to talk about the disruptive behavior and remind them of camp expectations.
- If the behavior continues, the instructor will contact a camp director. The director will pull the camper aside to discuss what has been going on in camp. The parent/guardian will also be called and informed of their campers choices and the negative impact it is having on the camp.
If the unsafe or disruptive behavior persists, the camper will be removed from the camp by the camp director and the parent/guardian will be asked to come pick up the camper.
Prior to removal from camp, staff will make every effort to
provide an opportunity for the child to be successful in the
program. If a camper’s behavior posses an immediate danger
to themselves, other campers, or staff; the camper will be
sent home immediately. Examples of dangerous behavior
include: Hitting, kicking, biting, running away from the
group, or using objects as a weapon. If a camper is removed
from camp for behavior reasons, no refund will be issued.
First aid kits are located in each classroom and throughout the museum. If a minor accident or injury occurs such as a bump or scrape, the parent/guardian will be notified at the time of pick up. If the accident or Injury is serious (head injury, excessive bleeding, broken limb. etc) the parent/guardian will be notified immediately and museum security will run an accident report. In the event that a camper needs to go to the hospital via ambulance, a staff member will accompany the child to the hospital until the parent/guardian arrives.
Camp Curious staff is not allowed to administer medication. If your camper requires an epi-pen or inhaler, make sure that your camper brings the required medication in their camp bag and inform the instructor.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is not a nut free building. We encourage campers to bring nut free snack and we will inform families at drop off if food is being used during camp for learning activities. If your child has an allergy, please communicate that with the instructor on the first day of camp.
The Grand Rapids Public Museum is committed to making all guests feel welcome.