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The Game
Garden

From the dawn of civilization, games and play have been integral parts of human culture. They serve not just as entertainment, but also as vital tools for learning. 

This summer, we invite you to rediscover these super-sized versions of classic games and toys that have delighted generations.

Here are just a few of the GRPM's Games:

Lincoln Logs

Invented in: 1916

Creator: John Lloyd Wright, son of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright

How to Play: Build cabins and other structures with these interlocking logs!

Fun Fact: Because they were made of wood, Lincoln Logs were not affected by metal rationing in World War II, and they peaked in popularity during the 1950’s.

An adult and a little girl play a giant version of Operation.

Operation

Invented in: 1962

Creator: John Spinello, an industrial design student

How to Play: Remove funny bones from Cavity Sam without setting off the buzzer!

Fun Fact: In 2004, for the game’s 40th anniversary, Cavity Sam was given a new affliction, “Brain Freeze,” which was revealed in an episode of the NBC comedy Scrubs.

A young person pours plastic balls into a giant perforated tube. Sticks are inserted into the holes around the tube to catch the falling balls.

Kerplunk

Invented in: 1967

Creator: Eddy Goldfarb and Rene Soriano

How to Play: Take turns removing one stick at a time, trying to keep the marbles from falling through the enclosure on your turn!

Fun Fact: Eddy Goldfarb has invited more than 800 toys and games in addition to Kerplunk.

Keep Playing All Summer Long

The fun doesn't have to end!
Visit The Game Garden any time you want this summer by becoming a GRPM member. Members enjoy free admission, free parking, discounts from the cafe to the Curiosity Shop, early access to events and camps, and more!

U.S. Service Members and Families Free This Weekend!

This weekend, the GRPM extends free admission to all U.S. service members—active or retired—and their families.
 
See our new Veterans display, in partnership with the Michigan Heroes Museum, honoring West Michiganders who served the United States during World War II.
 

This offer includes those serving in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, National Guard, Reserves, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, and NOAA Commissioned Corps, along with up to five family members.

Ask our front desk upon arrival to redeem.

Early Closure Notice

The GRPM will be closing early at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14th, for Cabinet of Curiosities: Grand Slam!

This elevated spring fundraiser explores America’s favorite pastime through Grand Rapids history and celebrates the GRPM’s new exhibit, Play Ball! The World’s Largest Collection of Detroit Tigers Autographed Baseballs.

Planetarium Closure Notice

The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium is closed June 8 through June 15 for the most significant systems upgrade made to our Planetarium in 10 years!

Come back after June 15 to see crisper, cleaner, and more vibrant visuals, and a system capable of showcasing parts of the universe we weren’t able to display before!

Upcoming
Planetarium Closure Notice

The Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium will be closed June 8 through June 15 for the most significant systems upgrade made to our Planetarium in 10 years!

Come back after June 15 to see crisper, cleaner, and more vibrant visuals, and a system capable of showcasing parts of the universe we weren’t able to display before!

Closure Notice

The GRPM will be closed for Easter on Sunday, April 20. We will reopen on Monday, April 21 for normal hours. 

Extended! Become A GRPM Member, Earn $20 in Museum Promo Cash

Get $20 in Museum Promo Cash with the purchase of any membership now through Friday, December 6!

This promo cash can be used towards admission to the Museum, Planetarium tickets, unique local gifts at the Curiosity Shop, and food and beverages at the Museum Cafe.

Museum Promo Cash expires June 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Any unused balance will be forfeited after this date. This card is for promotional purposes only and is not redeemable for cash or Museum credit.

Become A GRPM Member, Earn $20 in Museum Promo Cash!

Get $20 in Museum Promo Cash with the purchase of any membership now through Tuesday, December 3! 

This promo cash can be used towards admission to the Museum, Planetarium tickets, unique local gifts at the Curiosity Shop, and food and beverages at the Museum Cafe.

Museum Promo Cash expires June 30, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Any unused balance will be forfeited after this date. This card is for promotional purposes only and is not redeemable for cash or Museum credit.

Closure Notice

The GRPM will be closed on Thursday, September 12, 2024 for an event. We will re-open on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 9 a.m. 

Late Opening Notice.

On Saturday, May 11, the Museum will open at 12 p.m. due to road closures for the Amway River Bank Run.

Early Closure Notice.

The Museum will close at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1 for Museum Adventure After Dark. Tickets are still available!