The Santa Ynez Valley Children’s Museum is redefining what it means to be a “children’s museum.” The name might be the only traditional thing about it. This entirely outdoor, screen-free haven is a joyful hybrid—part botanical garden, part science camp, part adventure playground—crafted for curious minds and busy little hands.
Founded in 2020 by local mom of three, Ashley Jenkens, the museum emerged from a very real need. “We’re building something we couldn’t find here,” Ashley shared. “A place where kids can just be—exploring, digging, creating, discovering—all in their own way and at their own pace.” Like many parents in the Santa Ynez Valley, Ashley struggled to find engaging, local opportunities for her kids that didn’t involve long car rides or full waitlists. Her answer? Build a space from the ground up—literally.
The numbers speak volumes. American children now spend more than 1,200 hours per year in front of screens and only about six hours in unstructured outdoor play. The Santa Ynez Valley Children’s Museum exists to reverse that trend. Every inch of the space is designed to inspire freedom, creativity, and connection with nature. From a full-size truck that kids are invited to paint, to a mud kitchen, sensory garden, and the beloved “Dino Dig” excavation pit, playtime here is anything but passive.
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of the museum’s design. Several board members and staff members have both professional and personal experience working with children who have sensory processing challenges or special needs. The all-outdoor format was a conscious choice to help reduce overstimulation and provide calm, natural settings where children of all abilities can thrive. Low-sensory nooks, wide paths, and hands-on, open-ended activities create a space that truly welcomes everyone.
While the museum’s primary target audience is children aged 0–12, plans are already in place to involve teens as program assistants and future staff, as well as to expand educational programming for middle schoolers. Local partnerships with schools, homeschool groups, and organizations like Hidden Wings further strengthen the museum's connection to the broader community.
Although pets aren’t currently part of the museum’s permanent features, the team has exciting plans to introduce animal-focused programming, including visiting farm animals and potential beekeeping demonstrations. These additions will deepen children’s understanding of local ecosystems, agriculture, and empathy through direct interaction with living creatures.
With five exhibits already complete and five more in the works—including a water feature, STEAM zone, and a hilltop slide that adults can ride too—the museum is quickly becoming a favorite for families across the Valley.
Backed by enthusiastic support from the Buellton City Council, local businesses, and generous volunteers, the Santa Ynez Valley Children’s Museum is more than just a place to play—it’s a place where kids grow, families connect, and community comes alive.
The Santa Ynez Valley Children’s Museum hosts a free “Play Day” every second Saturday (10 AM–12 PM) at their outdoor site, located at 202 Dairyland Road, Buellton, CA. No registration required—just come to play, explore, and create!