Over 40-year-old Hamilton museum reopening after huge expansion
Published December 30, 2025 at 1:51 pm
A Hamilton museum that served the community for more than 40 years is reopening its doors following a lengthy renovation.
Earlier this month, the city announced that the Hamilton Children’s Museum, located in a Gage Park farmhouse dating back to 1875, will reopen on Jan. 10, 2026, after an extended closure that began when the pandemic hit in 2020.
Traditionally, the facility has offered access to interactive, hands-on galleries and “encourages learning through self-directed play and family-friendly learning opportunities.”
According to the city, the museum closed–along with all civic museums–in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. When local museums reopened in early 2022, the Children’s Museum remained closed for planned exhibit updates. During the same period, however, the city secured funding to significantly expand the facility, leading to a multi-year redevelopment project.
The funding includes $3.52 million from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, $450,000 from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, $2.43 million over several years from Hamilton’s capital budget and $300,000 in ward councillor funding.
Construction began in February 2023, with free programming temporarily relocated to local venues such as the Hamilton Farmer’s Market and libraries.
The redevelopment has expanded the facility from 2,500 square feet to 6,300 square feet, adding outdoor terraces and a secure playyard.
The revamped museum also boasts a fully accessible entrance, elevator and upgraded washrooms, as well as extended operating hours.
In a news release, the city said new exhibit areas offer hands-on experiences, seeker spaces, new classroom space and “expanded programming opportunities to better support school groups, camps and community partners.”
“Hamiltonians have enjoyed our beloved Children’s Museum at Gage Park for generations, and I’m thrilled to see it reopen with more space, greater accessibility, and even more ways for kids to learn through play,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath in a statement.
“This renewal is about investing in our children and in Hamilton’s future. From improved accessibility to new hands-on experiences, the expanded Children’s Museum will give families a safe, welcoming, and inspiring place to explore, imagine and grow together for years to come.”
While the Jan. 10 opening is sold out, regular operating hours begin Jan. 11. Residents with a Hamilton Public Library card can access the museum for free.
Cover photo from the City of Hamilton’s official website