Families
Looking for fun, creative ways to spend time together? The Cape Ann Museum invites families of all ages to explore art through hands-on making, storytelling, and discovery at our Downtown Campus. From art making and gallery programs with CAM Educators, to special visits from artists, and self-guided activities like scavenger hunts and more, come enjoy time together at the Museum where kids engaging programs encourage young imaginations while creating lasting memories. Join us for a season of creativity, learning, and family fun!
Children 18, and students with a college or university ID, are always free. Second Saturdays are free for all Cape Ann Residents.
Grab a Scavenger Hunt and Explore!
Hands-on activities encourage young and teen visitors to explore the galleries and make interesting connections to their own lives. From scavenger hunts to interactive activities there is always something fun for kids to do!
Cassie Scavenger Hunt – New Each Season. Pick up your copy and go on a scavenger hunt throughout the Museum with Cape Ann’s favorite sea serpent, Cassie.
History, Art and More
Kids love coming to the Cape Ann Museum where it feels like stepping into a giant treasure chest of stories, art, and hands‑on adventures. Every visit invites them to uncover the secrets of the people who shaped Cape Ann, explore artwork from long ago and right now, and even become artists themselves. Whether they’re peeking into history, spotting something surprising in a painting, or making their own masterpiece, the Museum turns curiosity into pure joy — and makes learning feel like play.
Virginia Lee Burton
The Cape Ann Museum holds a spectacular collection of works by Virginia Lee Burton and the Folly Cove Designers including preparatory drawings and mocks ups for some of Burton’s most beloved books like The Little House, Katy and the Big Snow and Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel.
Kids are drawn to the world of Virginia Lee Burton and the Folly Cove Designers because her books and their lively prints turn close-looking into pure delight. Burton’s characters brim with personality, and the Designers’ bold, rhythmic patterns invite kids to slow down, notice shapes, and spot the tiny surprises tucked into each design. Together, they create an experience where stories unfold visually, patterns spark curiosity, and every detail feels like a new discovery—making learning feel playful, creative, and full of wonder.
De Hirsh Margules, Mother Ann Lighthouse, Eastern Point, Gloucester, 1946. Gouache on paper. Gift of Jean M. Horblit, 2002. [Acc. #2002.004.002]
Activities
Gallery Activities
Hands-on activities encourage young and teen visitors to explore the galleries and make interesting connections to their own lives. From scavenger hunts to interactive activities there is always something fun for kids to do!
Cassie Scavenger Hunt – New Each Season. Pick up your copy and go on a scavenger hunt throughout the Museum with Cape Ann’s favorite sea serpent, Cassie.
The CAM Education Studio
Visit the CAM Education Studio, open to the public during regular Museum hours, for self guided art activities, art boxes, puzzles, books and more. Come look through the Museum and then stay to make something.
Second Saturdays
The second Saturday of every month, Museum admission is free to all Cape Ann residents. Join us in the CAM Education Studio for a guided activity for kids of all ages!
For more information about upcoming Second Saturday Activities click here.
Note: Most activities are drop-in, however we recommend checking the Events page for individual events.
School Vacations
Looking for activities over school vacations? Check CAM’s Events page to learn about events over the upcoming school holidays.
(Note: The Museum follows Cape Ann public school vacation schedules.)
Community Events
The Museum hosts festivals and community events throughout the year. Past events include Gloucester So Salty, The Gloucester Public Schools Arts Fest, Juneteenth, Brazilian Independence Day, Indigenous Heritage Celebration, and The Middle Street Walk. Every event includes fun activities for kids of all ages!
For more information about upcoming Community Events visit here.
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