CMNEK answers to questions about why a children’s museum in rural Vermont.

  • "It's too expensive for a rural town."

    We're building this campus to create jobs, attract families, and serve as a long-term economic engine for the Northeast Kingdom. Like libraries and hospitals, children's museums offer high returns on investment in community wellbeing.

  • "Nobody will come all the way to St. Johnsbury for a children's museum."

    Families from across Vermont, Quebec, New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts already visit for skiing, biking, and hiking. Our future campus would offer a year-round reason to stay longer and return more often.

  • "Children's museums are just fancy playgrounds."

    Our exhibits are grounded in educational standards and cultural preservation. They support STEAM learning, emotional development, creativity, and career exploration.

  • "There are already museums in Vermont - why another one?"

    No other museum in Vermont is focused on the rural children of the NEK. This museum is by and for our local families, spotlighting our region's history and trades.

  • "It's too ambitious. You'll never raise that much money."

    Large gifts follow clear vision, planning, and momentum. We are already building partnerships and starting small while preparing for a long-term, phased buildout.

  • "Kids don't go to museums anymore - they're all on screens."

    That's exactly why this museum matters. Kids need spaces for real-world exploration, hands-on STEAM, outdoor play, and social connection to balance their digital lives.