Glazer Children's Museum Website Home

Mission + History

Mission

We create and foster engaging, impactful PLAY experiences for children and families to learn and thrive.

Vision

Our vision is a community that values PLAY as the foundation for the learning and development of children and families across generations.

History

The Glazer Children’s Museum’s history dates back to the 1965 opening of Safety Village in Lowry Park and has grown over the years, just like the children we serve. Since the opening of our Downtown building in 2010, GCM has been a landmark along the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk.

Over the years, GCM has become an integral part of the cultural corridor of Tampa Bay’s museums, libraries, theaters, and performing arts centers. Children who play at the Glazer Children’s Museum grow up to be lifelong patrons of arts and culture.

Awards + Accolades

Finalist: Best International Digital Activity | Kids in Museums | 2020
Non-Profit of the Year Honoree | TBBJ ONE Tampa Bay | 2019
Marketer of the Year | AMA Tampa Bay | 2019
Employer of the Year | Mayor’s Alliance for Persons with Disabilities | 2019
Best Place to Have a Birthday Party | Tampa Bay Times Best of the Best Awards | 2019
Finalist | WEDU Be More Awards | 2019, 2017
Finalist | Tampa Downtown Partnership Urban Excellence Awards | 2019
Non-Profit of the Year: Arts, Culture and Humanities | Tampa Bay Business Journal | 2017
Recipient Diversity and Inclusion Award  | FL Division of Cultural Affairs | 2016
Recipient Educational Outreach Award  | WEDU Be More Awards | 2015, 2012

Testimonials

“If you have children please take them to this Museum! So much fun to be had! They will love it!” – Sheila
“Don’t let your child miss this incredible resource.” – Shawn
“This place is incredible. My son is blind and it’s very difficult to take him places where he can touch and play. There is so much to choose from for the kids to do and learn through there playing!” -Tiffany
“Great place for kids to play and learn.” – James
“This place is amazing!!! A fun place for toddlers on up to about 10 years. Educational + Fun = happy parents and happy kids. If you haven’t been, it’s a must.” Maria
“Our son Bennett has special needs, and having a safe environment for him to play is really important for development. Places like GCM provide those opportunities. – Craig
“A mi nena le encantó” – Santiago
“Great museum. Always clean and the staff is great. Plenty of things for the kids to do. Worth the annual membership!” – Samantha

Funding

As a nonprofit organization, the Glazer Children’s Museum relies on private support and donations to provide hands-on learning experiences for Tampa Bay area families. Our funding comes 60% through admissions and special program revenue and needs 40% to come through charitable donations. The Glazer Children’s Museum is so grateful for the support of our corporate and foundation supporters, friends, members, and museum visitors. Please consider joining our efforts by making a tax-deductible gift today and bring the power of play to every member of our community. Donate now.

All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law. Tax ID 59-2637851 | Registration #CH20272. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling 8004357352 within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. Please note the Museum is incorporated under the name The Children’s Museum of Tampa Inc. and operates under the name Glazer Children’s Museum.