Center In The Square - Arts organization in Roanoke - 1 Market Square SE, USA

We've been to the children's museum twice now. It is hands down the best one we've ever seen. We can spend hours and still not get to all the exhibits. I love how they updated and decorated for the seasons (lots of fun Halloween decorations right now!). Even the baby dolls they can "adopt" to carry around we're decked out in Halloween outfits. As the mother of a 2 month old, along with my older girls, I especially appreciated the nursing/ quiet room. It had everything and more you could wish for when you need to step out for a moment. (Rockers, a bin of extra onsies just in case, a basket of nursing pads, a private area for siblings to play while you take care of baby). 10/10 from us!

TLDR: This is one of the best attractions in Roanoke. Overall this place has endless exploration for kids. Pop into the main lobby on any given day and they might stare at the various aquariums for a half hour. It's always clean, the box office people are friendly and efficient, and the gift shop is nice. [8/10] I've been to the science museum lots of times over the years and there are frequent updates and changes of exhibits. Be sure to allow plenty of time at the touch tank. [9/10] The pinball museum and Starcade are both fantastic if you can hit a day when there aren't huge crowds. If not, they can be both overwhelming with noise and disappointing with wait times. [7/10] The most recent trip was for Kids Square. Wow, what a place! My kids are 9 and 5 and had an absolute blast. They were wide open for the whole 3 hours and not ready to leave. Favorite exhibits were the children's hospital, salon, and the blue "sand" pit with the slides and all the things to scoop and pour with. [10/10]

We had an awesome time at Center in the Square. We looked at the aquariums while waiting to see Elf the Musical! It was a wonderful show and start to the Christmas season!

Center in the Square in Roanoke has long been a cultural hub, offering a diverse array of attractions under one roof. Housing museums like the Science Museum of Western Virginia and the Harrison Museum of African American Culture, it provides a rich tapestry of educational experiences. The Roanoke Pinball Museum, located within Center in the Square, has been a standout attraction, offering a nostalgic journey through the history of pinball machines. The blend of interactive exhibits, engaging displays, and live performances at the Mill Mountain Theatre contributes to the venue's dynamic atmosphere. The iconic Roanoke Star, perched atop Mill Mountain and visible from Center in the Square, adds to the scenic charm. Overall, the Center in the Square has been a vital contributor to Roanoke's cultural scene, providing a space for exploration, learning, and entertainment.

a one of a kind special place! staff is super friendly and very knowledgeable. we got a chance to relive some exciting childhood memories covering all of the years of arcade fun. every pinball machine I have ever played or seen all working and in almost new shape. Video games from asteroids to dragons lair and all in between. this museum will provide multiple days fun and excitement for the entire family. we are going back many more times. surrounding businesses have many restaurants and the people everywhere were friendly and helpful with information. the museum is open 11 to 8 and when you go plan on making a day of your trip. only pay admission fee and play for free on pinball and or video games. they also have rooftop gardens, aquarium, and movie theater for children and adults alike. we didn't adventure into the theater or gardens. there was a private event in the gardens. this is a gem of an adventure that all ages will enjoy.

Kids in the square is the most incredible and wonderful experience for young children I have ever seen. My granddaughter and my family thoroughly enjoyed it.

Excellent! Actually blew my mind at what all they had. Great experience for a toddler with a nice environment. All the areas are interesting and different which keep kids'attention. Can't recommend enough

My family loves this place, lots of fun places to take kids to play, several great places to eat within walking outside, fresh farmers market on occasions nearby. Great place to spend the day.