About the CMA

The CMA is Committed to:

• Serving young children, ages ten and under, and their families through hands-on interactive exhibits, projects, and programs.
• Providing engaging exhibits, projects, and programs that teach cultural understanding, positive social interaction, and celebrate diversity.
• Reaching a broad audience and encouraging exploration, imagination, curiosity, and creativity while learning by doing.
• Meeting and exceeding the Louisiana school curriculum benchmarks.
• Serving as a gateway to other cultural institutions and community programs.
• Supporting a diverse staff and Board of Directors who share a commitment to children and who bring creativity and expertise to the CMA.

The Children’s Museum of Acadiana History:

Inspired by Renee Miller’s visit to the Children’s Museum in New Orleans in the late 80’s, founders and trustees Renee Miller, Mitzi Domino and Marvita Hudson envisioned a museum for children right here in Acadiana. By January, 1990, the Children’s Museum of Acadiana was incorporated as a private, non-profit organization. Through community outreach, the founders began to garner support for the museum project.

After the March, 1993, purchase of the historic Heymann Food Center building at 201 East Congress Street in Lafayette, the museum finally had its permanent home. With strong and enthusiastic community support, over $1.5 million in renovations was contributed in-kind by civic clubs, restaurants, businesses, contractors, architects, plumbers, electricians, decorators, painters, and construction personnel. Due to the generous in-kind contributions, only $100,000 in cash was spent on the renovations. Three years later, the original founders’ vision was fulfilled: the CMA was ready for its grand opening dedication ceremony and has been serving children and their families ever since.

To plan your visit, click here.