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Tourism
Impact
Children’s museums have a significant impact on tourism, contributing to the local economy, community identity, and family-focused attractions.
REGIONAL FAMILY DESTINATION
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Family Destination
Children's museums have been shown to attract families and encourage longer visits, especially when combined with trips for sports tournaments, medical appointments, or regional shopping. This makes Medford a more appealing destination for extended stays and holidays compared to its neighboring cities.
Education Tourism
Children's museums focus on creative learning, science, history, and local culture. This makes them a great addition to the broader spectrum of educational and cultural tourism. Visitors are often drawn to destinations that offer unique learning experiences for their children, thus increasing tourism related to education and culture.
INCREASED OVERNIGHT STAYS
Increased Visitation
The Children's Museum of Southern Oregon saw a 20% increase in visitors its first year after relocation, and a conservative 3-5% annual growth in subsequent years. The indoor environment also provides a “smoke proof” attraction in inclement weather, an increasingly important option in wildfire-prone southern Oregon.
Increased Overnight Stays
As the only Children's Museum serving all of southern Oregon, families travel into Jackson county regularly for sports tournaments, medical appointments, or regional shopping and the Children’s museum encourages extending length of stay including overnight.
Increased Local Spending
boosting the hospitality sector-hotels, restaurants, and other businesses benefiting from foot traffic. Museums may partner with local businesses, providing combined ticket offers or promotional packages that encourage tourists to explore more of the area, boosting the local economy.
Shoulder Season Support
The children's museum increases tourism during off-peak seasons. Indoor activities, especially those designed for children, can draw visitors to a city during colder months or times when other outdoor attractions are less appealing. By offering a blend of education, entertainment, and community engagement, children's museums are a key piece of local tourism infrastructure, driving economic benefits while enhancing the cultural landscape.
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Downtown Revitalization
Increased Downtown Traffic
Children's museums attract families, school groups, and tourists, increasing foot traffic in the downtown area. This influx of visitors directly benefits surrounding businesses such as cafes, restaurants, and retail stores, leading to higher sales and greater economic activity. As families explore the area before or after their museum visit, it stimulates local commerce and supports a thriving downtown environment.
Historical Building Utilization
Many children's museums are housed in repurposed historical buildings, preserving architectural heritage while giving the space new life. By transforming the iconic Carnegie Library and revitalizing Alba park with a new audience, the Children’s Museum has created a vibrant hub in the southside of downtown Medford. This reuse of historical buildings not only saves them from decay but also enhances the aesthetic appeal and character of the district.
Downtown Beautification
Our well-designed children's museum has become an architectural focal point, sparking further downtown beautification efforts. The development and renovation often leads to public investment in nearby infrastructure—such as improved streetscapes, parks, and plazas—creating a more attractive and family-friendly environment. These improvements uplift the entire neighborhood, making it a more inviting place for residents and visitors alike.
Special Event Venue
Children's museums are fantastic venues to host special events, workshops, seasonal programs, and community gatherings, bringing regular activity to the downtown area. These events draw both local families and visitors, further increasing downtown engagement.