Cindy Burrison presents Palm Desert's Children's Discovery Museum reimagined features and future plans

The Palm Desert City Council meeting on April 24, 2025, featured a presentation by Cindy Burrison, CEO of the Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert. Burrison expressed her gratitude for the city's support in the museum's reimagination project, which began a couple of years ago and was completed during the pandemic. She highlighted the museum's reopening on Memorial Day weekend last year and shared insights into its new features and programs.

Burrison showcased the museum's three buildings, emphasizing the hands-on learning experiences designed for children and families. She described various spaces, including the main gallery, toddler area, and a sensory-friendly section, all aimed at fostering family interaction and engagement. The museum has seen a significant increase in visitors since reopening, with March recording its highest attendance of 8,900 guests.

The museum also offers a program called "Museums for All," which provides reduced admission rates for families using EBT cards, reflecting its commitment to accessibility. Burrison detailed the museum's daily programming, including arts and crafts, science activities, and story time, as well as its upcoming summer camps with various themes.

In addition to enhancing accessibility with features like automatic doors and bilingual materials, the museum has achieved certification as an autism center, providing sensory guides and sensory bags for families. Burrison concluded her presentation by inviting the city council to participate in upcoming fundraising events, reinforcing the ongoing partnership between the museum and the city.

Overall, the meeting underscored the museum's vital role in the community and its efforts to provide enriching experiences for children and families in Palm Desert.