McKenna Children's Museum

McKenna Children's Museum in New Braunfels, Texas stands as one of the most highly rated children's museums in the Texas Hill Country corridor. With 1,565 Google reviews at a 4. 8-star rating, it achieves a level of quality that most museums in any category struggle to reach — children's museums specifically tend to have more mixed reviews as they're difficult to execute well across all age ranges.

Located at 801 W San Antonio St in New Braunfels — approximately 30 miles northeast of San Antonio on I-35 — McKenna Children's Museum is technically close enough to include in a San Antonio family itinerary, particularly for families doing a day trip or driving the I-35 corridor.

The museum features interactive exhibits across multiple areas including science and nature, arts and creativity, construction, cultural exploration, and imagination play. A dedicated infant/toddler section provides age-appropriate stimulation for the youngest visitors. Outdoor play areas extend the experience beyond the traditional museum format.

For families, the practical limitations to note: the museum is closed on Sundays, and operating hours end at 4PM — not a late-night option. Arrive in the morning to get full value from the visit.

New Braunfels has appeal beyond the museum. The town itself has a charming historic square with family-friendly restaurants, and Schlitterbahn water park — one of Texas' most celebrated water parks — is in the same city. Combining McKenna Children's Museum with a Schlitterbahn visit makes for an excellent New Braunfels day trip from San Antonio.