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Denton MacKID Dad's List: Museums and Historical Sites

Explore Educational Fun for Kids and Parents in Denton's Rich History

By M. Rausch October 16, 2023


Museums and Historical Places




Hey, all you awesome moms, dads, and caregivers out there with school-aged kiddos, we've got the lowdown on a super cool adventure waiting for you in our Denton, Texas. If you're on the hunt for an educational yet fun-filled day out, look no further! We've scoped out the best museums and historical spots in Denton that are perfect for your little explorers. 

Get ready for a day of exciting history, where learning is a blast, and your kiddos won't even realize they're having a great time. Join us in Denton for an unforgettable family adventure!



πŸ› Denton County African American Museum

Established in 1904, this historic house was once part of a neighborhood known as Quakertown, an African American community in Denton. 

Quakertown thrived in the 1910s but was relocated in the 1920s to make way for the Denton Civic Center Park. The house has been moved again and transformed into a museum near its original location. 

This award-winning museum tells the story of Denton County's African American families and Quakertown's history, housing the papers and medical supplies of Dr. Edwin D. Moten, Denton's first African American doctor. 

The museum offers guided tours and is part of Denton County Museums Historical Park.

πŸ“ 317 W. Mulberry St. Denton, TX 76201

πŸ“± (940) 349-2865

⌚️ Wednesday-Saturday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

🌐 https://bit.ly/3Q8YiLO

πŸ’²FREE


πŸ› Bayless-Selby House Museum

The Bayless-Selby House Museum is a Victorian gem in Denton County Historical Park, just south of downtown Denton. It paints a vivid picture of Denton life at the turn of the century, with highlights like the E. Gabler & Bro. grand piano in the music room, a classy dining table, and an elegant Eastlake-style bedroom suite.

But the story doesn't stop indoors. As soon as you step onto the garden grounds or the wrap-around porch, you're diving into the Bayless-Selby House Museum's rich history. And don't miss the free library on the porch for a fun read and a chat with fellow visitors and locals.

πŸ“ 317 W. Mulberry St. Denton, TX 76201

πŸ“± (940) 349-2865

⌚️ Wednesday-Saturday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.

🌐 https://bit.ly/40boj1D

πŸ’² FREE


πŸ› Denton County Courthouse-on-the Square Museum

The Denton County Courthouse, built in 1896, stands as a cherished icon at the heart of Denton County's downtown square. Restored in 2004, it's a historical gem that faithfully follows architect W.C. Dodson's original blueprints. Crafted from Denton limestone, pink granite from Austin, red sandstone from the Pecos area, and tan sandstone from Mineral Wells, this courthouse is a living testament to the county's history.

Today, the courthouse not only houses the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum but also John B. Denton's grave. Throughout the year, you can catch lectures, exhibits, and community events here, making it a dynamic hub for experiencing our local history.

πŸ“ 110 W. Hickory St. Denton, TX 76201

πŸ“± (940) 349-2850

⌚️ M - F 10:00 AM —  4:00 PM; Sat 11:00 AM —  3:00 PM

🌐 https://bit.ly/3Qr2Y0V

πŸ’² FREE


πŸ› Explorium Children's Museum

The Explorium Children’s Museum in Denton is the ideal place for families to have a blast while learning together in a safe and engaging environment. They're all about nurturing children's curiosity, making community involvement a cornerstone of child development.

At Explorium, kids get hands-on experiences in science, math, tech, arts, and more through interactive exhibits, multimedia, and educational programs. They offer daily admission rates, memberships, and a cool summer play pass for museum entry. Plus, it's an awesome spot to host your child's next birthday bash!

Don't miss their sensory-friendly hours every second Saturday of the month from 9–10am; just remember to RSVP on their website if you're planning to join in.

πŸ“ 5800 I 35, #214 Denton, TX 76207

πŸ“± (940) 320-5444

⌚️ School year hours: 10am–5pm Wednesday–Saturday I Summer hours are 9am–5pm Tuesday–Saturday.

🌐 https://www.exploriumdenton.org/

πŸ’²$5 for adults and children; free for babies held in a carrier or in a stroller. 


πŸ› Denton Firefighters' Museum

The Denton Firefighters’ Museum in the historic Central Fire Station is a journey through 150 years of firefighting history. Explore vintage equipment, uniforms, and fire report logs from the 1800s to the present. The museum is open on weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm, with free admission. You can take a self-guided tour, try on a firefighter uniform, and leave your mark in the guestbook. It's a great way to honor the bravery of firefighters, both past and present.

πŸ“ 332 E. Hickory St. Denton, TX 76201

πŸ“± (940) 349-8840

⌚️ Monday through Friday - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

🌐 https://www.cityofdenton.com/317/Denton-Firefighters-Museum

πŸ’² FREE


Did we forget something? Just shoot us an email at davidr@macaronikid.com and let us know what we should add 😊






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