Wonder Universe Children’s Museum Opens in NRV Mall

October 29, 2019. The New River Valley is about to redefine child-like wonder as Wonder Universe: A Children’s Museum held its Grand Opening at the New River Valley Mall on Thursday, November 7

Our museum’s Grand Opening marks the beginning of a thrilling new chapter for the kids and families in our region,” said Sarah Nucci, the museum’s new executive director. “Not only are the current exhibit areas fun and new but we will soon have engaging programs to complement them.”

Museum guests of all ages enjoyed ten new hands-on exhibit areas including: farm to table, veterinary clinic, dental office, a builder’s toolbox, and a 16 ft fire truck – Engine #3 among others. Additional interactive play spaces include an infant/toddler area, art and maker space and Amazing AirPlay, a pneumatic airway exhibit that allows guests to study the power of air.

The museum’s new exhibits were designed with kids in mind as Wonder Universe seeks to educate, amuse and inspire kids and families through play. Nucci, who began work with the museum in September, looks forward to the opportunity to promote the power of playful learning in the New River Valley. “Play is how children learn, and Wonder Universe is here to help inspire kids and families to discover and learn, side by side,” she added.

Kristin Kirk, chair of the museum’s board of directors, cites the support of the community and months of thoughtful planning as being keys to bringing the new museum to life. “It’s been amazing to see so many area businesses, civic groups and volunteers support this endeavor,” she said.

Exhibit sponsors include NRV Pediatrics, Shelor Motor Mile, Real Life Dental, and Stateson Homes, among others. Kirk added, “The volunteers from Blacksburg Breakfast Lions Club and the area Rotary Clubs have been incredibly helpful in getting our new space ready for play, and we could not have opened our doors without the great support and help of the New River Valley Mall and Snyder & Associates!”

The museum’s board of directors and community volunteers have logged over 2500 hours of work in recent months to get Wonder Universe ready to greet its guests. “We can’t wait to see all of the smiling, wide-eyed kids and families as they enter our doors for the very first time,” says Nucci.

Wonder Universe: A Children’s Museum is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit Organization located at the New River Valley Mall in Christiansburg, VA. Hours of Operations are Tuesday through Saturday 9:30a – 6:00p; Sunday 12:00p – 6:00p. General admission is $8 per person. Special events, field trips, and birthdays can be scheduled through the Wonder Universe website located at http://Wonderuniverse.org. All inquiries can be sent to Sarah Nucci, Executive Director at sarahn@wonderuniverse.org

###Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.