By Neil Doyle

NORMAL – After 25 years, the Children’s Discovery Museum is still inspiring kids to learn through the power of play.

The Discovery Museum celebrated its 25th anniversary Thursday with former and current board members, staff and the community.

“We are here today to say thank you to the people whose mission, vision, passion and talents decided to come together and figure out a way to build a Children’s Discovery Museum,” said museum director Beth Whisman.

“Ask yourself what am I doing today, that could have an impact like this museum 25 years from now,” Whisman added.

The museum opened in 1994 at the former College Hills Mall, then moved for nine years to Constitution Place, before landing at its current location in Uptown Normal.

The museum has hit many milestones, most recently reaching two-million visitors at its Uptown location.

Whisman also discussed what’s next, such as upgrades to the Luckey Climber and Paint Wall exhibits, and a new space called Healthy Me, which is expected to open next year.

The CDM announced it also has a new partner, Rivian Automotive, who will host the museum’s Pushcart Derby event in 2020.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]