A New Museum
Finding MOD's Forever Home
Santa Cruz County's children's museum is searching for a new home — and we need your help to find it.
Why We're Moving
Investing in young children is one of the most effective ways to strengthen a community. For over a decade, MOD has been essential to Santa Cruz County families — a place where children build the foundation for lifelong learning and parents find connection and support. We inspire curiosity and the next generation of critical thinkers through high-quality, hands-on STEAM & play-based programming. We currently serve 70,000+ people each year through museum visits, field trips, community outreach, and hands-on science in schools.
In March 2026, the City of Capitola approved new zoning for the Capitola Mall site, opening the door for future proposals to transform the mall from a retail center into housing. Now it's time for the Santa Cruz Children's Museum of Discovery to find our forever home.
What's at Stake
Santa Cruz County is home to nearly 50,000 children, and MOD is the only dedicated children's museum serving these families, providing a rare third space where children learn through play and caregivers find community. Without a permanent home, this resource built over the last decade by thousands of families, educators, volunteers, and supporters — could be lost.
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The Opportunity
We're not just looking for a building. We're looking for a place where MOD can grow: expanded exhibits, deeper school partnerships, more community programming, and outdoor learning spaces that take advantage of everything that makes Santa Cruz County special. A permanent home means stability for the families who depend on us and the capacity to reach many more.
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What We're Looking For
Location
Central Santa Cruz County
High visibility, near public transit and major roads. Priority area: mid-county near 41st Ave. Range: Yacht Harbor to Cabrillo College (Watsonville considered with additional financial support).
Lot Size
1–3 acres
Must accommodate a building and outdoor program space.Ample parking ideal.
Building Size
10,000–20,000 sq ft
Space for exhibits, programs & events, administrative offices, and storage.
Outdoor Space
~5,000+ sq ft
For outdoor exhibits, nature play, or program space.
Zoning
Commercial or cultural use
Must permit museum use.
Accessibility
ADA compliant
Clear ingress/egress for visitors and service vehicles.
Condition
Flexible
Vacant land or existing structure.
Utilities
Robust infrastructure
Adequate power, water, and data for modern museum operations.
Additional Considerations
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Flexibility: We welcome conversations with landowners interested in creating a lasting community legacy through property donation, below-market sale arrangements, or other philanthropic real estate partnerships.
As we build financial support and prepare to secure the right site, we are also open to long-term lease opportunities where aligned.
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Timeline: We are actively searching now and prepared to move forward when the right opportunity arises.
A permanent home isn't just about sustaining what we do; it's about growing to meet the needs of our community. With the right space, MOD can serve more families, expand programming, and become an even stronger resource for the families of Santa Cruz County.
Know of a Property? Let's Talk.
Rhiannon Crain, Executive Director
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A Community-Built Museum
MOD has always been built by this community — from our founding by local families to the beloved exhibits crafted by volunteers. Our new home will be no different. This is an invitation to be part of something lasting: a permanent space where Santa Cruz County's children can explore, discover, and grow for generations to come.
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