Downtown West's City Museum is hard to describe, so maybe we should use its own words: "an eclectic mixture of children's playground, funhouse, surrealistic pavilion, and architectural marvel made out of unique, found objects." Attractions include "Toddler Town," an exhibit with tunnels and a ball pit for tots, and "Enchanted Caves," where visitors can explore tooth-like stalactites and deep caverns.

In fact, the City Museum appeals to so many children of all ages that several recent travelers described this attraction as a must-see museum worthy of multiple visits.

Tickets cost $15 (plus tax) for patrons 3 years and older; visitors 2 and younger enter for free. Admission costs $13 (plus tax) on Friday and Saturday nights after 5 p.m. Additional fees apply for on-site parking and to visit the seasonal rooftop. Other property amenities include restrooms, a gift shop and multiple casual eateries.

To get to the City Museum, drive or use public transportation. Several bus routes make stops nearby, and the Union Station, Civic Center and Convention Center MetroLink stations sit within walking distance. The museum is open between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, visit the City Museum's website.