Up, Up, and Away: Discovery Museum’s Big Changes for 2025

As Labor Day approaches, the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum is buzzing with anticipation—not just for the end of summer, but for a beloved annual tradition: the museum’s week-long closure and transformation. In a recent episode of “The Valley Today,” host Janet Michael sat down with Executive Director Dawn Devine and Director of Development and Marketing Tammy Stevenson to discuss the museum’s latest updates, the impact of its summer programs, and the excitement building around its upcoming gala and 30th anniversary.

The conversation opens with a look back at a vibrant summer, where the museum hosted over 40 themed camps led by educators, offering everything from space exploration to chess and even a fairies camp. These camps, which serve children from preschool through sixth grade, are a testament to the museum’s commitment to hands-on, curriculum-based learning. As the school year begins and attendance naturally dips, the museum seizes the opportunity to close for a week over Labor Day, using the time to refresh and reinvent its exhibits.

Dawn shares the philosophy behind this annual reset: “We decided to capitalize on this time and shut down for the week of Labor Day. Each year we make some changes—sometimes huge.” Past years have seen dramatic overhauls, like replacing a beloved ambulance exhibit with an excavator and revamping entire floors. This year, the focus is on creativity and inclusivity. The museum’s studio will become a fully functioning art space, open throughout the school year, where children can experiment with different materials and even paint their own faces. A new Lego area will also be a permanent fixture.

Recognizing the needs of families with young children, the museum is introducing a designated “littles” area on the third floor, complete with a train theme to delight its youngest visitors. On the fourth floor, a quiet, space-themed reading room is being created, featuring a rocket ship, blue lighting, and a large-scale “Lite Brite” for sensory play. This thoughtful approach ensures that children of all ages—and their families—can find spaces that suit their interests and needs.

The episode also highlights the museum’s role as a community hub, drawing 75,000 to 85,000 visitors annually and reaching even more through outreach programs. The team’s dedication to maintaining a welcoming, ever-evolving environment is evident in their hands-on approach to exhibit changes, with staff, board members, and community volunteers all pitching in during the Labor Day transformation.

Looking ahead, Tammy shares details about the museum’s signature fundraising event: the “Up, Up, and Away” gala, set for September 27th. This adults-only evening is not just a celebration but a vital source of support for the museum’s programs and scholarships. The gala’s theme offers a sneak peek at upcoming exhibits, and each floor of the museum is transformed with unique decorations, food, and entertainment. The event also features an auction focused on experiences—like winery trips and birthday parties at the museum—underscoring the institution’s mission to create lasting memories for families.

As the museum prepares to mark its 30th anniversary in 2026, the conversation is filled with gratitude for the community’s unwavering support. Both Dawn and Tammy emphasize the importance of transparency in fundraising, ensuring that donations are used as intended, whether for scholarships or new exhibits. They also invite listeners to visit, take a tour, and experience firsthand the magic that has made the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum a cherished part of Winchester’s cultural landscape.

In a world where play, learning, and community intersect, the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum stands as a beacon of creativity and connection—ready to welcome the next generation of explorers, artists, and dreamers.