The Museum of Children’s Art, AKA MOCHA, has a convenient central location in Oakland, and we are excited to share the who, what, where of this wonderful art space so other East Bay families can enjoy.
WHO is MOCHA best for?
Children 18 months to 10 years old are welcome to get creative with a caregiver during drop-in open studio hours the third Saturday of each month (though advance tickets are recommended to reserve your spot). They also have art camps during breaks and the summer, as well as art parties.
WHAT can they do there?
MOCHA’s teacher-artists design interactive art stations for families to explore, and the activities change frequently so each visit can feel a little different. From painting and sculpture to mixed media, storytelling, and collaborative art-making, each visit feels unique. During our visit, they were introducing several new hands-on exhibits that encouraged kids to experiment, build, and create.
Families are welcome to move through the studio at their own pace, stopping wherever something sparks curiosity. My kids were especially fascinated watching the 3D printer in action as it created miniature skyscrapers and buildings. There was also a light table where kids could experiment with shapes and patterns, a large paint wall for a collaborative community art project, and a pendulum painting station. Several tables were set up with instructions and materials for kids to design artwork that they could take home as well.
For kids who needed a break from making art, there were other creative play options too. Children could build with blocks, perform their own shows at a small theater, or design a marble track and test it out. There’s even a cozy chill-out corner for when little artists need some downtime, with books to browse and soft space for younger kids to crawl and explore.
Plan your Visit
Location: MOCHA,1221 Broadway LL-49, Lower Level of Oakland’s City Center
​Hours: 10 am-2 pm
Online Admission: $12.00 per child (1-17) | $5.00 per caregiver (18+); $1.00 – For EBT Cardholders ($1.00 per family member of the household)
BART: MOCHA is located just outside the 12th Street City Center BART Station
Parking: If you want to drive and park in a lot, MOCHA staff suggest heading a block or two into Chinatown as the paid lots there can be about $2/hour and the paid lots nearest MOCHA are as much as $12/hour.
Food: There is no cafe at MOCHA, but there are a few food options in Frank Ogawa Plaza and City Center.
