The Tuscaloosa Children’s Hands-On Museum (CHOM), a staple in downtown for almost 40 years, will close its doors on August 1st. The museum is set to transition to the Saban Center, which aims to serve as a fresh learning hub dedicated to discovery, innovation, and lifelong education.
This announcement will kick off a year-long initiative titled “Celebrating 40 Years of CHOM’s History,” featuring monthly highlights on social media and sponsored tributes to honor the museum’s legacy.
“Since its opening in 1986, CHOM has been a cherished destination in Tuscaloosa, providing children with hands-on experiences to grow and play,” stated board chair Liz Obradovich. “We’ve been presented with a wonderful opportunity to relocate to the Saban Center and rebrand, so it’s time to share that we’re closing CHOM.”
CHOM was established in the early 1970s when Helen Warner Hibbard envisioned a children’s museum for Tuscaloosa. In collaboration with Francis Alexander, she opened CHOM in Smith Hall in 1986, moving to its current downtown location two years later.
“My mother was passionate about CHOM and wanted to create a legacy in memory of her father, Cliff Armstrong,” reflected board member Pat Patton. “She enjoyed visiting and seeing all the kids at play. My grandchildren have also had wonderful times learning and playing at CHOM.”
The museum will remain open until next year to allow families to visit and enjoy the exhibitions one last time. A community celebration is on the horizon, with further details to be provided soon.
Meanwhile, the search for Ignite’s inaugural executive director is progressing, with applications being accepted until September 21, 2025. Ignite will feature a maker space, digital media labs, and an immersive science zone, created to merge art with science, nurturing curiosity across generations.