Colorful digital illustration of signposts labeled 'Tinker' and 'Quest' on a wooden post, with a background of green grass and a blue sky, and a banner at the bottom reading 'Discovery in Action'.

Where Curiosity Becomes Adventure

A hands-on children’s museum for ages 0-10 is coming soon to Northern Virginia.

At TinkerQuest, kids can explore, experiment, and discover, all while having fun! Join us for our free pop-up events and experience the magic of play-based STEAM learning.

Thank You!

We are so grateful to those who attended our pop-up events!

We had an incredible turnout with 118 children diving head-first into STEAM exploration. It was a joy to see so many families connecting, exploring, and experiencing the magic of play-based learning.

Watch our recap video to see the highlights!

What Is TinkerQuest?

Discovery in Action

TinkerQuest is a hands-on children’s museum for ages 0–10, where every child gets to choose their own learning path, and families build incredible memories together.

Through hands-on, open-ended play, kids can explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) in ways that feel natural and fun. We support children's natural curiosity and sense of adventure.

Built for Northern Virginia families, TinkerQuest offers:
→ Screen-free, play-based learning
→ Space to explore and the whole family to enjoy
→ Fun experiences and rotating programming

Because when children are free to follow their curiosity, learning happens everywhere they go.

This is the first stop on a bigger journey—a future children’s museum built for NoVA families.

Meet the Team Behind TinkerQuest

Parents, educators, and builders creating meaningful play experiences

TinkerQuest is led by a team that understands what families need—because we’re part of those families too. Our leadership team brings together decades-long experience in education, technology, public service, and community-building, all with a shared belief that children learn best through play.

A woman with dark hair wearing a blue sweater holds a young child with light hair wearing a white shirt as they look out a window together.

Rachel Wang

Founder of TinkerQuest • Parent • Former management consultant, public servant, and technology executive

As a new mom, I’m always looking for fun experiences to share with my child.

During a trip to my hometown of San Antonio, Texas, I discovered the magic of children's museums and play-based, STEAM learning.

My baby was only 10 months old at the time, but entertained us both with music play, bubbles, and balls in the force and motion lab.

I knew I needed to bring this joyful learning experience to Northern Virginia and quickly got to work—bringing a team together who had the expertise and passion to build an amazing space where families can play, learn, and connect.

A woman standing in front of a classroom holding an open book and smiling, with her right hand raised. Children are seated at tables in front, with art supplies and small figurines on the tables. Large windows in the background with a snowy landscape outside.

Katie Blythe

Director of Exhibits and Education at TinkerQuest • Parent • Educator and artist

I’m an educator and artist who has worked with the public my whole career. I began my career as public school teacher and set designer, before pivoting to museums. While most recently the Education Director for Coggeshall Farm Museum in Bristol RI, I have also worked at Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and Norfolk Botanical Gardens.

I love developing education programs, exhibits, and teams that support local families, teachers, and students through hands-on, play-based STEAM learning.

Help Us Build Something Amazing

TinkerQuest is growing, and your support helps us bring more interactive exhibits, pop-up events, and eventually a permanent children’s museum to Northern Virginia.

Every contribution goes toward creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for children and families.

If you believe in playful learning, community spaces, and sparking curiosity, we’d love your support.

Support the future of hands-on learning in our community!