A bold new chapter is unfolding for Bellevue’s cultural landscape: KidsQuest Children’s Museum will transform the iconic Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) building into a vibrant center for arts, science, and play. The agreement, currently in due diligence, is expected to close in early 2026.
For twenty years, KidsQuest has provided hands-on, STEAM-oriented learning to Eastside families. Now, placing the museum in the heart of downtown Bellevue in a landmark building designed by renowned architect Steven Holl positions it for even greater reach and impact.
A Legacy of Learning and Place
Founded in 2005, KidsQuest began in the Factoria Mall in response to community demand for a children’s museum on the Eastside. In 2017, it relocated to downtown Bellevue into the former Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art building, doubling its footprint and increasing its capacity for interactive exhibits. Over time, the museum has grown into a regional hub: it now serves more than 200,000 visitors annually, offers over 25 exhibits, and hosts a wide mix of classes, workshops, outreach, and events. Learn more about KidsQuest Children's Museum in our Bellevue Bound Podcast:
"KidsQuest has always taken the right-size steps at the appropriate time for organizational development and with the community as our guide for why, what, when, and how. We could not be more thrilled to further our mission and grow playful STEAM learning opportunities in Bellevue,” says Putter Bert, President & CEO of KidsQuest Children’s Museum.
Meanwhile, the Bellevue Arts Museum, established in 1975, has been Bellevue’s home for contemporary visual art, design, and craft. Since 2001, its downtown building has been a distinctive landmark at The Bellevue Collection, and suspended operations in September 2024 due to longstanding financial difficulties. The agreement between KidsQuest and BAM offers a path forward for both institutions: KidsQuest gains a highly visible central location, and BAM acquires the means to resolve its financial obligations and refocus on its mission in new ways.
A Shared Vision for Bellevue’s Cultural Future
The new KidsQuest location is expected to draw over 350,000 visits per year, nearly doubling its current reach, thanks to its central location along the Grand Connection and proximity to The Bellevue Collection. The museum plans to retain key identity pillars, such as blending arts with science and fostering intergenerational engagement, while scaling its footprint, programming, and accessibility.
Over the next few years, KidsQuest will continue serving visitors at its current location (1116 108th Ave NE) while raising funds, finalizing a design, and planning the conversion.
BAM’s Next Chapter: Honoring Legacy, Building the Future
For BAM, the transition marks an opportunity to return to its roots as a champion of the arts in Bellevue. As it prepares to leave its current home in late 2026, the organization will focus on its signature events and artist programs, including the long-standing Bellevue Arts Fair, one of Washington’s largest and most enduring community festivals.
Shelly Crocker, BAM Receiver, says, “additionally, we are dedicated to establishing an emerging artist program, a tradition from BAM's early days. Finally, BAM is actively seeking a new physical location to house its extensive art library, display a select collection of visual art, and host events that will continue to support art and culture in Bellevue, with more updates to follow.”
Importantly, the sale of the building will enable BAM to pay all creditors in full and reconstitute a board for the nonprofit, ensuring a stable foundation for the future.
Community Endorsement and Cultural Continuity
Local leaders have praised the agreement as a positive and forward-looking collaboration.
“The city is excited to see that the proposed purchase by KidsQuest keeps the Bellevue Arts Museum property on a path to continue as a facility benefitting the public in the heart of downtown,” said Bellevue City Manager Diane Carlson. “We’re especially pleased to see KidsQuest’s commitment as a place where arts and science collide, as well as BAM’s intent to continue the Bellevue Arts Fair and arts programming in the community. This purchase agreement retains the building’s artistic roots and fosters our community’s creative future.”
The Freeman family and Kemper Development Company also played a role in facilitating the transition. “A new home in the heart of downtown for KidsQuest Children’s Museum marks an exciting new moment for Bellevue,” said John Carlson, President of Kemper Development Company. “KidsQuest is nationally recognized as a museum where young children and their families can pursue learning, stretch their curiosity, and expand their creativity from an early age. The family and KDC feel privileged to play a role in bringing this opportunity to KidsQuest and our city.”
