Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Minnesota Children's Museum of Rochester will have a new name when it moves to a new location in Apache Mall next year.

A news release from the organization says the new facility will be named Spark and is slated to open in the summer of 2020. The new facility will cover 70,000 square feet of space that will house interactive exhibits that will include a climbing structure, an international bazaar, and a water play experience.

“Rochester is home to a growing number of young families,” said Melissa Brinkman, co-chair of the museum’s community board. “Moving to Apache Mall will allow us to have an even bigger impact for local residents and visitors with our exhibits and programming.”

The shift of location and the new name will also be accompanied by a shift away from a 7-year partnership with the Minnesota Children's Museum. Officials say the new organization will be a separate entity that will enable Spark to serve the distinct needs of the Rochester community.

The news release says a fundraising campaign is underway to cover the cost of the new exhibits and the move to Apache Mall. It also says initial contributions from over 30 individuals, businesses, and other organizations have already put the fundraising effort at 70-percent of its goal of $2.6 million.

The current Children's Museum will remain open through mid-February. Officials with the organization say the River Center Plaza location has hosted over 250,000 visitors since it opened in 2012.

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