The construction zone is clear. Children’s Museum of Denver reveals its $16.1 million indoor renovation to the public on Friday. The unveiling comes just months after the museum debuted its 30,000-square-foot ode to the outdoors, Joy Park, in June.

We knew the exhibit plan: hydration, energy (wind, rockets, etc.), a nearly four-story climbing structure, and a “box canyon” climbing area for little explorers. Details in the overhaul weren’t spared as the sleek teaching kitchen dons pint-size hand-washing stations equal in stature to the tiny front door at the museum’s entrance. The open lobby and expanded cafe are gathering points overlooked by a second-story window where blossoming artists can paint the clear glass for all to see in the art studio, which welcomes messes in paint and clay.

Based on the squeals of excitement during the museum’s soft opening, the 19-month wait was worth it. The additions appeal to children of all ages—from confident crawlers to elementary school students. The exhibits are immersive, new, and shiny, and their arrival also provides an unexpected benefit: The museum’s classic favorites are less crowded. The once-gridlocked Kinetics! space was easy to navigate, and there wasn’t a line to sit in the coveted driver’s seat of the fire truck.

As the winter begins to grip the Mile High City, there has never been a better time to get reacquainted with one of Denver’s favorite kid spots.

Follow assistant editor Lindsey R. McKissick on Twitter @LindseyRMcK.