The best thing about a family vacation is not only the bonding time, but the opportunity to expose your children to new experiences and learning possibilities. On anyone’s vacation itinerary when traveling with children should be a visit to a children’s museum. Don’t let the word “museum” be misleading. Today’s museums are much different from the dusty, ancient exhibits you may have visited when you were a child. The museums of today offer a wide array of activities and fascinating exhibits that will not only entertain and teach your child, but involve the adults as well. The following best children’s museums are fabulous destinations for families and are not just for the kids, but also for the kids at heart.
10 Great Children’s Museums To Visit
Children’s museums are designed to provide engaging, educational, and interactive experiences for children. Children’s museums offer hands-on activities that promote learning through play. These interactive exhibits allow children to explore and discover at their own pace. Many children’s museums feature art stations, building areas, and other creative spaces where kids can express themselves and use their imagination.
Glazer’s Children’s Museum Tampa
Tampa, Florida. Sometimes you just don’t want to fight the crowds at Disney. As an alternative, the Glazer’s Children’s Museum provides 170 “interactivities” in 12 themed areas, just for kids.
The Children’s Museum Indianapolis
Indianapolis, Indiana. This museum has it all. It’s the largest children’s museum in the world! They have tons of family programs, indoor exhibits, and outdoor sports experiences. They even have live theater shows and homeschool programs. See more at childrensmuseum.org
Randall Museum San Francisco
San Francisco, California. If your kids are into animals, this is the museum for you! They have live performances and hands-on workshops with a wide array of interesting creatures.
Cachuma Lake Nature Center Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, California. This children’s museum focuses on anthropology and biology. They make it fun and entertaining for the entire family.
Magic House St. Louis
St. Louis, Missouri. The Magic House is a museum that captures the magic of childhood. It is as much fun for adults as it is for children.
Railroad Historical Museum Inc. Springfield
Springfield, Missouri: For the child (and adult) who loves trains! The museum is located inside actual rail cars and has many fun exhibits.
Good Night Magic Castle and Museum Washington DC
Washington, DC: Another magical experience for the whole family, enjoy magic shows and a number of interactive activities.
Heritage Canyon Fulton
Fulton, Illinois : A chance to take children back in time to the 1800s, with a 12 acre nature trail walk dotted with historical buildings.
Boston Children’s Museum
Boston, Massachusetts: Founded by teachers in 1913, this museum introduces kids to the wonders of art and science in innovative ways.
The Enchanted Mansion
Baton Rouge, Louisiana: A life-sized Victorian doll house, this museum encourages the imagination of children and offers a memorable experience. Beautiful architecture and one of a kind exhibits.
Children’s Museums Nashville
Here in Nashville we have some great museums for kids- the Discovery Center at Murfee Spring is just amazing especially for younger kids. The Adventure Science Center is really great too especially for kids that are a little older.
Conclusion
These fun museums may be off the beaten path, but they all offer a unique and exciting experience to kids of all ages. Adults, too, can enjoy the afternoon at the childrens museum, and may be surprised to discover just how much fun is to be had. Since a family vacation is really all about enjoying each other’s company and new experiences, these museums fit the bill nicely. Next time you’re on the road and looking for a fun activity for the whole family, check out any one of the museums above for a day of family entertainment.
Museums foster a sense of curiosity and wonder. They encourage children to ask questions, think critically, and explore new concepts. Exhibits are often designed to align with educational standards, covering topics such as science, art, history, and culture in a fun and accessible way. What do you think are the best children’s museums in US? Are there any good museums for kids in your area?
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