Many of our favorite childhood memories revolve around those first museum visits, whether they were highlighted by trips to the model grocery stores or learning about dinosaurs for the first time. If you’re seeking out a destination in New York that prioritizes a strong approach to childhood learning through adventure and interactive experiences, look no further than The Strong National Museum of Play. From its large collection of toy airplanes to a Reading Adventureland, this museum is a child’s dream come true.
The Strong National Museum of Play is one of the most intriguing museums in the Northeast and has a robust collection of interactive exhibits that draw families from all over the region.
Its exhibits are built around the museum's overall mission of giving children and families access to interactive learning opportunities related to all kinds of history and art collections.
The museum is perhaps best known for being home to the National Toy Hall of Fame, which grows with new honorees each year. So far, 74 toys, including the Game of Life, Hot Wheels, and roller skates have been inducted.
Explore this childhood dreamworld, and you'll be struck with the sheer variety of exhibits that flood you with memories and give children a seemingly endless amount of opportunities to set out on their own adventures.
Check out this incredible model of the iconic neighborhood Sesame Street. Children can whip up a lunch in the Cookie Monster Foodie Truck, meet their favorite characters, and play games with their friends.
The museum's philosophy of learning is largely based on the idea that children learn most effectively when they are active participants in their own learning process, whether it involves diving into history through a game or exploring the wonders of science through experimentation.
The museum even has its own butterfly garden for visitors to explore! Wander through Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden during your trip to the Strong for a truly inspiring experience.
From gaming to dancing to aquarium exploration, you won't find another museum in the whole state with such an unbelievable array of explorations for children to enjoy. It's a pretty entertaining destination for adults, too!
If you’re not able to make a trip to the museum, The Strong also has a variety of educational exhibits online, including histories of women in gaming, pinball, and military strategy video games.
While you’re hanging out around Rochester, you may also want to check out this article . There’s a good chance you’ll enjoy this article on unique playgrounds in the Empire State, too.
Do you have a favorite place to play that you’d like to tell us about? You can tell us about it on our nomination page .
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The Strong National Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square Dr, Rochester, NY 14607, USA