Strong National Museum of Play

Kid Tips

Babies: The museum is full of bright colors, big spaces, and lots of pint-sized things for them to touch. Pick a contained spot and let them explore until they're tired. They'll be fascinated by the butterflies -- hold them in your arms to give them a better view. If you need a quiet spot away from the hubbub try the discovery garden out front.

Toddlers & Pre-K: There are plenty of well spaced and jam-packed "Make it and Take it" stations around the museum where kids can try their hands at arts and crafts. Be prepared to sit awhile. Sesame Street, the kid-sized replicas of planes, boats, and more, and the super market could easily take you a day to fully enjoy. To avoid a time-to-leave meltdown, consider saving the carousel (located next to the entrance/exit) until last. Give them a ride and then usher them out the door. Do it quick or they'll spy the gift shop!

School-Age Kids: Older kids like the Reading Adventureland area, where favorite fairy tales are larger than life. The collection of Barbies and G.I. Joe figures on the second floor are also popular. And just try to get them out of the dance lab, where they can watch themselves in neon shadow form doing everything from the jitterbug to the funky chicken.

Pre-Teens & Teens: Outside of a nostalgic look back (Sesame Street) or way back (there's Pac Man to be played on an Atari upstairs), teens will not be engaged.

Planning Notes

• There's more upstairs and around the corner. While most of the active fun is in the center of the first floor, make sure to explore the nooks of this large building. Older kids (and parents) will like the National Toy Hall of Fame collection upstairs (including a tribute to G.I. Joe and Barbie). And while the recent addition of the Dancing Wings Butterfly exhibit -- with hundreds of live butterflies at every stage of development (separate admission ticket $3) -- could be easily missed, make time to seek it out.
• Pack a lunch or go for a stroll. Some food is available on site, but most of it is fast food and a bit pricey. Pack snacks and step outside for a nibble and some fresh air on the grounds.
• Not a pit stop. Once they are inside your kids aren't leaving, so wear comfortable shoes and bring your patience. Consider mapping out your approach ahead of time and then steering young ones around areas that aren't on your list. Or you could just give in and spend the whole day.
• Go early. Getting there right as the doors open means that kids won't have wait to play with anything. By mid-afternoon there is a lot more competition. Another reason for going early: Parking on-site is free but fills fast on high-volume days. Your next option is a paid municipal lot and a walk.
• Buy ahead. The Dancing Wings Butterfly exhibit is popular and works on a timed ticket rotation. Book ahead to be sure you get the day and time you want.
• Watch for special exhibits and offerings. Check the website before you go to time your visit with a rotating exhibit, special camp offering, or holiday party. Bob the Builder is currently featured and Grossology (an exhibit about all the icky stuff our bodies do) is coming next.

Just the Facts

Hours: Mon.-Thu. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas day.

Fees: Under $10

Recommended Time: Half day

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