11 U.S. Towns With Quirky Museums That Kids Actually Like
Looking for fun and unique places to visit with the kids? From interactive exhibits to quirky collections, these museums offer an exciting experience that will keep children engaged while learning something new. Whether they are exploring the world of toys, food, or outer space, these museums make education entertaining for all ages. Get ready to discover some hidden gems where kids can touch, play, and explore in a fun and hands-on environment.
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Rochester, NY – The Strong National Museum of Play
In Rochester, New York, The Strong National Museum of Play stands as a dream destination for kids. With over 100,000 square feet dedicated to play and exploration, the museum offers everything from vintage toys to interactive exhibits. Children can immerse themselves in exhibits about video games, dolls, and classic board games. The museum also boasts the National Toy Hall of Fame, where kids can learn about toys that have shaped generations. It’s a place where kids can touch, play, and learn about the history of their favorite toys and games, making it a fantastic experience for both kids and adults alike.
In addition to the permanent exhibits, The Strong National Museum of Play regularly features rotating exhibits that keep the experience fresh and exciting. From exploring the evolution of video games to delving into the history of iconic action figures, this museum never runs out of surprises. It encourages kids to think about how play shapes their creativity and problem-solving skills. Whether interacting with a larger-than-life Barbie dollhouse or diving into a giant ball pit, the museum is designed to keep kids engaged and entertained for hours.
Austin, MN – SPAM Museum
In Austin, Minnesota, the SPAM Museum offers a quirky and unique experience that brings together history, fun, and a bit of humor. Dedicated to the iconic canned meat, this museum is a one-of-a-kind place where kids can learn the fascinating story of SPAM, a product that has been around since 1937. With interactive displays, the museum lets children create their own SPAM-themed recipes, view exhibits on the history of the brand, and learn about the worldwide impact of the beloved meat. The vibrant, colorful exhibits and hands-on activities make it an exciting stop for kids of all ages.
Beyond the exhibits, the SPAM Museum also features a fun gift shop full of SPAM-related items. From SPAM socks to themed cookbooks, it’s a great place for kids to pick up a souvenir to remember their visit. The museum’s friendly atmosphere and humorous take on the history of SPAM make it an ideal stop for families looking to explore something offbeat and fun. The interactive displays ensure that kids stay engaged while learning about the cultural impact of this quirky food item.
Blackfoot, ID – Idaho Potato Museum
Blackfoot, Idaho, is home to the Idaho Potato Museum, where kids can learn all about the famous crop that is so integral to the state. This quirky museum features exhibits on the history of potato farming in Idaho, showcasing everything from the life cycle of a potato to its significance in the state’s economy. Kids can explore the potato’s journey from farm to table, learning how the crop is grown, harvested, and turned into popular food products. The museum also features fun activities like a giant potato sculpture, where children can pose for photos and learn more about this iconic food.
In addition to the educational exhibits, the Idaho Potato Museum offers hands-on opportunities for children to engage with the history and culture of the region. Children can even try their hand at mashing potatoes in a fun, interactive display. The museum provides an entertaining and informative look at one of Idaho’s most famous exports, all while keeping kids entertained with fun visuals and activities that make learning about agriculture enjoyable.
Middleton, WI – National Mustard Museum
The National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin, is a must-see for families who appreciate quirky and fun museums. With over 6,000 different types of mustard from around the world, this museum is a celebration of the condiment’s fascinating history. Kids will love exploring the wide range of mustard-related exhibits, from the creation of mustard to its role in different cultures. The museum’s interactive elements, such as mustard-tasting stations, allow children to sample unique flavors and learn about the different varieties.
The National Mustard Museum also features fun activities for younger visitors, including mustard-themed games and puzzles. Children can even create their own mustard concoctions or participate in mustard-making workshops. With its playful atmosphere and hands-on experiences, this museum is a great way for kids to learn about food, culture, and even science in a fun and engaging way. The bright colors and whimsical displays keep children’s attention while introducing them to the wonders of mustard.
Roswell, NM – International UFO Museum
Roswell, New Mexico, is known worldwide for its UFO culture, and the International UFO Museum is the perfect place for kids to delve into the mystery. The museum showcases exhibits about the famous 1947 Roswell incident, where a supposed UFO crashed near the town, sparking theories about extraterrestrial life. Kids can explore the interactive exhibits, which include displays on UFO sightings, alien encounters, and government investigations. The museum also includes educational videos, alien-themed memorabilia, and fun alien-related activities for kids.
In addition to the historic content, the museum offers a playful approach to its themes with alien-themed games and puzzles. Children can enjoy learning about the phenomenon of UFO sightings through hands-on activities that are both entertaining and educational. The museum provides an exciting way for kids to engage with the mystery of outer space and think about the possibility of life beyond our planet. Whether they are interested in science fiction or real-world UFO reports, this museum has something to fascinate every young mind.
Frisco, TX – National Videogame Museum
Frisco, Texas, is home to the National Videogame Museum, which is an interactive paradise for young gamers. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of video games, from their early arcade days to modern gaming consoles. Kids can experience the evolution of video games firsthand, playing classic games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong, or exploring the origins of beloved characters like Mario and Sonic. The museum features fun, hands-on exhibits that allow children to engage with the games they know and love while learning about the technology that brought them to life.
The National Videogame Museum also offers a range of activities that make learning about video game history exciting. From exploring vintage gaming consoles to trying out the latest VR experiences, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the world of video games. The interactive exhibits, combined with opportunities for kids to play, make it a dynamic destination for young gamers who want to learn more about their favorite pastime. Whether they are into old-school arcade games or the newest trends in gaming, the National Videogame Museum is a fun, educational stop for families.
Indianapolis, IN – The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is one of the largest and most interactive museums specifically designed for kids. Located in Indianapolis, it’s a place where children can explore everything from dinosaurs to outer space, all while engaging in hands-on activities. The museum offers a variety of themed exhibits that appeal to kids of all ages, with interactive displays where they can build, experiment, and play. Kids can visit a working carousel, engage in pretend play, or even try their hand at archaeology in a simulated dinosaur dig. With so many dynamic exhibits, it’s easy to see why kids absolutely love this destination.
What sets this museum apart is the way it blends education and entertainment. The Children’s Museum allows children to learn about science, art, history, and culture through play, making learning a fun adventure. From exploring ancient Egypt to traveling through outer space, the museum is designed to spark curiosity in young minds. It’s a place where kids can unleash their creativity, get involved in hands-on science experiments, and engagingly learn new things. The museum’s ever-changing exhibits ensure that there’s always something new to discover on each visit.
Philadelphia, PA – Please Touch Museum
Philadelphia’s Please Touch Museum offers an interactive experience where children can learn while having a blast. Focused on children under the age of 7, this museum makes learning enjoyable with exhibits that invite kids to touch, explore, and create. The museum features exhibits like a giant wooden carousel, a space-themed play area, and a mini city where children can pretend to be firefighters, doctors, and more. This hands-on approach encourages young children to develop motor skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities through fun, immersive experiences.
Beyond the interactive exhibits, the Please Touch Museum emphasizes imaginative play. Kids can explore a huge variety of themed rooms, such as the art studio, where they can create their own masterpieces, or the transportation zone, where they can learn about different vehicles. The museum’s mission to encourage children to “please touch” and explore the world around them makes it a beloved spot for both parents and kids alike. Each exhibit is designed with the developmental needs of young children in mind, making it an ideal place for early childhood learning.
St. Louis, MO – The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum
The Magic House in St. Louis offers a whimsical, hands-on experience for kids with a variety of exhibits that spark their creativity and curiosity. With interactive displays that focus on science, art, and technology, this museum is designed to make learning feel like play. Children can enjoy activities like building structures with giant foam blocks, experimenting with water-based exhibits, or creating art in an open studio space. The museum’s child-centric design ensures that every exhibit is fun, educational, and engaging for young minds.
One of the standout features of The Magic House is its focus on interactive play that encourages problem-solving and critical thinking. From the sensory-rich exhibits for younger children to the more complex science exhibits for older kids, the museum offers something for everyone. The hands-on approach helps children to learn about the world around them in a fun, creative environment. It’s a great place for families to spend the day together while exploring the wonders of science and art through immersive experiences.
Denver, CO – Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys
The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys is a delightful museum that captivates children with its collection of tiny treasures. With thousands of miniature items on display, kids can explore a world of dolls, toy cars, trains, and intricate dollhouses that span various periods and cultures. The museum also offers interactive exhibits where children can play with toy replicas, creating stories and adventures as they explore the tiny details of each display. This museum is a great way for kids to appreciate the craftsmanship of miniature art while engaging with the history of childhood playthings.
What makes this museum especially fun for kids is the wide variety of toys and dolls they can relate to. From vintage Barbie dolls to miniature trains that resemble the ones kids love to play with today, the exhibits offer a nostalgic yet timeless appeal. The museum’s collections allow children to explore the evolution of toys and learn about the role they play in society. It’s a perfect place for families to visit and share the fun of discovering how toys and miniatures have been cherished throughout the years.
Cooperstown, NY – National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
In Cooperstown, New York, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum offers a unique museum experience that blends history and sport in a fun way. While it’s often seen as a must-visit for baseball fans, this museum is designed to entertain kids too, with interactive exhibits that make learning about baseball’s history exciting. Children can try their hand at pitching, learn about the science behind the sport, and explore memorabilia from baseball’s most famous players. The museum’s engaging approach to teaching the history of the game keeps kids entertained and educated at the same time.
The Hall of Fame also offers family-friendly activities such as scavenger hunts and interactive displays that bring baseball’s history to life. With engaging stories of legendary players and the history of the game, it’s easy for children to see how baseball has shaped American culture. The museum also provides a chance for kids to experience baseball in a new way, with exhibits that highlight the science behind the sport, from the physics of a curveball to the evolution of the baseball itself.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.