Children’s museums are no longer just a backup plan for rainy days. Today, they are exciting destinations where kids can learn, play, and explore in hands-on ways. These museums focus on interactive learning rather than long text boards, helping children understand the world while having fun. They are also enjoyable for adults, making family visits memorable.
From science and art to role-playing and outdoor adventures, children’s museums offer something for every age. Here are 9 of the best children’s museums in the United States.
1. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – Indiana
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the largest children’s museum in the world. It has five floors full of exhibits covering science, history, culture, and play. Kids can explore real dinosaur fossils, ride a historic carousel, or enjoy sports in the outdoor fitness park. This museum blends education and play, making it a must-visit for families.
2. Boston Children’s Museum – Massachusetts
One of the oldest children’s museums in the U.S., the Boston Children’s Museum is perfect for kids of all ages. Toddlers have their own play space, while older children can explore science labs, art exhibits, and interactive storytelling areas. The museum also features a small garden inspired by Fenway Park. Every corner encourages hands-on learning and creativity.
3. The Strong National Museum of Play – New York
Located in Rochester, New York, The Strong National Museum of Play celebrates imagination and fun. This children’s museum is home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and the World Video Game Hall of Fame. Kids can enjoy exhibits inspired by popular shows, classic toys, and interactive reading spaces. There are plenty of creative play areas to spark curiosity.
4. Please Touch Museum – Pennsylvania
The Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia is made especially for children under seven. This children’s museum encourages kids to touch, explore, and play. Exhibits include water play areas, art rooms, a kid-sized grocery store, and a magical storybook garden. It’s a place where young children can discover and learn through hands-on experiences.
5. The Children’s Museum of the Upstate – South Carolina
Located in Greenville, this children’s museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits. Kids can enjoy water play, a pretend grocery store, health-themed exhibits, and climbing zones. There are special areas designed for toddlers as well as older kids. With STEAM-focused activities, this museum blends fun and learning perfectly for families.
6. Exploratorium – California
The Exploratorium in San Francisco is more like a giant science lab than a traditional museum. This children’s museum has over 600 interactive exhibits where kids and adults can experiment with light, sound, motion, and other scientific concepts. Art and science merge throughout the museum, creating a space that encourages curiosity and exploration for all ages.
7. Louisiana Children’s Museum – Louisiana
Set in New Orleans’ City Park, the Louisiana Children’s Museum mixes indoor and outdoor learning. Kids can explore how food is made, interact with nature, and enjoy sensory play areas designed for young children. The bubble-making exhibit is especially popular. This children’s museum offers a mix of learning and fun in a vibrant setting.
8. Miami Children’s Museum – Florida
Miami Children’s Museum is colorful and lively, reflecting the city’s diverse culture. Exhibits are bilingual in English and Spanish, allowing kids to explore in different languages. Children can play in a kid-run bank, explore a cruise ship exhibit, and enjoy a large sandcastle play area. This children’s museum combines local culture with hands-on learning for all ages.
9. Children’s Museum Houston – Texas
Children’s Museum Houston focuses on creativity, movement, and hands-on fun. Older kids love the spy-themed games and science exhibits, while younger children have a safe, interactive play area. This high-energy children’s museum is popular with both kids and parents, offering activities that keep everyone engaged.
Why Children’s Museums Are Important
The best children’s museums make learning fun and interactive. Instead of just reading about science or art, kids get to experience it through play. These museums help children develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and curiosity about the world around them.
From exploring dinosaurs to experimenting with science, from art projects to outdoor fun, children’s museums inspire children to learn while having fun. They are ideal for families, schools, and groups looking for engaging experiences.
Visiting children’s museums is not just about entertainment—it’s about giving kids opportunities to think, create, and understand. Every museum on this list has unique features that encourage hands-on learning, making them memorable destinations for children and adults alike.