7 Fun Museum Experiences Sure To Engage The Kids

A child's first museum visit is often very special. It can open their eyes to a new world of learning and expose them to interactive, engaging exhibits, with programming that has the power to shape their creativity and critical thinking skills. In no particular order, this list shares a selection of museums that are sure to capture any kid's attention.

At #1, we have Thinkery, based in Austin, Texas. It offers play-based, inquiry-rich, hands-on learning experiences for children and their families. Through a variety of interactive STEAM exhibits and programs, the nonprofit strives to encourage physical, emotional, and cognitive development for young learners.

The Museum's target ages are newborns through eleven-year-olds, but the interactive experiences are made to engage learners of all ages. Its STEAM Enrichment Club, designed for students in grades K through 2, offers three hours of hands-on, science-based activities, gallery exploration, and collaborative games. It also provides necessary peer-to-peer socialization.

The #2 entry is the Golisano Children's Museum of Naples, located in Florida. The two-story, 30,000-square-foot cultural institution includes permanent and temporary interactive exhibits and galleries, a Family Resource Library, exploration rooms, a cafe, and more.

Its exhibits blend technology with a replication of the natural world and human communities. Developed by experts in child psychology, this experimental play fosters creativity, curiosity, empathy, and self-esteem. The Museum offers rentable STEAM Kits for those who wish to take home science, technology, engineering, art, and math experiences for Pre-K through 4th grade.

Coming in at #3, we have the Children's Museum at Saratoga, in Saratoga Springs, New York. The institution works to create an interactive community that inspires curiosity, sparks imagination, and nurtures discovery. It also aims to foster active parent involvement in children's learning, serve as a resource for school districts in the area, and ensure that its programs and services are accessible to all kids.

Founded in 1990 by community parents and educators, the Museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits for children from birth to age eight. Parents and groups can book the entire institution for private birthday parties and other events.

Next up, at #4, we present DuPage Children's Museum in Naperville, Illinois. Its goal is to ignite the potential of all little ones to learn through hands-on exploration. The institution offers various programs designed to help parents and caregivers feel more confident in their roles as partners in their kids' play and learning.

For schools and private groups, the Museum has developed a variety of STEM Labs to spark curiosity and promote critical thinking through hands-on discovery. Each short lab, suitable for students in grades 1 through 3, is led by an experienced Museum educator and doesn't require additional facilitation. The program is designed to help kids feel empowered to be the primary drivers of their own learning.

The #5 entry is the KidZone Museum. Situated in Truckee, California, it serves thousands of visitors each year. The Museum's mission is to inspire learning through creative play and discovery; its exhibits are optimal for children under seven. It also has a program for camps and schools that's designed for kids in elementary-level grades.

Teenagers can gain service learning experience by volunteering at the Museum, which has been featured in many press outlets including the Tahoe Weekly and the Sierra Sun. Families can reserve KidZone for private parties, allowing groups to enjoy the exhibits and materials in the art room.

Coming in at #6, we have Minnesota Children's Museum in St. Paul. The institution boasts many activities, such as a maker studio, where kids can craft a journal or book. Little ones can also step inside a gallery with a pretend town, where they're able to explore a post office, fire station, farmers' market, hardware store, and food stand.

The Museum has two outdoor areas. In one, the backyard, kids can check out plants and sculptures made from unusual objects. On the rooftop terrace, a giant kaleidoscope allows children to play with light. Many of the institution's exhibits, such as "Wild Kratts: Ocean Adventure," are available to rent as a traveling experience.

Last but not least, the #7 entry is the University of Findlay's Mazza Museum, which celebrates the original art of picture books through education, exhibits, events, and artist visits. With thousands of pieces, the Ohio-based institution houses the largest and most diverse collection of picture book art in the world.

The Museum's Dr. Jerry J. Mallett Institute for Educational Programming presents a variety of events throughout the year, like summer and fall weekend conferences for adults, Tales for Tots, Funday Sunday, Young Artist Workshops, a children's art exhibit, professional development, and more.