Strong Museum

Frommer's Review

This imaginative place -- a "national museum of play" -- is a splendid interactive museum for children and almost certain to entertain adults, too. It is simply one of the finest children's museums in the country. There's a re-creation of Sesame Street, a miniature grocery store where kids can shop and even scan their own groceries, and a fantastic dance lab and radio station where kids make their own sound effects -- a real wonderland. Plenty of local families buy annual passes to make it their own personal playground and theme park. The museum even operates its own minibranch of the local library system, and there are books at every turn. The museum began as an outgrowth of a local woman's 20,000-strong collection of dolls, dollhouses, and toys (one of the largest collections in the world, it is impressive but comparatively static given all the activity going on elsewhere in the building). Adults will surely feel a tinge of nostalgia viewing the National Toy Hall of Fame. Plan on a visit of several hours if you're in the presence of curious children. Also on-site are a great gift shop and an actual 1950s Skyliner Diner, a great place to take a break and refuel for more playing.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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