Fall/Winter 2009

Kids live for that precious 30 minutes of recess during school, and a day at the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, is like recess on overdrive, for little ones as well as parents.

This museum is the world’s only space devoted to play, and contains everything from interactive, hands-on exhibits to the National Toy Hall of Fame. Blending spaces suited for both child’s play and nostalgia, the museum can be enjoyed by the entire family.

Kids will love exploring the Berenstain Bears’ home in Bear Country and shopping in the mini-store, and sunny days still chase the clouds away on Sesame Street. Older kids can create their own stories in Reading Adventureland or travel through time in the TimeLab while exploring the changing trends in American culture through music, movies, sports and toys.

At the museum until November 1 is Videotopia. This entirely hands-on exhibit contains 100 restored and new arcade games, including the original Pong, Pac Man and Tetris. Good luck dragging your kids — or yourself — away from this addictive exhibit.

If the toys and games aren’t enough, the museum also contains a 1,700-gallon coral aquarium filled to the brim with sea-dwelling creatures and an indoor butterfly garden featuring approximately 800 exotic and native butterflies.

With so much to see and do, the Museum of Play will have kids begging for “just five more minutes.”

- State - Pennsylvania

- Type - Family Vacations

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