Strong National Museum of Play – Rochester, NY
Enter the wonderland of toys in this 150,000 square foot home to some of the most dynamic hands-on exhibits, exciting programs, and family-friendly activities that exist anyplace in the world. Turn your imagination loose, become a kid again and either enjoy the museum on your own or share the experience with a child. You will be so glad you did.
The Museum is the only one in the world dedicated solely to the study of play showing American culture. The information gathered at the museum offers a way to study learning and human development as well as a view into the ever changing American culture.
The collection of toys offered cover both historical items and a learning museum. The interactive displays make the participant forget that they are "playing" as they have a grand time.
The Strong National Museum of Play has more than 500,000 objects and a library and archives with 90,000 volumes that are part of the ever growing collections the Museum has to offer.
The National Toy Hall of Fame is part of the Strong National Museum of Play where toys that have inspired creative play and enjoyed popularity over a sustained period are recognized.
There are so many different aspects of play that it will take more than one day to see the whole Museum. Do you remember playing with Paper Dolls? There are some there for the kids to dress.
There is an area that asks you if you know what certain items are such as the old vacuum cleaner (pump style) or a Rice cooker.
There are also tangrams. A tangram is a geometric puzzle with 7 pieces (5 triangles, 1 square, and 1 Parallelogram) that are arranged to create images of various objects. This ancient game, which originated in China, has been enjoyed by many American children throughout the years.
Kids can go to the Super Market and shop for groceries from other kids that run the store. Teaching the children how to shop and what is involved helps them understand how shopping must be done and the cost involved.
At the Museum is Sesame Street where the kids can step into the world’s most famous neighborhood.
Check out the Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden in the lush tropical setting that butterflies love. If you have never been to a butterfly farm you will be amazed at the beauty and grace of these insects that brighten our world.
Kids can also ride the Strong Express Train where they get on track aboard a kid-size locomotive.
Visit the Berenstain Bears area where you can meet Mama, Papa, Sister, Brother and Honey Bear in the new interactive exhibit straight from the pages of the Berestsain Bears books.
Museum Hours
Monday–Thursday
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
(Butterfly Garden 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Friday & Saturday
10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
(Butterfly Garden 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
Sunday
12 noon to 5 p.m.
(Butterfly Garden 12:20 p.m. to 5 p.m.)
Location: One Manhattan Square
Rochester, NY 14607
Phone: 585-263-2700
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