Everything from a house that distorts proportions (the 6 foot tall becomes 3' and vice versa) to antique porcelain head dolls to xbox to arcade games--really intergenerational fun. Worked up a sweat playing Fast Track where my table tennis reflexes kicked in, had a great time with three 20-something cousins and three 60-somethings. Only issue is expense, I'm spoiled by...
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National Museum of Play at The Strong, Rochester
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National Museum of Play at The Strong
One Manhattan Square, Rochester, NY 14607
585-263-2700
Website
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82 visitor photos
Ranked #1 of 49 attractions in Rochester
Type: Children’s Museums
Fee: Yes
Owner description:
Come over to play at the only museum in the world devoted solely to the importance of play. The museum blends the best features of both history...
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Owner description:
Come over to play at the only museum in the world devoted solely to the importance of play. The museum blends the best features of both history museums (extensive collections and children’s museums (high interactivity). At 282,000 square feet, the National Museum of Play at The Strong is the largest regional year-round family attraction, and the second largest “children’s” museum in the nation. The museum takes play very seriously. Its philosophy—that play is essential to learning and human development—is reflected everywhere you look beginning with its uniquely whimsical architecture (including a butterfly house built to look like the world’s largest butterfly, an undulating two-story caterpillar-shaped atrium, and a structure resembling a pile of gigantic children’s building blocks). Engaging hands-on exhibits invite you to attend Super Powers School, meet the Berenstain Bears, play your way through the history of video games, enter a giant kaleidoscope, board a whaling ship, see the world’s oldest Monopoly games, step into Sesame Street, walk into the pages of a giant pop-up book, and so much more! The museum is home to the region’s only indoor butterfly garden; the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of dolls, toys, and games; and the prestigious National Toy Hall of Fame®. Amenities include a food court, indoor train and carousel, two museum shops, and an outdoor Discovery Garden.Admission Fees: General Admission (does not include admission to Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden®):2 and older $13, Children under age 2 are free, Museum members free.Admission to Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden: General Admission fee plus $3 for members, $4 for nonmembers; children under 2 free. Entry is by timed ticket only. Parking: Free parking is available at the museum for all guests on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that, on high visitation days, the museum lot may reach capacity early in the day. If space is not available on site at the time of your visit, additional parking is available at neighboring municipal garages for a fee. The Strong is not responsible for fees incurred at off-site locations.
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Useful Information: Activities for young children
New Jersey
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See 4 more reviews by careertutor for Rochester
Canandaigua, New York
Senior Reviewer
This isn't just for your kids! I had a blast with my daughter and grandson, playing the games, going hands on. The food is very good as well, with lots of options. My daughter remembered many of the exhibits and really enjoyed showing them to her son as well as enjoying playing games on the second floor. Only dissapointment was...
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See 2 more reviews by staychalet for Rochester
Boston, Massachusetts
1 review
We took our son when he was 2, and are making the trip to Roc again this year now that he is 3. I intend to take him as many times as I can as he is growing up. If you are going for the first time, plan to be there at least 2 days. This place seems more magical...
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Rochester, NY
Senior Reviewer
Fun for adults as well as the kids. Plan to spend at least 2 or 3 hours there. You can't see and do everything in one visit.
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See 3 more reviews by Well_Traveled010 for Rochester
Top Contributor
This is a great place to spend time with the kids. They entire venue is well thought out. However, the staff is rude to children and parents. They really need to find some better help.....
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Rochester, New York
Senior Contributor
Always excellent with the kids! Lots of stuff to do and always changing stuff up. If you have young kids get a membership.
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See 15 more reviews by BobB4730 for Rochester
Oro Station, Canada
Senior Contributor
My three year old son had so much fun here, he is still talking about this place four days later. Lots to see and do for all ages. Very hands-on oriented exhibits, and lots of them. Learning and fun all in one place.
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See 2 more reviews by 5a25 for Rochester
WNY
Contributor
I thought this attraction was really nice. There was lots to see and do with a built in food court with several choices so lunch can be quick and easy. My favorite part was the retro arcade games- brought back some memories. I also felt the price was fair for what was offered- I have paid not much less for...
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North Kingstown, RI, United States
Reviewer
Did you ever play Monopoly or Candyland? Have a Barbie Doll? Ride a pedal car? Own a Tonka truck? Have a stuffed animal? All your childhood memories, all your playthings, all your children's playthings, even what they are using now - it's all here and more! And you can still enjoy them. There are many hands on areas where you...
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See 3 more reviews by Traveler66_13 for Rochester
Lockport, New York
Contributor
This is a great place to spend the day when it's cold or rainy. Tons to occupy your kids and learn. What is great as well is the attention given to adults. You'll see a ton of games your remember as a kid including old arcade games. Highly recommended and the cost of admission is very reasonable.
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