Not all children’s museums are family friendly. Many establishments that market themselves as “kid-friendly” often pay more attention to toddlers than tweens. If your kids are older and don’t much care to take part in museum scavenger hunts or make pretend pizzas with plastic ingredients, don’t give up on educational establishments. Instead, plan a trip to the following museums across the U.S. that aim to stimulate families with members of all ages:
Exploratorium, San Francisco
Learning has never been more fun thanks to the Bay Area’s Exploratorium. The interactive San Francisco museum is a hands-on wonderland for tweens and teens. The building is filled with exhibits that teach kids about the mysteries of science and Mother Nature via on-site lab experiments. Kids can view real fruit flies under microscopes, drink water from a toilet or dissect a cow’s eyeball. In addition, no visit the Exploratorium is complete with a tour of the “Tactile Dome.” The dark labyrinth puts kids’ senses to the test and shows them that there’s life beyond their cellphones and video games.
Franklin Institute Science Museum
One of Philadelphia’s most popular destinations is the
Franklin Institute. Known as one of America’s oldest and foremost science museums, the family friendly institution is also extremely entertaining. Museum highlights include a two-story-high, walk-through “Giant Heart,” a 350-ton rolling train, a planetarium and an IMAX theater.
National Air and Space Museum
If you are planning a family trip to Washington, D.C., then make time to visit the National Air and Space Museum located on D.C.’s National Mall. The massive building is hard to miss given its enormous size and its resemblance to an aircraft hangar. Hands-on learning takes many forms in the public tribute to aviation and space flight, including exhibits that feature life-size versions of historic warbirds, high-speed jets, satellites, and futuristic spacecraft. Wannabe pilots of all ages can climb into the cockpit of airplane simulators or take command of an airport control tower. And the best part for mom and dad: Admission is free.
Related Articles:
Even More Kid-Friendly Vacation Destinations with Meaning
More Kid-Friendly Vacation Destinations with Meaning
Kid-Friendly Vacation Destinations with Meaning
More Educational Vacation Destinations
Educational Vacation Destinations