10 Best Children's Museums: 2011

Tons of cool stuff to touch, one-of-a-kind educational exhibits, and special events galore put these kid-driven museums on top of our must-visit list.

By Karen Cicero

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Serving Up Fun

Truth is, a kid would have a blast in any children's museum. Turning knobs, building stuff, dressing up, touching everything -- what's not to like? But as moms, we're pickier -- especially if it takes a couple hours to get there and we're going to spend up to $50 on our family's admission. That's why Parents surveyed children's museums to see which ones have clever educational exhibits, mommy-and-me outings and festivals, healthy places for lunch, nursing areas, family restrooms, and stroller parking. We started with the 300-plus members of the Association of Children's Museums and nixed those without a lot for kids under 3. Then we asked the rest 30 questions to help us decide which museums were the leaders. After tallying the scores, we got great insider tips from local moms. Go gallery-hopping with us!

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Comments (5)

rtaylor36119 wrote:

http://www.columbusmuseum.com/ Has a (small) but awesome children's section and is- FREE

10/24/2011 02:19:19 PM Report Abuse

victoriacraig1 wrote:

You must have missed the Children's Science Museum in Oklahoma City. Have a look at www.sciencemuseumok.org/ -- Victoria

8/23/2011 02:39:37 PM Report Abuse

brittany379 wrote:

In addition to the thrilling Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Downtown Indianapolis offers several exciting opportunities for children and adults alike to have a blast. From the world-class Indianapolis Zoo (botanical gardens & aquarium) to the Ryhthm! Discovery Center, there's something for everyone. Downtown is Amazingly Always new - to plan your adventure, visit: www.indydt.com

8/11/2011 08:41:53 AM Report Abuse

jessica_castillo18 wrote:

The Children's Museum of Brownsville is one of the most awesome small cities Children's Museums that I have been to, especially being in the Museum District, right across from Gladys Porter Zoo and driving distance from the gorgeous South Padre Island beach.

3/22/2011 10:41:00 AM Report Abuse

serr wrote:

You missed the Children's Museum in St Louis! Loved Boston's but St Louis topped it by far!

3/22/2011 10:32:30 AM Report Abuse