The Children Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) is a vibrant and interactive space designed to educate and inspire children through play, creativity, and hands-on learning. Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, this museum is ideal for families seeking fun activities that combine entertainment with education. From engaging exhibits about art and science to cultural events and storytelling sessions, CMOM offers something for children of all ages.
What Is the Children Museum of Manhattan?
- Location: 361 Central Park West at 96th Street, New York, NY
- Established: 1973
- Mission: To help children learn about themselves and the world through interactive exhibits, arts programs, and cultural education.
- Target Age Group: Toddlers to pre-teens (Ages 0-12)
Must-See Exhibits at CMOM
Adventures with Dora and Diego
- What It Is: A permanent exhibit inspired by the beloved Nickelodeon shows, Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go!.
- Activities:
- Pretend to rescue animals and solve puzzles with Diego.
- Explore a rainforest habitat or pilot Dora’s “Explorer Boat.”
- Best For: Toddlers and young children who enjoy imaginative play.
Inside Art: Create, Climb, Collaborate
- What It Is: A hands-on exhibit where children become immersed in large-scale art installations that encourage movement and creativity.
- Activities:
- Kids can climb through sculptural works or add their own art to interactive murals.
- Encourages teamwork and collaboration through art projects.
- Best For: All ages, especially children with a love for art and physical play.
PlayWorks
- What It Is: A play space designed specifically for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Activities:
- A fire truck kids can “drive” and role-play as firefighters.
- A soft play area with a water table, blocks, and educational toys.
- Opportunities to develop motor skills and early literacy through play.
- Best For: Ages 0-5.
Dynamic H2O (Seasonal)
- What It Is: An outdoor water play exhibit open during warmer months.
- Activities:
- Hands-on experiences demonstrating how water moves through rivers and urban infrastructure.
- Kids can operate water pumps, dams, and sprinklers.
- Best For: Ages 4-10, perfect for hot summer days.
Superpowered Metropolis: Early Learning City
- What It Is: A city-themed space where young children learn to develop skills like problem-solving, literacy, and social interaction.
- Activities:
- Drive a bus, deliver packages, and explore a miniature cityscape.
- Fun ways to learn numbers, words, and social-emotional skills.
- Best For: Ages 0-6.
Programs and Events at Children Museum of Manhattan
- Storytimes and Music Sessions
- Daily storytelling events with interactive elements, focusing on diversity and inclusion.
- Music programs where kids play instruments or sing along to favorite tunes.
- Art and Science Workshops
- The museum offers rotating art classes and STEM activities where kids can paint, sculpt, or explore scientific concepts through experiments.
- Cultural Festivals
- CMOM celebrates multicultural holidays such as Chinese New Year, Diwali, and Black History Month with interactive activities and performances.
- Sensory-Friendly Sessions
- The museum offers quiet hours for children with sensory processing challenges, ensuring a more relaxed experience.
Practical Information for Visiting Children Museum of Manhattan
Hours of Operation
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Admission Fees
- General Admission: $16
- Seniors: $13
- Children Under 1 Year: Free
- Members: Free
- Discounts: Free admission for New York City ID holders on select days.
Reservations
- Timed-entry tickets are required to manage crowds. Book online in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
Dining Near CMOM
While the museum doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, the Upper West Side offers many family-friendly dining options.
- Levain Bakery: Famous for its oversized cookies, just a short walk from CMOM.
- Good Enough to Eat: A cozy spot offering kid-friendly brunch options.
- Shake Shack (Columbus Avenue): A go-to place for burgers, fries, and shakes the whole family will enjoy.
How to Get to Children Museum of Manhattan
- Subway:
- Take the B or C train to 96th Street and Central Park West.
- Bus:
- The M10 bus stops directly in front of the museum.
- Driving:
- Limited street parking is available; paid parking garages are nearby, but using public transportation is recommended.
Best Time to Visit Children Museum of Manhattan
- Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds.
- Summer and school holidays can be busy, so plan accordingly and book tickets in advance.
- Winter visits are perfect when looking for indoor activities, while the outdoor exhibits shine in the spring and summer.
Tips for Visiting Children Museum of Manhattan
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The museum has multiple floors and active play areas, so you’ll be on your feet a lot.
- Stroller Parking: Strollers are allowed but limited in certain areas; stroller parking is available.
- Pack Extra Clothes: If your kids plan to play in the Dynamic H2O exhibit, bring a change of clothes.
- Book Early: Timed tickets fill up quickly on weekends, so secure your spot in advance.
- Combine with a Central Park Visit: After your museum visit, enjoy a walk or picnic in Central Park, located right across the street.
Nearby Attractions for Families
- American Museum of Natural History
- Just a few blocks south, this museum is another family favorite with exhibits on dinosaurs, space, and more.
- Central Park
- Visit the nearby playgrounds, zoo, or rent a rowboat on the Central Park Lake.
- Riverside Park
- Enjoy a scenic walk along the Hudson River, perfect for some downtime after an energetic museum visit.
Conclusion
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan offers a fun, educational experience that children will love, and parents will appreciate. From its engaging exhibits to its interactive programming, CMOM encourages kids to explore, create, and learn in a playful environment. Whether you’re visiting on a rainy day or looking for an indoor activity during the winter, CMOM is a must-see destination for families exploring the Upper West Side. With Central Park right across the street and other nearby attractions, you can easily make a day of your visit!
Cover Image: By Jim.henderson – Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=10603760
