The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, has become a favorite destination for my family, and every time we visit, it’s a new adventure. The museum is an incredible mix of nostalgia and modern play, where both my boys and I find something we love. It’s more than just a place to learn about toys and games; it’s an immersive world where play is celebrated in all its forms, and every visit feels like a journey back to the best parts of childhood while still discovering something new.

One weekend, we decided to spend the day at The Strong, and from the moment we walked in, my boys were off and running. The sheer excitement on their faces as they darted from exhibit to exhibit was priceless. The museum is like a playground for the mind, filled with interactive exhibits that aren’t just for show but for engaging with the very essence of play. Whether it’s pretending to be a cashier in the mini supermarket or exploring the whimsical butterfly garden, there’s no shortage of things for kids to do. One of my personal favorites is the Sesame Street exhibit. It brought me back to when I was a kid, watching Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch, and now I get to share that magic with my boys.

What really stands out about The Strong is how it’s designed for all ages. My boys can immerse themselves in video games in the World Video Game Hall of Fame, discovering the origins of games they love today while I appreciate the iconic history of games that shaped my own childhood. Even the National Toy Hall of Fame is a reminder of how play has evolved but still holds that same universal joy. We spent hours wandering through exhibits, exploring collections of toys, board games, and even arcade games. There’s something so satisfying about seeing the history of play preserved like this, yet so accessible and fun.

During one of our visits, we found ourselves in the Berenstain Bears exhibit, and I watched as my boys lit up with laughter as they explored Bear Country. It was like stepping into the pages of the books we’d read at home, and seeing them experience that world in real life was a reminder of how play extends beyond just toys—it’s about stories, imagination, and connection. And let’s not forget the butterfly garden, where we all took a moment to slow down and enjoy the beauty of nature. It was a peaceful break amidst all the action and noise, and I think it’s those little unexpected moments that make the museum so special.

I can’t speak highly enough about how well The Strong balances education with pure fun. The interactive displays and exhibits sneak learning into the experience without ever feeling forced, so the kids are constantly absorbing new ideas about creativity, history, and culture, all while having a blast. The museum’s mission to explore the role of play in learning and development shines through in every corner. It’s hard to find a place that keeps kids engaged for hours and still offers such rich, educational value.

I love that The Strong isn’t just about static displays—it’s an active, living celebration of play. Whether we’re exploring a library of classic toys, diving into the arcade, or pretending to shop in a supermarket, there’s always something to keep everyone entertained. Every time we leave, my boys are already asking when we can go back, and truthfully, I’m just as eager to return. It’s one of those rare places where the fun of childhood is preserved and expanded upon, and it’s truly a joy to experience as a family.