DiMenna Children’s History Museum
This history museum isn’t just for adults. In fact, they’ve transformed the entire lower level into theDiMenna Children’s History Museum. Kids (the space is mostly geared to children ages 8 to 13) can venture through interactive stations that bring over 350 years of New York and American history to life. Good news, though: There is still lots to explore and discover for kids all ages. The entire museum is stroller friendly, and you can find changing tables in almost all of the institution’s restrooms.
Be sure to pop into the library full of children’s books—it’s a great place to sit and read stories together. This is also where they host family programs like Little New Yorkers on Tuesday and Friday mornings (for ages 3 to 5), and Cross Stitch Circle, where kids can come in and learn about needlepoint (ages 6 and up).
Coming up: During winter break (December 27 to January 4), children are invited to stop by the museum to play and explore. Each day at 2pm, there will be a train-related story and craft in addition to the museum’s all-day I Spy train hunt.
Caffe Storico
Did you know that the museum is also home to a beautiful full-service cafe? The bright and welcoming restaurant is open for lunch and dinner everyday day except Mondays (when the museum is closed), and even for brunch on weekends. Delicious menu items, high chairs and plenty of room for stroller storage make it a perfect family outing location.
Coming up: On December 17 you can dine in the Chew Choo Dining Car! Kids can munch on train-shaped sandwiches and cookies while coloring and wearing their own train conductors hat. There will also be personal storytellers that come around and read a train story to your table. Afterwards, you’re encouraged to walk around and visit Holiday Express: Toys and Trains from the Jerni Collection. (The special event is $50 per child and $60 per adult; get tickets here.)
Holiday Express: Toys and Trains from the Jerni Collection
If you have a train lover in the family, you will want to add the Holiday Express train exhibit to your list this season (it’s open through February 22, 2015). Vintage Lionel trains and landscape props are on display throughout the first floor of the museum. Kids can even become part of the exhibit by popping up inside through a bubble window!
At the 77th Street entrance, they can also become immersed in a full-dimensional layout including video, music and sound. Looks up! There are even trains running on tracks over your head!
Hours and Admission
Location: 170 Central Park West at 77th Street
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday and Saturdays 10am–6pm; Fridays 10am–8pm; Sundays 11am–5pm. Closed on Mondays and Christmas Day, but will be open for holiday break on December 22 and 29.
Admission: Adults $19, children (ages 5-13) $6, children 4 and under are free.
How to get there: By subway, take the B or C to the 81st Street station, or the 1 to the 79th Street station.
