Center for Puppetry Arts - black metal railings near white wall
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Center for Puppetry Arts

4.8
·3k reviews·Atlanta, United States

Step into a world of wonder at the Center for Puppetry Arts, home to iconic Jim Henson creations and global puppetry.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Center for Puppetry Arts - black metal railings near white wall

Center for Puppetry Arts

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a world of wonder at the Center for Puppetry Arts, home to iconic Jim Henson creations and global puppetry.

4.8
(3k reviews)

"Nostalgia overload guaranteed seeing childhood favorites up close!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Parking Available!

Park for free in the lot directly behind the building. :car:

✨ Nostalgia Overload Guaranteed

Embrace the magic of seeing childhood favorites up close. :sparkles:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jim Henson's Magical Creations

Jim Henson's Magical Creations

Henson Gallery

See original Muppets, Fraggle Rock characters, and puppets from Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal.

Global Puppetry Through History

Global Puppetry Through History

World of Puppetry Museum

Explore fascinating puppets from around the world and learn about puppetry's rich history.

Live Puppet Performances

Live Puppet Performances

Theater

Experience captivating shows for both families and adults, often with behind-the-scenes insights.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Nostalgia

Many visitors experience 'nostalgia overload' seeing beloved puppets from their childhood. Exhibits can change, so check ahead if a specific character is a must-see. Consider attending a live puppet show for a complete experience.

Parking and Accessibility

Free parking is available directly behind the building, a welcome relief for many. The museum is generally easy to navigate, though some reviewers wished for more interactive elements for younger children.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During special exhibits
Why
Unique displays, limited-time magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings for Puppets & Pints
Why
Adult-focused fun, unique atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The best celebrity I’ve met yet! #salemsaberhagen @Center for Puppetry Arts #sabrinatheteenagewitch @Melissa Joan Hart #nickbakay @Nate Richert @Beth Broderick @Caroline Rhea Found an old friend!#centerforpuppetryartsatlanta
@rawrbexx
127.5K likes • 616.3K views

🎯 Free Parking Available!

Park for free in the lot directly behind the building. :car:

✨ Nostalgia Overload Guaranteed

Embrace the magic of seeing childhood favorites up close. :sparkles:

Center for Puppetry Arts - Part 3 - Labyrinth #jimhenson #jimhensoncompany #atlanta #puppetry #puppet #labyrinth #labyrinthmovie #davidbowie #labyrinth1986
@shaunaerin1
67.2K likes • 420.5K views
Center for Puppetry Arts was the most incredible experience! I only posted a few of the puppets on display, because you need to go see for yourself!!!!! From the Muppets to Sesame Street, and all over the world, there's something for the puppet lover in everyone there!
thegranddukeofspookofficial
3 likes • 55 views

🎭 Check Show Schedules

Live performances are separately ticketed and highly recommended. :tickets:

🗺️ Scavenger Hunt Fun

Engage younger visitors with a fun scavenger hunt throughout the museum. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:

@Center for Puppetry Arts for Puppets and Pints until 9pm! So excited to be here around some of my favorite childhood memories! #Puppets #oddities #LocalArtist #FemaleOwned #NonBinaryBusiness #AtlantaArtist #SmallBusiness #art #FemaleOwned
covencreationsart
29 likes • 293 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Parking Available!

Park for free in the lot directly behind the building. :car:

✨ Nostalgia Overload Guaranteed

Embrace the magic of seeing childhood favorites up close. :sparkles:

🎭 Check Show Schedules

Live performances are separately ticketed and highly recommended. :tickets:

🗺️ Scavenger Hunt Fun

Engage younger visitors with a fun scavenger hunt throughout the museum. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:

📸 Capture the Memories

Take photos to remember your visit, but be mindful of exhibit rules. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Center for Puppetry Arts for its incredible collection of iconic puppets, especially those from Jim Henson's creations, evoking strong feelings of nostalgia. The World of Puppetry Museum offers a fascinating global perspective. While generally well-received, some feel more interactive elements would enhance the experience for younger children.

"This was a dream of mine! The Dark Crystal is my all time favorite movie. I grew up watching all the Jim Henson shows.

Things to know:

1. there is a free parking lot right behind the building.

2. The exhibits will change here and there. I came expecting to see MST3K characters, certain puppets from The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. Several were changed out to others. I was NOT disappointed though!

3. The museum is small but there is so much to see and lots of information."

Sarah Van Alstine

"We had a wonderful time at the Center for Puppetry Arts! It was our kids’ first time visiting a museum together, and they absolutely loved it. The exhibits were engaging, the staff was friendly, and the sensory-friendly puppet show Harold and the Purple Crayon was a big hit! They even got to create their own puppet performance, which was such a special moment.

I’m giving 3 stars only because the museum could benefit from more hands-on activities throughout to keep younger children fully engaged — especially those with sensory needs.

Overall, an inspiring and inclusive experience. We’ll definitely be back!"

Dr. Simbi Animashaun

"A delightful place. It's a small museum, but very well done. There's a room dedicated to puppetry through history and around the globe with some really fascinating puppets. And a room about Henson creations, with many show used Muppets from Sesame Street, Fraggle Rock, Labyrinth, etc. Both rooms have plenty of great stories and photos to enjoy too.
There's a fun little scavenger hunt to complete if you want.
There's also currently another Henson room with lots of things from his studios and from the Muppet Show.

They offer a variety of live puppet performances for adults and families as well (separately ticketed).

Parking is free."

Hadley Barth

What People Like

Iconic Jim Henson puppets
Nostalgic experience
Global puppetry exhibits

What People Dislike

Limited interactive activities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Center for Puppetry Arts is located in Atlanta, Georgia. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available in the lot directly behind the building.Reddit Public transportation options are also available, though driving is often the most convenient for visitors coming from further afield.

Yes, there is a free parking lot located directly behind the Center for Puppetry Arts building, which is a significant plus for visitors.Reddit

Operating hours can vary, especially for special events and performances. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on museum hours and performance schedules.TikTok

The museum is generally stroller-friendly, making it easier for families to navigate. While specific storage solutions aren't always highlighted, the layout is designed for accessibility.

The Center for Puppetry Arts strives to be inclusive. The museum layout is designed for easy navigation, and they offer sensory-friendly performances, indicating a commitment to accessibility.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary depending on whether you are visiting the museum only or also attending a live puppet show. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and package deals.Reddit

While walk-in tickets may be available, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular performances or during peak seasons, to ensure availability.TikTok

Discounts and coupon codes are sometimes offered, particularly for special events or through partnerships. Keep an eye on their website or social media for any promotions.TikTok

General museum admission typically grants access to the World of Puppetry Museum and the Jim Henson Gallery. Live performances are usually ticketed separately.Reddit

Yes, the Center for Puppetry Arts offers membership options that can provide benefits like free admission, discounts on performances, and other perks for frequent visitors.TikTok

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The main exhibits include the World of Puppetry Museum, showcasing global puppetry, and the Jim Henson Gallery, featuring iconic puppets from The Muppets, Fraggle Rock, Labyrinth, and The Dark Crystal.TikTokInstagram+2

While there are some interactive elements and a scavenger hunt, some visitors suggest more hands-on activities would enhance engagement for younger children.Reddit

The Center hosts a variety of live puppet performances, including shows for families and adults, often with educational components explaining how the puppets work.InstagramReddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibit and performance. It's generally allowed in the museum galleries for personal use, but flash photography is often prohibited. Always check for signage.TikTok

Yes, there is a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, books, and puppet-related items to commemorate their visit.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Center for Puppetry Arts typically has a cafe or snack bar offering light refreshments. For full meals, nearby restaurants are a good option.

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum or performance spaces. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before entering.

The cafe usually offers a selection of snacks and simple meals that are suitable for children, such as sandwiches and treats.

The surrounding area offers a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining, providing plenty of choices for visitors.

Recommendations can vary, but exploring local guides for the Midtown or Buckhead areas will provide a good range of dining experiences close to the Center.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in the museum galleries for personal use, but flash is usually not allowed to protect the delicate puppets. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.TikTok

Yes, you can typically take photos of the Jim Henson puppets in the gallery for personal memories. These iconic figures are a major draw for visitors.TikTokInstagram+1

Photography during live puppet performances is usually prohibited to avoid distracting the performers and audience. Please refrain from taking photos or videos during shows.

The Jim Henson Gallery, with its famous characters, and the diverse displays in the World of Puppetry Museum offer many visually appealing opportunities for photos.TikTok+1

Tripods and professional camera equipment are typically not allowed without prior permission, as they can obstruct pathways and other visitors. Personal cameras and smartphones are generally fine.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Center for Puppetry Arts is a fantastic destination for families. The Jim Henson Gallery and World of Puppetry Museum offer visually stimulating exhibits that can captivate children's imaginations.Instagram Many visitors highlight the joy of seeing their children engage with characters they themselves loved as kids.Instagram While some reviewers suggest more interactive elements would be beneficial for younger children, the sensory-friendly puppet shows and the outdoor playground are excellent additions for keeping kids entertained and comfortable.Reddit

✨ Nostalgia Seekers & Pop Culture Fans

For those who grew up with The Muppet Show, Sesame Street, Fraggle Rock, or the films Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal, a visit here is an absolute must.TikTokInstagram+1 The Jim Henson Gallery is a treasure trove of original puppets, offering an unparalleled opportunity to reconnect with beloved childhood characters. The sheer volume of iconic figures on display often leads to an overwhelming sense of nostalgia and wonder.TikTokInstagram

🎨 Art and Culture Enthusiasts

Beyond the pop culture icons, the World of Puppetry Museum provides a rich exploration of puppetry as a global art form. Enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse collection showcasing historical and cultural significance of puppetry from around the world. The live performances also offer a chance to experience contemporary puppetry artistry, making it a well-rounded cultural outing.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Jim Henson

The Jim Henson Gallery is a major draw for many visitors, offering a deep dive into the creative genius behind The Muppets, Fraggle Rock, and beloved films like Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal.TikTokInstagram+2 Here, you can see original puppets, many of which were used in iconic television shows and movies. Seeing these characters up close, often with their internal mechanisms still visible, provides a fascinating glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship involved in bringing them to life.Reddit It's a place where childhood memories are reignited, with visitors often expressing a profound sense of nostalgia.TikTokInstagram

A World of Puppetry

Beyond the Henson collection, the World of Puppetry Museum offers a comprehensive journey through the history and diversity of puppetry across the globe. This section showcases a wide array of puppets from different cultures and eras, highlighting the universal appeal and varied traditions of this art form. It's a chance to discover lesser-known puppetry styles and understand its significance in storytelling and performance worldwide.Reddit The exhibits are well-curated, providing context and fascinating stories behind each piece.

Live Performances and Workshops

The Center for Puppetry Arts is not just a museum; it's also a vibrant performance venue. They regularly host live puppet shows for both families and adults, offering a chance to see puppetry in action.InstagramReddit These performances are often highly engaging and can include behind-the-scenes explanations of how the puppets are operated, adding an educational layer to the entertainment. In addition to shows, the Center also offers workshops and classes, providing hands-on opportunities for visitors to learn the art of puppetry themselves, from puppet making to performance techniques.

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