Strong National Museum of Play
A world-renowned museum celebrating the art, history, and science of play, featuring iconic toys, games, and video game exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more play!
Strong National Museum of Play
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more play!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-renowned museum celebrating the art, history, and science of play, featuring iconic toys, games, and video game exhibits.
"This museum is absolutely incredible! Worth every single penny."
🎯 Go on a Weekday Morning
Arrive right at opening on a weekday for the least crowded experience . :clock1:
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Consider purchasing tickets online to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World Video Game Hall of Fame
Level 2
Journey through gaming history, from retro arcades to modern consoles. A must-see for gamers of all ages!
Sesame Street
Level 1
Step into the iconic neighborhood and relive childhood memories. Perfect for little ones and nostalgic adults alike.
Pinball Playfield
Level 2
Relive the glory days of pinball with a vast collection of playable machines. A favorite for many visitors!
Butterfly Garden
Level 1 (additional fee)
Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise filled with vibrant butterflies. A serene escape within the museum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Everything
Plan for Playtime: It's Bigger Than You Think!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go on a Weekday Morning
Arrive right at opening on a weekday for the least crowded experience.
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Consider purchasing tickets online to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons. :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
🎒 Pack Light
Lockers are available, but it's easier to navigate the museum with just essentials. :handbag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go on a Weekday Morning
Arrive right at opening on a weekday for the least crowded experience.
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Consider purchasing tickets online to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons. :admission_tickets:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and playing, so comfy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
🎒 Pack Light
Lockers are available, but it's easier to navigate the museum with just essentials. :handbag:
📱 Download the Museum Map
Familiarize yourself with the layout beforehand to make the most of your visit. :iphone:
🦋 Butterfly Garden Add-on
If you love butterflies, consider the add-on ticket for a magical experience. :butterfly:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Strong National Museum of Play as an exceptional, fun, and educational destination for all ages. The immersive exhibits, particularly those focused on video games and childhood nostalgia, are a huge hit. While the food options are basic, the overall experience is highly recommended, with many planning return visits.
"The Strong National Museum of Play completely lives up to its name — it’s pure fun, learning, and nostalgia rolled into one. We went as a family with both adults and kids, and every one of us had different favorites — which says everything about how much there is to do here. The exhibits are hands-on, creative, and thoughtfully designed, from the classic toys and video games to the pretend play areas and immersive displays. You could easily spend the whole day here and still find new things to explore.
The only downside was that the bathrooms could have been cleaner — no soap first thing in the morning and a few stalls looked like they hadn’t been checked since the night before. Hopefully just a timing issue, because everything else was fantastic. The staff were friendly, the layout was well-organized, and the entire experience was memorable from start to finish. We can’t wait to come back — we’re planning for another full day!"
Marina Smith
"Best children’s museum I’ve ever been to! We stopped on our way back from the Midwest, going to New England, and my husband is already wanting to plan a trip to Rochester next year, just to spend more time at the museum!
My son who was 1.5yo when we visited, LOVED it! I like how there’s activities for kids at every age (even adult nostalgia), and there’s even an outside area for kids to run around in (enclosed)."
Emily
"I highly recommend. I was surprised how large it was and how interactive it was. There were so many games (board games ann video games) you could play and so many other interactive things. Great for kids of all ages and adults as well. It had so many nostalgia items from toys dating back to the 1800's to more recent. We went on a Monday and it was not busy, we were there almost 5 hours and probably still didn't see everything. We ate at the food court and got pizza and a chicken salad wrap and both were really good."
Tabitha Reed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Strong National Museum of Play is located in Rochester, NY. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options also serve the area. Many visitors travel from Canada for a day trip, highlighting its accessibility.
Yes, there is parking available at the Strong National Museum of Play. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on busy days, to secure a spot.
Rochester has a public bus system that serves the museum. Check the local transit authority's website for routes and schedules.
The museum is designed to be accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it easy to navigate with young children or mobility aids.
The museum is located in downtown Rochester, making it a convenient destination for visitors exploring the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Strong National Museum of Play typically opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM, though hours can vary by season and day of the week. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Ticket prices can vary, but many visitors find them to be worth the cost for the extensive exhibits and experiences offered [^Reviews]. It's recommended to check the museum's website for current pricing and any potential discounts or package deals.
While specific promo codes and coupons can be hard to find, keeping an eye on local Rochester tourism sites or signing up for the museum's newsletter might yield occasional discounts. Some visitors mention purchasing two-day tickets for better value [^Reviews].
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the door, but buying them online in advance is recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak times.
Yes, the museum offers various membership levels, which can be a great option for frequent visitors or families looking for ongoing access and benefits.
🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include the World Video Game Hall of Fame, the iconic Sesame Street exhibit, the playable Pinball Playfield, and the immersive Butterfly Garden (additional fee). The museum also features a carousel and a Skyline exhibit [^T1, ^I2, ^I5, ^Reviews].
Absolutely! The museum has dedicated areas for younger children, including Sesame Street and interactive play zones, ensuring fun for even the youngest visitors [^T2, ^Reviews].
Most visitors recommend at least 4-6 hours, with many suggesting a full day or even two days to see everything without feeling rushed [^T3, ^I10, ^Reviews]. A 2-hour visit might feel very rushed, especially with young children.
Yes! Adults can enjoy the extensive video game and board game history exhibits, the pinball arcade, and the nostalgic elements throughout the museum [^I2, ^I8, ^Reviews].
The Butterfly Garden is a tropical conservatory filled with live butterflies. It's a serene and beautiful experience, though it requires an additional ticket purchase [^T4, ^I7, ^Reviews].
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum has a cafe offering basic cafeteria-style food. However, some visitors note that adult beverage options are limited, and many opt to eat at nearby restaurants for more variety [^Reviews].
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the museum, but check their specific policy. There are designated areas for dining within the museum.
Yes, Rochester has a vibrant food scene with many restaurants located near the museum, offering diverse culinary options for visitors [^Reviews].
The food is described as basic cafeteria fare. It's functional for a quick bite, but for a more satisfying meal, exploring local eateries is recommended [^Reviews].
Options can be limited, so it's advisable to check the current menu or consider packing snacks if allowed, or dining out.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use, allowing you to capture memories of your visit. However, flash photography may be restricted in certain exhibits to protect artifacts.
Iconic spots include the Sesame Street set, the retro arcade games, the colorful butterfly garden, and the various themed exhibit areas. The World Video Game Hall of Fame also offers great photo opportunities.
While personal photography is encouraged, professional photography or videography may require special permission. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
A versatile camera that handles low light well is ideal, especially for indoor exhibits. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities will also capture great shots.
Yes, capturing your children's joy and engagement with the exhibits is a highlight for many visitors. Just ensure you're not infringing on others' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
While the museum is large, it's stroller-friendly, making it easier to navigate with young children. Consider dedicating a significant portion of your day, or even two days, to fully enjoy the experience without feeling rushed, as even a short visit can be overwhelming for little ones [^R1, ^Reviews]. The museum's focus on play ensures that even the youngest visitors will find something to spark their imagination and joy.
🎮 Gamers and Nostalgia Seekers
The Pinball Playfield offers a chance to play iconic machines, transporting you back to the golden age of arcades.Beyond video games, the museum delves into the history of board games and other forms of interactive entertainment. It's a place to not only play but also to learn about the cultural impact and innovation behind these beloved pastimes. The sheer volume of playable exhibits and historical artifacts makes it a deeply satisfying experience for anyone with a passion for games [^T5, ^Reviews].
Budget-Conscious Travelers
Look for potential hotel packages that might include museum tickets, as suggested by some travelers.
While the museum cafe is convenient, dining at nearby restaurants can sometimes be more economical. Planning your visit for weekdays can also help avoid peak pricing or crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and potentially less rushed experience.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of Play: From Toys to Tech
Visitors can wander through Sesame Street, interact with classic arcade games in the Pinball Playfield, and discover the evolution of board games. The Toy Hall of Fame also inducts influential toys that have captured the imagination of generations. This deep dive into the history of play makes it a fascinating destination for all ages, blending nostalgia with educational insights [^I2, ^I8, ^Reviews].
Beyond the physical exhibits, the museum is a leading research institution dedicated to the study of play. This academic foundation enriches the visitor experience, providing context and depth to the displays. Whether you're a gamer, a toy enthusiast, or simply curious about the power of play, The Strong offers an unparalleled journey through its history and impact.
Family Fun: Making the Most of Your Visit
For older kids and adults, the World Video Game Hall of Fame and the Pinball Playfield offer hours of entertainment and a chance to relive gaming memories.
The museum's layout is designed for easy navigation, with clear signage and ample space to move around, even with strollers.Consider purchasing two-day tickets if you want to explore at a relaxed pace or if you have children who might need breaks. While the museum cafe offers convenient food options, some visitors prefer to dine at nearby restaurants for more variety [^Reviews]. The Butterfly Garden is an optional add-on that provides a beautiful, serene experience for the whole family.
Beyond the Exhibits: The Museum's Impact
The museum's research arm contributes significantly to the understanding of play's importance in development, learning, and well-being.Through its exhibits, the museum not only entertains but also educates, highlighting how play has evolved alongside technology and society. The Toy Hall of Fame and World Video Game Hall of Fame are testaments to the enduring impact of these playthings on our lives.
This dedication to preserving and promoting the value of play makes The Strong a unique and significant cultural institution.Visitors often leave with a renewed appreciation for the power of play, recognizing its role in creativity, problem-solving, and social connection. The museum's mission extends beyond its walls, influencing how we think about childhood and leisure activities worldwide.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit