Brooklyn Children's Museum

Originally posted on Mommy Nearest (Jan 2015)

Whether you’re a Brooklynite or residing in another part of the city (or state!), there are countless family-friendly things to do in the borough—and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum (BCM) is right up at the top of the list. Babies, toddlers, school-aged children and their grownups will all have a blast at BCM. Here are some highlights of what you'll find and love:

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Visit the special zone for little ones

BCM’s Totally Tots room is for children ages five and under and has tons to do. My little guy was especially crazy about their water-play section (they have smocks but you still might consider bringing a change of clothes, socks, and shoes if you have a water baby like me!). They also have a climbing structure, musical instruments, a blue sand box, a reading tent, puppet theater, building zone and more. No exaggeration—my toddler would have been content spending the entire day here.

Little ones will also love Totally Tots Art Studio Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays @ 10am – 12pm and Brooklyn Block Lab (Thursdays @ 2:00-5:30pm, Fridays @ 10am-1pm, Saturdays @ 10am-1pm, Sunday @ 10am-1pm).

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​Explore a kid-sized city

My personal favorite exhibit is World Brooklyn. There, visitors meander in and out of shops that teach kids and grownups about the vibrant history—and culture—of Brooklyn. Plus, each area is filled with hands-on activities to take part in. You can make play pizza in the Italian restaurant, dance along to videos from around the world in the Global Beats Theater or shop at the International Market for Shabbat or Kwanzaa.

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Experience nature

I love that BCM has made a point of emphasizing the importance of nature and sustainable living. In fact, Brooklyn Children’s Museum is New York’s first LEED-certified green museum. Inside, you’ll find a little pond aquarium and greenhouse, and weather permitting you can take a walk through (or get your hands dirty in) their outdoor garden.

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Family-friendly facility

Their bathrooms feature changing tables, one lowered sink and stepping stool for children, and even a mini urinal. They welcome strollers, and have a ramp out front and an elevator and ramps inside. There’s a large cafeteria for snacks or just taking a break, and they also have a sensory room for children with special needs (open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 4:45pm). BCM also hosts birthday parties, summer camps, and tons of festivals and special events, so be sure to check out their program schedule for what's coming up!

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Super cool visiting exhibits

Be sure to check their website to see what temporary exhibits are there now and coming soon!

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Hours, Admission and Directions

Location: 145 Brooklyn Avenue at St. Marks Avenue, Brooklyn

Admission: $11, children under 1 free. There's "pay what you wish" admission on Thursdays from 2 to 5pm. Your NYC ID will also get you free admission (child and guests must pay).

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–5pm (til 6pm Thursdays)

How to get there: By subway, take the 3 to Kingston Avenue, the A to Nostrand Avenue, or the C to Kingston/Throop Avenue. By bus, take the B43 or B44 to St. Mark's Avenue, or the B25, B45, or B65 to Brooklyn Avenue. If coming by car, take note that there is no parking lot but street parking is generally easy to find. Go here for detailed directions.

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Be sure to check out our other posts on the best activities for kids in New York City!!