Chock-full of entertaining pursuits for kids of all ages, Lehigh Valley offers something for everyone all year round. From science to a model train exhibit, discover these four museums families can enjoy together around Allentown, Pennsylvania.
Da Vinci Science Center
Since opening its doors in 1992, the Da Vinci Science Center is known nationwide for bringing knowledge to life with its award-winning programs. The STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are presented to kids in a playful, informal way that relates to each individual’s interests.
Explore the PPL Electric Utilities Energy Zone, where kids will learn how the energy they use to move their body compares with the electrical energy that powers your home. Stop by the 16-foot water tank and find out how scientists are turning the ocean’s waves into usable electricity.
The kids will love to using KEVA planks to show off their building skills, while one of the Center’s most popular exhibits, Tunnel Vision, lets them crawl through a 72-foot long maze in complete darkness.
America On Wheels
Do you have someone in the family who’s obsessed with everything on wheels? Then The America On Wheels Antique Auto Museum is the perfect local destination for your family. Spend the day exploring vintage cars on display in over 23,000 square feet of space, featuring three main galleries.
Now on display through Mar. 23 is “Fabulous Fins of the 50s and 60s.” This exhibit is all about the glory age of period automobile design. Stop by the museum May 4 for a free event titled “Heavy Equipment Petting Zoo.” See colossal construction equipment up close with this unique touch-and-learn opportunity.
Allentown Art Museum
Allentown Art Museum offers families the opportunity to learn and create with guided tours, community events, hands-on art projects, and live performances. Grab the kids and venture over to the Art Ways Interactive Family Gallery.
Guests of all ages will enjoy this family-friendly hall and lounge with marker stations, a chalk wall, and tons of material for creating fantastic art projects together. Admission is free every Sunday afternoon and every third Thursday of the month.
Merchants Square Model Train Exhibit
While not a traditional museum, Merchants Square Mall’s model train display is a one-of-a-kind wonder to behold. Found on the second floor, this delightfully elaborate toy railroad is one of Allentown residents’ favorite destinations with hundreds of intricately detailed and electrified structures.
Featuring 40 trains, a water-filled lake, and even thunder sound effects, the main display is a gigantic 78 feet long by 36 feet wide. You’ll enjoy an underground subway, a working drive-in movie theater, and an amusement park. Each show lasts just 30 minutes. However, your tickets are good all day, so have lunch or do some shopping, and come back for another round.
There’s no shortage of reasons to pack up the kids and head to a local Allentown museum. More than just an immersive learning experience, days spent together as a family provides wonderful, lasting memories for everyone.
Image by Discover Lehigh Valley, PA is licensed under CC-BY 2.0
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