Hey Bronx parents! Guess what? There's a new museum coming to town that your family just has to check out! The Bronx Children's Museum site is totally new, and it's set to open to the public on Saturday, Dec. 3, in Mill Pond Park.
The museum has a whole bunch of exciting activities and exhibits that kids of all ages and their parents will love. Features include lots of interactive exhibits where families can play, learn and connect to the natural and cultural resources in the Bronx. There's something for children to discover and explore at every turn!
For the last 12 years, the museum existed “without walls” to provide enrichment programs to kids throughout the borough. But now, thanks to city and state representatives, private supporters and the community, it opened in a new, permanent indoor space at 725 Exterior St. along the Harlem River.
Joined by local officials, architects and community members, the museum celebrated the completion of the $16 million project at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 16.
“Using a framework of early childhood enrichment and social justice, the museum provides bridges to imagination, ladders to knowledge and safe places for children to have fun and just be children,” Carla Precht, founding executive director of the museum, said.
The museum will still offer off-site programming at venues including schools, festivals and fairs. In fact, staff is even looking forward to being back on the road with a new “Museum on the Go!” electric bus in a few years.
But the new fixed location is something the community is especially excited about. Inside, it has lots of open space, colorful carpeting in some sections and is furnished with lots of lounge areas and toys, providing fun and comfort for all who visit. There will be rotating programs, diverse art activities, special guest educators and performers, and “curiosity carts,” to help ensure each visit offers something new, staff reports.
“The museum is a love letter to the Bronx in honor of all the children—past, present and future,” Precht said.
What to Expect at the Bronx Children's Museum
Kids and families will enjoy exploring the museum's 13,000-square-foot facility. Staff worked with O'Neill McVoy Architects to make sure the space is not only child- and caregiver-friendly, but inspired by the children they've worked with over the years through their outreach programs within the borough. Exhibits include:
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Sonia's Corner: Named in honor of two famous Bronx natives: Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and actress Sonia Manzano—the famous “Maria” from Sesame Street!
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Books: There’s a large collection of children's books for kids to read.
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A 32-foot waterway: This includes a High Bridge aqueduct!
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The Block: This features a fun play neighborhood that includes a casita, storefronts and community garden.
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The Nest: A special play area for the museum's youngest visitors, ages 0-3.
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Lots of fine-art installations created by Bronx-connected artists are found throughout the space.
What You Need to Know About Visiting the Bronx Children's Museum
Where is the museum located?
The museum is located at 725 Exterior St., 2nd Floor, Bronx, NY.
When is the museum open?
The museum opens to the public on Saturday, Dec. 3. December 2022 hours are: Saturdays, 10am-1pm and 2-5pm. Closed Dec. 24 and 31. January 2023 hours: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 10am-1pm and 2-5pm.
How much are tickets to the museum?
Admission is free for a limited time during the museum's opening period. Reservations are required. After that, admission is $8; free for children 1 and younger.
For more information, visit bronxchildrensmusuem.org or follow the museum on Facebook or Instagram.
Main image: Courtesy Bronx Children’s Museum
