Long Island Children's Museum
Former airplane hangar turned vibrant museum with hands-on exhibits for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Long Island Children's Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Former airplane hangar turned vibrant museum with hands-on exhibits for kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens.
"A fantastic day and experience! Fun learning & playing at the same time."
🎒 Pack a change of clothes
Essential for the water play area and sand/dirt zones! Kids get wet and messy.
👟 Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring across two floors and the backyard.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
H2OH! Water Play
Indoor water exhibit
Splash and play in a fun, interactive water zone. Perfect for cooling off on a hot day!
Tot Spot
Dedicated area for under 4s
A safe and engaging space designed for toddlers and very young children to explore.
Theater Shows
Museum theater
Entertaining and educational performances that captivate both kids and adults.
Outdoor Exploration
Backyard area
Features a sand pit and dirt dig area, offering hands-on outdoor fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Plan Your Visit
Pack Smart for Playtime
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack a change of clothes
Essential for the water play area and sand/dirt zones! Kids get wet and messy.
👟 Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring across two floors and the backyard.
🍎 Bring snacks or lunch
The cafeteria has vending machines, but they can be pricey.
⏰ Arrive early on weekends
To beat the biggest crowds and enjoy exhibits more peacefully.
New to garden city, help!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack a change of clothes
Essential for the water play area and sand/dirt zones! Kids get wet and messy.
👟 Wear comfy shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring across two floors and the backyard.
🍎 Bring snacks or lunch
The cafeteria has vending machines, but they can be pricey.
⏰ Arrive early on weekends
To beat the biggest crowds and enjoy exhibits more peacefully.
📅 Check for special events
The museum hosts themed events and shows year-round.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Long Island Children's Museum for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that cater to a wide age range, especially younger children. The staff are frequently mentioned as being friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. It's a popular spot for educational fun and memorable family outings.
"This was a fantastic day and experience! Dedicated area for kids under 4, but they were still welcome and avke to interact everywhere else with only a few exceptions!!
My Grandson (18 months old) had a terrific time !!! All staff members were helpful and great at interacting with kids. They had many staff available to help and, it seemed, to be noting what was a highly interacted with exhibit as well as things that need a polishing up.
They do themed events during the year and they are getting ready for winter celebrations ! There was a great deal of educational content as well, not just play zones.
Bring a lunch or snacks, there is a cafeteria where you can eat, which has a couple of vending machines, but they are pricey."
Lisa Walker
"I’m the grandmother celebrating my granddaughter’s 4th birthday. Parents and children had a blast. It’s fun learning & playing at the same time. The 2 hosts were very attentive to the needs of everyone. They decorated, supervised activities, served food and cleaned up. They allowed everyone to enjoy themselves and my daughter hardly did anything. Very nice children birthday venue."
Dina calhoun
"I love going to the LICM. Everyone who works here is so lovely and sweet. It is always a pleasant experience! There's always a new interesting exhibit or show to check out.
And the permanent exhibits never get old and never fail to disappoint. 🫧🥁🎶🌊⛱️ My child loves the backyard and the H2OH! play area. It's a great place to stay cool on a hot summer day. 🌞
My favorite thing to check out at this museum are the theater shows. They are entertaining for both parents and children! And pretty much phenomenal in my opinion❣️
I can't wait for what's next in store."
Susan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 11 Davis Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530. It's accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options include the LIRR to the nearby Westbury or Garden City stations, followed by a short taxi or rideshare.
Yes, there is parking available at the museum. It can get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, you can take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Westbury or Garden City stations. From there, a short taxi or rideshare will get you to the museum.
For families with toddlers, driving directly to the museum is often the most convenient option, allowing you to bring strollers and all necessary gear.
The museum is generally stroller-friendly, with ramps and elevators to access different levels.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, so it's best to check the official website for the most current rates. Members often receive free admission.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for weekends or special events, is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Keep an eye on their website for potential discounts, group rates, or special promotions. Membership offers the best value for frequent visitors.
Opening hours can vary by season and day of the week. It's crucial to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Some special exhibits or theater shows might have an additional fee or require separate timed tickets. Always check the museum's schedule and ticketing information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the H2OH! water play area, the Tot Spot for younger children, the interactive backyard with sand and dirt zones, and the engaging theater shows.
Absolutely! The Tot Spot is specifically designed for children under 4, but most exhibits are accessible and engaging for this age group.
Kids can engage in hands-on play, explore water exhibits, dig in sand and dirt, enjoy theater performances, and participate in various educational activities.
While many exhibits cater to younger children, the interactive nature of the displays and special events can still be engaging for older kids.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are highly recommended, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and playing. Be prepared for potential water play!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own lunch and snacks. There is a cafeteria area where you can eat your packed meals.
Yes, the museum has a cafeteria that offers a selection of food and drinks, along with vending machines.
The cafeteria typically offers a range of options, but it's always a good idea to check their current menu. Bringing your own healthy snacks is also a great option.
Garden City and Westbury offer various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, a short drive from the museum.
Some visitors have noted that the cafeteria and vending machine prices can be a bit pricey.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography and videography for non-commercial use are allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
Some exhibits might have specific restrictions on photography, especially if they involve delicate artifacts or performances. Look for signage.
The H2OH! water play area, the colorful exhibits, and the outdoor backyard offer great photo opportunities. The theater shows can also make for dynamic shots.
Personal social media content is usually fine, but for professional or commercial filming, you'll likely need to contact the museum for permission and guidelines.
Weekday mornings or early afternoons often have softer lighting and fewer crowds, making for better photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children (Toddlers & Preschoolers)
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid peak crowds and give your little ones ample space to roam and discover. The staff are known for being friendly and interactive, often engaging with the youngest visitors, which adds to the positive experience.
🎒 Budget-Conscious Visitors
Visiting on a weekday can also save you from potential weekend crowds and allow for a more relaxed experience without feeling rushed. While admission has a cost, the extensive range of interactive exhibits and activities offers significant value for a full day of entertainment and learning.
🎉 Birthday Party Planners
The interactive exhibits provide built-in entertainment, and the museum's unique setting in a former airplane hangar adds a memorable touch. It's a fantastic option for creating a stress-free and enjoyable birthday experience for everyone involved.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Interactive Exhibits for All Ages
The museum also features a sand pit and dirt dig area in its outdoor space, encouraging sensory exploration and imaginative play. These areas are fantastic for tactile learning but also highlight the importance of packing a change of clothes and appropriate footwear.
Beyond the permanent fixtures, the museum frequently introduces new and rotating exhibits, ensuring there's always something fresh to discover. This commitment to variety keeps the museum a favorite for repeat visits, offering continuous opportunities for fun learning and play.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips from Visitors
Comfortable footwear is also a must. You'll be navigating two floors and an outdoor space, so sturdy shoes are key for exploring without discomfort.
For those aiming to avoid the biggest crowds, weekday mornings are consistently recommended. If a weekend visit is unavoidable, arriving right at opening time is advised to get a head start on enjoying the exhibits before they become too busy.
Beyond Play: Educational Value and Special Events
The museum also shines with its special events and theater shows. These performances are frequently highlighted as a favorite feature, offering entertaining and engaging experiences for both children and adults.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit