We went to the Children's Museum of New Hampshire today, July 28, 2008 and here is my review...
Parking: There is plenty behind the museum or along the street.
Gate/Admission: [$$$] The staff is very friendly and informative.
Birthday Parties: Yes
Bathrooms: They have family style bathrooms on both floors with small toilets for the little ones (so cute) and changing tables.
Cleanliness: This museum is brand new. It was very clean.
Store: There is a souvenir store with lots of neat and colorful toys. There is a snack area with tables and a vending machine with a variety of snacks, juice, water and I noticed soy milk. They do not serve food.
Overall: This is a great place for all aged children. There are some really neat exhibits with something for everybody! Even the adults were participating in the fun! The craft area is really nice with tables set up for all age groups. Head up the ramp for a really nice spot for children 0-3. My son loved the train table and the book nook. Right out back is the town playground with shaded picnic tables (full sun on the playground). They do not allow strollers in the museum, but they do have a room for stroller parking. Keep that in mind if you have a very young child and a toddler! The only downfall for me was that there are no structures for children to play on/in. Otherwise, I think this is a great place to check out.
The museum is great, but my big complaint is about strollers. Since they don't allow strollers, I've had to chase my 3 year old around with a 20lb. baby and a 5lb. pack on my back. Really not that much fun for Mom (or baby). So be prepared if you are bringing a baby, or wait until you can bring another person to help.
ReplyDeleteThe lack of a climbing structure was a big negative for me. I really appreciated the true submarine at the Portsmouth location. Very dissapointed not to see a climbing structure at the new museum. My kids (2 and 3) would rather be outside at the playground!
ReplyDeleteAnd it's quite a spendy outing as well ($7 per person (ages 1+)). If you're local, it's best to buy a membership.
I was also very disappointed to find out that the toddler area states that its only for kids under 3. Not sure what their thoughts would be for how my toddler and 4 yr old are supposed to enjoy the place together.
ReplyDeleteJust went with my 2-year-old. We went last year, but it had just opened in the new location and not everything was set up. It's a great little museum, and my child had a blast (she still talks about it), but the toys and exhibits are already looking a bit worn in only a year. The toddler area was really fun for her after all the exhibits. Lots of train tables. She also enjoyed the ramps, stairs, and little playground right outside. We got free passes from our local library. GREAT DEAL!
ReplyDeleteWe LOVE the this museum!!! I have to disagree about the lack of climbing structures...there's so much to do there I don't think the kids miss that at all...after all it is a MUSEUM not a gym, right. Been going since my daughter was only like 10 mos old...and now is 17 mos... and SHE can't get enough. She loves all the sounds she can make with the drums and the sound wall as well as the little kitchen where she can play and pretend. I strongly recommend the membership as well, it has paid off only after about 5 mos for us and if you add the guest pass it's great to bring your hubby or a friend and pays off in only 2x. Great for hrs of stimulation for all ages!
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