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22 Cool, Fun Museums in the USA for Adults and Kids Alike

Having run this educational travel blog for over TWELVE years now, I frequently get questions about what I think are the best museums in America — especially lesser-known ones which are often overlooked. For the first time, today I’m compiling my museum favorites list all together, for your exploring ease!

Fun Museums
What are some fun museums in the USA?

Nearly every museum on this list is good for both kids and adults. I have two young children, and have kid-tested many of these spots, but also enjoy each for a solo grown-up wander. You may also notice another theme: I adore places with bright colors. Let’s dig in…

Cool, Fun Museums

What are some of the best lesser-known museums in America? Here's a growing list of cool, fun museums in the USA that are great for both kids and adults.

Which Fun Museums are YOUR Favorites?

Cool museums, eh? Which ones from this list stand out the most to you, either because you’ve visited them yourself, or because they boast exhibits and collections that appeal to you? For example, a recent reader suggestion to check out the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA was a great one!

Now, these are just spots in the United States, but if I were to add international destinations for color and art, the ABC Islands would be high on my list for eye candy appeal. Perhaps I’ll compile a global round-up next.

So, which fun U.S. museums aren’t on this list which you’ve loved and think should be added? For my international edition, which museums around the world have enchanted you? Do share!

Cool fun museums
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Like this list? Check out my related pieces: “40 Art Prompts,” “Why is Art Important?” “New England Getaways,” “Famous Buildings,” “Laurel Highlands, PA,” and “What to do in the Berkshires, MA.”

 

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Lisa

Friday 26th of January 2024

City Museum in St. Louis is my favorite!!

Lillie Marshall

Saturday 27th of January 2024

Ah, thank you for the recommendation! I haven't been to St. Louis but now I'm very intrigued...

Amanda Emmerling

Wednesday 4th of August 2021

So many fun museums here! I live in Pittsburgh and haven't been to bicycle heaven yet but it looks so great!

Lillie Marshall

Wednesday 4th of August 2021

Ahh, you’ll love it! And can’t beat the free price.

Jennifer L Brommer

Sunday 1st of August 2021

What a fabulous round-up! After reading this article and seeing your amazing photos, I'm so inspired to get out and explore the many, many places to have yet to go! Thanks for sharing...

Lillie Marshall

Monday 2nd of August 2021

Do it!!! Glad to give positive peer pressure -- hehe.

Ginger Brown

Friday 23rd of July 2021

You're missing my favourite - the Strong Museum of Play! Stopped on a whim on our road trip and had a blast! Fun and informative and not about toys necessarily, but includes info about how we learn from play. https://www.museumofplay.org/

Lillie Marshall

Saturday 24th of July 2021

Ah, what a great suggestion! I will see if we can make a visit there on our annual drive east from Cleveland. I seem to remember some others had recommended this museum, too.

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