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This museum isn’t just for kids—it’s designed to remind everyone of the joy of play, and it’s filled with interactive exhibits that appeal to all ages.

After a long week of classes, research, and deadlines, the museum offers a fun and immersive way to step out of the grind and into something completely different. You can leave your work behind, wander through displays of vintage toys, or lose yourself in a game. One of the main highlights here is the collection of classic arcade games and pinball machines, which are all ready to play. It’s a little slice of nostalgia for adults who grew up with these games, but it’s also an engaging experience for anyone who might want to see how gaming has evolved over time.

For those looking to reconnect with a carefree sense of play, the museum has plenty to offer. Right in the center of the museum, you’ll find a full-sized, historic carousel that’s hard to resist. The carousel adds a bit of old-fashioned charm to the experience, and it’s open for anyone.

Another fun feature is the museum’s indoor jungle gym. This area has climbing structures and slides designed with a younger audience in mind, but don’t let that stop you if you’re in the mood to have a little fun. This play area can be surprisingly therapeutic, even for adults, especially after spending most of the week in a library or classroom. Just giving yourself a few minutes to play on the slides or climb through the structures can be a fun, quick way to shake off stress.

One spot that’s popular with families is the mini Wegmans Super Kids Market. It’s a child-sized grocery store replica that’s always bustling with activity as kids shop for play food and load up mini carts. While this is mainly for children, the creativity on display is fun to look at for people of all ages.

The museum also has a National Toy Hall of Fame, which highlights toys like Barbie, LEGOs, Hot Wheels, and the Game Boy. This section takes you back through decades of toy history, exploring why certain toys have left such a significant impact on our lives. As a grad student, it’s a unique opportunity to see play as more than a pastime—it’s a cultural thread that has shaped how we think and connect with others. Standing among these iconic toys and reading about their history can be fascinating, making it easy to lose track of time here.

The museum’s Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden offers a serene, greenhouse environment filled with tropical plants and butterflies. It’s a perfect space to catch a peaceful moment after a busy week. There is a small additional fee for this exhibit, but it’s worth it for the chance to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the calm atmosphere. Watching butterflies float around is relaxing.

If you’re interested in literature, the Reading Adventureland area is another part of the museum where you can wander through storybook themes, with fairy-tale play zones that are fun for both kids and adults. It’s a different kind of escape, where you can step into the world of a story. 

The museum has convenient amenities, like an on-site cafe, where you can take a break between exhibits, as well as ample nearby parking. They also offer membership options, which can be worth it if you plan on visiting multiple times. For those of us local to Rochester or nearby, a membership makes it easy to stop by anytime you need a quick reset or a change of pace from routine studies.

The Strong Museum of Play is more than just a museum; it’s a place where you can reconnect with the value of play, shake off stress, and simply enjoy yourself. Whether you’re diving into the nostalgia of classic toys, taking a spin on the carousel, or getting lost in storybook worlds, it’s a unique way to recharge and come back to your studies with a fresh perspective.