Planning a museum trip with the entire family is a great way to bond and create lasting memories. However, taking the entire family to the museum can spell disaster and temper tantrums in younger children without successful planning. Instead, use these tips to ensure that everyone in the family has a great time!

1. Look at Exhibits Online

If you want to plan museum trip fun for the whole family, know what the family wants to do beforehand. Explore various exhibits online. Check the website for attractions, workshops, and other features that will be available. Then, plan at least one thing that each member of the family will enjoy.

2. Schedule Your Day

Remember everyone’s energy levels and attention spans when scheduling the day. For example, toddlers are notorious for having short attention spans. Because of that, don’t plan on spending too much time at exhibits the younger members of the family are not interested in. You’ll also want to include things like restrooms and lunch breaks when you plan museum trip days.

3. Start Learning Beforehand

Learning about things that are already at the museum is a great way to increase the educational value of your trip. Read books and watch movies that are related to exhibits at the museum. Check out the museum website to see if they offer activities for the home or interactive website features to get the learning started. Then, while visiting, you can discuss interesting facts with the kids!

4. Pack the Essentials

Taking a tote or small backpack to the museum with you is a must if you’re bringing the entire family. Pack a few water bottles and snacks for the ride to avoid children being irritable because they are hungry or thirsty. Include a jacket to ensure no one gets cold at the museum. If children may get uncomfortable during the trip, pack comfortable shoes so they can change. Ensuring you have the essentials handy will ensure that everyone enjoys the trip!

5. Have Fun

While proper planning is a must, don’t forget to have fun! Allow plenty of room for flexibility in case children want to stay at a particular exhibit longer. Take plenty of pictures to make a scrapbook later, and don’t forget to take the time to really dive into interactive exhibits.

Museums contribute $50 million to the national economy yearly, so you’re enjoying a learning experience while helping the nation. Visit the rest of the website for more information to help you plan museum trip days!

Posted 6/13/23