The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, is one of our favourite destinations. With in-person visits off the table due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Museum’s virtual offerings will keep you connected and entertained. It’s a great opportunity for individuals and families to enjoy the physical and emotional benefits of play.
These are highlights of the museum’s playful virtual offerings:
Stories Behind the Stuff
Stories Behind the Stuff is a weekly series narrated by Chief Curator, Chris Bensch. Each episode reveals the history behind some best-loved playthings. New videos are posted every Thursday on The Strong’s Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Mobile Gaming
The Strong has created a mobile games app with digital recreations of early dexterity games and puzzles. Download the Original Mobile Games app from the App Store, Google Play, or Nintendo Kinect.
Browse Virtual Collections
You can browse a variety of online exhibits, including Pinball in America, American Board and Card Game History, and The Oregon Trail, MECC, and the Rise of Computer Learning. They’re all available via The Strong’s partner page on Google’s Arts & Culture platform.
Social Media
The Museum is updating its Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter social media channels daily with new content that includes DIY crafts, games, and toy history.
Mondays and Fridays feature Carol D. Simmons Storytime Club readings for kids to hear classic children’s stories read aloud. Weekly Wednesday Animal Encounters provides insight into the animals that are part of the Museum’s Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden.
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