If it’s an indoor kind of day and you’re wondering how to keep the kids busy, Monmouth Museum in Lincroft is the place where kids will have a blast and sneak in some learning (mom wins!). Thanks to the history, science, and interactive exhibits, littles can get busy without even realizing they are honing motor skills and gaining STEAM knowledge. And with 15,000 square feet of space, two children’s wings, galleries with rotating exhibits, plus a whale of a slide, the Monmouth Museum is an indoor activity go-to all year round. Read on for more details, and if you can’t make it to Monmouth, find one of the other NJ museums to visit near you. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM)

Spend the day at the Monmouth Museum

Explore the Wonder Wing

If your kids love to explore, climb, interact, and create, then The Wonder Wing is where they will want to hang out for a while. This wing is for children aged 6 and under, but there are paths so bigger kids can stay nearby. Kids will adore the under-the-sea theme, which offers everything from a puzzle corner, stage area, treehouse, lighthouse, rope bridge, and ship to the adorable whale slide, accessed by a stairwell with a mouth opening at the bottom onto a padded landing. Need a minute? Take a break on one of the adjacent benches, where you can keep an eye on wandering kids and relax. 

The Becker STEAM Wing and The Garrett Reisman Center for Air & Space

Kids of all ages will want to head to the Becker Room, where STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) exhibits and activities give them plenty of ways to discover and learn about the world around us. With exhibits ranging from fossils and dinosaurs to horseshoe crabs, a recycled arts studio, a multimedia room, and an aquaponics system, there’s plenty to keep kids engaged. Upstairs, the Space Center has TV displays showing the astronauts in space and a constellation station where you can match and form your name with stars. Downstairs, you can park toddlers and babies on the carpeted open play space with toys like musical instruments, soft plushies, and puzzles. If your kids want to create, don’t miss the recycled craft station that offers a daily craft activity. 

Holiday fun with Dino-mite exhibits and events

From December to early January, the Monmouth Museum is abuzz with holiday festivities and activities. Bring the family’s youngest members on select weekends to visit with Mrs. Claus for a delightful, memorable storytime. Once you get into the holiday spirit with the story, participate in holiday arts and crafts. And don’t miss the Dinosaur Exhibit, which is beautifully decorated with a dino-themed holiday tree and festive ornaments and garlands on the dinos. 

FAQs

When can I visit the Monmouth Museum?

The museum is closed on Mondays, but The Wonder Wing and Galleries are open 10 AM to 4 PM Tuesday through Sunday. The Becker STEAM Wing and the Garrett Reisman Center for Air & Space are open only on Thursdays through Sundays. Hours are subject to change, so it’s always best to check them beforehand.

How much is it to enter?

Admission provides access to all areas; general admission is $14, and children under 2 are free. Buying tickets online in advance is recommended for a quicker check-in.

Is the museum baby-friendly?

There is stroller parking around the corner, but the museum itself isn’t stroller-friendly. Baby changing areas are available, and a private nursing area is in the ladies’ room off the main hallway.

Are there food options?

Food and drinks are not permitted inside, but there are two nature garden spots with picnic tables available, weather permitting; if you are coming with a larger group, make sure to call in advance to reserve the space.

Do they have any special events?

You can book a birthday party at Monmouth Museum in the Wonder Wing and Dinosaur Exhibit. Check out their special event calendar, including Storytime and Crafts, as well as Ocean Explorers and a Juried Art Show.

Learn more about Monmouth Museum by visiting their website, Facebook, and Instagram.

Monmouth Museum 
765 Newman Springs Road
Lincroft, NJ 07738

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