Jewish Children's Museum

The Basics

Children discover famous biblical stories, learn about Jewish traditions and customs, and dive into Jewish history through the museum’s exhibitions. Kids get hands-on and interact, whether it's by climbing on a gigantic Shabbat table, shopping at a kosher supermarket, taking part in a cooking class in the kosher kitchen, or discovering traditional handicrafts in ashtetl holiday village. Other activities include a 6-hole miniature golf course, a rock climbing wall, and a games gallery.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The museum is aimed at children between the ages of 2 and 10, but many exhibitions are interesting for older children and adults too.

• Tickets include full access to all exhibitions; children under 2 are free.

• Plan around two hours to take in all the exhibits.

• There is a cafe and kosher restaurant on site.

How to Get There

The museum is located along Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The closest subway station is the 2, 3, 4 at Nostrand Avenue, three blocks away.

When to Get There

The museum is open Monday to Thursday from mid-morning to mid-afternoon, and Sundays from morning to early evening. It is closed on Friday and Saturday.

Things to Do with Kids in Brooklyn

Other spots in Brooklyn that keep kids entertained include Prospect Park, with highlights including walking trails, a boating lake, and Prospect Park Zoo. On the water, Brooklyn Bridge Park has numerous picnic areas, cycling paths, and playgrounds. There is also the nearby Brooklyn Children’s Museum; the children’s space at the Brooklyn Public Library, Central Branch; and Coney Island amusement park.

Ways to explore

Expect to spend about two hours at the Jewish Children’s Museum, exploring the exhibitions and enjoying activities such as a 6-hole miniature golf course, rock climbing wall, and games gallery. Interactive experiences include the opportunity to shop at a kosher supermarket and discover traditional handicrafts at a shtetl holiday village.

The Jewish Children’s Museum is in Brooklyn’s Crown Heights neighborhood, near other family-friendly landmarks, including the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. You could combine a visit to the Jewish Children’s Museum with a Brooklyn walking tour, food tour, bike tour, or street art tour.

Accessibility

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, including restrooms, elevators, and entrances.

Age limits

None; children under 2 are free

What to pack

Secure water bottle, small bags only

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers of breathable clothing

Not allowed

Outside food and drink, large bags, strollers

Amenities

Café, kosher restaurant, nursing room

Address

The Jewish Children’s Museum is in the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn. It’s possible to reach the museum by car or by public transportation.

Driving

Parking is available on local streets surrounding the museum; this landmark does not have a parking lot.

Public transportation

It is easy to take the subway to reach the Jewish Children’s Museum. Take the 2, 3, 4, or 5 trains to Kingston Avenue, and the museum is conveniently located on the corner.

Best times to visit

The museum opens at 10am, and mornings are generally the quietest time of day.

Best days to visit

The museum is closed on Fridays and Saturdays but open the rest of the week. Weekdays offer a quieter experience than Sundays.

Best months to visit

The Jewish Children’s Museum offers an interactive, educational experience throughout the year.

Special events

The museum holds a special menorah lighting in honor of the first day of Hanukkah.