There’s something about a good children’s museum that puts a child-like spark in the heart of every playful parent. The Children’s Museum at La Habra is able to do that before you even step foot inside. From the parking lot, you pass the historic train-depot-turned-theatre building that looks mostly abandoned, a few old train cars including a caboose from 1942 and giant dinosaur topiaries along the entry path.
Once you get inside the bright colors and stimulating patterns beckon you to run, touch and play with everything you can get your hands on. The Museum has 14 interactive activities with 7 galleries including one rotating exhibit. Little ones can dig for dinosaur bones, pump gas, ride a miniature carousel, “drive” a bus, put their hand in a lion’s mouth and climb a tree.
Of all the exhibits, it seems the most popular is the market where kids can load up their shopping carts with pretend food and cash out at the register. Watching the imagination and interpersonal communication pour out of the kids in this relaxed, kid-friendly environment is inspiring.
Keep an ear out for the announcements alerting visitors to participate in daily events like caboose tours and animal meet and greets. And don’t forget to give your little superstar the opportunity to show off their talent on stage! Visit the Theatre Gallery where kids can dress up, read scripts, or sing their favorite songs.
If animals are your thing, head to the far end of the Museum to the Nature Walk Gallery and get up close and personal with animals from all over the world. Stand next to towering bears, a leaping lion, and a small exhibit of live animals.
At $8 per person (kids under 2 are free) this museum is a steal by providing magical family memories and hours of fun.
The Children’s Museum at La Habra is located at 301 South Euclid Street, La Habra, CA 90631. For hours and additional information, visit their website at http://www.lahabracity.com/custom.cfm?name=cmlh.cfm.
