Until Friday, I’d never been to the Strong National Museum of Play, and I’m a senior. I went for College Night, which is composed for college students to enjoy.
As I walked to the museum I wondered why I was doing this. That changed when I got there — just circling around the perimeter revealed a picturesque scene.
The line at the entrance was daunting, thanks to the discount for students with college IDs. When I managed to finally enter, a flood of nostalgia and childhood memories hit me.
The museum isn’t tailored for adults, but it seemed like everyone who came was having fun reliving their childhood. Since the environment encouraged goofiness, I couldn’t resist letting my own childhood spirit loose. (My first destination was the aquarium.)
There were several play exhibits, with themes such as “Sesame Street” and “American Comic Book Heroes.” A computer kiosk allowed people to see what they would look like as a superhero. (I must say, my superhero self looks dashing — a blend between Clark Kent and Mr. Incredible.)
One of my favorite sections was located in the middle of the museum. It was a large table with several Mr. Potato Head parts for museum goers to make their own version of Mr. or Mrs. Potato Head.
I visited the arcade gaming centers last. There was had a separate room for just pinball machines, an awesome homage to a game ‘90s kids would definitely appreciate. To end the night, I visited the shopping center and bought a few souvenirs. Unnecessary purchases but, like the rest of the night, totally worth it.
