Children's Museum of Manhattan459

The first thing to do when you arrive at this oasis for little ones is: sign up for some of the day's events at the Information Desk (once you've paid your entry fee, you'll find the sign up desk across from the museum shop as you enter). Something wonderful is always on the schedule at CMOM, and if you don't sign up, you may miss out.

Then, and only then, take your time and explore all five floors. Exhibits change frequently (see our calendar), and are invariably interesting and inspiring.

The nation's only museum exhibition of its kind, Adventures with Dora & Diego is a bilingual exhibit, created in collaboration with Nickelodeon and series co-creators Chris Gifford and Valerie Walsh, that uses a multi-sensory environment to transport children to Dora's house, Diego's Animal Rescue Center, and a tropical rainforest. Interactive elements help young visitors learn about Latino culture, preschool science, and animal facts.

Playworks, on the third floor, is a magical space for kids under the age of five. Preschoolers can feed alphabet letters to a talking baby dragon, play scientist in a sand laboratory, and conjure up some make-believe on a fire truck, city bus, or general store. Babies can play high tech peek-a-boo (parents, older siblings, and caregivers will be as transfixed as toddlers) and experiment with sound, air, and colors. And families can use a computer to create a story, complete with video, and email it home, or to grandma. Every element is engaging for kids of all abilities, and designed with thought and care. Be prepared for crowds and possible a wait to get in (check at the front desk).

The City Splash exhibit, outside on the fire escape, is open in good weather from (roughly) mid-April through mid-October.

Little West Side in the New Creativity Lab, on the fourth floor, offers some imaginary play options, including a New York City taxi kids can climb in and "drive."

The lower level houses Block Party, a cavernous space dotted with tables and bins of an engrossing building material. Don't be put off by the big empty room, just start building! This room doubles as a performance space - be sure to check the schedule for upcoming performances!

The third floor ladies' and mens' rooms have padded changing tables, with paper rolls for extra hygienic cover.

Classes: Changing classes are available for kids ages 14 months (preschool preparation and gentle separation) to seven years (science, art and acting)! To register for classes, call 212.721.1223, ext. 225.

Parties: The Children's Museum of Manhattan is available for birthday parties and other special events. Call for information.

A special family membership rate of $210/year offers unlimited access to the museum for two adults and all the children in one household.