The Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) has long been an oasis of learning, creativity, and exploration in the midst of the Upper West Side, and they’ve recently cooked up another hands-on learning experience for NYC kids: the New York Treasures Scavenger Hunt, which will launch on June 13 and continue through the summer.
Scavenger hunt participants will search for clues to 20 New York City landmarks and institutions hidden throughout the museum’s collections, while also learning fun facts about NYC history through hands-on exhibits and programs. The hunt is meant to celebrate the diverse culture and layout of the city, and serve a precursor to a New York-inspired interactive experience that will open this fall.
“The big apple can be overwhelming for any visitor, especially for children. Playing one’s way through CMOM’s educational exhibitions and meeting NYC landmarks is the perfect introduction to the city, for adults and children alike,” said Andrew Ackerman, CMOM’s executive director.
The hidden New York treasures could include things like the Wonder Wheel at Coney Island, the Empire State Building, Yankee Stadium, the Statue of Liberty, the World’s Fair Unisphere in Queens, Lincoln Center, and El Museo de Barrio, among others.
The free-with-admission activity will span five floors of indoor interactive spaces at CMOM, as well as its outdoor City Splash exhibit. Visitors will use a “treasure map,” which can be picked up at the admission desk, to help them find the hidden clues located throughout the museum. Each clue will feature an image of a New York City landmark, a fun fact and a letter that will fill in the blanks on the map. The letters will eventually spell out a secret message that will unlock a prize.
Prior to “The New York Scavenger Hunt,” on June 5 CMOM will launch Frolic, a rock-and-roll-themed pop-up play space designed for children 5 and under. Frolic, which is set to run until December 31, will feature daily programs; live performances, such as the Saturday Summer Concert Series; and hands-on music education workshops.
For more information regarding New York Scavenger Hunt, Frolic, programs and activities at CMOM, visit cmom.org!
