The water table is fun for all ages

The National Canal Museum is a fun and educational place for families.  Every day, there’s always something to delight and inform young minds about canals and our region’s industrial history.  Many of the museum exhibits are highly interactive.  Kids can pretend they are a captain at the tiller of a canal boat, learn hands-on about simple machines, or control the flow of water in our water table. There are also scavenger hunts, Grab ‘N Go lessons, and touchable artifacts that engage different age groups with exhibits around the museum.  Our Hands on History area also has activities that tie in with this year’s special exhibition, Coal Country Portraits.  In addition to the daily attractions and activities, we offer monthly Kids on the Canal events.

Kids on the Canal Days – Third Saturday of the Month

Fun-filled days at the museum that include crafts, games, and other learning opportunities.  Each day has a theme and most activities are outside (weather permitting).  Activities are included in the price of museum admission unless otherwise noted.

2023 Kids on the Canal Days

Walking the plank at Pirate Day!

April 15: STEAM into History!
Fun activities related to science, technology, engineering, art and math

May 20:  Immersion Day
Try out some of the activities that we normally do for our spring field trips for schools

June 17: Let’s Get Buzzing About Nature
Let’s learn about the bees, butterflies, and other pollinators that hang out in our native plant gardens.

July 15: Waterplay on the Canal
We’re learning about water -why things float, how water moves, and how people can harness its power.  Plus we’ll probably get a little wet!

August 19: Mule Madness
Our mules, Hank and George, are the stars of the show.  Come meet them and find out what makes mules great animals to work with.

September 16: Pirate Day 
Ahoy me hearties!  Join our motley crew and enjoy a swashbuckling set of pirate-themed activities.

October 21:  Halloween Trick or Treat
Join us for a fun, historically themed Trick or Treat event.

November 18: Homemade Play
Learn how to make toys of days gone by.

December 16: Winter Wonderland
Celebrate winter with crafts for you and our feathered friends.