Spring Break Programs at New York State Museum Aim To Engage and Inspire Local Families

The scavenger hunts, which are broken down into three age groups, can be picked up at the Museum's front desk. While the youngest use clues to explore exhibits, older children answer questions or use prompts to take photos that inspire them to see the Museum through a new lens. The hunts will remain available beyond Spring Break.

In addition to regular weekday programming, Spring Break events include:

Music Performance: Deb Cavanaugh and Dandelion Wine
Date: Saturday, April 4
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Adirondack Hall

Join singer-songwriter Deb Cavanaugh and Dandelion Wine for a musical journey celebrating traditional American folk music. Deb invites audiences of all ages to experience the magic of musical storytelling that bridges generations.

Springtime Crafting Fun at the NYS Museum!
Date: Sunday, April 5
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Location: Kids Cove

Welcome the season of renewal with a fun and easy spring-themed craft session for kids. This hands-on activity is perfect for children of all ages-no experience necessary. All materials will be provided, so just bring your creativity and a big smile!

New York State Archives: Archie's Birthday Party
Date: Tuesday, April 7
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: NYSM Galleries

You're invited to a wild celebration of Archie, the tiny titan of history and the New York State Archives' very own Junior Archivist! Archie isn't just any mascot-he's a curious, document-loving beaver who digs into New York's fascinating history and shares its stories with everyone he meets. On his special day, celebrate with crafts, games, and plenty of birthday fun.

Spring Chickadee: Acrylic Painting Workshop with Patrice Jarvis-Weber
Date: Tuesday, April 7
Time: Session One: 1:00-2:30 p.m.; Session Two: 3:00-4:30 p.m.
Location: Adirondack Hall

Celebrate spring with a hands-on acrylic painting workshop led by Adirondack artist Patrice Jarvis-Weber of Paint with Patrice. Inspired by the Museum's beloved Bird Hall, participants ages 7 and up will create their own canvas featuring a charming chickadee. Designed for all skill levels, this step-by-step class offers personalized guidance and all materials provided, ensuring everyone leaves with a finished masterpiece to take home. Registration for session one or session two is required.

All Aboard STEAM: Build, Code, and Connect with Robots * SOLD OUT
Date: Wednesday, April 8
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Meet at Main Lobby Desk

Celebrate National Robotics Week with a hands-on program inspired by the Museum's A Train exhibit. Begin with an engaging introduction to how trains connect cities and communities, exploring both how they work and why they matter. Then design and build your own interconnected towns, drawing rail lines and pathways that link your creations together. Using programmable Ozobot robots, watch your routes come to life as you explore the basics of coding, problem-solving, and collaboration in a fun, interactive setting designed especially for elementary-aged learners and their families.

This program is best suited for ages 5-10. Registration is required and the event is currently at capacity.

Hooked on Science: Hudson River Fish Adventures
Date: Thursday, April 9
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Adirondack Hall

Join the Hudson River Fish Advisory Outreach Project for a hands-on, family-friendly exploration of Hudson River fish! Discover which fish are safe to eat, learn how to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals like PCBs, and find out tips for cleaning and cooking fish safely. Families can enjoy interactive activities, explore fun science and environmental concepts, and chat with an expert about the river, its wildlife, and how to make healthy choices when enjoying the Hudson's bounty.

Carl the Collector's Museum Adventure: Discover, Collect, Explore!
Date: Friday, April 10
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Location: NYSM Galleries

Throughout the museum, visitors will find hands-on activities inspired by Carl the Collector, PBS KIDS' groundbreaking series that celebrates the joy of collecting and the uniqueness of every individual. Episodes of Carl the Collector will be playing in the Huxley Theater, where Carl, a curious and warm-hearted raccoon with autism, embarks on adventures, solving problems with his unique perspective. As you explore the museum, take part in activities that connect to the exhibits, bringing Carl's world of collecting to life.

This event is a collaboration between the New York State Museum, WMHT, and Bring on the Spectrum (BOTS), offering a welcoming, inclusive environment for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Amazing Adaptations: Citizen Science and Conservation with Utica Mobile Zoo
Date: Saturday, April 11
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Huxley Theater

The Utica Zoo returns to the New York State Museum to celebrate Citizen Science Month with a free, family-friendly April Break event! Meet live animals, explore hands-on activities, and discover how you can help protect wildlife and habitats in your own community and beyond.

A full list of programs can be found on the New York State Museum's website.

About the New York State Museum

Established in 1836, the New York State Museum is the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. Home to leading scientists, historians, archeologists, and anthropologists, its collections represent the State's rich cultural and natural heritage from the past and present, including a staggering 20+ million artifacts spanning 1.1 billion years ago to today. Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Admission is free. For additional information, visit the New York State Museum website and subscribe to our newsletter.

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