Mid-Hudson Children's Museum

The Mid-Hudson Children's Museum is a children's museum housed in a converted industrial building along the waterfront in Poughkeepsie, featuring five main sections with interactive displays. The exhibits focus on science, art, and hands-on activities designed for children up to about age 12.

The museum was founded in 1989 and operated in several locations before moving to its current brick building on North Water Street in 2002. The structure itself dates from the 19th century as an industrial factory, which was repurposed to serve as a learning space for children.

The museum serves as a community gathering place where children engage in hands-on learning with their families and classmates. The exhibits reflect how young people naturally explore and play, making discovery feel like fun rather than work.

The museum sits directly along the waterfront and is easy to reach, with convenient parking available nearby. Visitors should plan for several hours to explore all five sections and enjoy the activities at a comfortable pace.

During warmer months, the museum operates a seasonal market where local farmers sell fresh produce to families in the Hudson Valley region. This market links the institution to the surrounding agricultural community and extends its role beyond education.