Mercer Museum

Step into a towering concrete castle filled with thousands of fascinating early American tools, toys, and everyday objects suspended from walls and ceilings! The Mercer Museum's unique architecture feels like exploring a medieval fortress, while kids are captivated by the whaling boats hanging overhead, antique fire engines, and authentic Conestoga wagon,making history come alive in an unforgettable way.

• ✓Six-story castle architecture with a central atrium where artifacts appear to float in mid-air
• ✓Full-size Conestoga wagon, whaling boat, and antique fire engines suspended from ceilings
• ✓Hands-on discovery rooms with replica tools kids can touch and examine
• ✓Authentic 18th and 19th-century toys, dollhouses, and children's items that fascinate young visitors
• ✓The penny candy collection and old-time general store display

1. 1.Start at the top floor and work your way down,it's easier with kids than climbing up multiple stories, and the main highlights are on the upper levels.
2. 2.Grab a scavenger hunt guide at the front desk to keep kids engaged while searching for specific artifacts throughout the museum.
3. 3.Visit on Wednesday or Thursday mornings for the smallest crowds and a more relaxed exploration experience.
4. 4.The museum has many open railings and stairs,keep young children close and consider baby-wearing for toddlers instead of bringing a stroller.
5. 5.Don't miss the museum shop on your way out, which has excellent old-fashioned toys and unique gifts that tie into what kids just learned.

Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday between 10:00 AM and noon, offer the quietest experience. Avoid weekend afternoons when tour groups and crowds are heaviest. Spring and fall are ideal seasons when you can also explore the lovely grounds without extreme temperatures.

Admission includes entry to the neighboring Fonthill Castle (advance tickets recommended). There's a small café on-site for snacks, but no full restaurant. Street parking is available, and there's a free parking lot adjacent to the museum. The venue has many stairs and is not fully stroller-accessible.

The museum is closed on Mondays year-round. During December, the museum features special holiday decorations and extended hours for holiday shopping. Summer can be warm inside as the concrete structure retains heat. The outdoor grounds are lovely for pre- or post-visit exploration in mild weather.

Walk two blocks to Win's Coffee House for kid-friendly sandwiches, snacks, and treats in a casual setting. For a sit-down meal, the Doylestown Inn offers a children's menu and comfort food just a few minutes away on Main Street.