


Chrysler Museum of Art
About
The Chrysler Museum of Art welcomes families with free general admission and thoughtfully designed interactive galleries that make art accessible and engaging for young visitors. With dedicated family programs, hands-on activities, and a world-class collection spanning 5,000 years, this museum transforms art appreciation into an adventure that captivates kids while impressing parents.
Highlights
- ✓Live glassblowing demonstrations at the Perry Glass Studio
- ✓Interactive family guides and art scavenger hunts throughout galleries
- ✓Impressive collection including ancient artifacts, European paintings, and contemporary art
- ✓Free admission making multiple visits easy and budget-friendly
- ✓Rotating family programs and hands-on art activities on select days
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit the Perry Glass Studio to watch live glassblowing demonstrations,kids are mesmerized by the process and it's included with free admission (check schedule online first).
- 2.Pick up a free family guide or scavenger hunt at the front desk to keep kids engaged as you explore the galleries.
- 3.The museum is closed Mondays, and weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday 10-11 AM) tend to be quietest before school groups arrive.
- 4.Don't miss the third floor's decorative arts section where kids love spotting unusual objects like ornate furniture and intricate ceramics.
- 5.Free parking is available in the museum's lot, and the compact layout means you won't exhaust little legs trying to see everything.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 10-11 AM) for the quietest experience, or Sunday afternoons when families can explore together. Arrive early on Saturdays to beat the crowds, especially if you want to catch a glassblowing demonstration.
What to Know
General admission is FREE, making this an incredible value for families. Free parking is available on-site, and the museum has a small café for snacks. The facility is fully accessible with strollers welcome, though baby carriers may be easier in crowded galleries.
Seasonal Notes
The museum is open year-round with climate-controlled galleries perfect for hot summer days or rainy afternoons. Check their calendar for special family events during school breaks and holiday-themed programming throughout the year.
Nearby Eats
Head to Doumar's Cones & Barbecue (about 2 miles away) for a nostalgic diner experience with kid-friendly classics and homemade ice cream cones, or visit Town Point Park area downtown (1 mile) which has several casual waterfront restaurants with outdoor seating that kids enjoy.
More Activities Near Norfolk
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The MacArthur Memorial offers families a fascinating journey through American military history in downtown Norfolk, with interactive exhibits that bring General Douglas MacArthur's story to life. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it an educational and budget-friendly outing where kids can explore military artifacts, historic displays, and learn about World War II and beyond in an engaging setting.
Ghent
Ghent is Norfolk's most charming pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, perfect for families who love exploring on foot. With tree-lined streets connecting independent bookstores, delightful ice cream parlors, playful parks, and welcoming restaurants, it's an ideal destination for a leisurely family day out where kids can safely wander and discover neighborhood treasures.
Lamington's Farm
Lamington's Farm brings agriculture to life for families through hands-on seasonal activities that get kids excited about where their food comes from. From picking your own berries and pumpkins to bouncing along on hayrides through the fields, this working farm offers an authentic farming experience that's both educational and entertaining for the whole family.
Bowling Barn
Bowling Barn in Norfolk is a family-friendly bowling alley that takes the stress out of bowling with young kids. With bumper lanes to keep balls out of the gutters, lightweight balls sized perfectly for little hands, and an arcade area for when kids need a bowling break, it's designed to keep the whole family entertained without the frustration that can come with traditional bowling.