Clore Garden of Science (Photo: Deror Avi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing Swords of Iron War, Israel continues to welcome visitors from around the world. During these times, volunteering has become a popular way for visitors to contribute positively, with opportunities ranging from assisting farmers to packaging food for those in need. These activities can be a fulfilling part of your trip, suitable even for families with young children. For more details on how you and your family can get involved, check out our blog post about volunteer opportunities in Israel.
In addition to volunteering, visiting museums is a fantastic way for families to connect with the history of the Jewish people and the land of Israel. Israel offers a wide range of cultural and educational experiences, especially when it comes to museums. Whether you're navigating through rooms of interactive exhibits or booking a guided tour, there's always something new to discover and learn. In this guide, we focus on family-friendly museums that cater specifically to young visitors—places where curiosity meets history and science in the most engaging ways.
Many of Israel's museums are designed to be interactive, encouraging children and their families to move from room to room, engaging directly with the exhibits. From the technologically advanced displays at the ANU Museum to the hands-on activities at Madatech, these spaces offer both guided tours and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Planning your visit ahead of time is advisable and required by many of the museums on the list, especially to book English-language tours, which typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours—perfect for holding the interest of young minds.
Given the diverse array of museums, including several wonderful outdoor options, it's a good idea to check the weather before you go. The warmer months might make some outdoor museums less comfortable, so planning your visit during cooler times will be a better experience for you and your children. And of course, no day out would be complete without exploring local dining options. Israel’s rich culinary scene means you’re never too far from a delicious kosher meal, whether you’re in the mood for a quick pizza or a gourmet experience (though for the latter, you might want to consider a night out without the kids).
From the history-laden streets of Jerusalem to the innovative centers of Tel Aviv and Haifa, our guide will help you get started on a journey of discovery that’s as educational as it is enjoyable. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the best kid-friendly museums across Israel, perfect for a family day out!
The Temple Institute in Jerusalem (Photo: פארוק, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
Olympic Experience - Tel Aviv
- Description: This museum offers an interactive journey through the history of the Olympics, featuring simulations and multimedia displays that engage visitors in the spirit of the games.
- Appropriate for Ages: 6 years and older
- Location: Tel Aviv
- Cost: Approximately 50 ILS per person
- Booking English Tour: Recommended to book in advance; tours last about 1.5 hours
- Website: The Olympic Experience
- Nearby Attractions: Tel Aviv Port, beautiful beaches
Palmach Museum - Tel Aviv
- Description: An immersive museum that tells the story of the Palmach, the elite fighting force of the Haganah, through guided audio-visual presentations, making history come alive.
- Appropriate for Ages: 10 years and older
- Location: Central Tel Aviv
- Cost: 20-30 ILS per person
- Booking English Tour: Necessary to book in advance
- Website: Palmach Museum
- Nearby Attractions: Yitzhak Rabin Center, Hayarkon Park
ANU Museum - Tel Aviv University
- Description: Located at Tel Aviv University, this museum focuses on the Jewish people's story throughout history with high-tech exhibits and interactive media.
- Appropriate for Ages: 7 years and older
- Location: Tel Aviv University campus
- Cost: Entry fee of about 50 ILS
- Booking English Tour: Not required; self-guided options available
- Website: Anu Museum
- Nearby Attractions: Ramat Aviv Mall
Herzl Museum (Photo: Jenia Kirs Pikiwiki Israel)
Herzl Museum - Har Herzl, Jerusalem
- Description: The museum provides a dramatic and interactive portrayal of the life and achievements of Theodor Herzl, the father of modern political Zionism.
- Appropriate for Ages: 8 years and older
- Location: Mount Herzl, Jerusalem
- Cost: Approximately 30 ILS per person
- Booking English Tour: Reservations required
- Website: Herzl Museum
- Nearby Attractions: Mount Herzl National Cemetery, Yad Vashem.
Temple Institute - Old City of Jerusalem
- Description: Dedicated to educating about the Second Temple, the museum features meticulous reconstructions of Temple vessels and priestly garments.
- Appropriate for Ages: 10 years and older
- Location: Jewish Quarter, Old City of Jerusalem
- Cost: About 30 ILS per person
- Booking English Tour: Advanced registration required
- Website: Temple Institute
- Nearby Attractions: Western Wall, Western Wall tunnel tours.
Museum of the Underground Prisoners - Jerusalem
- Description: Located in the historic Russian Compound, this museum chronicles the experiences of Jewish underground fighters imprisoned by the British during the Mandate period. Visitors can explore reconstructed prison cells, original artifacts, and detailed exhibits that bring to life the stories of courage and resistance.
- Appropriate for Ages: 10 years and older
- Location: Russian Compound, Jerusalem
- Cost: Approximately 15-20 ILS per person
- Booking English Tour: Advanced reservations recommended
- Website: Museum of the Underground Prisoners
- Nearby Attractions: Mahane Yehuda Market, Ben Yehuda Street, The Great Synagogue
Bloomfield Science Museum - Jerusalem
- Description: This museum is dedicated to making science accessible and fun for children. With numerous interactive exhibits, kids can engage in hands-on activities that explore concepts in physics, biology, technology, and more.
- Appropriate for Ages: 3 years and older
- Location: Jerusalem, near the Hebrew University
- Cost: 65 ILS per person/ 235 ILS for family pass
- Booking Visit: To guarantee entry, visits must be booked in advance.
- Website: Bloomfield Science Museum
- Nearby Attractions: The Israel Museum, the Knesset, and the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens
Kudu horns and shofars at the Biblical Museum of Natural History (Photo: MathKnight and Dr. Zachi Evenor, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
The Biblical Museum of Natural History - Beit Shemesh
- Description: This museum showcases the animals and natural phenomena mentioned in the Bible, offering a fascinating glimpse into the natural world of the biblical era. Exhibits include live animals, taxidermy specimens, and interactive tours that connect biblical stories with natural history.
- Appropriate for Ages: 4 years and older
- Location: Beit Shemesh
- Cost: Approximately 40 - 50 ILS per person
- Booking English Tour: Advanced reservations required
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Website: The Biblical Museum of Natural History
- Nearby Attractions: Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park, Stalactite Cave Nature Reserve.
Ayalon Institute - The Bullet Factory Museum - Rehovot
- Description: This hidden underground bullet factory played a significant role in Israel’s history. The tour includes demonstrations and historical accounts.
- Appropriate for Ages: 9 years and older
- Location: Rehovot
- Cost: 22 - 30 ILS per person
- Booking English Tour: Advance booking required
- Website: Ayalon Institute - Bullet Factory Museum
- Nearby Attractions: Weizmann Institute of Science, local botanical gardens
Clore Garden of Science at the Weizmann Institute - Rehovot
- Description: An open-air museum featuring interactive installations that teach various scientific principles, ideal for engaging curious minds.
- Appropriate for Ages: All ages
- Location: Weizmann Institute campus, Rehovot
- Cost: 68 ILS per person
- Booking Visit: Advance booking required - timed entry
- Website: Clore Garden of Science
- Nearby Attractions: Weizmann House, Ayalon Institute - Bullet Factory Museum
Holon Children's Museum (Photo: Dr. Avishai Teicher Pikiwiki Israel)
Holon Children’s Museum
- Description: Known for its unique exhibits like 'Dialogue in the Dark' and 'Invitation to Silence,' which offer immersive experiences that challenge senses and perceptions.
- Appropriate for Ages: 'Dialogue in the Dark' (9+ years), 'Invitation to Silence' (9+ years)
- Location: Holon, near Tel Aviv
- Cost: 50 ILS per person for each exhibit
- Booking English Tour: Required; each exhibit lasts about 1 hour. It is important to note that entrance to the museum is by advance reservation only - you must book for a specific exhibit.
- Website: Holon Children’s Museum
- Nearby Attractions: Design Museum Holon, local parks
Madatech - The Israel National Museum of Science, Technology, and Space - Haifa
- Description: This museum features over 600 hands-on exhibits covering topics from physics to space exploration, ideal for inquisitive minds.
- Appropriate for Ages: All ages, particularly 6 years and older
- Location: Central Haifa
- Cost: 90 ILS per person
- Booking English Tour: Not required
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Website: Madatech
- Nearby Attractions: Baha'i Gardens, Haifa cable cars
Important Tips for Your Visit
- Advanced Reservations: Most museums on this list require advance reservations, especially for guided tours. It’s best to book your tickets and tours well in advance to secure your preferred dates and times. During busy seasons, such as summer and school holidays, museums are particularly crowded. Booking early can ensure you avoid missing out due to sold-out days.
- Check Schedules and Updates: For museums that do not require advanced bookings, always check their websites for the most current information on opening days and times, as well as any temporary changes to exhibits or special events. Special events and additional activities often occur during the summer and holidays, making these times ideal for experiencing something new and exciting.
- Family Passes and Discounts: Many museums offer family passes, group discounts, or special rates for children and seniors. Review the museum’s website or contact their ticket office to see what discounts may apply to your visit.
- Outdoor Activities: Several museums include outdoor exhibits or activities. Always check the weather forecast in advance, and plan your attire and visit accordingly, especially during the hot summer months or rainy season.
- Pack Essentials: When traveling with children, it’s a good idea to bring essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats, particularly for museums with outdoor activities or extensive grounds.
- Accessibility: Check the accessibility of museums if you’re traveling with a stroller or someone with limited mobility. Most museums provide information about accessibility on their websites.
- Seasonal Activities: During peak seasons like summer and holidays, look for museums offering special programs, workshops, or temporary exhibits that are especially designed for families and young visitors.