With the kids back to the books, it's prime time to demonstrate that learning needn't end in the classroom and that – gasp – the process can actually be fun! There are excellent museums for kids across the U.S. that will stimulate your young Einsteins or Picassos – whether you're on a quick family getaway or just looking for something fun to do at home. And you won't have to shush your little ones at these venerable institutions either. In fact, each of our editors' picks for top kid-friendly museums provide energetic educational opportunities under the guise of childlike fun, with hands-on exhibits, scavenger hunts, DJ sessions, and more – they're bound to keep the adults entertained, too.

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