Charlotte Museums Offer Family Fun and Education

Summer fun does not have to be free of learning. Charlotte is ripe with many learning opportunities for both the young and the young at heart. For a family, a visit to one of the Charlotte area museums can provide hours of fun and education. The best part is that the kids won't have any idea they are actually learning, because they will be having so much fun. Here are 4Charlotte museums that you need to check out:

Discovery Place. Discovery Place is a fun-filled museum with interactive exhibits and many opportunities for hands-on learning. Whether you are walking through the rain forest or petting a live snake, your family will be surprised that science can be so much fun. When my kids were small, this was one of our very favorite places to go. While there, be sure and take in a movie at the Omnimax Theatre.

The Mint Museum. The Mint Museum is a wonderful place to visit with your children. There are interactive tours available that will help you look at art in a new way. You will also gain a new appreciation for various mediums and for the thought that goes into creating certain kinds of art. You will be amazed at the handiwork that goes into crafting pottery, baskets, and the beautiful art that you will see hanging on the wall.

The Nascar Hall of Fame. Whether you and your family are race enthusiasts or not, you can still gain a new appreciation for the sport by visiting the Nascar Hall of Fame. There are 50 interactive areas that are sure to be loads of fun. There is also a lot of sports history that will inform you about the sport and those who are involved in it.

Charlotte Museum of History. This museum is on 8 wooded acres and is host to the Hezekiah Alexander House, which is the oldest surviving house in Mecklenburg County. It was built in 1774, and is listed on the Registry for Historic Sites. The site is very welcoming of school groups, but it is also a great place for families to visit. Take a guided tour and learn what it was like to live in the 1700's. Your kids may get a new appreciation for living in 2011. When I took my kids to the site, they were amazed at the way life was back in those days.

The great thing about living in Charlotte is the fact that there are so many rich opportunities to learn and enjoy yourself. Take advantage of some of these great museums. It will be a great experience for both you and your family.