There’s something oddly engaging about exhibitions featuring strange and offbeat topics. Keep the attention of your kids at these three weird museums — you may even get the approval of your teens.
France
In Paris, the Musée des Vampires is located at 14 Rue Jules David. Privately owned and operated, it’s a one-stop shop for all things vampire, with guided tours and its own dinner club. Reservations are required for tours, and are only available for up to 10 guests at a time. Opening times are 12:30–8 p.m., with three tours available at 12:30, 3 and 7:30 p.m.
The dinner club operates nightly 8 p.m. until midnight (naturally). What happens after the clock strikes 12 a.m. isn’t mentioned on the website, but patrons are invited to come dressed in their best period frock or vampire attire, including stand-up collar velvet capes. Along with a full, multicourse meal, guests (again, a maximum of 10) are treated to a guided tour; their choice of an edgy, vampire-appropriate group name; and a selection of vampire-related themes to discuss while savoring their meal. Reservations may be made via email through the museum’s website.
Japan
For a completely different experience, head to the Chinsekikan in Chichibu, Japan. The town is about a two-hour journey from Tokyo, and also the location of the Kinshoji Temple, one of the 34 temples on the Chichibu Kannon Pilgrimage route. The museum’s name translates to the “hall of curious rocks,” and that’s exactly what you’ll find inside — more than 1,700 in total. While all the rocks have some distinctive idiosyncrasy, more than half of the rocks also bear a strong resemblance to a human face.
Founded by the late Shozo Hayama and run today by his wife, Yoshiko Hayama, the museum’s collection was amassed by Shozo with the requirement that each rock be completely unaltered, unenhanced and presented in its natural condition. While you’re there, challenge your kids to find rocks that resemble Aunt Beth, Uncle Aaron or their favorite actors and pop stars. Or, let your kids come up with names: Yoshiko Hayama invites visitors to suggest names for the many unnamed rocks on display.
United States
At Thompson’s Point in Portland, Maine, you can dive into the world of Bigfoot at the International Cryptozoology Museum. Exhibits include zoological specimens and hair samples the museum claims once belonged to various Yeti-like beings, including Abominable Snowmen, Bigfoot, Yowie and the elusive Orang Pendek; along with art, film props, models, contemporary souvenirs and artifacts such as a letter from actor Jimmy Stewart. This spring, the museum will host the Sasquatch Symposium. Check the website for dates and details.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Mar 27, 2024Book the Ultimate Mother-In-Law Suite in New York City’s West Village
Family travel can be hard after welcoming a newborn. Some families want their in-laws or parents close to help and soak up all the time with the newborn. For families traveling to or living in New York City, Maison Hudson, a collection of new luxury residences in the city with hotel-like amenities, has an option perfect for grandparents or visiting family.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Destinations
Mar 27, 2024Outdoor Family Adventures on Offer with Four Seasons
Four Seasons Resorts offer outdoor experiences perfect for family travelers this spring. Check out some of what awaits your traveling brood:
Destinations / North America
Mar 27, 20243 Family-Friendly Hotels in Baltimore
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is surrounded by activities and attractions to keep families busy for several days, and for those who travel to get there, a trio of nearby hotels welcome children with amenities such as swimming pools, kid-sized bathrobes and bunk beds.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Destinations / North America
Mar 26, 2024Spring Festivals in New Orleans
Spring has sprung in New Orleans, Louisiana, for family travelers! Bring your crew to the Big Easy this season for a variety of family-friendly festivals, events and attractions.
ShareThis