If kids had the opportunity to design their ideal play place, it would probably end up looking like the Garden State Discovery Museum, a fantasy-land for imaginations where kids can touch absolutely everything. In pint-size environments, youngsters can play at being a farmer, scientist, newspaper reporter, construction worker or other grown-up activity.

But there is more than play going on here. The interactive exhibits include introductions to the world of nature and throughout the museum, kids can make friends with the turtles, giant African millipedes, Australian bearded dragons, Chinese water dragons and other critters who are part of the Museum’s World of Discovery exhibits. The kids can also walk along a miniature boardwalk where they will learn a thing or two about New Jersey’s coastal environment.

In the Science Shop, the oozy lava window, magical light and dark room and gravity-testing activities will turn science into fun. And when it comes to the arts, the center offers a jam-packed calendar of live entertainment and activities that will introduce the kids to the big world beyond their back yards.

Get the kids started learning early with some of the Museum’s classes and programs. (And we mean early – some programs are specially designed for the toddler-set.) All year long, Garden State Discovery Museum hosts special events that will get kids excited about all kinds of subjects – from the Pumpkin Palooza event to the Kids Rock music fest to pajama-clad New Year’s Day festivities. But no matter when you come, you and the kids will have a good time discovering the natural and man-made world around you.