Children's Museums
Paterson Museum
📍 2 Market St, Paterson, NJ 07501🕐 Hours
| Monday | 9:30 AM–4:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM–4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM–4:30 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM–4:30 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM–4:30 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Quick Facts
- Type
- Natural History Museum
- Location
- Thomas Rogers Building, Paterson, NJ
- Best For
- All ages
- Highlights
- Industrial history, textiles, locomotives, Colt arms, Holland submarines, mineral collection
- Admission
- Suggested $2 adults, children under 18 free
💡 Did You Know?
- The museum showcases Holland submarines, a rare and significant industrial artifact representing Paterson's role in weapons manufacturing and naval innovation during the early 20th century
- Paterson earned the nickname 'Silk City' due to its dominant textile and silk manufacturing industry, which is extensively documented through interactive exhibits including working demonstrations of dyeing, winding, warping, weaving, and Jacquard loom products
- The museum operates on a suggested donation model of only $2.00 for adults with free admission for children under 18, making it one of the most affordable museum experiences
- The museum houses three floors of exhibits spanning archaeology, mineralogy, locomotive manufacturing, Colt arms, and Native American artifacts, providing a comprehensive overview of regional industrial and cultural heritage
- The museum operates without air conditioning and may close unexpectedly due to high temperatures, making it necessary to call ahead before visiting—an unusual operational constraint for a museum
💬 What Visitors Say
- Call ahead at 973-321-1260 before visiting to confirm the museum is open, as it may close unexpectedly due to high temperatures since the building lacks air conditioning
- Plan for at least two hours to explore all three floors of exhibits covering Paterson's rich history including silk manufacturing, locomotives, Holland submarines, and Colt arms
- Take advantage of the suggested $2 donation for adults and free admission for children under 18, making it an extremely affordable educational outing for families
- Book a guided tour in advance by calling 973-321-1260 for school and community groups to enhance the educational experience and learn deeper context about Paterson's industrial and cultural heritage
- Combine your museum visit with the nearby Great Falls of the Passaic, which is located adjacent to the parking lot, to make a fuller half-day outing in the area
About Paterson Museum
Industrial heritage showcase. Museum tracing local industrial history with exhibits about archaeology, mineralogy & inventors.
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