The Top Interactive Museums in Rome for Kids to learn and play

Need a break from ruins and relics?
If your kids have hit their limit with ancient stones and quiet museums, we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s too hot, too rainy, or just time for some unstructured fun, these indoor play centres and hands-on museums in Rome are perfect for letting off steam while still learning something new.

Here are four of the best spots in Rome where kids can play, experiment, and explore—no "Do Not Touch" signs in sight!

1. Explora museum: ziplines and water play outside, water pumps, cogs and wheels and other educational games inside. My 8 year old is fascinated with the scarf blower at the entrance and the hose at the top of the fire engine, but there are vegetables to plant and gather, supermarkets to play shop and upstairs a series of games to teach kids everything from changing a nappy to changing a car wheel! It’s a short walk north from Piazza del Popolo.
   www.mdbr.it/en/

2. Leonardo da Vinci Museum: this small museum has over 64 interactive recreations of Leonardo’s inventions; from an early helicopter, a tank to general machinery used today. Located a few minutes walk from Campo dei Fiori, the museum is rarely busy, and there is a lovely courtyard and a room underground showcasing inventions to walk on water over a submerged Ancient Roman tomb. Small children will enjoy the cranks and levers (ask for a. stool if they can’t reach some of them) the mirror room and the holograms, even if they can’t follow the advanced thinking of this multi-talented genius.. Don’t miss the room where you can recreate da Vinci’s suspended bridge. Even with the steps provided, it can be quite a challenge! The museum is a few steps from Campo de’ Fiori market.
   www.mostradileonardo.com

3. Little World: Rome’s newest children’s museum offers a vibrant, hands-on experience designed to spark curiosity and imagination. Located in the Galleria Marconi on Viale Guglielmo Marconi, this indoor space invites kids to explore interactive exhibits that blend play with learning. From imaginative role-play areas to science-inspired installations, Little World provides an engaging environment where children can discover and learn through play. It's an ideal destination for families seeking an educational yet fun-filled outing in the heart of Rome. The museum is a short walk from Trastevere train station.
   littleworldroma.com

4. Chiostra del Bramante: this museum offers contemporary art exhibitions that are both immersive and engaging in a 16th century cloister designed by Donato Bramante. The small intimate space means exhibitions are a good size for small attention spans. If the exhibition doesn’t appeal, its cafe, with seats around the cloister, is worth a visit. It’s a stone’s throw from Piazza Navona.

   TROVATRAIL TIPS: In the cafe reading room there is a window that allows you a peek into the church next door to view a Caravaggio painting.