It was a cold and rainy day outside but when my daughter and I stepped into the “Somebody Come and Play” Sesame Street Exhibit at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, things suddenly turned warm and fuzzy. From life size characters like Big Bird, Oscar the Grouch, Elmo and Snuffleupagus to movies and memorabilia, this adorable exhibit showcases highlights from the show’s last 45 years with something to please children and adults alike.

If you live in NYC or if you’ll be passing through between now and January 31, 2015, its worth the trip, especially if you’ve got young children. My five-year old daughter ran around from section to section for a couple of hours, happily entertained.  There are numerous scripts, photos, story boards, original art and music scores and other memorabilia from the archives as well as interactive exhibits for children.

Kids can visit the Sesame Street steps (push a button and make Oscar pop out of his trash can!), watch show highlights, feel Muppet fur, and play in the art area featuring a gigantic chalk board. The day we went a special presentation of Follow That Bird was playing in the auditorium. If you visit on November 19, The Adventures of Elmo in Grouchland will be playing at 3pm and there are a number of seminars for adults.

The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is located at 40 Lincoln Center Plaza and the hours are Monday and Thursday noon to 8 pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday noon to 6 pm. The Lincoln Center’s central plaza is a great spot for kids to run around before or after. Just look for the fountains and have fun!

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