Visit The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, Massachusetts
The Eric Carle Museum is not your typical museum filled with landscapes and portraits. The walls of this unique and fun place are covered with illustrations from some of the most loved and colorful picture book art from around the world.
Founded by award winning author, Eric Carle, best known for The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the museum's goal is twofold. To introduce children and their families to picture book art and in doing so, increase literacy.
Plan to spend a few hours or the whole day exploring the galleries of Eric Carle's work, themed exhibits, and the exciting process of first sketches to final prints of individual artists. Special events like ballets based on picture books, lectures, and movies are shown in the auditorium so be sure to check it out.
The Art Studio is a must. Free materials and guided programs allow children (and adults) to let their imaginations go wild and try their hand at art. Who knows maybe a future illustrator is hiding inside your child!
For a much needed rest after all the activities, head to the museum's library where you'll find over 3,000 books. Share a quiet moment reading or settle in for story time.
Hungry? The Cafe serves healthy snacks and meals. And don't forget the museum's signature Caterpillar Cookie. Yum!
End the day visiting the Museum Shop for books, art supplies, toys, and more.
The Eric Carle Museum is a family outing that is fun and educational!
ENJOY!
