List of museums in Broward County, Florida facts for kids

Broward County, Florida, is a sunny place with many interesting museums! These museums are like treasure chests filled with history, art, science, and unique collections. They offer fun ways to learn about the past, explore new ideas, and understand different cultures. Whether you love old cars, amazing art, or learning about the ocean, there's a museum for you in Broward County.

Discovering Broward County's Museums

Broward County is home to a wide variety of museums. Each one offers a special look into different topics, from local history to global events.

Step Back in Time: History Museums

Many museums in Broward County help us understand the past. They preserve old buildings and stories.

• African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, Fort Lauderdale: This center is more than just a library. It's a place where you can learn about African-American history and culture through exhibits and programs.
• Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: Located in Fort Lauderdale, this historic house and beautiful gardens show what life was like for early residents. It's a unique example of Florida's past.
• Ely Educational Museum, Pompano Beach: This museum focuses on the history of education and the local community in Pompano Beach.
• Fort Lauderdale History Center: This center tells the story of Fort Lauderdale, from its early days to modern times. It includes historic buildings and exhibits.
• James D. and Alice Butler House, Deerfield Beach: This historic house gives visitors a peek into the lives of a prominent family in Deerfield Beach.
• Kester Cottages, Pompano Beach: These cottages are historic homes that show how people lived in Pompano Beach long ago.
• Old Deerfield School, Deerfield Beach: Once a school, this building now serves as a museum, sharing the history of education in Deerfield Beach.
• Old Dillard Museum: In Fort Lauderdale, this museum is located in a historic school building. It celebrates the rich history of the African-American community and education.
• Old Pompano Fire Station, Pompano Beach: This former fire station now shares the history of firefighting and the community in Pompano Beach.
• Sample-McDougald House, Pompano Beach: This beautifully restored house offers a glimpse into the early 20th-century life in Pompano Beach.
• Stranahan House: Located in Fort Lauderdale, this is the oldest house in Broward County. It tells the story of the area's first settlers and their lives.
• Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum: This museum focuses on the history of the naval air station during World War II. It also covers the famous mystery of Flight 19. The museum is listed on the register of historic places.
• Stonewall National Museum & Archives: This museum in Fort Lauderdale collects and preserves the history and culture of the LGBTQ+ community. It helps people learn about important social movements and changes.

Art and Creativity

If you love art, Broward County has several places to explore different styles and collections.

• Bienes Museum of the Modern Book: Part of Florida Atlantic University, this museum in Fort Lauderdale focuses on the art and history of books, from ancient texts to modern designs.
• Coral Springs Museum of Art: This museum showcases contemporary art from local and national artists. It also offers art classes and programs.
• Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale: This large art museum features a wide range of art, including American, European, and Latin American works, as well as a significant collection of COBRA art.
• Wiener Museum of Decorative Arts, Dania Beach: This museum displays beautiful decorative arts from around the world, including glass, ceramics, and furniture.

Science, Sports, and Unique Collections

Beyond history and art, you can find museums dedicated to science, sports, and other special interests.

• Fort Lauderdale Antique Car Museum: If you love classic cars, this museum is for you! It features a collection of vintage cars, especially Packards, and other automotive history.
• Fort Lauderdale Fire and Safety Museum: This museum teaches about fire safety and the history of firefighting in Fort Lauderdale.
• IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum, Dania Beach: This museum celebrates the sport of fishing. You can learn about different fish, fishing techniques, and famous anglers.
• International Swimming Hall of Fame museum: Located in Fort Lauderdale, this museum honors famous swimmers, divers, and water polo players. It's a great place to learn about the history of aquatic sports.
• Museum of Discovery and Science: This popular museum in Fort Lauderdale is full of interactive exhibits about science and nature. It's a fun place for all ages to learn by doing.

Places of Remembrance and Education

Some museums are dedicated to remembering important events and educating people about serious topics.

• Holocaust Documentation & Education Center, Dania Beach: This center works to educate people about the Holocaust. It helps us remember the past and learn important lessons about kindness and understanding.
• World AIDS Museum and Educational Center, Wilton Manors: This museum aims to educate the public about the global health issue of AIDS. It also remembers those affected by the disease and promotes understanding.

Former Museums

Sometimes, museums close down. Broward County once had another museum that is no longer open.

• Afro-American Museum of Pompano Beach: This museum used to share the history and culture of African Americans in Pompano Beach.