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National Watch and Clock Museum

Columbia, PA

Museum
4 (5 reviews)

Where are we going?

Address: 514 Poplar St, Columbia, PA 17512, USA How do we get there? Number: (717) 684-8261
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About this activity

Tick tock....tick tock...what's that?  Of course, a clock! Kids - you know all about watches and clocks, and we know you are great at telling the time. But how did it all begin!

The National Watch & Clock Museum is a fascinating look into the history of time! Established in 1977, the collection has grown from 1,000 to over 12,000 items which tell the story of time from all over the world.

It's actually the largest and most comprehensive horological collection in North America!

Kids will love walking round and seeing all the different types of clocks, watches, and time-related tools from all over the world.

They can even look back in time (literally!) to items from 19th century America. What are the stories behind the watches? What kind of person would have worn them?

The museum's exhibits are set out chronologically, so they really can go through the entire history of timekeeping technology - from the early days of non-mechanical devices to the incredible technology of today (even some radio-controlled clocks!) 

The National Watch & Clock Museum even has a fun exhibit on novelty clocks AND it’s very own children’s library! The exhibits often rotate too, so there will always be something new to see when you come back!

It’s a way for kids to really learn about something that is so common in their lives today - and if they are yet to learn how to tell the time - there’s no better place to learn! Tick Tock the museum is waiting!

Activity location

Directions

The museum can be found at 514 Poplar Street in Columbia, PA. They are about an hour from Baltimore, and 2 hours from DC.


From those cities, get on the 83N to US Rt 30E and take the first exit after crossing the Susquehanna River Columbia-Marietta - Rt. 441 - 3rd St.


Follow signs from the exit ramp. Turn onto Linden St and turn right onto 5th St. After 2.5 blocks turn left into the parking lot!

Get directions

How much does it cost?

Hilton

Adults

$12

Hilton

Children

$9 (Ages 6 - 16)

Hilton

Discount

Senior $10

Hilton

Free Under

6 years

Hilton

Last Updates

2023

National Watch and Clock Museum FAQ’s

Docents are available by appointment.

Take time home with you at the museum's shop! Kids can take him fun gifts and educational toys, as well as lots of books if they want their learning to continue!

The museum is happy to take on field trips so students can learn about this great part of history! They have self-directed programs between 1-2 hours, or guided tours which are 90 minutes (and include a scavenger hunt!)


They also have hands-on programs including making their own clock!

Museum is ADA accessible

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