MNK Arsenal (Pijarska 8) is a great place to show children that a museum is more than paintings on a wall — it’s pieces of history told through objects. At the Arsenal you’ll see rich collections connected with weapons, uniforms and colors — an exhibition that often fascinates both boys and girls because it combines history with stories about objects and their uses.
The museum offers guided tours and interactive activities for families — a big help, since the educators can lead the narrative as an adventure rather than a dry lecture. It’s worth reserving a spot or checking the program in advance so you join a tour or activity suited to your child’s age.
A few extra advantages: the location close to Wawel and the Planty makes it easy to include the visit in a broader walk through the Old Town; afterwards kids can run around outside or relax with a snack.
Not checking opening hours before you go. The Arsenal has specific opening days and hours — for example, exhibitions are often closed on Mondays. Arriving without checking can lead to disappointment, especially when you’re travelling with a child’s schedule.
Trying to see everything at once. Children tire quickly; planning several short stops (30–60 minutes in the museum, then a break for a playground, snack or short walk) works much better than an exhibition marathon.
Not reserving a place for family tours or workshops. Popular family tours can have limited spaces — if a guided family program matters to you, book ahead.
Assuming everything can be touched. Some objects are fragile. Ask at the information desk which activities are hands-on and which require keeping a distance — this avoids frustration for children and stress for adults.
Check the opening hours and any family events on the museum’s website — that will help you find activities designed especially for children.
Bring a small kit: snacks, a water bottle, wipes, a small toy or a simple task sheet (for example, a card with items to find in the rooms). A short, clear task helps keep a child engaged in the visit.
Set a realistic visiting time. For preschool children 30–45 minutes in the exhibition is optimal; older children can handle 60–90 minutes with short breaks.
Check cloakroom availability and whether you can leave a stroller, and be aware of any limitations when moving with a stroller — narrow passages and stairs can make touring harder.
Turn the museum into a field of small missions: prepare a simple checklist of things to "discover" (for example, find a helmet, count shields, spot the oldest object). Children love concrete tasks and small rewards (a sticker or an extra ice cream).
Tell stories instead of listing facts. For each object try inventing a short tale: who might have used it, where could it have traveled, what adventures it might have been on? This sparks imagination and keeps attention.
Bring a sketchbook or a camera for children. Drawing part of an armor or photographing an interesting detail is a great way to fix memories and play later at home.
Sample plan: 10:00 — enter the Arsenal and take a short family tour; 11:00 — snack break and play at a nearby playground or a stroll along the Planty; 12:30 — lunch at a family-friendly restaurant; 14:00 — short visit to Wawel (courtyards, guard change if scheduled), finish with ice cream or cake at a café.
Where to eat with children nearby: pick places known for being family-friendly — restaurants with a kids’ menu and space near the Planty are very convenient after the museum. When choosing, look for information about family amenities (children’s menu, high chairs, outdoor seating).
After lunch plan free time so children can run and burn off energy: the Planty and nearby parks are ideal, and short breaks help kids return to listening and focus for the next attractions.
Do I need to reserve tickets? - It’s a good idea to check ticket availability online and the schedule for family tours; some events have limited places.
Is the exhibition suitable for small children? - Arsenal exhibits often captivate children, especially military items and colorful standards. Short interactive activities work well for the little ones; leave longer label reading for later.
Can I enter with a stroller? - Many branches of museums in Kraków are family-adapted, but some passages can be narrow; contact the information desk before your visit.
What about food and drinks? - Museums usually have rules about eating in exhibition spaces; plan snack breaks outside the galleries.
Put small props in your backpack for role play: a handkerchief as a 'bandana' or a paper task list can turn a museum into a real adventure.
Don’t assume a museum day must be "serious" — let children choose their own reward after completing a mission: it’s a great motivator.
If you plan several museums in one day, choose shorter exhibitions or activities with fixed start times; an overtired child reduces enjoyment of the whole trip.
Check opening hours and family tour information (the Arsenal is often closed on Mondays; confirm times before you go).
Reserve a spot for workshops or family tours if possible; bring small reward tokens for tasks; plan the visit with breaks and a rest point after touring.
If you like, share this article with friends or on social media — it may help parents planning a family stay in Kraków. You can also consider a private guiding offer by Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on the Zwiedzanie Krakowa website.
