Introduce your kids to television from way before the times of Hulu TV, Netflix and cable on demand during a visit to the National Radio & Television Museum in Bowie. The museum screens TV shows from the 1950s and 1960s every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and helps kids learn a bit about the history of digital entertainment.
Located in the Harmel House, the museum includes seven galleries that tell the story of radio and television history, from the wireless beginnings in the late 19th century through radio’s “golden age” and the rise of television, with an explanation of how it all works.
There is also a section of ham radio receivers and a 1940s AM radio station transmitter that is still used occasionally for transmissions.
General guided tours are available when the museum is open. An educational tour for kids in grades K-6 and their families is available for a fee when requested in advance. The hour-long program engages kids with hands-on activities.
Located in an old farmhouse, the second floor is accessible by stairs. A virtual tour of the second floor is available for those who cannot access the second floor.
National Capital Radio & Television Museum
2608 Mitchellville Rd., Bowie
ncrtv.org; 301-390-1020
Hours: Fridays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 1-5 p.m.
