See all of New York in miniature at the Panorama, Queens Museum

What it is like

It was built for the 1964-65 World's Fair by Raymond Lester and Associates, a team of more than 100 people over three years, at the request of World's Fair president Robert Moses. The original had a lighting cycle from dawn to dusk to night, with moving airplanes at LaGuardia. Children can find their home block, the stadium, their school, and every bridge they have ever been stuck on.

It is a good answer to the question of where anything is. Children can hunt for their own block, the stadium and every bridge they have ever sat in traffic on, and it is a decent reminder that the city has five boroughs and that, from above, it is mostly roofs.

Practical grumbles. Large bags and luggage are discouraged because the coat check is closed to the public. Admission is pay what you wish, and the museum recommends timed entry. The Unisphere is just outside, so you can burn off energy in the park afterward.

Best time to go

Wednesday to Friday afternoons; weekends if you want company.

Tips before you go

• Reserve timed entry if the museum recommends it for your date.
• Leave large bags and luggage at home.
• Walk from Mets-Willets Point along the boardwalk and past the Unisphere to the museum.
• Pair it with time outdoors in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.