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Saltwater Stories: We Need the Sea & the Sea Needs Me is rooted in local history and brings together the seafaring stories of baymen, the deep-rooted traditions of indigenous Long Islanders, and the rich history of local fishing and marine life. The exhibit is LICM's first major addition in a decade. 

You can enter a recreated bay house, pretend play in a fish market, or let the little ones loose in a special play zone made just for toddlers.

“This exhibit is an exciting celebration of Long Island’s maritime culture – a core part of who we are,” said LICM President Erika Floreska. “It gives visitors of all ages a chance to connect with a cultural richness that defines Long Island in a playful, hands-on way.”

From the second floor of the museum, we were immediately drawn in by a huge tunnel – a glowing blue welcome that feels like you're under the sea. Sound and lighting effects make the transition feel magical, creating the "wow" factor that this space is known for. Stories and experiences from Bay House families, fish market workers, and indigenous artists are all dotted around this exploratory exhibit.

“This exhibit really brings together history, culture, science, hands-on learning – all kinds of things," said Floreska. 

WATCH: New Exhibit Alert at LICM

Immersive Maritime Experiences in Saltwater Stories

• Long Island Bay House: Kids can role-play life on the bay at this replica house, and peek through a window to watch changing tides. They can also put a pot of lobster to boil on the stove before settling in for a pretend meal. 

• Fish market: Unload the catch of the day, sort the seafood, or sell it at the checkout. This space is perfect for big imaginations. There's a great "catch of the day" photo-op just outside the market.

Step inside a real Long Island Bay House and play pretend as you boil a pot of lobsters. Photo by the author

• Explore lifting the ocean’s lid: This area lets toddlers and preschoolers discover sea life. Here, visitors can insert a piece of fish-patterned fabric into a clear vacuum tube and watch it zoom through a maze of winding pipes as they open/close vents to change the path of the air. This whooshing wall teaches about ocean currents, fish migration, and the journey of sea creatures through different habitats, fellow marine life, and more. You also can't miss another wow factor of this exhibit, a majestic stained glass window.

• Mishoon: Kids can sit in this indigenous 10-foot, 500-pound. hand-carved canoe while paddling and pretending to fish the Island's shores. A background video that honors Long Island’s original seafarers includes the man, myth, and legend himself, Billy Joel, and his iconic track, "The Downeaster 'Alexa.'"

• Interactive story map: This 20-foot-long mural incorporates how people interact with the sea around Long Island, from recreation to tradition to conservation. Turning knobs, spinning wheels, and pushing buttons allows little hands to see the wind power process from creation to conservation.

• Play prompts: Every corner of this exhibit features friendly signs that are designed to help parents engage their kids. I learned a great deal from simply pressing buttons, listening, or watching each exhibit. Around us were generations exploring the exhibit together. I even shared a few stories of how I grew up boating on the Great South Bay with my parents and siblings, and passing by the Bay Houses, but not fully understanding their purpose. 

What To Know About Visiting The Long Island Children’s Museum

• ​There’s a cafeteria space with vending machines. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or lunch to enjoy during your visit.

• Check the seasonal, school holiday, and summer calendar for various operating days. For example, during the warmer months, the Our Backyard waterplay exhibit is a fun way to end your visit. 

• Admission is $18 per person. Babies under 1 are free. Access to Saltwater Stories is included with general admission. Memberships are also available. 

• Check with your local library to snag a free pass – many offer free museum passes!

• The museum is handicap-accessible and stroller-friendly throughout, including elevators and ramps.

• Saltwater Stories opens Saturday, October 11, 2025, with a slate of ongoing, related museum programming. This exhibit is expected to remain on site for 10+ years.

• Optional: Visit Nunley's Carousel while on the premises. Choose to ride on one of the 41 intricately carved horses, lions, or a family-sized chariot. Separate fees apply.

Read Next: Visiting the Long Island Children's Museum with Kids