Who visited: Amy and Jeff Little of Norwalk, Ohio, and their kids, Noah, age 11, and Anna, 6

Why they loved it: The museum within the sprawling Henry Ford history complex always keeps the Little family intrigued for hours."There's so much to see and learn, you could spend days there and still not see it all," says Amy. The collection, dedicated to American ingenuity and innovation, includes more than two centuries' worth of objects, from presidential limousines to Victorian jewelry. Exhibits at the top of the Littles' list: a 1940s life-size aluminum house, the bus where Rosa Parks took her historic stance against segregation, and the assortment of antique locomotives. Tickets are $14 for adults, $10 for kids ages 5 to 12.

While you're there: At Henry Ford's Greenfield Village, families can check out Thomas Edison's workshop, Noah Webster's homestead, and more ($20 for adults, $14 for kids ages 5 to 12). The Littles recommend the glassblowing demonstration, where artisans stretch a piece of glass from one side of the room to the other.

For more information: Call 800-835-5237 or visit thehenryford.org.