At the Center for Puppetry Arts on Spring Street in Atlanta, you can explore the craft and history of puppetry alongside characters from Jim Henson’s work. The museum’s displays range from Kermit, Big Bird and puppets from Labyrinth to Vietnamese water puppets and British Punch and Judy figures. There are also rotating exhibitions, workshops and live performances, so check the program if you want to add an event to your visit. The exhibits suit adults and children, with a scavenger hunt to help younger visitors stay involved.
A museum devoted to puppetry
The Center for Puppetry Arts brings together a museum, a theater and educational programs at its Spring Street address in Atlanta. Its displays trace the many forms puppetry has taken around the world, from traditional figures to modern and experimental work. The collection includes puppets from different cultures and eras, along with material about how puppetry is made and performed.
The museum’s scope goes beyond objects in display cases. Filmed conversations with puppeteers add context about the people behind the craft, and a recreated puppet storeroom gives a glimpse of how puppets are kept. Rotating exhibitions bring changing subjects into the galleries, so the calendar is useful when planning a return visit.
Jim Henson’s characters and work
A major part of the visit is the exhibition devoted to Jim Henson and his creative work. It includes familiar characters such as Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, Ernie and Bert, as well as puppets connected with the Muppets, Sesame Street, Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal. The displays cover more than the best-known characters, giving space to other projects from across Henson’s career.
Seeing the puppets in person also draws attention to the design and making behind them. The exhibition places recognizable figures alongside examples from less familiar productions, letting visitors follow the range of Henson’s work rather than focusing on one show alone.
Puppetry traditions and ways to take part
The broader collection includes Vietnamese water puppets, British Punch and Judy figures, rod puppets associated with Mystery Science Theater 3000, and stop-motion puppets such as Gumby and figures from Corpse Bride. These examples help show how puppetry changes across styles and places. Some displays focus on modern or abstract work, while others connect the objects with older traditions.
The Center also has live performances and workshops. The Family Series and other programs can add a show to a museum visit; check the schedule to see what is running during your dates. Children can take part in a scavenger hunt as they explore. For a self-guided visit, leave time to look through the museum galleries and the small gift shop, or plan a longer stop if you are attending a performance or workshop.
FAQ
How long does a visit to the Center for Puppetry Arts take?
Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the museum. A performance or workshop will add time.
What can you see at the museum?
The displays include puppets from Jim Henson’s work and examples of puppetry from around the world, including Vietnamese water puppets and British Punch and Judy figures.
Can you see a puppet show at the Center for Puppetry Arts?
Yes. Live performances and workshops are part of the Center’s programming. Check the schedule before your visit.
Is the Center for Puppetry Arts suitable for children?
Yes. The museum is suitable for children, and a scavenger hunt gives younger visitors an activity as they explore.
