Scandinavia House — The Nordic Center in America — is the American-Scandinavian Foundation's cultural center at 58 Park Avenue in Murray Hill, Manhattan. It is one of New York City's most beloved family-friendly cultural destinations, offering both free programming and a dedicated children's space rooted in Scandinavian design and early childhood development principles.
The Saturday Morning Storytelling with the Hans Christian Andersen Storytellers is a free, drop-in series held on select Saturdays at 11 AM during the fall and winter months. Professional storytellers bring Nordic fairy tales, folk tales, and fantastical adventures to life for children ages 5 and up. During summer months, the storytellers move outdoors to the Hans Christian Andersen statue in Central Park.
The Heimbold Family Children's Playing and Learning Center on the fourth floor is a dedicated indoor play and learning space for children ages 1–5. It features a reading theater, sensory tunnel, custom Lego corner, BRIO train table, indoor climbing corner, mushroom house, and a 'please touch' wall. Public access is available on Thursdays and Saturdays; members-only hours run Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. The venue also includes an on-site Nordic café and design shop.
