The Wallace Collection

There was a small museum for kids when I was growing up called 'Hands on House'. It was an old house converted into a museum, every room jam-packed with mini exhibits on how animals hibernate, the human body, owls, and--oddly enough my favorite--grocery stores. I think we were supposed to learn about math and coupons in it, but I was fascinated by the beepy gun you got to scan fake food items. Regardless, every corner of the house was stuffed with something and it was impossible to turn around and see a blank spot of wall or shelf. That little house had hours of things to look at.

The Wallace Collection is the 'Hands on House' version for adults. Situated in an old London townhouse, every room is stuffed with French paintings, miniature portraits, porcelain, armor and weapons.

The museum is open 7 days a week 10am-5pm. Admission is free and if you check the website, there are lots of free tours and lectures to attend as well. There's also a lovely restaurant situated in the heart of the museum.

If you're in the area, you truly don't have a reason to miss out on The Wallace Collection. Even if you're not the type of person to read every little plaque under each painting and vase, the rooms themselves are so gorgeous that you could do a whirlwind tour through the house in about 30 minutes. Kind of like when you go to an open house for a mansion up for sale, but this time you don't have to pretend to be interested in buying and clandestinely shove six lemon bars in your purse.

Besides, the wait to buy tickets to get into 'Downton Abbey' is ridiculous.