Go on, admit it — you miss your Commodore 64 (or Tandy or old-school Apple).
Established in 2005, this museum-in-a-garage is bound to bring back plenty of nostalgic feelings, and remains an opportunity to show the still-working tech to your kids.
Although only open one day a month, this museum covers plenty of tech dating back to the 70’s and 80’s — and most of the devices are interactive.
Each machine seems set up for a specific game or program — look for a financial planning program as old as I am.
I wouldn’t have minded a bit more explanation about the games, though the tech often has some short descriptions available.
A recreation of Ferris Bueller’s famous computer hack to change grades. Good luck trying that these days, kids…
Head up to the second floor for one of the largest collections of video games and video gaming stuff in Canada. It’s not very well displayed — the result of a large collection being squeezed into a small space — but give it a closer look.
Brantford makes for a decent daytrip from Toronto, but there isn’t much else on the unusual side in the area. It’s reachable by public transportation (specifically, the VIA train system), but will be faster by car. It’s a worthy visit, if you’re able to time your trip with the single day of the month it’s open.
Name: Personal Computer Museum
Address: 13 Alma St, Brantford, Ontario, Canada (GPS: 43.157198, -80.265009)
Directions: From Toronto, take the VIA train to Brantford station, then walk northeast along West street for about 600 meters. Turn left onto Burnley Avenue (just past the cemetery), and walk for about 350 meters until you come to a T. Turn left onto Grandview, then right onto Sydenham street. Another 400 meters, then turn left onto Alma street. Look for number 13 on your right — if it’s open there should be plenty of signage.
Hours: 10:00am-4:00pm (only open one day a month — usually a Saturday. See the website below to ensure it’s open when you visit.)
Admission: free (donations appreciated)
Phone: 226–227–5898
Website: http://www.pcmuseum.ca/open.asp
