Curious George the monkey has been following his inquisitive mind - and piquing young readers' interest - for more than 60 years. Now the lovable scamp and some of his adventures are coming to life as part of the new exhibit "Curious George: Let's Get Curious," on display at Strong National Museum of Play Saturday, September 20, through January 4.

"Let's Get Curious" features interactive displays based on George and his friend, the Man with the Yellow Hat, made famous through the books by H.A. and Margaret Rey, and later as part of the PBS kids television series. Activities include George's apartment building, complete with mail sort in the lobby; a sidewalk produce stand where kids can weight, sort, and count fruits and vegetables; a construction site where kids can move materials and design a building; a mini mini-golf course (even monkeys like mini-golf); a space rocket for George's space adventures; and a farm where kids can learn about wind power.

A variety of special activities coincide with the exhibit, including an opening weekend celebration this Saturday and Sunday, in which Curious George will be there to meet kids in all his (costumed) simian glory, and "Curious Doug" Rougeux will perform bubble-based tricks while kids explore monkey crafts and games. Columbus Day weekend (October 10-12) will also have a variety of George-related activities, and in October the museum's Toddler Book Club will tackle the theme "Curious George and Friends."

The National Museum of Play is located at 1 Manhattan Square. Hours are Monday-Thursday, 1 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday noon-5 p.m. Admission costs $7.50-$9.50. For more information call 263-2700 or visit nationalmuseumofplay.com.