Welcome to the Children’s Museum of Illinois! If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend some quality time with your kids, you won’t be disappointed here. With numerous interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and exploration, this museum is the perfect destination for families with young children. Whether your child is interested in science, art, or just loves to play and discover new things, you’re sure to find something that will thrill and engage them. So, come on in and let’s take a closer look at some of the amazing exhibits that await you at the Children’s Museum of Illinois!
The Children’s Museum of Illinois
The Children’s Museum of Illinois is a hands-on, interactive museum designed specifically for children. Located in Decatur, Illinois, this museum offers a wide range of exhibits and activities that are both educational and entertaining. With a mission to inspire young minds through creativity, play, and exploration, the Children’s Museum of Illinois is a great place for families to spend a fun-filled day together.
History of the Museum
The Children’s Museum of Illinois was founded in 1995 by a group of parents who were looking for a way to provide a creative outlet for their children. They formed a non-profit organization with the goal of building a museum that would be both educational and fun for kids. After several years of fundraising and planning, the museum opened its doors in 2001, and has been a beloved attraction in the Decatur area ever since.
Over the years, the Children’s Museum of Illinois has expanded and evolved, adding new exhibits and programs to keep up with the changing needs and interests of its young visitors. Today, the museum is a top destination for families in Illinois, offering a wide range of exciting exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.
Exhibits and Activities
The Children’s Museum of Illinois is home to a variety of exhibits that are designed to spark curiosity and imagination in children. Some of the most popular exhibits include:
Water Works
An interactive exhibit that teaches children about the properties of water. Kids can experiment with pumps, dams, and water wheels, and even learn how to navigate a boat through a waterway.
Build It
A construction-themed exhibit that allows kids to explore the world of building through hands-on activities. Children can use tools to build structures, create designs with blocks, and even construct a roller coaster.
Treehouse Adventure
An indoor treehouse that features slides, tunnels, and climbing structures for kids to explore. This exhibit is great for younger children who are just learning to crawl and walk.
In addition to these permanent exhibits, the Children’s Museum of Illinois also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits and programs throughout the year. These exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from science and technology to art and culture.
The museum also offers a variety of programs and events that are designed to engage children and families. Some of these programs include:
Workshops and Classes
The Children’s Museum of Illinois offers a variety of workshops and classes that cover a range of topics, from science and engineering to art and music. These programs are designed to encourage creativity and exploration in children of all ages.
Birthday Parties
The museum offers birthday party packages that include a private party room, museum admission for guests, and access to a variety of exhibits and activities. This is a great way to celebrate a child’s special day in a fun and unique way.
Special Events
The Children’s Museum of Illinois hosts special events throughout the year, including Halloween and Christmas parties, family game nights, and more. These events are a great way for families to come together and enjoy the museum’s exhibits and activities in a festive atmosphere.
Overall, the Children’s Museum of Illinois is an exciting and educational destination for families with young children. With its wide range of exhibits, programs, and events, the museum offers something for kids of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to inspire a love of science or art, or simply wanting to spend a fun-filled day with your family, the Children’s Museum of Illinois is the perfect place to go.
Membership and Admission
Membership Benefits
Becoming a member of the Children’s Museum of Illinois is a great way to support the museum’s mission to engage, inspire, and educate young minds through interactive exhibits and programs. Memberships offer an array of benefits and perks, including unlimited access to the museum’s exhibits and special events. Memberships are available for individuals, families, and grandparents at affordable rates, starting at $75 per year.
In addition to free admission to the museum, members will also receive discounts on birthday parties, camps, gift shop purchases, and rental of the party rooms. Members will also have the opportunity to attend members-only events, including early access to exhibits, storytimes, and exclusive holiday parties. Members can stay up-to-date with museum news and events through a monthly e-newsletter.
Admission Costs
The museum offers a range of admission options for both members and non-members. General admission for non-members is $8 per person. Children under one year of age and museum members enter for free. Group rates are also available for schools, daycares, and other organizations.
If you plan on visiting the museum often, it may be beneficial to become a member. In addition to free admission, members can check out the “Passport Program,” which provides free admission to over 200 other children’s museums nationwide. This program is a great way to expand learning opportunities beyond the Children’s Museum of Illinois.
Hours of Operation and Location
The Children’s Museum of Illinois is located in Decatur, Illinois, at 55 S Country Club Rd, Decatur, IL 62521. The museum is conveniently located off of I-72 and US-51, with ample parking in the lot adjacent to the museum.
The museum’s hours of operation vary throughout the year, so it’s best to check their website or call ahead before planning your visit. Typically, the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm and on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and major holidays.
In addition to their regular hours, the museum also offers extended hours for special events and parties. The museum is available for birthday parties, corporate events, and other special occasions. Contact the museum’s event coordinator to learn more about renting the space.
In conclusion, the Children’s Museum of Illinois is a wonderful place for families and young children to explore, learn, and play together. With affordable membership options and a range of exhibits and programs, the museum is a valuable resource for the community. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, the museum is sure to provide hours of fun, entertainment, and education for the whole family.