All children's museums to visit in Illinois

Spark curiosity and creativity at 18 children's museums in Illinois. These interactive museums offer fun and educational experiences for kids of all ages..

Are you looking for the best places for kids to learn and play? Here are the top children's Illinois

  1. Lincoln Park Zoo1

    Lincoln Park Zoo

     Chicago, IL
    The Lincoln Park Zoo is situated in the Lincoln Park sector of Chicago, in the northeastern state of Illinois, USA. It is nestled within Lincoln Park, the largest public urban park in the city of Chicago and one of the most significant in the United States. The zoo is one of four in the metropolitan region of Chicago, with the other three being Brookfield Zoo, Phillips Park Zoo, and Indian Boundary Park Zoo. However, Lincoln Park Zoo is the only zoo located within the city of Chicago itself.
  2. The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum2

    The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, located in Chicago, Illinois, is a natural history museum operated by the Chicago Academy of Sciences. The museum is named after its benefactor, Peggy Notebaert, and was opened in 1999. It is situated at the intersection of Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive in Lincoln Park.
  3. Chicago Children's Museum3

    Chicago Children's Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The Chicago Children's Museum, situated at the Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois, is a renowned institution that was established in 1982. The Junior League of Chicago, in response to programming cutbacks in the Chicago Public Schools, founded the museum. It has since grown to become a significant educational and recreational resource for children and families in the region.
  4. Bronzeville Children's Museum4

    Bronzeville Children's Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The Bronzeville Children's Museum is situated in the Calumet Heights community area on the South Side of Chicago. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for visitors. The museum's location also reflects its commitment to serving the local community and promoting African American culture and history.
  5. 5

    LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago

     Chicago, IL
    The Legoland Discovery Centre Chicago is an indoor family entertainment center that is conveniently located in The Streets of Woodfield shopping center in Schaumburg, Illinois. This location makes it an ideal destination for families looking for a fun and educational experience while also having the opportunity to shop and dine in the same vicinity.
  6. Pullman National Historical Park Visitors Center6

    Pullman National Historical Park Visitors Center

     Chicago, IL
    The Pullman National Historical Park, located in Chicago, is a significant site in American history. It was established as a national monument by President Barack Obama on February 19, 2015, and was later converted into a National Historical Park in January 2023. This site is a testament to the country's industrial past and offers a unique insight into the evolution of American industry and labor relations.
  7. Children's Museum of Illinois7

    Children's Museum of Illinois

     Decatur, IL
    Witty exhibitions to challenge children's minds. Let your kid climb a sculpture or fly in the plane. Named one of 25 best children's museums in the U.S.
  8. Wonder Works Children's Museum8

    Wonder Works Children's Museum

     Oak Park, IL
    Wonder Works is a children's museum located in the village of Oak Park, Illinois. It was established in 2002 as a non-profit corporation. The museum is a successor to the Children's Museum of Oak Park, which was established in 1993.
  9. Kohl Childrens Museum9

    Kohl Childrens Museum

     Glenview, IL
    The Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago, located in Glenview, Illinois, is a unique learning environment for children from birth to 8 years old. The museum offers a hands-on learning laboratory where children can engage in interactive exhibits and activities. This approach to learning allows children to explore and understand the world around them in a fun and engaging way.
  10. McLean County Museum of History10

    McLean County Museum of History

     Bloomington, IL
    The McLean County Museum of History, located in Bloomington, Illinois, is an institution accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). The museum was established in 1892 by the McLean County Historical Society with the primary aim of studying and preserving local history. Over the years, the museum has grown into a significant asset of the society, showcasing the rich history and culture of McLean County.
  11. Children's Discovery Museum11

    Children's Discovery Museum

     Normal, IL
    Educational programs for kids from the age of 12 months up to 13 years. 3 floors of inspiring hands-on exhibits!
  12. 12

    Dupage Children's Museum

     Naperville, IL
    Three floors of exceptional activities for kids up to 10 years. They explore art, math, science and world in general.
  13. 13

    Cernan Earth and Space Center

     River Grove, IL
    The Cernan Earth and Space Center is a public planetarium that is situated on the campus of Triton College in the suburb of River Grove, Chicago. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the wonders of the universe in a comfortable and educational setting.
  14. 14

    Blackberry Farm

     Aurora, IL
    Living museum that can take you and your kids to 19th century farm. Miniature train, ponds and stream... Amazing idea for a family day out!
  15. 15

    Isle a la Cache Museum

     Romeoville, IL
    The Isle a la Cache Museum is located on an island in the Des Plaines River and is operated by the Forest Preserve District of Will County. This free-standing museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area while learning about its rich history.
  16. 16

    Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum

     Charleston, IL
    Museum dedicated to senatorial debates of 1858 between Abraham Lincoln and Mr. Douglas. Children hands-on area included!
  17. 17

    Wheels O' Time Museum

     Chicago, IL
    The Wheels O' Time Museum is located in Dunlap, Illinois, United States. It is a unique museum that showcases a variety of exhibits, each with its own historical significance.
  18. 18

    Healthworld Foundation

     St. Charles, IL
    Creative learning about one of the most important areas of human life. Educate your kids in a fun way!