Chicago Children'S Museum

Chicago Children’s Museum Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Chicago Children’s Museum, located on the iconic Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois, is a premier family destination dedicated to interactive learning, creativity, and inclusive fun for children of all ages. Since its founding in 1982 by the Junior League of Chicago, the museum has grown from a modest exhibit space into an 84,000-square-foot hub welcoming over 650,000 visitors annually. Its evolution reflects a steadfast commitment to fostering creativity, problem-solving, and social engagement through hands-on play. With thoughtfully curated exhibits, accessible facilities, and a central location, the museum is a must-visit for both local families and tourists. For the latest information on exhibits, tickets, and events, visit the official Chicago Children’s Museum website (Navy Pier Location) (Block Club Chicago).

Introduction
Museum Location, Layout, and Accessibility
Visiting Hours and Tickets
History and Cultural Significance
Exhibit Overview by Age and Interest
Signature and Popular Exhibits
Rotating Programs and Special Events
Educational Focus and Interactive Learning
Practical Visitor Information & Amenities
Tips for a Memorable Visit
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Summary and Recommendations
References

Museum Location, Layout, and Accessibility

The Chicago Children’s Museum is situated at 700 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, right on Navy Pier. The museum spans three floors, each designed with accessibility in mind. Features include accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms, as well as sensory-friendly resources and programming for visitors with special needs (The Tourist Checklist). Public transportation options, such as several CTA bus routes and the Navy Pier free trolley, make access easy for families. Parking is available in Navy Pier’s garage, with discounted options for members and overflow lots nearby (Go City).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Regular Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (hours may vary on holidays and special occasions; check the official website for current details).
Admission (as of July 2025):
- Illinois Residents: $21 per person (adults and children 1+)
- Non-Residents: $25 per person (adults and children 1+)
- Children under 1 year: Free
- Veterans and active military: Free with valid ID
- EBT/WIC cardholders: $5 per person (up to 6 people) through Museums for All
Advance Tickets: Strongly recommended, especially during peak times and weekends.
Entry Policy: At least one adult (18+) and one child required per group.
Final Admission: Last entry is 60 minutes before closing.
Closures: Closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day; check for additional closures related to special events (Chicago Children’s Museum).

History and Cultural Significance

Founded in 1982 to address cuts in arts programming in Chicago public schools, the museum began as a small, single exhibit. Its mission has always centered on play-based learning, creativity, and accessibility. Over the decades, the museum has expanded both its footprint and programming, now offering a wide array of exhibits and serving as a model for inclusive, community-focused museums. The institution is recognized nationally, ranking among the top children’s museums in the United States, and actively advocates for equitable access to educational resources through organizations such as the Association of Children’s Museums (Association of Children’s Museums).

Exhibit Overview by Age and Interest

Exhibits are designed to engage children at every developmental stage:

Babies and Toddlers

Pritzker Playspace: Soft structures, sensory toys, and safe climbing areas encourage motor skills and early socialization (Chicago Children’s Museum Exhibits).

Ages 4–8

Kids Town: A miniature city for role-play as shopkeepers, community helpers, and more, fostering practical life skills and creativity.
Play It Safe: Dress as firefighters, drive a fire truck, and learn about safety through immersive play.

Ages 9+

Tinkering Lab: A DIY maker-space with real tools for building and experimentation, promoting hands-on STEM learning.

Signature and Popular Exhibits

Cloud Buster: Towering 37-foot climbing structure challenging agility and cooperation, with panoramic views across the museum (The Tourist Checklist).
Water City: Interactive water playground where children control water flow and learn physics concepts—raincoats provided!
Dinosaur Expedition: Realistic fossil dig and life-sized Suchomimus skeleton for budding paleontologists.
Kovler Family Climbing Schooner: Three-story ship for climbing and imaginative play.
Art Studio: Space for painting, sculpture, and creative workshops led by artists.
Michael’s Museum: A whimsical collection of thousands of miniature objects.
Zoom Room: Opening February 2025, this new exhibit will let children explore the science of motion and mechanics, celebrated with a free admission day (Block Club Chicago).

Rotating Programs and Special Events

Art Workshops: Led by local artists, introducing new media and techniques.
Family Days: Themed days with performances, special guests, and hands-on activities (Chicago Children’s Museum Family Days).
Kids Free Day: Free admission for children 17 and under on select dates, often with special programming.

Educational Focus and Interactive Learning

The museum’s educational philosophy is rooted in learning through play. Interactive exhibits are designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, integrating STEM, art, and social studies. Programs are inclusive, reaching children of all abilities and backgrounds (The Tourist Checklist).

Practical Visitor Information & Amenities

Accessibility: Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accommodations for sensory needs.
Child Supervision: Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Dining: While no full-service café is in the museum, Navy Pier provides diverse family-friendly dining options such as Billy Goat Tavern, Giordano’s, and Harry Caray’s Tavern (Mommy Poppins).
Lockers & Rest Areas: Lockers for belongings, family restrooms, nursing rooms, and quiet spaces are available.
Lost & Found: Call (312) 464-7678 for lost items; general inquiries at (312) 527-1000.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

When to Visit: Weekday mornings and outside summer peak times are less crowded (Best City Pass).
What to Bring: Comfortable clothing, a change for water play, and snacks.
Special Needs: Contact guest services for accessibility or sensory accommodations.
Combine Attractions: Pair your visit with other Navy Pier sites such as the Centennial Wheel or Shedd Aquarium for a full day of family fun (The Tourist Checklist).

Nearby Attractions

Navy Pier offers more than just the museum—enjoy carnival rides (seasonal), boat tours, the Amazing Chicago Funhouse Maze, and free summer fireworks (Travel With a Plan). The area is pedestrian-friendly and filled with dining and entertainment options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Chicago Children’s Museum hours?
A: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; hours vary on holidays and special occasions.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Illinois residents: $21; non-residents: $25; children under 1: free; veterans/active military: free; EBT/WIC: $5 per person.

Q: Is the museum accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
A: Yes, the facility is fully accessible and stroller-friendly.

Q: Are there free admission days?
A: Select Kids Free Days and military discounts are offered—see the official site for dates.

Q: Can I bring food?
A: Generally, food is not allowed in exhibit areas, but there are designated eating spaces.

Q: Is there a lost and found?
A: Yes, call (312) 464-7678 for lost items.

Summary and Recommendations

The Chicago Children’s Museum is a beacon of hands-on learning and play, with exhibits and programs that inspire creativity in children of all ages. Its central location, accessible design, dynamic exhibits, and inclusive approach make it a standout among Chicago’s family attractions. To maximize your visit, plan ahead, purchase tickets online, and check the museum’s website for the latest updates on events and free admission days. Pair your museum experience with Navy Pier’s other attractions for a memorable family adventure. (Chicago Children’s Museum Official Site) (Go City Chicago) (The Tourist Checklist)