DuPage Children's Museum
A vibrant, hands-on museum in Naperville, IL, offering interactive exhibits for children to learn through play and exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
DuPage Children's Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant, hands-on museum in Naperville, IL, offering interactive exhibits for children to learn through play and exploration.
"My daughter absolutely loved it! Her favorite part was the water works area, but we explored both floors, and she found something exciting in every section."
🎯 Arrive Early!
Get there at opening to beat the crowds, especially on weekends.
💧 Bring a Change of Clothes
The water area is a huge hit, so a spare outfit is essential!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Water Works
Lower Level
Splash, pour, and play in this interactive water exhibit that delights kids of all ages.
+1
Creative Construction Zone
Various Locations
Build, design, and imagine with a variety of materials and building challenges.
Art Studio
Upper Level
Unleash artistic talents with hands-on art projects and creative expression.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Dress for Discovery
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early!
Get there at opening to beat the crowds, especially on weekends.
💧 Bring a Change of Clothes
The water area is a huge hit, so a spare outfit is essential!
👟 Comfy Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring across two floors.
👶 Toddler-Friendly Zones
Designated areas for little ones under 2 are available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early!
Get there at opening to beat the crowds, especially on weekends.
💧 Bring a Change of Clothes
The water area is a huge hit, so a spare outfit is essential!
👟 Comfy Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of exploring across two floors.
👶 Toddler-Friendly Zones
Designated areas for little ones under 2 are available.
🧼 Health Precautions
Wash hands frequently, especially during winter, to avoid illness.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Most visitors rave about the DuPage Children's Museum, highlighting its interactive and educational exhibits that captivate children for hours. The Water Works area is a consistent favorite, and the museum is praised for its engaging activities for toddlers. However, some find the admission price high for the size of the facility, and concerns have been raised about illness transmission during winter months.
"Charging parents $22 admission for what is essentially basic supervision is unacceptable. The facility itself is quite small, making it difficult to accommodate families comfortably or provide adequate space for active play. Most play stations are geared exclusively toward children under the age of four and feature only rudimentary toys, offering minimal engagement for older kids. Additionally, several stations were non-functional during our visit."
juicy contradiction
"We had an amazing time here, and my daughter absolutely loved it! Her favorite part was the water works area, but we explored both floors, and she found something exciting in every section. The exhibits were fun, interactive, and educational, making it a great experience for both kids and adults. I loved how the space encouraged learning and discovery in such an engaging way. The staff was friendly, and the overall atmosphere was welcoming and well-organized. It’s a fantastic place for families, and we’ll definitely be back for more fun and learning!"
Karen Perez
"My daughter had an absolute blast! She's 17 months and could interact with most of the exhibits! Definitely going back whenever we can!!"
Becky Picard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 301 N. Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point.
Yes, there is parking available near the museum. It's advisable to check for any specific parking instructions or fees upon arrival.
Many visitors drive to Naperville. If coming from further afield, consider Amtrak to the Naperville station, which is a short distance from the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is $19 per person. Infants under 1 year old are free.
The museum is open Tuesday-Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM. It is closed on Mondays.
It's recommended to check the official DuPage Children's Museum website for the most up-to-date information on purchasing tickets online or at the door.
Information on discounts, group rates, or special offers is best found on the museum's official website or by contacting them directly.
Yes, the museum has designated areas for children under 2 years old and many exhibits are interactive for toddlers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Water Works area is a huge hit! Other popular spots include the creative construction zones and the art studio, offering hands-on fun for all ages.
Many visitors find their children are entertained for hours, with some not even making it to the upper levels in a single visit. Plan for at least 2-3 hours.
The museum is generally accessible, with exhibits spread across two floors. It's advisable to confirm specific accessibility details with the museum.
Yes, there is a cozy coffee shop on the lower level, and various seating areas are available throughout the museum.
Arrive early, prioritize the water area if your kids love it, and let them lead the exploration. Don't try to see everything in one go!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Outside food and drinks policies can vary. It's best to check the museum's guidelines or utilize their on-site cafe.
The museum has a coffee shop on the lower level offering refreshments. Specific menu details are best confirmed directly with the museum.
Naperville has a vibrant downtown area with numerous restaurants and cafes within walking distance or a short drive from the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and ask permission before photographing individuals.
The vibrant exhibits, especially the water play area and creative zones, offer colorful and engaging backdrops for memorable photos.
Professional photography or videography may require special permission. Check the museum's policy for details on equipment like tripods or flash.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
+1Parents appreciate that many exhibits are accessible and engaging for even the youngest visitors, allowing for shared experiences. The museum's focus on hands-on learning means children can interact with everything, fostering their development in a fun and stimulating environment. Remember to bring a change of clothes for the water play, and comfortable shoes for everyone!
🎒 Budget-Conscious Families
+1Look for any potential discounts or membership options if you plan to visit frequently. The museum's cafe offers refreshments, but packing your own snacks or planning a meal at a nearby, more affordable eatery in Naperville can also help manage costs. The sheer amount of engagement ensures a full day's worth of fun for the admission price.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Interactive Learning & Play
+2The museum's approach integrates science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) concepts into engaging activities. Children can explore physics through building challenges, express themselves in the Art Studio, or develop fine motor skills with various manipulatives. The layout across two floors ensures a diverse range of experiences, with dedicated spaces for younger children and more complex challenges for older ones.
+1Many visitors highlight how their children are captivated for hours, often discovering new interests with each visit. The interactive nature of the exhibits means that learning feels natural and fun, rather than a chore. This focus on experiential learning makes DuPage Children's Museum a valuable destination for early childhood development.
+1Navigating Crowds and Health
One significant concern raised by visitors, particularly during colder seasons, is the increased risk of illness. Several reviews mention children contracting Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) after visits in winter. The museum acknowledges these concerns and encourages visitors to practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and staying home if feeling unwell.
To mitigate these issues, consider visiting on weekday mornings for a more relaxed atmosphere. If visiting during winter, be extra vigilant with hand hygiene and consider the timing of your visit. The museum's commitment to addressing health concerns is noted, but visitor awareness and proactive measures remain key for a healthy and fun outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit