Picture a pint-sized neighborhood featuring its own fire station, gas station, veterinarian office, grocery store, and more and you've got the Round Lake Children's Museum!
To call it a "Museum"
may seem a bit of a misnomer if one tends to think of museums as huge places with plexiglass and dinosaur bones. At the Round Lake Children's Museum, everything is hands-on and meant for exploration! The museum is more of a small play-land where your tykes ages 1-6 can pretend they are adults in a little town made just for them. The replicas and props are so adorable, you won't be able to resist joining in the make-believe adventures. While it may appear to be all just fun and games, the museum actually meets a variety of "Illinois State Learning Standards" that have been developed for Early Childhood Developmental Education.
Cuteness abounds so don't forget your camera! You'll be busy snapping photos of your preschooler as he/she fills their car with gas, goes shopping for groceries, then heads home to prepare lunch. I was treated to a particularly well-prepared plate of steamed dumplings and a taco (yes, they have international play food.) The taco then became a hat. Kids!Have you got a li
ttle performer? He/she will love putting on a show at the Imagination Station. A full dress-up wardrobe is at their disposal. Help them get primped backstage using the vanity and hair dryers. Then sit back and watch the on-stage performance while you play paparazzi with the toy cameras or your own grown-up version.My little guy especially enjoyed the neighborhood's "backyard" which features a rock climbing wall and miniature gym equipment. My son loved using the bench press and counting his reps just like Daddy. A construction workshop, train table, and music station are also popular.
Your crawlers or early walkers don't have to miss out. A specially designated "Crawler Zone" sets aside a safe place for them to explore as well.
There's so much to entertain your youngsters in what seems like such a small space. You will be sure to come back again and again. At $5 per child, it's an easy and affordable fix for cabin fever. Memberships are also available and can be very cost-effective for families. The museum also makes a great location for birthday parties.
Here's a few things to keep in mind on your first visit...
Fast Facts and Tips
- The museum is located in the lower level of the Robert W. Rolek Community Center which is the home of the Round Lake Park District. While driving, be sure to look for signs for the Community Center NOT the museum or you won't find it.
- Pay your admission at the Front Desk of the Community Center and then take your ticket downstairs to deposit in a drop box before entering.
- Admission is $5 per child ages 1-6. Children under 1 are free. You can print a $1 off coupon here.
- Wednesday evenings from 5:00-6:30 pm are FREE
- Arrive early for maximum enjoyment as hours are limited and capacity is capped at 30 children. Although signs ask that you keep props in their appropriate stations, if you come later your child may discover a fire truck full of plastic vegetables or stuffed animals in the construction workshop.
- The museum features many signs in Spanish. Great for bilingual families or kids who wish to learn.
Location: Round Lake Area Park District, Robert W. Rolek Community Center, 814 Hart Road, Round Lake
Phone: (847) 546-8558
Admission: $5 per child ages 1-6 (under 1 year FREE) Maximum capacity is 30 children.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Morning Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed & Sat 9:30 - 11:30 am
Afternoon Hours: Mon, Tues & Wed 1:30 - 3:00 pm
Evening Hours: Mon 5:30 - 7:30 pm, Wed 5:00-6:30 pm FREE Admittance
Click here for more information.
Written by Little Lake County Contributor Loralie Thomas. Little Lake County, what to do and where to go for moms and kids in Lake County.
Labels: Children and Families
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