Kidzeum of Health and Science
A vibrant, three-story interactive museum in Springfield, IL, sparking curiosity about health and science through play.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Kidzeum of Health and Science
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant, three-story interactive museum in Springfield, IL, sparking curiosity about health and science through play.
"We could spend all day here! Kids get so excited about every single section."
🎯 Sensory-Friendly Hours
Enjoy calmer visits on the first Sunday, 9-11 AM, with dimmed lights & lower sounds. :sparkles:
💰 ASTC Membership Perks
Check if your existing ASTC membership grants free admission! :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Health Exhibits
All three floors
Engage with hands-on displays about the human body, from a giant heart to a vet clinic and dentist's office.
Water Play & Farm Market
First floor
Younger children love the water play area and the imaginative farm market for endless fun.
Big Kid Gym
Third floor
Older kids can burn energy in the 'big kid' gym with climbing structures and active play.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Timing is Key
Budget-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sensory-Friendly Hours
Enjoy calmer visits on the first Sunday, 9-11 AM, with dimmed lights & lower sounds. :sparkles:
💰 ASTC Membership Perks
Check if your existing ASTC membership grants free admission! :moneywithwings:
💧 Water Play Fun
Bring a change of clothes for the water play area – kids love it! :child:
🎂 Party Room Rental
Spacious rooms available for parties, with cleanup included. :party_popper:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sensory-Friendly Hours
Enjoy calmer visits on the first Sunday, 9-11 AM, with dimmed lights & lower sounds. :sparkles:
💰 ASTC Membership Perks
Check if your existing ASTC membership grants free admission! :moneywithwings:
💧 Water Play Fun
Bring a change of clothes for the water play area – kids love it! :child:
🎂 Party Room Rental
Spacious rooms available for parties, with cleanup included. :party_popper:
🏙️ Capitol View
Catch a glimpse of the Illinois State Capitol from the third floor. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kidzeum for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that delight children of all ages. The three floors offer a variety of experiences, from water play and farm markets for younger kids to health-focused displays and a 'big kid' gym for older ones. Many highlight the cleanliness and the value for money, with some noting it's a perfect spot for rainy days or day trips.
"We got there with only an hour left open and there were only a few other patrons, my kids(5 and 2 ) had so much fun. My youngest had a lot of fun in the farm/store and water play area, and my oldest loved the dentist, the vet and the "big kid" gym. It's perfect for learning and fun! Thank you."
Allison Fox
"An amazing place! We took a day trip to Springfield with our kids and came across Kidzeum. We could spend all day here. We loved watching our kids get so excited about every single section. I’m already planning my next trip here and telling all of our friends. Bonus, the lady at the front desk was the absolute sweetest and so helpful. 10/10 experience!"
R Cov
"My 2 and 4 years old enjoy this museum that is focused on health. If is clean with a lot of indoor play. 3 floors and we spent approximately 2.5 hours here. Was not crowded"
Becky N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kidzeum is located in downtown Springfield, Illinois. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors make it a day trip to Springfield, often combining it with visits to other local attractions.
Yes, there is parking available in the vicinity of the Kidzeum. Street parking and nearby lots are common options for visitors driving to the museum. Check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees.
Springfield has a public bus system, and depending on your starting point, you may be able to reach the Kidzeum via bus. It's recommended to check the local transit authority's website for routes and schedules.
For visitors coming from out of town, driving is often the most convenient way to reach Springfield and then navigate to the Kidzeum. If you're already in Springfield, public transport or ride-sharing services are viable options.
Yes, downtown Springfield offers several hotel options within walking distance or a short drive from the Kidzeum, making it convenient for families planning a longer visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Kidzeum is $11 for children aged 2 and up. This price grants access to all the interactive exhibits and play areas across the three floors.
The Kidzeum is a member of the ASTC (Association of Science and Technology Centers), so if you have a membership to another ASTC-affiliated museum, you may receive free admission. Keep an eye out for special events like 'Free First Wednesdays' in Springfield.
Operating hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Kidzeum website before your visit. They typically have morning and afternoon sessions available.
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it can be a good idea, especially during peak times or for special events, to ensure entry and potentially save time. Check their website for online ticketing options.
Admission is generally for children aged 2 and up. Younger children may be able to attend, but the interactive exhibits are primarily designed for toddlers and older children.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Kidzeum focuses on health and science with three floors of interactive exhibits. You'll find a giant heart, a vet clinic, a dentist's office, a farm market, a water play area, and a 'big kid' gym. +1
Absolutely! The first floor features a popular water play area and a farm market that toddlers and younger children adore. The exhibits are designed to be engaging for a wide age range.
Yes, the third floor boasts a 'big kid' gym with climbing structures and active play opportunities, ensuring older children can also have a blast and burn off energy.
Yes, the Kidzeum hosts sensory-friendly hours on the first Sunday of every month from 9 am to 11 am. During this time, lights are dimmed and sounds are lowered for a more comfortable experience for those with sensory differences.
Most families spend around 2.5 to 3 hours exploring the three floors of exhibits. Many visitors mention they could easily spend all day there, especially if they have multiple children with different interests. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Kidzeum does not typically have an on-site cafe. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks or plan to dine at nearby restaurants in downtown Springfield.
Generally, bringing your own snacks and drinks is permitted, but it's always a good idea to check their specific policy upon arrival or on their website. Look for designated areas for eating.
Yes, being located in downtown Springfield, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and fast-food options within a short walking distance or a quick drive from the Kidzeum.
Downtown Springfield offers a variety of family-friendly dining establishments, from casual pizza places to diners. Exploring the local area will reveal many suitable options for a post-museum meal.
While there might not be dedicated food storage lockers, you can usually keep your belongings, including snacks, with you or in a designated area. Check with staff upon arrival for the best approach.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Kidzeum for personal use. It's a great place to capture your children's excitement and discoveries.
While personal photography is usually permitted, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive flash photography, especially during sensory-friendly hours. Professional photography may require special permission.
The interactive exhibits themselves, like the vet clinic, farm market, and the 'big kid' gym, make for dynamic photos. The view of the Capitol building from the third floor is also a great photo opportunity.
Similar to photography, personal video recording is typically allowed. This can be a wonderful way to document the fun and learning experiences your family is having.
The vibrant colors of the farm market, the detailed setups of the vet and dentist offices, and the energetic scenes in the 'big kid' gym are all highly photogenic. Don't forget the unique perspective of the Capitol from the upper floors!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the biggest crowds. If your child has sensory sensitivities, the first Sunday sensory-friendly hours are a must-try.
Bringing a change of clothes for the water play is a smart move! The museum is designed for exploration, and kids aged 2-7 will find something to captivate them for hours.💰 Budget Travelers
A key tip is to check if your existing ASTC membership grants free admission, as this can significantly cut costs. Keep an eye out for any 'Free First Wednesday' events in Springfield, which can offer complimentary access to local museums. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money, as there isn't an on-site cafe.
🎉 Birthday Party Planners
Consider booking a party package for a stress-free event. The cost is reasonable for the experience provided, and the unique setting guarantees a memorable birthday for the guest of honor and their friends. It's a fantastic way to combine active play with a festive atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Three Floors of Fun
The second floor delves deeper into health and science concepts. Here, kids can explore exhibits like a dentist's office, a vet clinic, and even a giant human heart. These hands-on displays make learning about the body and healthcare engaging and accessible. The attention to detail in these exhibits is often praised by visitors.
Finally, the third floor is designed for the more energetic visitors, featuring a 'big kid' gym with climbing structures and active play zones. This space allows older children to burn off energy and challenge themselves physically. From this vantage point, you can also enjoy a great view of the Illinois State Capitol building, adding another layer to the visit.
Sensory-Friendly Experiences and Accessibility
Visitors have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about these sensory hours, noting that it significantly enhances their experience. One parent mentioned not needing earplugs and their child not becoming overstimulated, highlighting the effectiveness of these accommodations.
The museum's layout, with its varied exhibits across three floors, also offers different levels of engagement. While there are stairs, the presence of elevators ensures that individuals with mobility challenges can access all areas of the museum. The interactive nature of the exhibits generally caters to a wide range of abilities, promoting learning through play for everyone.Birthday Parties and Group Events
One reviewer mentioned paying $175 for a party with up to 25 guests, which included a large party room and the museum taking care of the post-party cleanup.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit