A visit to Wonder Works in Oak Park, IL, is not just a day out; it's a journey into a world of wonder and excitement. Located in downtown Oak Park, Wonder Works has earned its reputation as a beloved destination, particularly among the youngest members of our families. With a mix of interactive exhibits, playful indoor adventures, and a commitment to making learning fun, Wonder Works Oak Park has become a cherished favorite for kids of all ages. In this post, we will explore six reasons why Wonder Works is an absolute hit, providing a glimpse into the extraordinary establishment.
Wonder Works in Oak Park, IL, is a children’s museum providing creative play exhibits and educational attractions that engage visitors of all ages with its unique blend of fun and learning. Located in the heart of Oak Park's bustling downtown area, Wonder Works is a hub of excitement and discovery. This unique museum offers many play-based learning experiences, providing a hands-on environment intended to strengthen children's social, emotional, and intellectual development.
Inside Wonder Works, visitors are greeted with engaging exhibits encouraging hands-on learning and exploration. The Museum’s learning environment fosters curiosity and creativity through a multisensory experience where children are encouraged to learn, explore, and discover. With its commitment to making learning fun, Wonder Works creates an environment where kids can ignite their imaginations and discover the wonders of science, technology, and art while having a blast.
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#1 Interactive Exhibits and Hands-On Learning
Kids adore Wonder Works because of the vast array of experience zones that cater to their innate curiosity and love for hands-on learning. WonderWorks boasts a variety of engaging activities that stimulate young minds and encourage exploration. From the moment children step through the doors, they are immersed in a world where they can touch, experiment, and discover the wonders of science, technology, and art firsthand.
The permanent exhibits and play areas that are especially popular among children include:
Wall of Wonder - Big, colorful foam blocks in varied shapes and sizes allow collaborative and communal play and help set the foundation for physics and math in young children.
Build It - A giant train table, activity mats, magnetic blocks, tools, and wooden blocks invite children to become construction workers, architects, and engineers.
Lights Camera Action - Hollywood beckons children with a complete theatrical experience, including the opportunity to dress in costumes, dance on stage, and control spotlights and backdrops.
Farm to Market - Children can step into a make-believe world while running a small country village, picking fruit in the orchard, processing the harvest in a factory, or selling goods at the market stand.
These exhibits entertain and impart valuable scientific concepts in an interactive and engaging manner. Wonder Works' commitment to hands-on learning ensures that every child can actively explore the world around them, fostering a love for discovery that will last a lifetime.
#2 Exploring The Great Outdoors [Indoors]
The Great Outdoors Exhibit at Wonder Works is an absolute paradise for kids with a boundless curiosity about the natural world. This immersive multisensory experience invites children to embark on a thrilling journey, exploring nature's wonders while engaging their minds and bodies. It's a place where kids can fully embrace their innate desire to explore, discover, and collect, making it an unforgettable adventure.
One of the standout features of the Great Outdoors Exhibit is the treehouse, accessible through a padded, spiraling staircase that sparks a sense of adventure right from the start. Children can oversee the entire exhibit from this vantage point, taking in the captivating view of the Farm to Market and the forest floor below. Whether they ascend to the treehouse or remain on the forest floor, an astonishing array of forest life awaits their discovery.
The forest floor of the Great Outdoors is a haven of biodiversity, where kids can encounter a mesmerizing variety of creatures, from bugs and reptiles to even fish. With the backdrop of a forest and the enchanting sounds of nature, children are transported into the heart of the wilderness, creating a sense of wonder and excitement that truly brings the outdoors to life.
At the Great Outdoors Exhibit, Wonder Works encourages children to learn about nature and experience it firsthand. This hands-on adventure instills a love for the natural world. It fosters a deeper connection to the environment, making it an experience that leaves a lasting impression on young minds.
#3 Painting North Avenue Art Works
Children are invited to embark on a colorful journey of creativity and self-expression at the North Avenue Art Works exhibit. With a diverse array of art supplies, young artists can explore, learn, and expand their creative thinking through open-ended craft projects, sensory toys, and fine motor skills tools. This artistic haven caters to children aged 1 to 8, meeting them at their level, pace, and schedule, ensuring their creative exploration is a personalized experience.
Within the welcoming walls of North Avenue Art Works, children can transform upcycled materials into unique treasures, discover the untapped potential of everyday items like egg cartons and cardboard tubes, and enhance their fine motor skills by stringing beads onto a necklace. The magic of color mixing comes to life as young artists experiment with paint, allowing their imagination to take flight on the canvas. Whether a child creates an artistic masterpiece or simply revels in the sensory wonders of the sandbox, they are free to explore their creative potential.
#4 Exciting Events for Kids
Throughout the year, WonderWorks in Oak Park, IL, hosts a wide range of exciting events catering to children's interests and imagination. From dazzling Glow Parties that transform the museum into a neon wonderland to the enchanting world of BubbleWorks, where kids can create giant bubbles that float through the air, WonderWorks ensures that something fun and memorable is always happening.
Whether it's the Shark Week Spectacular, where young marine enthusiasts can dive into the fascinating world of sharks, or the Valentine's Day Sock Hops that offer a delightful blend of music and nostalgia, these events provide an opportunity for kids to come together, share their wonder, and create lasting memories. These gatherings are a source of pure joy and entertainment and a chance for children to meet new friends who share their enthusiasm and curiosity. At WonderWorks, every event is a celebration of imagination and discovery, making it the perfect place for kids to enjoy unique experiences and build treasured friendships that will last a lifetime.
#5 Summertime Fun at WonderWorks
During the summertime, WonderWorks extends to the great outdoors with the addition of the Children's Garden and the Becky Boyce Nature Play Space. The Children's Garden is a vital educational resource, teaching young ones the origins of their food and the significant effort that goes into its cultivation. Through engaging garden tours scheduled throughout the week, children can explore, learn, and appreciate the journey from seed to plate, fostering a deeper connection to the food they eat.
The Becky Boyce Nature Play Space provides an oasis of natural wonder where children can engage in the beauty and peace of the outdoors. Designed especially for young adventurers, this nature playspace offers ample pathways and open areas that encourage child-driven learning in a safe and nurturing environment. It's a space where children can connect with nature, enhance their well-being, and embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. These outdoor attractions at WonderWorks not only complement the indoor wonders but also make the summertime experience an all-encompassing adventure that nourishes both the mind and spirit of young explorers.
#6 Because Their Parents Love It Too
At WonderWorks, it’s not just kids who love coming there. Parents find plenty of reasons to love WonderWorks. Firstly, it's a place where families can bond and create lasting memories together. The wide array of attractions and activities means there's something for everyone to enjoy, from the family's youngest members to the adults.
Parents appreciate the educational value that WonderWorks offers. The attraction's commitment to making learning fun is not lost on parents, who see it as an opportunity for their children to engage in hands-on, interactive learning experiences beyond traditional classroom settings. It's a place where kids can be inspired and curious about science, technology, and art, which aligns perfectly with parents' aspirations for their children's education. It’s a place that parents can easily love for all the same reasons that make it a favorite among children.
Tickets and Pricing
No reservations are required at Wonder Works, and tickets range from $11 to $13.
If you think you’ll come back often, there are also options for memberships that can be found here.
Parties and Events
Wonder Works is perfect for hosting special events, including unforgettable birthday parties and family gatherings. It's ideal for any celebration, with dedicated party rooms and many exhibits.
Additionally, Wonder Works welcomes field trips, making it a fantastic educational destination for schools and organizations, where learning meets fun in an interactive and engaging environment. Whether planning a party or an educational outing, Wonder Works has you covered.
Hours and Directions
Located just outside Chicago, in Oak Park, Illinois, Wonder Works is off North Avenue.
You can find it at 6445 W North Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302
Wonder Works is open during the following times:
Monday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Tuesday Closed to the Public
Wednesday Closed to the Public
Thursday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Friday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m
Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For additional information and updates, you can:
Visit the Wonder Works website at: www.wonder-works.org
Email their helpful staff at info@wonder-works.org
After a day packed with excitement and wonder at Wonder Works in Oak Park, there's still a world of fun waiting to be explored in the charming neighborhood of Oak Park, especially for kids and families. Just a stone's throw away from Wonder Works, you can embark on the next leg of your adventure by visiting some delightful local spots.
First up, there's Pumpkin Moon, a whimsical store filled with unique toys and exciting finds that will delight kids of all ages. It's a place where imagination knows no bounds, making it the perfect place for young explorers to continue their journey of discovery.
For those with a sweet tooth, visiting Candycopia is a must. This delightful sweet shop offers a colorful array of candies and treats that satisfy every craving. It's a place where kids can indulge in their favorite confections and make sweet memories.
If you're looking for a satisfying meal, head next door to Forest Park, where you'll find The Junction Diner, a train-themed restaurant that's not only delicious but also incredibly kid-friendly. Its playful decor and mouth-watering menu make it a favorite among local families, offering a delightful dining experience that caters to young palates.
In Oak Park, the adventure doesn't end when you leave Wonder Works; it continues with delightful surprises and delicious treats that make for a perfect conclusion to a memorable day of exploration and fun.
Wonder Works is a place of wonder and excitement for children, offering many reasons to fall in love with this unique attraction. From its interactive exhibits and indoor adventures to the endless outdoor adventures when the weather gets warmer, Wonder Works is a place where kids can unleash their curiosity, creativity, and sense of adventure. It's an educational hub where learning becomes an adventure and a destination where families can bond, create memories, and share moments of joy.
We invite families to plan a visit to Wonder Works and experience the magic for themselves. Whether you're looking for an entertaining day out, an educational adventure, or a place to celebrate special occasions, Wonder Works offers it all. As your children explore, learn, and play, you'll find countless opportunities to join the fun, making it a memorable experience for the entire family.