Ready for a fun and educational adventure … at Woodfield Mall? The latest addition to the Schaumburg mall is not a store, but rather a museum. Blocks to Bricks Museum showcases 150 years of three-dimensional building toys, from stone to paper to bricks and everything in between. Adam Reed Tucker, the man behind the museum and the creator of the brick-tastic exhibit Brick by Brick at the Museum of Science and Industry, considers his latest endeavor more than just a “blocks” museum. Rather, it is a way to see how 3D building toys have evolved. He wants visitors to think of it as an art gallery-inspired museum experience.
And what an experience it is.
Before starting the journey through the 12,500 ft. museum, watch a short 2-minute film that gives a little insight into Adam’s background story and explains how he came to love building. (Stay tuned for the surprise at the end of the film.)
Visitors wind through 13 zones, each focusing on a different medium, with more than 3,000 artifacts, many of which are from Adam’s personal collection. Each zone has neat interactive features like buttons to push to rotate exhibits or sensors to activate mechanisms with just the wave of a hand. As my family and I walked through the different areas, I could feel the kids’ excitement level increasing, especially once we reached the plastics section.
The kids were amazed as they watched a huge Ferris wheel spinning along with other amusement-type rides, and they were all made entirely with K’NEX. If you’re looking for beloved Lego bricks, you’ll find plenty of sets to see, both vintage and modern. A wall of every mini-figure made adorns one wall while another wall will showcases every single LEGO piece built. My absolute favorite section was stepping into the Glow Dome and watching brick creations that glow in the dark. As Adam say, “creativity is everywhere,” and he is proud to feature different artists and their creations. In fact, you’ll even have a chance to see artists hard at work in the Artist’s Studio.
Ever wonder how bricks are made? Watch their injection molding machine in action as it creates a brick right before your eyes and follow it as it winds through the retail store on a conveyor belt. You’re even able to buy a brick as a souvenir.
To truly enhance your visit, consider taking a private vault tour where you can see Adam’s private office and studio, along with other special surprises. Plus, you’ll be able to chat with Adam himself.
Blocks to Bricks is definitely more than just bricks. It’s a fun and educational adventure that both kids and adults will appreciate. (Plus, a great way to kill an hour if you need a little shopping break.)
Read more about our experience.
If you go:
5 Woodfield Mall, Suite D215
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Cost: General – $15, Vault experience – $30.00 (includes museum admission)
