One-third kids toy store + one-third party zone + one-third immersive experience = one CAMP store.
That’s roughly the equation for CAMP, an experimental family space now open in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood.
The Old Town store is the company’s first Midwest location. At its nine locations around the country, CAMP hosts rotating themed experiences ranging from toy labs and art workshops to cooking and travel camps. The event space is also available to host birthday parties.
The Chicago location’s inaugural experience is Doodles. In collaboration with artist Burnt Toast, CAMP will transport visitors into a whacky, whimsical universe that includes glowing tunnels and rainbow slides. Kids can make arts and crafts in the Flower Forest, play alien arcade games in a spaceship and make music on interactive instruments and noisemakers. Plus, you’ll even get to create a cartoon Doodle of yourself!
Quick details about CAMP
@chicagoparent Create a cartoon version of yourself at this indoor play space that is part immersive experience, part toy store with @Camp Stores and @doodles. 🏕️ #chicagoparent #chicago #chicagooldtown #campstores #chicagokids #chicagofamily ♬ Ooh La La – Josie Dunne
- Address: 647 W. North Ave., Chicago
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
- Cost: $28+ per person for a one-hour session. Free for kids under 2. Learn more about add-on experiences at the ticketing page.
- Parking: Metered street parking is available. There is also the the North+Vine parking garage at 633 W. North Ave.
- Best for ages: 4-10
Of course, it wouldn’t be real fun without a gift shop at the end, right? Wrong. CAMP stores aim to seamlessly blend play with expertly curated collections of fun kids products. Instead of crossing through a tacky gift shop as you leave, visitors can browse unique, on-trend toys and products while they’re fully immersed in the Doodles universe.
Those interested in shopping CAMP’s full collection of children’s toys, books, accessories, decor and more can also shop online.
Ready to hop through the glowing, magical portal at CAMP and be transported into the world of Doodles? I know we are! Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Tips for families when visiting
- Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes to check in — and have time to explore the toy store!
- Want to try a different experience? Their Craft Pass ($40) lets kids enjoy slime at CAMP Signature Schmutz, ceramic painting, beaded jewelry or fabric crafts.
- CAMP suggests to leave strollers at home or in the car since there’s limited space available.
- The experience contains flashing lights and sounds. Email hi@camp.com to connect with them so they can help you accommodate your child’s needs, please.
Other things to do with kids near Old Town
- Visit giraffes, lions, zebras and more at the free Lincoln Park Zoo.
- Enjoy the greenery of the Lincoln Park Conservatory and its beautiful outdoor gardens.
- Discover a butterfly garden at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, an educational museum with plenty of kid-friendly exhibits.
- Wiggle, dance and sing at a family music class at Old Town School of Folk Music.
- Make it a beach day at North Avenue Beach.
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