Families know how essential indoor play spaces can be to keep our kids entertained — rain or shine! Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum joins the indoor fun with a new indoor play space for younger kids.
Hawver and Lacy Families Nature’s PlaySpace replaces the former play area, Hands-On Habit, with a 3,050-square-foot area focused on nature and the six Great Lakes habitats. Children up to age 8 can explore more than 25 interactive elements inspired by outdoor environments.
Quick details about Nature’s PlaySpace
- Address: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago
- Best for kids ages: 8 and under
- Cost: Included in museum admission
“You see the power of having an in-house team of biologists and environmental educators in exhibits like Nature’s PlaySpace,” says Erin Amico in a press release. “The exhibit brings nature indoors to teach children from an early age about their environment which we know is crucial to early growth, and we are grateful to our donors who have made this amazing new space possible.”
Maximize playtime by visiting all six outdoor environments in Nature’s PlaySpace including Wetlands, Lake, Dunes, Savanna, River and Prairie. What else can kids do at this indoor play space? Kids can make frog sounds, play with a water table to learn about waterflow or slide down the awesome slide in their treehouse.
Nature’s PlaySpace at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is open seven days a week 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tips for families when visiting Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
- See live butterflies at The Judy Istock Butterfly Haven. The first flight butterfly release occurs daily at 2 p.m.
- The museum usually offers suggested donation on Thursdays. Check the website for upcoming dates.
- Depending on the weather, you can explore the Deb Lahey Nature Trails that feature a Bird Garden, North Pond Observation Pier and more.
Things to do near Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
- Lincoln Park Zoo is right across the street from the Nature Museum. If you have time, make a quick stop to say hi to the animals.
- Another free activity is the Lincoln Park Conservatory — just make sure to book a free reservation!
- Looking for a bite to eat? Kong Dog is less than a 10-minute walk and the Clark Street location offers a variety of the viral Korean corn dogs.
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