At Once Upon A Castle, the newest exhibit to hit Chicago Children’s Museum, kids’ fairytales can come true. But instead of the traditional concept of princes, princesses and castles, the museum adds a modern and refreshing twist on the familiar. In the space, little imaginations are encouraged to run wild and form their own adventures, whether they are defending the castle from dragons or shopping at the market to put together a magnificent feast.
“The narrative for castles is usually packaged with kings, queens and singing princesses,” said CCM President and CEO Jennifer Farrington. “Our take on castle play removes the predictable script and allows children the freedom to build out their own narrative.”
Here are reasons why kids will love Once Upon A Castle:
1 The play costumes aren’t your average run-of-the-mill costumes. These are custom-made, bedazzled dresses and crowns. Plus, there are props such as hand-sewn swords. After kids dress, they can check themselves out in the lovely mirrors located throughout.
2 They can look out from above the tower for a birdseye view of the entire kingdom.
3 They’ll have the chance to explore the castle’s secret tunnels or climb the rope bridge, while others guard the secret dungeon. Not surprisingly, my two sons couldn’t get enough of this.
4 They can shop for goods at the market and prepare a mighty feast fit for a king or queen on the extra long wood table.
5 They can create potions and spells in the wizard’s room or see the future using the magic ball.
Once Upon a Castle will be open through May 14, 2017 and is included in museum admission ($14 for adults and children, $13 for seniors) and membership.
