On Feb. 11, the Bronzeville Children’s Museum will honor its 25th anniversary as the nation’s first and only African American children’s museum.
The anniversary event doubles as a Black History Month celebration that includes music, story telling, crafts and face painting. Children will have the opportunity to create their own dreamcatchers as part of a visionary crafting activity.
If you’re not able to attend this special event, don’t worry! There’s still plenty for your kiddos to do and see. The museum has rotating, interactive exhibits for curious young minds, and even offers Bronzeville walking tours for families to learn more about the neighborhood’s rich history and landmarks.
Quick details about the Bronzeville Children’s Museum
- Address: 9301 S Stony Is Ave, Chicago
- Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Cost: $5 for kids and adults
- Getting there: The 28, 95 and 100 CTA buses drop riders off near the museum.
- Parking: There is a small museum parking lot, as well as street parking nearby.
What to see at the Bronzeville Children’s Museum
- Move your body at “You Are What You Eat,” an exhibit that teaches kids to get excited about healthy eating and exercise.
- Discover African American inventors who made life changing discoveries, like Lewis H. Latimer (inventor of the long-lasting light bulb filament) or Garrett A. Morgan (inventor of the traffic light).
- Learn about Provident Hospital, the first African American hospital in the country, and its talented African American doctors.
- Kids can play store clerk, shopper or grocery bagger at the interactive Jewel-Osco play area.
Tips for families when visiting Bronzeville Children’s Museum
- Each exhibit is an hour-long guided session with four parts: an educational component, a short film, a craft and play time. Exhibit start times are every hour on the hour and do not require pre-registration. Make sure to arrive a few minutes early!
- For special events, sessions and celebrations, check the museum’s website.
Things to do near Bronzeville Children’s Museum
- Stay in the Calumet Heights neighborhood for a family meal. Enjoy comfort food at S2 Express Grill or order classic breakfast plates at L&G Family Restaurant.
- Get your wiggles out by strapping on a pair of roller skates at The Rink. Kids can take lessons on the newly-renovated children’s rink.
- Take home a taste of Chicago by stopping by Garrett Popcorn Shop on 87th Street. Nothing beats the classic caramel and cheddar mix!
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