Looking to entertain the kids and add a little learning while doing so? Head to the Elgin Public Museum in Elgin! Located at 108-acre Lords Park, the natural history museum is a fun way to learn about the history of Lords Park, learn about animals, and more!
Fun fact: Did you know that the museum is the oldest building in Illinois that was built to become a museum?
Disclosure: A huge thank you to Explore Elgin for partnering up with us to help showcase all the family fun things to do in the area.
Getting started
We parked at the small parking lot at the Elgin Public Museum. If the lot is full, there is plenty of other lots around the park. We like parking by the playground and zoo. The building of the museum is quite a sight to see with its Ionic columns built in the Neo-classical style.
Exploring Elgin Public Museum
I think scavenger hunts are the best! Not only are they engaging but kids (and adults) can also learn while having fun! The kids explored two floors of the museum trying to look for clues for their hunt. As they were searching, they met some of the animals that called the area home. Some of the animals on display even used to live at Lords Park like Old Bill the bison or Tillie the Bear. Me, on the other hand, couldn’t resist the architectural details of the building.
Tips to enjoy Elgin Public Museum
- Check Facebook or their website for special events. They always have fun things going on whether it’s a scavenger hunt or have live music or a a fun event with Lords Park Zoo.
While You’re Here
- Plenty of fun while you’re in Lords Park including the brand new playground, the bison, and small zoo. (Stay tuned for a whole post on things to do.)
- Explore Downtown Elgin’s amazing art scene.
- Discover Downtown Dundee with the natural play area, Wahoo Woods, an old school arcade, and the best custard in the area!
Nitty Gritty:
Website: http://www.elginpublicmuseum.org/
Location: 225 Grand Blvd, Elgin
Cost: $2 Adults, $1 Children 3 to 12, Free Children under 3 and Members
Parking: Parking lot
Stroller-friendly? Sure!
Crowded: We visited on a Saturday afternoon and it was not busy.
