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Mon: Closed | Tue – Thu: 10a – 3p | Fri: 9a – 8p | Sat & Sun: 10a – 4pm
Now open late on Friday nights!
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Answers to Common Questions
Have a question about the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn? Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about visiting the museum, memberships, events, and more.
Our exhibits and programs are designed for children ages 0-8, but older siblings often enjoy playing alongside younger ones. It really depends on the child!
While we cannot guarantee specific crowd levels, afternoons on weekdays tend to be less busy. We also post a Field Trip Forecast weekly on our website and social media to help visitors plan.
Free parking is available only on the 5th floor of the parking garage, along the north wall facing the museum. Look for signs indicating Children’s Museum parking (valid 10 AM – 6 PM). Paid parking is available in commuter spaces if needed.
The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and we rely on admissions and donations to continue providing play-based learning experiences for children and families. Our exhibits are designed for both children and their caregivers to explore together, encouraging shared learning and engagement.
No. However, if you are an adult interested in learning more about the museum, you may request a guided tour from a staff member. Tours are subject to availability, so we recommend calling ahead to schedule.
No. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times while in the museum.
Yes, but we encourage children to get out and play! If you bring a stroller, please ensure it does not block exhibits or emergency exits.
Yes! We offer discounted admission for:
Teachers, seniors, and active military personnel (with valid ID).
WIC and EBT cardholders ($5 per person with valid card and ID).
Purchasing a membership is another way to save on visits throughout the year.
Yes! Just make sure to get your hand stamped before you leave so you can re-enter the same day.
Yes, but please note that the Multipurpose Room is not always available, especially on weekends. If the room is unavailable, you are welcome to enjoy a picnic outside near the train station.
Visiting the Museum
Memberships include:
Unlimited visits for one year.
Discounts on events, birthday parties, and store purchases.
Early museum admission on Saturdays.
Reciprocal benefits at other museums
and more!
With an ACM Reciprocal Membership, members receive 50% off admission at over 200 participating children's museums across the country.
Partners in Play (PIP) is a reciprocal membership program. This partnership between the Children's Museum in Oak Lawn and KidsWork focuses on personalized service, flexibility for families, and shared investment in child development through play.
We believe reciprocal memberships offer powerful benefits to families, including:
· Extended Value – Access to two enriching museums for the price of one
· Family Flexibility – Explore beyond your home museum with ease
· Encourages Exploration – Discover new exhibits and play experiences
· Budget-Friendly Outings – Make learning part of everyday life, affordably
· Builds Community – Connect with like-minded families across our region
· Supports Our Missions – Every visit supports nonprofit educational work
Partners in Play represents more than a membership—it reflects a shared commitment in giving children the extended opportunities to imagine, explore, and thrive.
Yes. Memberships with a caregiver option allow two free caregiver changes per year. Additional changes require a $10 processing fee.
No. Unless otherwise noted, Members-Only events are exclusive to families who purchased their membership directly from the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn.
Memberships & Discounts
Yes. All field trips must be pre-registered to receive the field trip rate. Walk-in field trips may be turned away if the museum is at capacity. Please plan ahead.
Yes! However, all parties must be booked in advance. Walk-in birthday celebrations are not permitted.
Yes, we periodically donate museum passes to local nonprofits. Requests must include a 501(c)(3) determination letter and can be submitted via email or fax. We cannot accommodate all requests.
The museum relies on donations and memberships to operate. You can support us by:
Making a one-time or recurring donation
Purchasing a membership
Donating supplies or equipment
Corporate sponsorships help fund museum programs, exhibits, and accessibility initiatives. Contact us for sponsorship opportunities at info@cmoaklawn.org
Events, Programs & Donations
Yes! We strive to create an inclusive environment and welcome feedback on accessibility improvements. If you need assistance, please notify a staff member.
Our museum staff, volunteers, and board members are dedicated caregivers who take pride in maintaining a clean and safe environment for all visitors. Exhibits and high-touch areas are sanitized throughout the day, with a deeper cleaning each evening. A professional cleaning service maintains common areas, and the museum closes for a full week in September for deep cleaning. Being closed on Mondays also allows for additional upkeep. Some exhibits show wear over time, and we replace items as needed. If you notice something that needs attention, please let a team member know—we appreciate your help in keeping the museum a welcoming space for all!
Call (708) 423-6709 and press “0” for lost and found inquiries.
Please notify a staff member immediately. We regularly inspect exhibits, but visitor feedback helps us keep the museum safe and functional.
Accessibility & Safety
Misc Questions
No. The museum does not allow guests to solicit or distribute materials to other visitors.
No. The museum is an independent 501c(3) nonprofit organization.
As an educational organization focused on children, we welcome the opportunity to work with schools. However, all student observation visits must be arranged in advance. To schedule a visit, please call (708) 423-6709 ext. 204. High school and college students who arrive without prior arrangements will not be permitted to observe, so be sure to call ahead.
