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Memberships

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Become a Member – Play, Learn, and Grow All Year

Unlimited Visits, Exclusive Perks, and a Lasting Impact

A membership to the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is more than just access to exhibits—it’s a commitment to play-based learning, creativity, and childhood development. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we rely on memberships to help us provide hands-on educational experiences, develop new exhibits, and ensure accessibility for all families.
Choose the membership that’s right for you and enjoy a year of unlimited visits and exclusive perks while making a difference in the lives of children.

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Membership Benefits

Unlimited visits—explore, play, and learn as often as you like.

Discounts on special events, birthday parties, and programs.

9am-10am early admission on Saturdays.

10% off in the Museum Gift Shop.

Access to reciprocal museum networks (ACM & CLIMB) for added benefits.

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Membership Options

Family Memberships

CMOL Explorers – $150

  • Admission for up to 6 people per day (cardholder must be present).

  • 50% off admission at ACM reciprocal museums.

  • 2 one-time use guest passes.

  • Up to two named adults on the membership.

CLIMB Membership – $225

  • Admission for up to 6 people per day (cardholder must be present).

  • 50% off admission at ACM reciprocal museums.

  • Free admission for up to 6 people at CLIMB partner museums.

  • Bring 2 guests (above your 6) to CMOL and they get 50% off every visit.

  • 3 one-time use guest passes.

  • Up to three named adults on the membership.

Legacy Membership – $300

  • Admission for up to 6 people per day (cardholder must be present).

  • 50% off admission at ACM reciprocal museums.

  • Free admission for up to 6 people at CLIMB partner museums.

  • Bring 2 guests (above your 6) to CMOL and they get 50% off every visit.

  • 4 one-time use guest passes.

  • Up to 3 named adults on the membership.

  • $75 of this membership is a tax-deductible donation to support our museums for all initiative.

Reciprocal Museum Benefits - Explore More, Save More

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ACM Reciprocal Museums 

As a member of the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn, you receive 50% off general admission at participating Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) Reciprocal Network locations across the country. This benefit allows your family to explore hundreds of children’s museums beyond Oak Lawn while saving on admission costs.
To find an ACM Reciprocal Museum near you, visit the ACM Reciprocal Network Directory:

FIND AN ACM MUSEUM

CLIMB Partner Museums

Members with a CLIMB or Legacy Membership enjoy free admission at these partner museums:

  • Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn (Oak Lawn, IL)

  • DuPage Children’s Museum (Naperville, IL)

  • Kohl Children’s Museum (Glenview, IL)

  • Wonder Works Children’s Museum (Oak Park, IL)

  • KidsWork Children’s Museum (New Lenox, IL)

  • Discovery Center Museum (Rockford, IL)

Therapeutic Membership – Supporting Therapy Through Play

Therapeutic CLIMB Membership – $225

This membership is designed exclusively for individual therapists who provide physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, developmental therapy, early intervention, or special instruction for children with disabilities

Benefits Include:

  • Admission for up to 6 people per visit (including therapist, children, and caregivers).

  • Free admission at CLIMB partner museums.

  • 10% discount in the Museum Store for both the therapist and the attending family.

  • 50% off at ACM reciprocal museums.

  • Early admission on Saturdays and Sundays.

For Therapy Businesses

  • Businesses may purchase individual memberships for their therapists.

  • Memberships must be assigned to a specific therapist and are non-transferable.

  • A 5% discount is available for businesses purchasing 10 or more memberships.

Proper Usage: This membership is intended only for the therapist and the families they serve. It cannot be used for field trips or shared with other therapists. A valid ID is required for entry, and the therapist must be present.


Therapeutic Memberships Must be Purchased at the Museum. 

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  • What is the best age for children to visit the museum?
    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!
  • What is the best time to visit the museum?
    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.
  • Where is the best place to park?
    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. View Parking & Directions
  • Why do adults need to pay admission?
    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.
  • Can adults visit the museum without a child?
    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.
  • Can I drop my child off without staying myself?
    No. All children must be accompanied by an adult at all times while in the museum.
  • Can I bring a stroller into 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.
  • Does the museum offer discounted admission?
    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.
  • Can we leave the museum for lunch and return later in the day?
    Yes! Just make sure to get your hand stamped before you leave so you can re-enter the same day.
  • Can we bring a lunch or snack?
    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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Become a Member Today!

Join a community of families who value hands-on learning, unstructured play, and childhood development. Your membership helps us continue to provide engaging, educational experiences for children of all backgrounds.

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