Taking little kids to live theatre can feel like a gamble, but Goodnight Moon at Chicago Children’s Theatre ended up being such a special, low-stress first experience for our family. The show runs from April 11 – June 7, 2026 and has performances on Saturdays and Sundays at 9:30am & 11:30am.
Walking into the theatre space felt magical as this timeless story truly came to life, and it was so exciting to see familiar elements from the book brought off the page and onto the stage and walls.
My kids (16 months and almost 3) were captivated the entire time thanks to the interactive actors, playful songs, and creative lighting. I loved that the theatre itself was small and the stage was in the center of the room so that we could all feel like part of the show. The comfy, couch like seating was a definite bonus and made it easier to manage the littles!
Before and after the show, there were cute and creative production-related arts and crafts stations that added to the fun and helped extend the excitement of the performance.
The whole experience was incredibly heartwarming and my almost 3 year old didn’t want to leave, so that tells me it was certainly a win!
About the Show
This musical based on Margaret Wise Brown’s beloved children’s book is drenched in primary colors that pay homage to Clement Hurd’s vivid illustrations in an all-new, immersive setting. Catchy songs, delightful dancing, a technicolor set, the quiet poetry of the original tale, and the humorous antics of one very nocturnal bunny all play a part in this fun, family-friendly celebration of one of the most iconic children’s books of all time.
Age Recommendations
The production is ideal for children of all ages, especially toddlers (2 and up) and preschoolers. It’s endearing and fun to see it come to life as an adult as well.
Performance Length
Goodnight Moon lasts approximately 75 minutes with no intermission.
Ticket Pricing
Tickets for the show are $57.25 per person (including fees). For children under 18 months, they offer lap seat tickets for $12.75. Visit their website to purchase tickets.
Tips for Visiting Chicago Children’s Theatre
Parking
Chicago Children’s Theatre has free parking in their lot! It’s located along the south wall of the building and can be accessed from Racine Avenue. Their lot tends to fill up on busy days, so plan to arrive a little early to secure a spot and enjoy the pre-show entertainment. There is also street parking available nearby.
Restrooms
When you enter the theater, there are restrooms located on the first level at the end of the hallway. They do encourage guests to use the restrooms before the show begins to help prevent any distractions throughout. There are gender-neutral single-family bathrooms located on the first floor, and additional restrooms on the second floor. Changing tables are available in all restrooms.
Concessions and Merch
The lobby has light concessions for sale (coffee, juice, water and light snacks). They also offer production related books.
Pre-show Entertainment
Chicago Children’s Theatre always has engaging and age appropriate show related activities and games for your kids to enjoy, no matter what show you attend. They encourage families to arrive when the doors open to take advantage of pre-show experiences in the lobby.
Seating
The theater has couch-like seating was arranged into 3 rows in front of the stage. There were literally no bad seats in the house, everyone had a great view. For those needing additional leg room or more back support, standard chairs are available along the back row. Let a staff member know upon arrival if you would like a backed chair to sit in.
Because the seating is general admission, you should go inside early when they open the house in order to get settled in the spot of your choice. Late seating is available at the discretion of the House Manager. If you must enter after the performance has begun, your party may not be able to sit together.
Special Accommodations
The building has a ramp entrance located on the south side of the building. Every public space in the Chicago Children’s Theatre is wheelchair and walker accessible. There is an elevator to access the second floor. If you have specific accessibility questions or needs, please contact Guest Services at boxoffice@chicagochildrenstheatre.org or by calling (312) 374-8835.
There are locations in the building to park strollers during classes and performances. It would be easier to just leave your stroller in the car if possible. The parking lot is close to the building, and the theatre is very family friendly.
Restaurants Near The Chicago Children’s Theatre
There are some great spots to grab a bite to eat while in the West Loop. Here are some nearby places listed on the Chicago Children’s Theatre website, and also some of our nearby favorites:
- Waffle
- Freshii
- Wishbone
- Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
- Haymarket Pub & Brewery-one of our family favorites
- VietFive Coffee
- Do-Rite Donuts – they have awesome gluten free donuts
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams-very accommodating of allergies
Please note, outside food is not allowed in the theater. You may bring in a drink with a lid.
About Chicago Children’s Theatre
Founded in 2005, Chicago Children’s Theatre focuses on the production of first-rate children’s theatre in Chicago, with top writing, performing, and directorial talent and high-quality design and production expertise. Chicago Children’s Theatre also produces The Red Kite Project, a multi-sensory interactive theatre program tailored specifically to the needs of children on the autism spectrum. In 2017, Chicago Children’s Theatre became the first theater for young audiences in the nation to win a National Theatre Award from the American Theatre Wing, creators of the Tony Awards. Chicago Children’s Theatre is currently enrolling for Spring and Summer Theatre Camps for ages 4-14.
Chicago Children’s Theatre
100 S. Racine Avenue
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 374-8835
Highlights from Past Performances
Our team has been attending performances at Chicago Children’s Theatre for years and we have had wonderful experiences there. Here’s a taste of what we’ve seen in the past.
‘Go Dog Go! Ve Perro ¡Ve!’ is a first of it’s kind in the bilingual musical department. Imagine reading the two books, Go Dog Go and Ve Perro ¡Ve! in unison with amazingly engaging songs, props and dancing throughout. The show has many familiar elements from the books, with plenty of cute surprises and fun songs to keep both children and adults actively engaged.
Megan Roake about Go Dog Go! Ve Perro ¡Ve! on March 19, 2025
I was very impressed by their thoughtful use of props and costuming that helped enhance and illustrate the story so well.
Jondra Davis about A Year with Frog and Toad on April 17, 2024
One of our favorite parts was when the narrator and guitarist paused a song to poll the audience and get the kids involved. This short but significant moment was a great way to make them feel like they were a part of the action. We also had the opportunity to meet the actors and puppets after the show, which was pretty special.
Kaitlyn Agnew about Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster on September 13, 2022
Every kid got a small pouch with a few props to aid the play. This was a really nice tactile element that made it much more approachable for kids.
Rachel Matuch about Wake Up, Brother Bear! on January 27, 2020
If you are bringing your child to the theater for the first time, this would be a wonderful introduction. Watching my daughters’ faces entranced with this show was truly magical!
Kristen Sheehan about The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party in 2018
Our 2025-2026 guide to live theater has all of the upcoming shows at The Chicago Children’s Theatre.
