Everywhere guests look, there are opportunities for play at The Exploritorium, which is operated by the Skokie Park District. From climbing structures to water play, every corner invites creativity and fun. Below you’ll find all the details about this great opportunity for your littlest explorers to learn and play in the north suburbs.
The Exploritorium in Skokie
Features of The Exploritorium
When you first enter the Exploritorium, your eyes are immediately drawn to the large climbing structure. Tubes, slides, ramps, and climbing features fill this stories-high indoor playground.
There is also a toddler-sized climbing structure located near the large one. Parents of littles will appreciate having a separate area for their children to climb and play. A separate play area for infants and toddlers was recently renovated to include foam play mats, age-appropriate toys, mirrors, and activities on the wall to manipulate.
In the center of the exhibit hall is a larger-than-life Lite-Brite, similar to the DuPage Children’s Museum. Visitors can also play on the transportation table, which includes cars and trains, and tinker with hands-on STEM activities at another table nearby.
The Exploritorium is home to a large water table, with ramps, geysers, and aquatic water toys. One special feature that I really appreciate is the infant seats built into the table. While your child will certainly be soaked after a session of splashing around, it gives them the opportunity to get in on the water fun. If you have a little one who you think will enjoy it, I’d recommend bringing an extra set of clothes to change into when they are done.
In the back corner of the exhibit hall is for pretend play. There is a performing stage with some dress-up clothes, as well as big blue foam blocks. Children can get creative building, or perform for an audience on stage.
We love the variety of play at The Exploritorium. Climbing, splashing, performing, creating, and building. It’s all there at this fun-filled indoor play space.
Food
Food is welcome in the sitting area of the Exploritorium, but not the main exhibit space. There is a vending machine with snacks to purchase. We’d recommend bringing food from home, or stopping along the way.
Bathrooms
There are two individual bathrooms within the play space. Both of these are equipped with changing tables. Near the entrance, you will also find traditional bathrooms with individual stalls.
Hours
The Exploritorium is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9:00am – 5:00pm. It is also open Saturdays from 9:00am – 1:00pm. It is closed on Thursdays and Sundays. These hours are accurate as of June 2024 and are subject to change.
Prices
Residents will pay $6 per person, while non-residents are $7. Children under the age of one are free. Explorer Passes can also be purchased, saving visitors 10% over the course of their 10 visits. These prices are valid as of June 2024, and are subject to change.
Recommended Ages
This play space is great for visitors 6 and under. Older kids will enjoy their time on the large play structure, but I think the vast majority of activities are meant for younger children. There are so many opportunities for children to have fun exploring, and burn off energy.
Best Days/Times To Go
The exhibit halls are more full in the mornings, but as younger groups leave for lunchtime and naps, the afternoons are usually quieter. Days when school is not in session also tend to be busier.
Things to Do Nearby
Since many of our readers may be coming from the western or northwestern suburbs, you may want to extend your time in Skokie and make a day of it. Here are a few other great places nearby if you’re looking for additional fun:
- Skokie Water Playground shares a parking lot with The Exploritorium
- Families with older children may enjoy a tour of Illinois Nut & Candy
- Westfield Old Orchard Mall is home to shops, restaurants, and kid-friendly events throughout the summer.
- No need to travel to Italy when you can see the Leaning Tower of Niles, a national landmark just a short drive away
Special Needs Accommodations
The Exploritorium is on the lower level of the Oakton Community Center and is accessible by elevator. Once you are downstairs, the entire exhibit space is on one level.
Events at the Exploritorium
Staff at the Exploritorium host painting parties, story times, and a variety of other programming. Check their calendar for the most up-to-date offerings and registration details.
The Exploritorium
4701 Oakton Street
Skokie, IL 60076
(847) 674-1500
Looking for other great spots to play inside? We have a guide filled with The Best Indoor Play Spaces!
