Activities for Kids

Secret Attractions at Your Favorite Museums

Skip the crowded exhibit halls and dig deeper into our fair city. These hidden gem finds (at places you already love!) will excite the entire family.

By Taryn Bickley August 21, 2014

If your weekend routine is starting to resemble a tourist checklist — belugas at the Shedd, U-505 sub at the MSI, Sue at The Field — then it’s time to dig deeper into our fair city. There’s nothing like a hidden gem to excite a field trip. Click through our album of uncrowded, secret spots tucked in your favorite places and let the fun begin.

Storybook Sculptures at Kohl Children’s Museum

Museum officials often hear people remark, “I didn’t even know this existed,” when they encounter the Habitat Park on a sunny day. That’s because the museum is busiest when it rains, and the outdoor exhibits are often overlooked. It holds the Storywalk, which was new last year and features the Ten Little Caterpillars by Bill Martin Jr.; and the Garden Buddies program, run by master gardeners and open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m.-noon. But you’ll really appreciate the sculpture trail featuring notable sculptures like the Hidden Deer, a study in camouflage that can be viewed as a deer from one angle and a stump from another; and Flying Fish, an airplane-esque dream created by Tina Aiello of Glenview.

Hours are 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily.
2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview
847-832-6600
Online: kohlchildrensmuseum.org

Do you know any museum secrets? Share them with us in the Comments below!

— Taryn Bickley