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Museums #6 in Peoria, Illinois

The Peoria PlayHouse

4.6 · 741 reviews
Energetic, educational, and highly interactive.
The Peoria PlayHouse, 2218 N Prospect Rd, Peoria, IL 61603, United States
Interesting facts
1

The museum is strategically situated within Glen Oak Park, which also houses the Peoria Zoo.

2

The facility was specifically designed to support the development of executive function skills in young children.

3

The 'Peoria County Farm' exhibit is a permanent fixture that allows children to harvest plastic crops and operate a tractor.

4

The space is built on the site of the former Glen Oak Pavilion.

Overview

The Peoria PlayHouse is a children’s museum located within Glen Oak Park, specifically designed to foster learning through hands-on play for children aged eight and under. The facility features a variety of permanent, interactive galleries that focus on themes such as construction, water play, and local history. Key exhibits include the 'Peoria County Farm' area, which teaches agricultural concepts, and 'Wonder Woods,' an indoor play space themed around nature. The museum emphasizes STEM-based educational principles and creative thinking rather than traditional passive viewing. It is housed in a facility that balances indoor interactive displays with easy access to the surrounding park’s outdoor amenities.

Photo spot

The 'Peoria County Farm' tractor exhibit provides the most iconic photo opportunity for visitors.

Insider tips

Bring an extra set of clothes for children, as the water play tables can lead to accidental splashes.

Check the museum's online calendar before visiting, as they frequently host special workshops that may require advance sign-ups.

Plan to explore the wider Glen Oak Park area immediately before or after your museum visit.

What to avoid

Do not assume the museum is suitable for pre-teens, as the exhibits are strictly scaled for children eight and under.

Good to know

Typically closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Socks are required for certain climbing or soft-play areas; check signage upon entry.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings are generally quieter, avoiding the peak crowds often seen on weekends and school holidays.
Address
The Peoria PlayHouse, 2218 N Prospect Rd, Peoria, IL 61603, United States
40.715, -89.573
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsPeoria County Farm, Wonder Woods, Water Table, and Construction Zone

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings are generally quieter, avoiding the peak crowds often seen on weekends and school holidays..

The 'Peoria County Farm' tractor exhibit provides the most iconic photo opportunity for visitors.

Close by you'll find Glen Oak Park, Peoria Riverfront Museum, Peoria Chiefs.