Trying to find parking was horrible. The website said there was a lot, but I never found it-everything required a permit. And most of the parking meters on the street didn't work. After finally getting in, it was small & quite basic. Maybe the mistake was visiting the fabulous Lincoln museum first? The gift shop was the most impressive part. We stayed maybe 30minutes. We are museum loving people, and this was a huge disappointment. Note: we did not go to the new play area as my child is older, so I am not commenting on that portion.
If you have kids or an out of town visitor, this is a great free spot (donations suggested). Close by the Capitol building. Pop by when you have an hour to check it out.
We visit this museum a couple of times a year. Admission is free and there is something for all ages. The exhibits are very interesting with lots to see. Many hands on and interpreted by hand sets located at the exhibits. A key card you keep lets you operate the handsets on all floors.There are elevators and escalators for visitor's convenience. Restrooms are conveniently located also. There is a Children's area downstairs to let the little ones explore and dress up. Learning while having fun. Dig for dinosaur bones is especially appealing to all ages. There is a gift shop on the premises but many items are pricey. It is a fun place to go and is stroller friendly.
I am so glad my husband and I went to this museum. I loved it. I will be sure to take my children this summer to view the museum, and to play in the children's area of the museum.
We are so lucky to have such a great cultural and historical resource! Such variety, such quality whether you are interested in history, art or natural history. Be sure to visit the Store, too. What a treasure.
Good museum. Nicely laid out with easy to see and enjoy exhibits. Liked the layout and location. Nothing to dislike.
We visited with two 7 year olds and it was great. The staff were helpful, knowledgable and very pleasant. The exhibits are very interactive and enjoyable. We'll be back!
Not many museums are free these days. We throughly enjoyed the Illinois State Museum. The children's museum in the basement were enjoyed by both my 10 and 1 year old. The art exhibit was exceptional.
The museum has free admission and is perfect to spend 2-3 hours. The first floor has many interactive exhibits. Some were just as great as the Field Museam in Chicago. The second floor was all about the history of IL and had an amazing scene of Native American life. The basement was a play area for children, perfect for ages 3 to 9. The staff was very friendly and interacted with you. There are no food and beverages allowed and none available for purchase. We parked on the street and on the weekends you do not have to feed the meters. With this currently being rated as the eighth attraction in Springfield I wasn't expecting it to be as great as it was. Especially with the cost of being free! There is also plenty of sitting available through out the museum if needed.
I've taken classes here, I've taken my students here, I've taken my children and grandchildren here and it just keeps getting better. There are plenty of exhibits for all ages. Lots of hands on for those who don't want to read or can't read. Each floor is unique. Bathrooms are clean. Gift shop is pricey but very nice. Parking is tricky: I wish they had some free parking closer to the venue. No charge for museum, but they ask for a donation.