Birthdays

Please Note: We are currently not accepting reservations for birthday parties. To be placed on a waitlist, call (847) 832-6923.

Looking for a birthday party that isn’t more of the same? Make their next birthday party one to remember by having it here with us. We’ll deliver fun in an engaging, safe and unique environment that your kids and guests will love!

Another year older, another year smarter!

At Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago, we know that a birthday is your child’s special day. Celebrate the milestone with a day that’s fun and educational! Treat your guests to a day of fun and learning by hosting a Museum birthday party – you’ll get a private room to celebrate, plus your guests get full-day admission to explore, wonder, and learn before, during or after your party time!
All birthday party packages include:

A 2-hour rental of a private party room in the Museum (2 hours includes set-up and clean-up time.)
Full-day admission of learning and play for up to 30 guests, including adults and children
Free parking for guests

Flexible options currently available: Personalize your party by bringing in whatever pre-cooked food options you desire, or have delivery scheduled. Host your own party activities during your private room rental time, or just let your guests play in the exhibits! Encourage guests to come early or stay late for additional exploration time – they’re covered all day.

Please Note: We are currently not accepting reservations for birthday parties.

Pricing

Kohl Children’s Museum Members: $400
Non-Members: $475

Member rate does not apply for corporate or reciprocal Museum members. Prices accurate as of July 2021.

Arrival and Check-In

Easy arrival and check-in is just a click away with these handy tips

Party Planning Tips

Check out our party planning checklist to make sure you are all set for your fun celebration!

View checklist / Download

Program Rooms

We have several rooms available to rent for your next event

View program rooms

For more information, or to book a party by phone please call (847) 832-6923.

Email your questions

Catering

You may arrange your own food and refreshments for your party, or choose one of our preferred birthday party catering partners.

Così® Café on site offers great food options with quick service and free delivery. Call (847) 832-6926 to schedule.

View Menu

North Branch Pizza & Burger Company, in Glenview, is a recommended catering service. Call (847) 813-6400 for more information.

View packages

Catering by Michaels

Tasty Catering

Food for Thought Catering

Birthday Party FAQ

Reservations

How do I book a party or check on availability?: Reservations can be made over the phone during normal business hours on weekdays at (847) 832-6923.

Can I see the party rooms prior to making a reservation?: Yes. The party rooms can be seen in person or online. Contact Group Sales beforehand to ensure someone will be available to meet you at (847) 832-6923. The room photos can be seen online.

How far in advance do I need to make a reservation?: Because birthday parties are very popular, it is recommended to schedule as soon as possible.

What if I have to cancel my reservation?: The party can be rescheduled if necessary. The new party date must be within one year from the original party date.

Why do I need to read and sign the contract?: The contract provides important information that you need to know in order to plan a successful party. Signing the contract signifies that you have read through and will abide by the Museum rules and regulations. If you have questions about anything on the contact, please call (847) 832-6923.

How do I return the signed contract and completed guest lists?: They can be returned by fax, email, mail, or delivered to the front desk.

Guests

How many people can I have attend the party?

Your party room has a maximum number of guests due to fire code regulations:

The 20 Child Party has a capacity of 50 total guests
The 30 Child Party has a capacity of 60 total guests
The 40 Child Party has a capacity of 100 total guests.

Who should I include on my guest lists?: Please include every adult and child that will be attending the party, including Museum members. The only people that do not need to be included are the birthday child and anyone under 12 months of age.

What if I exceed the amount of children or adults?: The regular admission price will be charged for each child (age 15 and under) that exceeds the allowed amount. The actual attendance numbers will be reviewed on the Monday following your party; there will be no refund for absent guests. If there will be less than the maximum amount of children, your party can hold that many more adults. (Example: 15 children and 35 adults) You will not be charged for additional adults although you must stay under the capacity limits. If your head count exceeds the limit, additional guests will not be permitted in the room.

When are the guest lists due?: Guest lists should be returned by the Wednesday before your party.

Is the Museum appropriate for all children?: Our Museum’s exhibits and programs are specifically designed for children, birth through age eight. But older children are certainly allowed and may enjoy their visit as well.

Day of the Party

Where do I check in for my party?: The birthday check-in desk is located at the front desk of our Museum. When you check in, the birthday greeter will provide you with any important information and access to a cart for your supplies.

How do I get my supplies to and from my car?: Plan to arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled contract time.A party assistant will be available to help transport party supplies to your private room. You will then be ready to access your room promptly at the scheduled time.

When can I set up for my party?: During your rental, you can schedule your party and use the party room however you like. To maximize use of the private room, we recommend 15-20 minutes depending on the complexity of your set-up. We suggest your guest invitations reflect the time you expect to have everything set up for a successful party. A party assistant will be available with carts to bring supplies to the party room and assist with set-up.

Where can items be stored before or after the party?: Items can be kept in the car or in the coat room lockers (cost is 25 cents).

Will someone be there to assist me during the party?: A greeter will be located at the check-in desk to welcome invited guests to the museum and monitor guest counts. A party assistant will help you set up any food or decorations that you bring in and will help you with any clean up at the end.

Can I have food at the party?: Yes. The Museum allows you to bring in outside food as long as it is precooked or fresh food items. There is no cooking or heating in the party room.

If I decide to bring my own food, is there somewhere to store it?: There are no food storage facilities available so the Museum cannot refrigerate food. You are encouraged to bring in coolers with ice to keep your items cold. Please note that warmers, chaffing dishes, Crock-Pots, hot plates, microwaves, etc. are not permitted.

Are there any restrictions on decorations?: Yes. The Museum allows decorations although nothing can be suspended from the ceiling. And the Museum requires the use of painters tape when taping anything to the walls.

Can I bring in latex balloons?: No. Latex balloons are not allowed in the Museum. The only type of balloons allowed are the mylar-foil balloons.

What will be in the party room?

Each party includes the following items. The tables are 6ft long x 30 inches wide.

The 20 Child Party: 5 tables, 10 benches, 10 chairs. There is also counter space along one wall.
The 30 Child Party: 9 tables, 12 benches, 10 chairs.
The 40 Child Party: 10 tables, 20 benches, 20 chairs. There is also a counter space along one wall.