Birthdays
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!
Please note that our parties are not designed to be “drop-off” parties. All children must be supervised by an adult over the ages of 16 at all times when in the Museum.
Standard Parties
All standard party packages include:
- A 90-minute rental of a private party room in the Museum
- Full-day admission of learning and play for up to 30 guests, including adults and children
- Free parking for guests
- Catering packages reserved through our onsite Bean Sprouts Café (specific food requirement needs excepted)
You can host your own party activities during your private room rental time, or let the Museum exhibits provide all the fun!
Standard Party Pricing
- Kohl Children’s Museum Members*: $425
- Non-Members: $500
*Member rate does not apply for corporate or reciprocal Museum members.
Prices accurate as of March 2024. Prices include room rental and guest admission only. Food packages for Standard parties must be ordered separately through Bean Sprouts Café.
Parties Plus!
Host a semi-private party experience during hours when the Museum is closed to the public. Enjoy a quieter experience in the Museum for your guests, as well as added perks for you as host! Get many of the perks of a private rental at a fraction of the cost.
All Parties Plus include:
- A 135-minute rental of a private party room in the Museum
- Semi-private access to the museum for up to 50 guests, including adults and children
- Free parking for guests
Parties Plus Pricing
- Kohl Children’s Museum Members*: $750
- Non-Members: $850
*Member rate does not apply for corporate or reciprocal Museum members.
Prices accurate as of July 2024. Packages include guest admission during Parties Plus time only.
Now booking select dates in 2025: Click here for more information!
Catering (Standard Parties Only)
Our on-site Bean Sprouts Café is ready to provide a menu of food options for your birthday party, and will deliver and set up all dining needs in your room. Food items must be ordered directly through the café after securing your room rental, and food is not included in birthday party package pricing above. No outside food or delivery may be brought in. (Birthday cakes and dessert items are excluded and may always be brought in.)
Click here to view the Bean Sprouts catering menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
For additional FAQ’s, see bottom of page!
How many people can I have attend the party?
- Standard Parties: Your party room has a maximum number of guests due to fire code regulations. You may add additional guests beyond the 30 included in your party package at regular admission rates. Rooms can comfortably hold a maximum of 50 total people.
- Parties Plus: 50 guests are included with the Parties Plus option.
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.
Can I see pictures of the party rooms?
Click here to view rooms.
Please fill out this form or call (847) 832-6923 to be contacted for information about birthday parties.
Party Planning Tips
Check out our party planning checklist to make sure you are all set for your fun celebration!
For more information, or to book a party by phone please call (847) 832-6923.
Catering
Food and refreshments for your party must be arranged through our on-site caterer, Bean Sprouts Cafe.
Bean Sprouts Café on site offers hip and healthy food options with quick service and free delivery. Call (847) 832-6926 to schedule. Please note all birthday party options must be purchased through Bean Sprouts Café at least 7 days prior to your party date.
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. You may add additional guests beyond the 30 included in your party package at regular admission rates.
- Rooms 1, 2 and 3 can comfortably hold a maximum of 50 total guests
- The Group Welcome Center can comfortably hold a maximum of 60 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. Please note that our parties are not deigned to be “drop-off” parties. All children must be supervised by an adult over the ages of 16 at all times when in the Museum.
- 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.
- 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 8. 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?
We will have a cart available for you to use to load supplies into your 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. As host, you will be able to access your party room 15 minutes before your party start time. We suggest your guest invitations reflect the time you expect to have everything set up for a successful party. We CANNOT guarantee access to your room more than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled party start time on your contract.
- 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).
- Can I have food at the party?
All food options must be coordinated through our on-site Bean Sprouts Cafe at (847) 832-6926.
- 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.