MADISON COUNTY KIDS
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Picture of family with 2 adults and 4 kids and text that reads Madison County Kids Find Food Fun and Learning for Families in Madison County IL www.madisoncountykids.org.

Altitude Trampoline Park

Has a foam pit, gymnastics tracks, a kid zone, basketball dunking lanes, open play gym, dodge ball, and wall-to-wall trampoline attractions.

Great For: Getting out energy in a relatively enclosed space.

Don't Miss: Friday Night discounts.

Drawbacks: Can get crowded.

Hours:
Sunday 11am-7pm.
Monday-Thursday 11am-8pm.
Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm

Price:
1 hour pass: $18.99
90 Minute pass: $23.99
2 hr pass: $26.99
Friday Night: 6-9pm $20 per jumper.

Camelot Bowl

Has a 32-lane bowling alley equipped with automatic scoring systems, a lounge, and an arcade with new\ vintage gaming. Has leagues for 7 years and older. Leagues are on Fridays and Saturdays.

Great For: Old fashioned bowling.

Don't Miss: Different leagues for different ages.

Hours: Tuesday- Friday

Price: $3-$4 per game and $3 for shoes

East Alton Ice Arena

Is a City owned indoor rink that has open ice skating year round.

Great For: A chill time.

Don't Miss: The toddler times.

Hours: Check Calendar for public session times.

Price: $6 non resident admission $5 resident\senior citizen and $3 skate rental

Korte Recreation Center

Has a fitness center, gym, walking track, and indoor pool with, hot tub, toddler pool, lazy river, whirlpool, a two story water slide, and lap lanes. The toddler pool (for ages 8 and under) includes a small water slide and spraying apparatuses. There are family changing rooms and restrooms. Must be 16+ for hot tub and 48 inches tall for large water slide.

Great For: Babies, teens, and preteens are usually happy, but a teenager might need friends to keep occupied.

Don't Miss: The zero entry baby pool.

Building Hours:
Monday-Friday 5am-9pm
Saturday 7am-6pm
Sunday 9am-5pm.

Open Swim Times: Change often
Monday – Friday 1pm-8:30pm
Saturday 12pm-5:30pm
Sunday 12pm-4:30pm.

Price: Day passes range from $4.50 to $23 per person. Toddler Time is Fridays from 10:30-11:30am with $1.00 off.

Mac's Family Fun Time

Little girl with bag of balls at Mac's Family Fun Time in Highland IL. 3 Nerf guns at Mac's Family Fun Time in Highland IL. Excel Drink machines at Mac's Family Fun Time in Highland IL. Little girl and boy eating mango and pommegranate ice cream at Mac's Family Fun Time in Highland IL.

A huge indoor climbing structure, traditional ice cream shop, party rooms, and an arcade! The arcade has many games including Hoops FX basketball, ATV Slam, Centipede Chaos, and 4 lanes of Skee-ball. The 3 story indoor climbing structure is great for all ages and welcomes adults. It has places to jump, climb, nerf guns, and slides. Everytime I turned the corner, I found another part I hadn't seen!

Great For: All ages. Anyone can play on the climbing structure and those who aren't feeling a climb can grab ice cream or enjoy the arcade!

Don't Miss: The nerf room!

Hours:
Monday: closed
Tuesday-Sunday 11am-9pm.

Price: $15 per person for play area. Arcade is FREE to enter and pay to play.

North American Outfitters (Highland)

Is a professional and laid back shop with 3D animals, 50 yard open range, and golfing.

Great For: Outdorsy People.

Don't Miss: The open range.

Hours:
Mon -Thurs is 12:00-8:00
Friday is 12:00-6:00
Saturday is 9:00-3:00

Price: Varies by activity.

RP Lumber Center

has a 175-meter special surface track, state-of-the-art ice rink, fitness room, teen center, and meeting space. The teen area has board games, comfortable seating, outdoor seating, and a foosball table. The teen center is currently open when the center is open. There are also open skate hours, hockey programs, learn to skate programs, and figure skating. Membership options and open skate session times are listed on the website.

Great For: All ages.

Don't Miss: The cute little seals to help you skate!

Hours:
Monday 6am-9pm
Tuesday 6am-10pm
Wednesday 6am-9pm
Thursday 6am-10pm
Friday 6am-10pm
Saturday & Sunday 6am-10pm.

Open Skate Prices:
District 7 Families – $7 for ages 4-64
$4 for Seniors
3 years and under are free
Skate Rental is an additional $3.
Non District 7 Families – $9 for ages 4-64
$6 for Seniors
3 years and under are free.
If you are wanting a seal for children to push, it is an additional $6.

The Sports Academy

Indoor sports Facility with adult sports leagues (Soccer, Kickball, Flag football, Volleyball), youth sports leagues, and Sports Bar and Grill. Large indoor playhouse with climbing tubes is open when the facility is open. Lower level has been seperated to give kids 5 and under space without older kids.

Great For: Under 3rd grade.

Drawbacks: Kids can get rough away from adults.

Playhouse Hours: Hours Change Often.
Monday - Thursday 4pm-10pm
Friday - Sunday 11am-10pm.

Playhouse Price: Unlimited access for $4 dollars per child.

Tri-Township Activity Center

Has Open Skate, Pickle Ball Court Rentals, and Birthday Party Rentals. Check facebook for time changes.

Great For: All ages at different events.

Don't Miss: Open Skate.

Open Skate Hours: Friday and Saturdays 7-10pm,

Open Skate Price: $10 Admission on Fridays/Saturdays & $8 Admission on Sundays.

We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym

is a kid’s Gym with specially designed sensory equipment to foster learning, exploration, and inclusive sensory-safe experiences for children of ALL abilities. See Facebook page/website regarding hours, camps, classes, and events.

Great For: Elementary, younger, and those children with disabilities.

Don't Miss: The zip lines.

Hours: Vary. See website.

Price:
Open Play is $15 per person and $13/Sibling.
Toddler Tuesday Pricing is $10 for Open Play for ages 1-3.




Edwardsville Arts Center

Creates classes, exhibits, and cultural events for youth and adults. Spring Classes For Ages K-8th Grade Include: Character Creation, Drawing, Painting, and Mixed Media. There are free art classes on Saturdays for kids.

Great For: Elementary and older.

Don't Miss: The free Saturday art classes!

Hours: Open for classes Wednesday- Saturday with free kids' art classes on Saturday mornings.

Price: Prices for classes vary.

Jacoby Arts Center

Offers performance arts and art classes for all ages. Offers free art club.

Great For: Elementary and Middle school

Don't Miss: Free art club.

Hours: Class times vary. Generally Wednesday-Sunday.

Price: Class prices vary.

The Macoupin Art Collective

Explore your creativity in a welcoming place with other artists. There are classes for all skids and ages. Class sizes are small. Classes offered have included knitting, ceramics, wheel throwing, Bob Ross paint-a-long, watercolor painting, shibori dyeing, stained glass basics, barn quilts, and more.

Price: Call, then drop in and enjoy space in the Open Studio for just $5 per hour. You can bring supplies or use the materials and tools in the general crafting area at no additional charge. Open Studio does not include use of specialized equipment unless you have completed a class at The MAC, or discuss your plans with our staff before your visit.

Great For: Anyone with a creative side!

Don't Miss: The wheel throwing classes!

Hours: Open Studio Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 11:00am to 5:00pm.
PLEASE CALL BEFORE YOU COME: 618-635-2015.

Pottery Hollow

Paint and create customized gifts. No reservations or experience required. A bowl, a mug, a platter, a piggy bank, there is so much to choose from. They have coupons and a calendar of events.

Great For: A time to create and bond together.

Don't Miss: The customized gifts

Hours:
Monday thru Thursday 10a-7pm
Friday 10a-8pm
Saturday 9am-7pm
Sunday 10a-6pm

Price: Pay for the piece, and a supply fee ($5 for kids and $8 for adults). There are 400+ pieces to choose from, for all ages.




Blossom Play Cafe

Wooden houses, play kitchen and other toys with a large window on the left and the quote Let's make the most of this beautiful day on the wall at Blossom and Play Cafe in O'Fallon IL. Girl with pink boys playing with toy cars and ramps at Blossom and Play Cafe in O'Fallon IL..
A unique combination of coffeehouse, kid's play space, and party venue. Our play area is geared towards babies, toddlers and preschool age children.

Great For: Enjoying a brewed drink and connecting at a slower pace with toddlers and babies.

Don't Miss: The light table and seasonal events!

Hours: Early Bird Fridays: 8:00-10:00 am
Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri: 10:30 am-12:30pm
***Currently closed on Thursdays due to classes.
Saturday: 10:00 am-12:00 pm

Price: $10 per child with adult.
Sibling Helpers (ages 7+) $5.00 with a paying sibling.
If your child is playing, we ask that you pay for them to do so.
Children under 1 are free with a paid sibling and $10 starting at 6 months.
$80 for 10 punch card. Memberships available.

Collinsville Library

Has a large area dedicated to children. Main room has books, a librarian, computers, and comfy reading areas. 2 smaller attached rooms include a teen room and a children's play area. Children's play area has games, puppets, a slide, and toys. They host a variety of community programs, have free wifi, and loan out family passes to local amenities.

Great For: Toddlers and babies, but older kids can relax with a good book.

Don't Miss: The toddler time has cute songs and a friendly group.

Drawbacks: Noisy kids can be hard to manage in a quieter space, but staff are kind.

Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 8:30am-8pm
Friday & Saturday: 9am-6pm

Price: FREE

Edwardsville Children's Museum

Offers indoor and outdoor exploration with a Market, Art Studio, Florist, Custard Cart, Animal Hospital, Community Heroes, pizza place, Post office, Dentist, Tree House, Forest Exhibit, and Hospital Nursery. Outdoor play includes a garden, play stage, sensory garden, paint station, sand and rock pit, slide, and much more!

Great For: Under 5th grade or anyone with a good imagination!

Don't Miss: The first room has a neat pong course mounted on the wall, but can get a bit noisy.

Drawbacks: It can be hard to supervise multiple children and staff can be strict about constant supervision.

Hours:
Mondays and Tuesdays 9:30am to 2pm
Thursdays 9:30am-2pm
Fridays 9:30am-5pm
Saturdays 9:30am-2:30pm.

Price: $7.00 for nonmembers (adults must pay).
A FREE pass is available thru Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Collinsville, Maryville, and Troy libraries. (There are limitations depending on your local library, but some libraries allow any IL cardholders to borrow.) The Edwardsville Children's Museum is also a member of a program called Museums for ALL. Families who receive food stamps assistance can get in FREE by presenting the EBT card. What a fantastic way to make sure all families can access their facility!

View down into dam at Great Rivers Museum and Lock and Dam in Alton, IL View down into dam at Great Rivers Museum and Lock and Dam in Alton, IL

Funky Planet Toys

An interactive toy store that sells fun, unique products for the young and young-at-heart. Contains 3 seperate play areas with building toys, table top games, and more. Carry products for everyone from babies to adults. Offers creative construction toys, STEM toys, art supplies, craft kits, outdoor & active toys, plushies, board games, puzzles, stickers & stationery, novelties & pranks, pretend play sets, fidgets, and more.

Great For: A perfect birthday gift for any age!

Don't Miss: The 3 player arcade cabinet.

Hours:
CLOSED Mondays and Tuesdays
Wednesday-Friday: 10am-6pm
Saturday 10am-5pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm

Price: Pay for what you buy.

A play space for children and adults to enjoy spending time together. Come build, create, discover, explore, play, and learn. Targeted towards preschool and early elementary age with some puzzles and toys for older siblings.

Great For:Toddlers and babies.

Don't Miss: The puzzles.

Hours: Vary. See website.

Price: $5 entry $3 for siblings.

Post Commons



Pastries in display case. At Post Commons in Alton IL Pastries in display case. At Post Commons in Alton IL Little girl and boy playing with wooden toys and train set on table at Post Commons coffee shop in Alton, IL

I was impressed by the relaxed atmosphere which also felt high-end. They had a cute little water bar, great sandwiches, and french toast that my picky eaters devoured. Prices were also reasonable with a sandwich only costing $6. The kid's area and friendly staff made me feel welcome with kids while sitting back to enjoy a hot drink.

Great For: A relaxing meal or drink.

Don't Miss: The sandwiches.

Hours:
Monday-Thursday 7:00am-5:00pm
Friday and Saturday 7:00am-2:00pm

Tri Township Library

has around 20% of the library dedicated to engaging kids and teens. The teen room has comfortable seating and a cozy feel. It is stocked with teen books and information. The children's area has a large play kitchen, toys for building, and a variety of laminated educational activities. There is also a children's table. Children can search the library on Wednesdays to find a hidden object and get a prize. They host a variety of community programs, have a 3-D printer that has a small fee, and loan out family passes to the Edwardsville Children's Museum.

Great For:Toddlers and babies, but older kids can relax with a good book.

Don't Miss: The kids' play area.

Drawbacks: Noisy kids can be hard to manage in a quieter space, but staff are kind.

Hours:
9am-8pm Monday- Thursday
9am-5pm Friday
9am-4pm Saturday
Closed on Sundays

Price: FREE




Automic Pinball Arcade

Has nearly 100 games. Also has venue rental.

Great For: Any age that can reach the machine.

Don't Miss: The variety of older and newer machines.

Hours: Wed. from 5-10pm
Fridays from 5-11pm
Saturdays from Noon-11pm

Price: Wed. and Fri. $10 an hour or
$20 full night.
Sat. $10 an hour,
$20 4 hours
$30 full day pass.

Edison's Entertainment Complex

Offers bowling, laser tag, an arcade, and a restaurant. They have kids eat free on Wednesday nights, taco Tuesdays, holiday events, bingo night, and little inventor's club. The restaurant has a full bar.

Great For: A meal and play on deal days!

Don't Miss: The Genius club gives special discounts and free plays.

Hours: 11- 9 Sunday, 11- 10 Monday- Wednesday, 11- 11 Thursday, 11- 1 Friday, and 10- 1 Saturday.

Price: Bowling is $8- $10 per hour. Laser tag is $6- $7 per game.

View down into dam at Great Rivers Museum and Lock and Dam in Alton, IL View down into dam at Great Rivers Museum and Lock and Dam in Alton, IL

Funky Planet Toys

An interactive toy store that sells fun, unique products for the young and young-at-heart. Contains 3 seperate play areas with building toys, table top games, and more. Carry products for everyone from babies to adults. Offers creative construction toys, STEM toys, art supplies, craft kits, outdoor & active toys, plushies, board games, puzzles, stickers & stationery, novelties & pranks, pretend play sets, fidgets, and more.

Great For: A perfect birthday gift for any age!

Don't Miss: The 3 player arcade cabinet.

Hours:
CLOSED Mondays and Tuesdays
Wednesday-Friday: 10am-6pm
Saturday 10am-5pm
Sunday: 11am-5pm

Price: Pay for what you buy.

Heroic Adventures

A large selection of comic books, trade paper backs, CCGs, board games, miniature games, toys and collectibles. Holds weekly gaming tournaments and has a game room.

Great For: Gamers of all kinds!

Don't Miss: The pokemon competitions.

Hours:
Saturday-Wednesday: 10AM-8PM
Thursday and Friday: 10AM- 10PM.

Price: Shopping is free. Event entry varies.

Leve1Up

Leve1UP Arcade LLC is a return to the golden age of arcades! We will be bringing in refurbished and re released titles from the 1970s and 1980s, as well as a few ticket redemption items such as skeeball! Private events are $200 and that includes unlimited play for 10 players. Additional players $15. Parties are held between 10am and 12 Noon Saturdays and Sundays. Again, those player cards do not expire so unused cards can be used at a later date. Patrons under the age of 12 should be accompanied by an adult.

Great For: Teens, and preteens.

Don't Miss: The direct walk through into Kimara's Pizza next door, who are happy to provide food and beverages during their regular hours.

Hours:
Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5-9pm. Fridays from 5pm-10pm. Saturdays from Noon-10pm and Sundays Noon-9pm.
We offer adjusted hours for GCSD9 School Closures with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Price:Our player cards are prepaid and do not ever expire! Each game costs $1 to play or you can purchase an hour of free play for $15 or 3 hours for $35. Free play time does not start until the first game is played, so they make wonderful gifts.

Realms of Gaming

Buy, Sell, and Trade Board games, Collectible Card Games, Miniatures, Tabletop RP Games and More. Specializes in Magic singles. Offers organized play.

Great For: Gamers!

Don't Miss: Dungeons and Dragons nights!

Hours:
Monday- Thursday: 2-10PM
Friday: 2- 12AM
Saturday & Sunday 12PM-8PM

Price: Shopping is free. Event entry varies.

The Underground Dojo

is all about growing the geek and gamer community. Enjoy tabletop games, and video games in a fun and friendly environment!

Great For:Gamers

Don't Miss: The game nights

Hours:
Monday- Thursday: 2-10
Friday: 2- 12AM
Saturday: 12PM - 10PM
Sunday 12pm- 8pm

Price: Shopping is free. Event entry varies. Many events are FREE!




Great Rivers Museum and Lock and Dam

View down into dam at Great Rivers Museum and Lock and Dam in Alton, IL View of walkway on top of dam at Great Rivers Museum and Lock and Dam in Alton, IL

Kid-friendly, interactive, and computer animated exhibits. There is an aquarium displaying the fish that inhabit the river. Kids can steer a towboat through a simulator, measure water consumption, or enjoy a guided tour. The lock and Dam tours are outside and give a behind the scenes look at the lock and dam. Tours are very informative. Kids should use the bathroom before leaving and be comfortable listening to speaker for a few minute presentations. Hours: From 9- 5, public tours at 10, 1 and 3.

Great For: A short tour for all ages.

Don't Miss: The Aquarium with fish

Drawbacks: The lock and Damn tour can get HOT!

Hours: Museum is open Monday-Thursday 9-4.
Dam tours at 10, 1 and 3.

Prices: FREE!

Maryville Heritage museum


Maryville Heritage museum (Maryville) Taking reservations for individuals and small groups/families. Email: [email protected] to make a reservation.

Great For: Learning about Maryville Heritage.

Hours: The first and third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Price: Unknown

The Nickel Plate Station

Poster that reads The Story of our Station and details the history of Nickle Plate Station in Edwardsville IL. Poster has train tracks running through and historical pictures. Dress up clothes hanging at Nickle Plate Station in Edwardsville IL. Clothes include conductor caps, a bandana and other items. A man and girl completing train crafts on a table at Nickle Plate Station in Edwardsville IL. Light up table with train pieces at Nickle Plate Station in Edwardsville IL.
A renovated 135-year-old Railroad Station, located on the N.O. Nelson Campus of Lewis & Clark Community College in the Historic Leclaire neighborhood. It reopened in 2021, located near the Edwardsville Children's Museum. This historically-significant landmark provides transportation, STEAM, and geography exhibits and programming for older children that are connected to themes of travel and trains. 747 Longfellow Ave, Edwardsville, IL 62025

Great For: Train lovers.

Don't Miss: The light table and dress up area.

Hours: Available for public play every Saturday noon to 11pm

Price: Included in admission at the Edwardsville Children's Museum. $7.00 for nonmembers (adults must pay). A FREE pass is available thru Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Collinsville, Maryville, and Troy libraries. (There are limitations depending on your local library, but some libraries allow any IL cardholders to borrow.) The Edwardsville Children's Museum is also a member of a program called Museums for ALL. Families who receive food stamps assistance can get in FREE by presenting the EBT card. What a fantastic way to make sure all families can access their facility!




Most library resources are available to ALL Illinois library card holders. Those resources marked with *asterisks* are only available to library card holders at that branch.

Collinsville Library

Collinsville Illinois Library kids room with a chalkboard, a couch, and tables. Collinsville Illinois Library kids room with toy shelves and slides Collinsville Illinois Library kids room with t.v., chalkboards, table, and puppets.

Great kids area has rooms with train table, kitchen area, puppets, a slide, and comfy couches. Additional table top games can be found in main kids' area.

Online Resources

  • ABC Mouse Remote
  • Early Readers Collection
  • Tumblebooks

Other Perks

  • Chromebooks available for free 3 hour checkout
  • Wi-Fi hotspot from 9AM to 9PM between the library and Blum House: cml-hotspot Password: Collinsville1234
  • Weekly Free Kids Activity Pack for curbside pickup
  • Comic Book Creator Kits
  • Collinsville Water park 1 week passes: Collinsville Library and Fairmont City Library cardholders can place holds. Any IHLS cardholder can borrow when available. A card is good for four individuals.
  • Edwardsville Children's Museum 1 week passes: Collinsville Library and Fairmont City Library cardholders can place holds. Any IHLS cardholder can borrow when available. A card is good for four people.
  • Non-Residents cards can be purchased for $79 per year. (See card restrictions below.)



East Alton Library

Children's area has computers, reading areas, games, and toys.

Seed Library
ABC mouse

Edwardsville Library

Downstairs has children's books, reading areas, toys, and a "fish tank". Lots of space for kids. Often has craft to bring home.

Kits

  • Citizen Science Kits: Each kit includes instructions and projects to complete
  • **American Girl Dolls: Doll and accessory kit with an extra outfit
  • Science Discovery Kits: A frog anatomy kit, Star Planetarium, and more
  • Preschool Kits: Be an architect, chemist, paleontologist, and much more
  • Book Discussion Kits: Comes with 10 books, questions, and an activity
Online Resources
  • Kanopy
  • Hoopla
Other Perks
  • **FabLab Membership provides access to 3D printing, laser cutting, and vinyl cutting.
  • **Launchpads: Borrow tablets with pre-loaded games and activities on educational subjects.
  • Special Education Resources: Books, DVDs, flashcards and games for children with special needs.
  • **Edwardsville Children's Museum Passes: Free admission for 4 people
  • Fishing Poles: Borrow fishing poles provided by the Illinois DNR.
  • Take Home Crafts available every other week
  • Reading Challenge at beanstalk.


Fairmont City Library

Fairmont City Library has a large number of toys in the children's area including a kitchen, barn, and lots of cars. Staff are very friendly. Many Spanish resources are available. There is often free food available. There are lots of great programs.

Online Resources

  • ABC Mouse Remote
  • Early Readers Collection
  • Tumblebooks

Other Perks

  • Chromebooks available for free 3 hour checkout
  • Wi-Fi hotspot from 9AM to 9PM between the library and Blum House: cml-hotspot Password: Collinsville1234
  • Weekly Free Kids Activity Pack for curbside pickup
  • Comic Book Creator Kits
  • Collinsville Water park 1 week Passes: Collinsville Library and Fairmont City Library cardholders can place holds. Any IHLS cardholder can borrow when available. A card is good for four individuals.
  • Edwardsville Children's Museum 1 week : Collinsville Library and Fairmont City Library cardholders can place holds. Any IHLS cardholder can borrow when available. A card is good for four people.
  • Non-Residents cards can be purchased for $79 per year for your family. (Note Illinois law about buying library cards below.)



Glen Carbon Library

Kids area with tables for working, kits to check out, and train in case.

Events

  • Story Times
  • Youth Book Group for Kids
  • STEM Kit Activities
  • Craft Kits on Saturdays Once a Month.
Online Resources
  • Hoopla
  • Cloud Library
  • Teen Discord Server: A server for teens to encourage safe online play
Other Perks
  • **Edwardsville Children's Museum Passes: Free admission for 4 people
  • 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Reading Challenge
  • StoryWalk at the front of the library that goes into Miner Park


Hayner Library Downtown Branch

Hayner Library Downtown Branch
326 Belle Street

Hayner Library Downtown Branch has an upstairs children's area with games and puzzles. The children's room is extremely welcoming, but the real treat was their librarian! She welcomed each of us, took time to chat, and remembered our stories to check back in later.

Online Resources

  • TumbleBook Library with 250 animated talking picture books
  • Creativebug: art and crafts learning center

Other Perks

  • Children may call (618) 462-TALE to listen to a short story recorded by the staff of our children’s department
  • Notary Public on a walk-in basis at a charge of $1.00 for each document notarized. Call 618-462-0677
  • *An annual non-resident card may be purchased for $109.00.


Louis Latzer Public Library

A statue of Boy and girl reading on top of a brick wall with rocks on the ground and evergreens behind. Stands outside of Children's area at the Louis Latzer Public Library in Highland, IL. A statue of two kids reading with rocks on the ground and A stone wall behind with Jennie Latzer Kaeser Children's Library. Stands outside of Children's area at the Louis Latzer Public Library in Highland, IL.

Downstairs children's area has computers, toys, and a large room for presentors.

Online Resources

  • Creativebug: art and crafts learning center
Other Perks
  • Follow their facebook page to learn when they put FREE children’s books at their back door
  • An annual non-resident card may be purchased for $85.00.


Roxana Public Library

Roxana Illinois Library kids room with a screen for interactive gaming, children's seats, and an interactive lightup board. Roxana Illinois Library kids room with play kitchen Roxana Illinois Library kids room with books organized by subject and blocks for building towers.

Has kids' room with play kitchen, foam blocks for building and stacking, interactive gaming, children's seats, and an interactive light up board. Books are organized by topics including popular characters! Staff are very welcoming and work hard to involve community kids!

Online Resources

  • Hoopla
  • Cloud Library

Six Mile Regional Library District (Delmar)

SMRLD Delmar library Children's Area containing books and toys. SMRLD Delmar library Children's Area with colorful ABC rug and red chairs. SMRLD Delmar library Children's Area large building blocks.
Has fantastic children's area with lots of toys and large building blocks.
2001 Delmar Avenue
Phone: 618-452-6238
Hours: Monday 9:00 AM-6:00 PM
Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 11:00 AM-8:00 PM
Friday & Saturday 9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Online Resources
  • **Hoopla
  • **Overdrive
  • **Tutor.com connects students to over 3,000 highly vetted tutors.
  • **Audio Book Cloud
  • **Cloud Library
  • Creativebug: art and crafts learning center
Other Perks
  • Wireless network at no charge inside and in the parking lots. Connect to SMRLD WiFi, no password required.
  • Weekly Take Home Crafts
  • *Non-resident card may be purchased.


Tri Township Library (Troy)

Library has weekly scavenger hunts, play kitchen, and a variety of toys. Staff are extremely kind and welcoming with children.

Events

  • Search the library on Wednesdays to find hidden object and get a prize.
  • Storytime at the library and Troy park
  • Book Club for Teens
  • Monthly Lego Club
  • Yoga Story Time Adventures
  • Virtual Kindermusik Story time
Online Resources
  • Hoopla
  • Kanopy
  • Beanstack
  • Cloud Library
Other Perks
  • 3D Printer
  • Notary Service: Available most weekdays during library hours for a $1.00 fee. Call ahead.
  • Fax Service - Send and receive faxes for 50 cents a page within the U.S. Additional for outside the U.S.
  • Annual non-resident card may be purchased for $101.00 and used by the entire household.
  • Edwardsville Children's Museum Passes: Free admission for 4 people (when available, you do not need to be Troy library members.)


Wood River Public Library

Wood River library baskets containing books with pictures of pepa pig, paw patrol, princess, etc.
Very welcoming staff welcome area families and those from outside communities to enjoy the facilities and programming. Almost all of their programs, services, and books are available for everyone to utilize.

The community obviously supports and works with staff. Events are often led by and facilitated by comunity volunteers.

The children's section has comfortable seating. Books are organized by category in baskets with picture labels and placed at a low height for children to grab. There is a weekly scavenger hunt for Waldo that earns kids a sticker.



Events
  • Movie Monday
  • Roll and Read
  • Wee Jam
  • Lego Club
  • Toddler Tales
  • Reading with a Dog
  • Various Holiday Events
Kits
  • Discovery Kits for ages 6-8
  • Bugs Storytime Kit with books, activity, and more
  • Children's Phonics Kits
  • S.T.E.M. kits
  • Code-n-Go Robot Mouse.
Online Resources
  • **TumbleBooks for Kids
  • Beanstack Reading Challenges
  • **CloudLibrary
  • Creativebug: art and crafts learning center
  • **ABCMouse
  • **Freegal
Other Perks
  • Monthly Boredom Bags for kids
  • Book Club on Zoom
  • Guest WiFi: WRPL-Guest and the password is our phone number: 6182544832
  • Fishing Poles to check out with a valid IHLS library card.




Adventures of Intrigue

Challenge your clue searching and puzzle solving skills in a mystery adventure for all ages. Help save the missing dragons, unlock the storybook, or solve a murder with friends. When I scheduled our adventure, I didn't think there was any way we would all leave satisfied. I was terrified to imagine the horror on staff faces as we ran through the building. I was very wrong! I watched my 3 year old find clues and my 13 year old working with her siblings. Somehow the family challenges were low enough to involve my littlest while leaving a challenge we all had to work to solve. The staff were incredibly encouraging and forgiving as I repeated, "walk guys" while hurrying throughout the building.

A boy and girl unlock the storybook to see if they returned the magic at Adventures of Intrigue in Saint Louis, Missouri. The volcano shoots smoke into the air at Adventures of Intrigue in Saint Louis, Missouri. A boy and girl use a magnifying glass to look at a hologram on a screen at Adventures of Intrigue in Saint Louis, Missouri.



Great For: All ages and interests. Our 3, 5, and 13 year old all loved the challenge!

Don't Miss: The magnifying glasses that make screens into hallograms and the Egyptian room!

Drawbacks: There are SO MANY fascinating decorations to see and interact with. Setting ground rules with littles beforehand will make life much easier. I recommend "walking feet" and "we're a team that stays together".

Hours:
Wednesday and Thursday 4pm- 9pm
Friday 2pm- 9pm
Saturday 10am- 9pm
Sunday 12pm- 6pm

Prices:
*Mention Madison County Kids for 25% off!*
Prices start at $20 per person for a 45 minute adventure.

Audubon Center at the Riverlands

Welcoming friendly and knowledgeable Audubon staff and volunteers. Engaging exhibits on birds, rivers, and the Mississippi flyway, other wildlife and river ecology. A panoramic view of Ellis Bay, the Mississippi River and historic downtown Alton. Premium spotting scopes for amazing close-up views of eagles, swans, herons, egrets and more! A warm welcoming setting for viewing wintering Bald Eagles and Trumpeter Swans. Movies including the 12-minute “Spectacle of Birds”. Special exhibits, events and presentations, and activities throughout the year including Eagle Fest and Birds of Winter. The Center and wrap-around deck are handicap accessible. Please visit our Accessibility page for further information. Bus parking is available. 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, MO 63386

Great For: All ages to dive into nature!

Don't Miss: The sand table and FREE educational programs.

Hours: Open Tuesday-Sunday from 8a-4p

Prices: FREE! Donations are appreciated!

City Museum

Artists have repurposed pieces of old cities to build miles of tunnels, slides, secret passages, climbers, tunnels, bridges, and castles inside a hundred-year-old warehouse. Under 16 must be accompanied by adult. Masks required for 9 and older.

Great For: Older kids or families who are good at supervising!

Don't Miss: The giant slide.

Drawbacks: It can be hard to supervise children and easy to get lost.

Hours: 10am- 5pm

Prices: $18 and up.

Our field trip to

Health Works

was fantastic! Our kids went down slides, enjoyed a presentation, and had lots of free play fun. On the ride home, there were TONS of great questions. Their curiosity was racing!

Great For: Younger kids, but there is good programming and a lot of interesting information for older kids as well.

Don't Miss: Learning about boogers.

Hours: Open EVERY DAY!
Mon-Fri 10 am to 5 pm
Sat 10 am to 5 pm
Sun 11 am to 5 pm

Prices: 1 & under - Free
ages 2-17 $10.95
Adult 18-59 $5.95
Senior 60+ $4.95
Veteran Discount available. Socks are required.

City Museum

Take a trolley ride back in time, serve food at a café, pilot a steamboat, and play house in the city of Cahokia. Dress up in period costumes, put on a puppet show, and fish over the edge of a canoe while experiencing history. Book a spot for every person in your group, including those under age 1.

Great For: All ages. The history clubhouse for the littler ones and a fantastic museum for older children.

Don't Miss: The mummy!

Hours: Tuesday -Sunday from 10am to 12pm and 1pm - 4pm. Closed for sanitation from 12-1pm.

Prices: FREE

The Magic House

A family attraction with active learning exhibits and activities. Reservations include exploration of exhibits including temporary exhibits.

Great For: Elementary and younger.

Don't Miss: The slide.

Drawbacks: It can be hard to supervise children and easy for them to get lost.

Hours: Tuesday -Sunday from 10am to 12pm and 1pm - 4pm. Closed for sanitation from 12-1pm.

Prices: $12.00 (one and older). Foster families and Active-U.S. military families receive free admission.

Myseum

Dig for dinosaurs, race down a slide, become a veterinarian, and bounce your heart out! Plus a toddler area for the little ones! Don't forget SOCKS. Interactive exhibits recommended for ages 2-12.

Great For: All ages. I learned a TON!

Don't Miss: Learning about energy.

Hours: Open EVERY DAY!
Mon-Fri 10 am to 5 pm
Sat 10 am to 5 pm
Sun 11 am to 5 pm

Prices: 1 & under - Free
ages 2-17 $10.95
Adult 18-59 $5.95
Senior 60+ $4.95
Veteran Discount available. Socks are required.

The Rec

Strap on a harness, take a deep breath, and get ready for fun at any age or strength! Clip and Climb accepts climbers ages 3 and above weighing at least 25 - 300 pounds. The pool has a 4-lane, zero-depth entry pool with a waterslide, splash pad, vortex, and lazy river. The Little RECers’ Zone is included with memberships and available to non-members for $2.00/per hour/per child.

Girl in black with red harness climbing wall with spot holds of all colors.  To the left, there is a green and purple climbing aparatus. To the right there is a climbing wall with ropes. At The Rec in Fairview Heights Girl in black with red harness standing on top of green poles called Stairway to Heaven.  To the right, there is a climbing wall pentagrams and another red climbing wall with tradiitonal fake stone holds. At The Rec in Fairview Heights 3 year old Girl in pink shirt and black pants putting on climbing harness. At The Rec in Fairview Heights


Open Hours: 5am- 4pm

Gym Prices:
Under 18: Resident $8, Non Resident $10
(Must be accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older to enter)
Adult: Resident $12, Non Resident $15
Family: Resident $35, Non Resident $40
(2 adults and 3 dependents)

30 minute climb prices: Members: $5, Non-Members: $10. To climb, you do not need to pay gym prices.

The Science Museum

Lots of fantastic free exhibits on 3 levels!

Great For: All ages. I learned a TON!

Don't Miss: The outside exhibits about agriculture accessible from the second floor.

Hours: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Monday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday and Wednesday: CLOSED
Last Entry to the building: 30 minutes before close

Prices: FREE


Drawbacks: Parking is $15, but there are lots of available free spots if you don't mind a walk.

$750 to Japan and $300 to Ecuador! The Going Newsletter tells about great deals and the Going alerts let me keep track of specific countries. The FREE program sometimes has incredible deals and the paid version is incredible. 
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This website is updated frequently but, community resources are always growing and changing.  Please independently confirm information.  Affiliate links are present to offset the expense of hosting and researching Madison County Kids. Madison County Kids assumes no liability for advice or data herein. If anything is missing or incorrect, please let me know!
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