Champaign may be most known as the home of the University of Illinois, but it’s not just filled with college students. Many families live in this area. It’s also a great place to bring the kids for a Central Illinois getaway. You’ll find attractions for children throughout the year in Champaign.

Sholem Aquatic Center
From the end of May until the beginning of September, Sholem Aquatic Center is the place to bring the kids on warm days.

It’s the equivalent of a water park and its right in the middle of Champaign. Even non-residents can come along for under $10.00.

The park has enough activity to keep the kids busy all day. You’ll find The Puddle for small kids with shallow water and a slide – and seating for adults. The Falls is a tube slide that lands you into The Rapids, a winding river that goes for 660 ft. and is something the whole family can enjoy.

Older kids will love the Plunge & Blue Rush, an enclosed body slide that spirals you down into a pool.

Sholem Aquatic Center also has an 8,000 sq. ft. beach and a concession stand.

Sholem Aquatic Center
2205 Sangamon Dr.
Champaign, IL 61821
(217) 398-2589
Official Website

Prairie Farm
Prairie Farm is just down the block from the Sholem Aquatic Center and it’s something all kids visiting the area should check out in the summertime. It’s a replica of a traditional farm from a century ago and includes barns, a pond, a farmhouse and a pasture.

At Prairie Farm kids will see many animals, including horses, pigs, cows, goats, sheep and chickens.

There’s a petting area and trolley rides around the farm.

Educational programs take place at the farm throughout the season, including story time, Barnyard Fun Camp, and casual, but informative, classes about the animals.

Admission to Prairie Farm is free, but donations are appreciated as they help to provide food for the animals.

Prairie Farm
2202 W. Kirby Ave.
Champaign, IL 61821
(217) 398-2583
Official Website

Orpheum Children's Science Museum
Many aren’t aware that Champaign has its own children’s science museum right in the middle of downtown. The Orpheum has been in the same home on Neil Street since 1914, when it took over from the Vaudeville and Moving Pictures Theater.

Although it’s called a science museum, the Orpheum is as interested in engaging and educating children in the exploration as arts as it is science. It is open for families, classroom field trips and special events. Students from the nearby University of Illinois often give their time to help out at the museum. The community is also encouraged to get involved by volunteering.

Some of the interactive displays at the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum include the Castle Workalot, Bubble Wall, Lego Display and Critter Corner. There is no admission charge at the museum, though donations are appreciated as the museum is always looking to provide renovations and new exhibits.

Orpheum Children’s Science Museum
346 N. Neil Street
Champaign, IL 61820
(217) 352-5895
Official Website

William Staerkel Planetarium
The William Staerkel Planetarium is located within Parkland College in Champaign. Lectures, shows and films are available throughout the year.

The planetarium has a 50-foot dome (the second largest in the state) for you to enjoy the shows in. It has modern sound, light and projection technology. The Sky Projector will immerse you into a map of the sky, with views of the planets and stars you would see from any point on earth.

Lectures at the William Staerkel Planetarium are on a variety of topics and usually change monthly. They  include subjects such as: “The Sustainable Student Farm: Learn, Grow Food, Eat It!”;  “Confessions of a Storm Chaser”; and “Your Health Myths & Misconceptions.”

Younger children will enjoy shows like “One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure” or “Zula Patrol.” Admission varies depending on the show, lecture or exhibit.

William Staerkel Planetarium
2400 W. Bradley Ave.
Champaign, IL 61821
(217) 351-2568
Official Website

Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch
Kids of all ages love Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch, which is open from July through December. Depending on the month, you can pick apples, go through the petting zoo, head down the giant slide or go for a wagon or pony ride.

In the fall, when the Pumpkin Patch is open, you’ll find live music at Curtis Orchard. There’s no admission to get in and minimal charges ($1-$5) for activities.

Before you leave, take a walk through the country store to pick up some unusual items for your home and kitchen. If you are lucky enough to be there in apple season, you’ll see more varieties than you knew existed to take home, but first stop at the Flying Monkey Café for some apple cider and pie.  

Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch
3902 S. Duncan Rd.
Champaign, IL 61822
(217) 359-5565
Official Website