Exhibits
Permanent Exhibits
Whenever you choose to visit, the PlayHouse features six permanent exhibits and a wide variety of programs for children of all ages. The exhibits draw on Peoria and Central Illinois, celebrating the past, present, and future of our community.
Wondering what there is for a 2-year-old or a 10-year old to enjoy? See our list of suggestions by age!
FOSSILS ROCK
Become a paleontologist, paleoartist, or a collections manager through digging, sorting, and drawing activities. Explore the three prehistoric eras and create your own prehistoric scenes. View and touch fossils from millions of years ago!
PEORIA, THEN AND NOW
Kids explore the past by exploring a town replete with the “hubcap house,” riding a train and performing on vaudeville — then jump to the present as scientists in our SciLab. “Will it play in Peoria?” – yes it will!
MOTION COMMOTION
Exploring momentum, gravity, speed, force and distance is fun with balls that roll down ramps, travel through shoots, launch into nets and stand on air.
FAMILY FARM
By picking fruits and vegetables, gathering eggs, milking a cow and more, kids gain an appreciation for our agricultural heritage.
BY YOUR RIVER GENTLY FLOWING, ILLINOIS
Children can pretend they are sailing along the Illinois River as they play with gently flowing water, imagine the lives of animals native to the state, and drive boats downstream.
ALL CONSTRUCTION GREAT AND SMALL
Kids don hard hats to manipulate a loader and dump truck, and use real tools to build objects. A magical bridge triggers a musical surprise. Build things using real tools in the PlayHouse "Real Tools" maker space!