Chicago Children's Museum ( CCM ) invites young imaginations to reign in a castle fit for royalty at their new Once Upon a Castle, now open. In this original exhibit, children hold the power to play in a castle complete with secret tunnels, a rope bridge, tower, dungeon, throne room, wizard's room, kitchen, feasting table, market and more, setting the stage for a fantastical experience where the only limit is one's imagination.
"The narrative for castles is usually packaged with kings, queens, and singing princesses," said CCM President and CEO Jennifer Farrington. "Our take on castle play removes the predictable script and allows children the freedom to build out their own narrative."
The Once Upon a Castle exhibit, conceived by CCM staff and designed by Luci Creative, takes a modern approach to the familiar theme of castles. By providing this fresh take, Chicago Children's Museum is thoughtfully presenting a space in which children get to lead the boundless play possibilities.
"Children are natural-born storytellers," said Farrington. "They create their own stories and delight in bringing them to life through play."
Visitors will be inspired to dress up like royalty, guard a secret dungeon, prepare a mighty feast, sell goods in the market, search for a mystery dragon and more! Children will be able to choose from hundreds of custom-made costumes and props, allowing them the role-playing freedom to create their own uniquely individual adventures.
Once Upon a Castle will be open through May 14, 2017 and is included in museum admission ( $14 for adults and children, $13 for seniors ) and membership.