Visit Tips and Itineraries

Visit Tips

Ready for the extraordinary? We bet! Here are some general tips to make your trip a breeze.

Tip 1: Advance tickets are encouraged for general admission visitors. You will scan your ticket straight from your smartphone for quick, contactless entry! Members and donors do not need advance reservations.

Tip 2: Face painting is available on select days in Gathering Room A on Level 1. Prices for your favorite design range from $16.99 to $22.99. Learn More.

Tip 3: Stop by The Museum Store. It's filled to the brim with imagination-sparking items for families to experiment, explore, and discover together.

Tip 4: Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. The museum is weapon and smoke-free. See the full code of conduct.

Tip 5: Carousel rides are $2, unless you’re a member, then they’re FREE!

Tip 6: Join the End-of-the-Day Parade with Rex! Meet on Level 4 at 4:45 p.m.!

Tip 7: Wi-Fi is available during museum hours.

Tip 8: There are family restrooms throughout the museum, and there’s a private nursing area in Playscape^® on Level 3.

Tip 9: Lockers ($.75-1.25) and stroller rentals ($3-5) are available in the Welcome Center. Bring cash for lockers—there is not an ATM on site.

Tip 10: Wear play-ready shoes! Closed toe shoes are recommended for the sports experience and are required for both racing experiences.

Tip 11: Dress for the weather. Make the most of the outdoors by planning for the elements. Pack your rain jacket or sun hat, sunscreen, and refillable water bottle (no glass, please). The outdoor areas are closed for the season. They will reopen March 15, 2025.

Tip 12: Keep your ticket! A General Admission ticket gives you access to both the Riley Sports Legends Experience^® and the museum's five floors of fun! So hold onto your ticket so you can move throughout the entire museum complex.

Tip 13: Explore the Riley Sports Legends Experience^®. You can enter the sports experience at the bottom of the Welcome Center ramp. Just turn left!

Tip 14: Free parking is available in our garage and surface lots on Illinois street (get directions). These additional premium parking options are also available: