When you have toddlers, you are always on the search for your next big adventure! The fact is that younger kids learn best through hands-on activities. They are constantly searching for brand new ways to get out into the world and explore. Lucky for you, Springfield gives you tons of ways to do exactly that! As a Springfield milestone photographer, I am all about helping families find ways to make memories out of the everyday moments. If you are looking for the top things to do in Springfield, IL with toddlers, here are my top suggestions!
Create Beautiful Family Memories With These Fantastic Things To Do In Springfield, IL With Toddlers
Ergadoozy
1320 South State Street, Springfield, Illinois 62704
You know those days when you want to let your toddler run wild, but the Springfield, IL weather doesn’t want to cooperate? That’s when it’s time to plan a visit to Ergadoozy! This indoor playground has something for kids of all ages, making it a fantastic option for families with younger siblings. In fact, there are seven playgrounds in total with open play available nearly every day of the year. When you stop in, your child can bounce on inflatables, do some open-ended play at the train tables, or reach brand new heights in their four-story indoor play center. There are also chairs where you can sit back and take a breather while still keeping your child in your sight the entire time. Ergadoozy additionally has exceptional membership plans that let you come back as much as you’d like!
Kidzeum of Health and Science
412 E. Adams St, Springfield, Illinois 62701
If you are looking for the best way to engage your Springfield, IL toddler’s brain, I think you are going to fall head over heels for Kidzeum of Health and Science. This center was created by HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital to help children understand more about their bodies, the community, and the environment. They mix permanent and special exhibits so you can find your favorite places while keeping each visit new and interesting. Your child will get the chance to jump into life-sized spaces where they can run their own city or go behind the scenes of a pretend farm. Perhaps the most exciting exhibit is Active Alex, a three-story structure that lets your child see how the body works. This structure is 40-feet-tall and shows things like the layers of skin, the digestive system, and the brain. Your child can even climb up the spinal cord to see it all!
Henson Robinson Zoo
1100 E Lake Shore Dr, Springfield, Illinois 62712
If your child loves animals, you should check out the Henson Robinson Zoo! For over 50 years, this has been a top destination for both locals and visitors alike. When you swing by, you can check out more than 300 animals from across 80 different species. The zoo friends include lemurs, naked mole rats, African penguins, painted dogs, black bears, spider monkeys, and so many more. This zoo has also gone out of its way to be incredibly child-friendly. They have covered picnic pavilions where you can stop for lunch, water refill stations, diaper changing stations, shady bench seats, and a playground in case your child still has a bit too much energy. There’s even a zoo train that toddlers absolutely adore!
Knights Action Park
1700 Recreation Drive, Springfield, Illinois 62711
Knights Action Park has been a legendary spot for generations of Springfield, IL families with toddlers! What started out as a golf driving range in the 1930s has blossomed into nearly 100 years of memories. During the summer, their water park is the place to be! While older siblings will love the winding water slides and the Royal Flush, smaller kids can hang out at the Sunshine Sub or at the Cemille’s Reef Splash Pad. The park does a great job at designating spots for younger visitors to ensure things remain safe at all times.
Not exactly in the mood for riding the waves? There are a lot of different ways to enjoy this park, from the mini golf and go carts to the amusement park. They also have a drive-in movie theater, a batting cage, a playground, and even an indoor arcade that’s open all year round! Seriously, neither you nor your kids could ever outgrow this destination!
The Washington Park Botanical Gardens
1740 W Fayette Ave, Springfield, Illinois 62704
If you want something a little more low-key for your toddler in Springfield, IL, the Washington Park Botanical Gardens might just be your place! This park is located on over 20 acres of land with breathtaking displays that children of all ages will love. You can travel all across the globe as you check out displays from Africa, Asia, and America. Flat walking trails run across the entirety of the center to ensure every visitor can easily navigate. In addition to all the stunning exhibits, this park goes out of its way to keep things educational. Whether you want to walk through alone or join up with a guided group, they have the perfect way for your family to enjoy it!
Lincoln Memorial Garden
2301 East Lake Shore Drive, Springfield, Illinois 62712
Let’s be honest. While the Lincoln Museum is a must-visit for older family members, it can be a little dense for younger members of the family. If you still want to explore history in a toddler-friendly way, the Lincoln Memorial Garden is the perfect option! Essentially, this is a space that exists to show you what this area would have looked like as Abraham Lincoln was growing up. The park covers six miles and has a Children’s Woodland Garden that lets kids explore a natural playground. Toddlers love the wooden sensory table and the water pump, while older kids will adore running across the log climber. While you’re here, be sure to tell the troll hi! Outside of the children’s area, you’ll find endless other activities, including wildflower gardens, a nature center, and one of the most scenic trails around!
If You Know Of Any Other Great Things To Do In Springfield, IL With Toddlers, Then I Would Love To Hear From You!
If you are looking for the best way to make the most of these early years, these things to do in Springfield, IL with toddlers are for you! With all of these spots, you can make memories you’ll treasure for years to come. Now, it’s just a matter of making all those family moments last. That’s where I come in! As a Springfield milestone photographer, I love working with families to document each precious season throughout these years. If you want to see if I am the photographer for you, let’s chat! Send me a message today if you would like to start the conversation.
