Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum Celebrates 10 Years of Play


Press Conference Scheduled for Wednesday, June 11th at 10:30 a.m.

PEORIA, IL (June 9, 2025) – Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum will mark its 10th anniversary with a press conference at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, June 11, at 2218 N. Prospect Rd., Peoria. Since opening in June 2015, the PlayHouse has welcomed close to one million visitors who have played and learned on three floors of interactive, STEAM-rich exhibits—cementing its role as a premier destination for early childhood development and creative exploration in Central Illinois.


Born from a pioneering vision of the Junior League of Peoria and brought to life through the “Power of Play” partnership with the Peoria Zoological Society and Peoria Park District, the museum’s launch was underwritten by generous corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and grassroots philanthropy. Today, under the Peoria Park District’s stewardship, the facility focuses on ensuring high-quality and equitable access to hands-on discovery for every child. 


During the press conference, PlayHouse and Park District leadership and distinguished guests will reflect on a decade of impact, while also looking forward to a bright future.  Included will be updates on how a combination of capital and operational grants have and will continue to support exhibit enhancements and ensure access for all. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the exhibits and learn about upcoming events and initiatives designed to serve Peoria’s youngest learners.


“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 10 years of bringing joy and discovery to children of all ages,” said Melissa Sierra, Director of the Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum. “This milestone would not be possible without the support of our community, partners, volunteers, and, of course, the families who make our museum their special place to create and explore.”


Emily Cahill, Executive Director of the Peoria Park District, added, “The PlayHouse is more than just a museum — it’s a vibrant hub where children’s imaginations come to life every day. Celebrating 10 years is a testament to the dedication and our community's incredible support. We look forward to many more years of fostering creativity and discovery for Peoria’s families.”


Individuals and organizations wishing to support the PlayHouse’s mission and mark this important milestone can make tax-deductible donations online or at the PlayHouse.


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ABOUT PEORIA PLAYHOUSE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

Peoria PlayHouse Children’s Museum is a collaborative initiative of the Junior League of Peoria, Peoria Zoological Society and Peoria Park District. Since 2015, it has been dedicated to nurturing curiosity, creativity and confidence through hands-on, interactive play. Located in Glen Oak Park, the museum offers three floors of dynamic exhibits, field-trip programs, and community events designed to make learning accessible and inspiring for every child.


ABOUT PEORIA PARK DISTRICT

Public stewards of nearly 9,000 acres of park and greenspace, the District’s mission is “We contribute to healthy and vibrant communities by responsibly using our resources to offer high quality parks, recreation, and education experiences to those who live, work, or play in our District.” To learn more, please visit www.peoriaparks.org.


More Resources:

View all our press releases and virtual press packets by visiting https://peoriaparks.org/news/


Peoria Park District Media Contact:

Emily G. Cahill

Executive Director, Peoria Park District

(309) 682-1200

ecahill@peoriaparks.org