CHILDREN'S HANDS-ON MUSEUM OF NORTHWEST ILLINOIS
Standard Hours
Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10AM to 2PM each day
Sunday-Wednesday Closed (Private Events Only)
Our
Story
CHOM is a children's museum located in Freeport, Illinois. Freeport is west of Rockford and south of Madison in northwest Illinois along the route from Chicago to Galena. CHOM was started in 2017 with traveling exhibits at fairs, schools, and community events. In 2019 we moved into 2 store fronts in the Lincoln Mall. The mall allowed us to cut a hole in the wall between the stores, community members painted, volunteers built structures, and with the help of generous donations we opened in February, 2019 with over 10 unique exhibit areas. Today we are a nonprofit volunteer run organization with tremendous community support. We hope to see you soon.






Coming Events
Northwest Polar Express Event featuring Ukulele Express
December 2: On Saturday evening from 5:30-7:30, there will be no admission charge (donations accepted) as we celebrate the new exhibit with music from Ukulele Express, mystery gift cards, cookies, and hot chocolate. Bring the entire family for "A most funnest evening".
Northwest Polar Express
November 24-February 22: The Northwest Polar Express will be arriving at CHOM. This exhibit includes a children size train with cars, related exhibits, and special events
Gala to go
January 25: A fund raising event for the entire family and for all ages. Dinners will be available on site or to go at Big O's on the Hollow. There will be an array of silent auction items from local establishments as well from around Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Missouri. You won't want to miss the Blind Gift Card Draw or the desserts to purchase.
