History PROGRAMS
The Downers Grove Museum offers a variety of year-round educational and entertaining programming for all ages. Museum programs include exhibit-related workshops and events, craft workshops, holiday programs, and annual free events. Participants can explore local history while interacting with knowledgeable staff and volunteers.
The Blodgett's and the Underground Railroad 1700G04
Take a tour of the newly restored 1846 Blodgett house. We will explore the lives of Israel and Avis Blodgett, and their role on the Underground Railroad. Please register everyone attending. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a registered adult.
DGM History Talks 1700G01
Take an early lunch break and join the museum staff as we discuss all things Downers Grove. We'll discuss a new topic each month, relating to Downers Grove History and show some unique photographs from the museum's archives.
American Girl Doll - Celebrating Spring 1700G25
Grab your favorite American Girl Doll and join us at the museum to celebrate the return of Spring! We'll enjoy some fun games and activites, and complete a spring-themed craft for your doll.
Historic Handicrafts: Spring Wreaths 1700G08
Join us at the Downers Grove Museum to learn more about the history of the circular wreath decoration that adorns many doors today. Then work to create your own flowery Spring wreath. All participants must register. A registered adult must accompany their child during the program.
Sears and Historic Homes Walking Tour 1700G22
In the early 20th century numerus Downers Grove residents purchased homes straight out of mail-order catalogs. Take a 60 minute narrated walking tour with our museum staff as we discuss these Sears homes and other unique historic homes. Some parts of this walking tour may not be ADA accessible. All children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Toddlers in strollers and carriers are free with a registered adult.
Blodgett Homestead Architecture Tour 1700G24
Take a tour of the Israel Blodgett Family's historic homestead as we explore the lives of the Blodgetts as well as take a deeper look at the homes that sheltered them through several generations.
Mother's Day Par-tea 1700G21
Join us at the museum to celebrate Mother's Day for an afternoon of togetherness as you sip tea and enjoy a sweet treat and more! Mothers and Daughters of all ages are welcome!. Please register everyone attending.
D.G.'s Churches Architecture Tour 1700G10
Join the Museum Staff for a 1.5 hour walking tour of Downers Grove’s oldest and most prominent churches! Explore the unique history and architecure of some of Downers Grove's oldest structures. All parts of the tour may not be ADA accessible. Tour Meets at Fishel Park.
Sears and Historic Homes Bus Tour 1700G23
In the early 20th century, numerous Downers Grove residents purchased homes straight out of mail-order catalogs! Join the Museum Staff on a leisurely 75 min narrated bus tour of Sears and other catalog homes that are still standing in Downers Grove. All participants must be registered as bus space is limited, and all children under 16 must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Fantasic Father's Day Celebration 3700G01
Celebrate Father's Day at the Downers Grove Museum with fun historic games and crafts. Work together to build a take home project to celebrate all dads. Price is per child. All fathers and father figures welcome with child registration.
American Girl Independence Day Celebration 3700G02
Come celebrate Independence Day with Felicity and learn about our young nation. Make crafts and play games from 1776.
Sears and Historic Homes Walking Tour 3700G04
In the early 20th century numerus Downers Grove residents purchased homes straight out of mail-order catalogs. Take a 60 minute narrated walking tour with our museum staff as we discuss these Sears homes and other unique historic homes. Some parts of this walking tour may not be ADA accessible. All children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Toddlers in strollers and carriers are free with a registered adult.
Happy Birthday James Breasted! 3700G05
Come join us at the Downers Grove Museum as we celebrate the 160th birthday of distinguished Downers Grove native Dr. James Henry Breasted! He contributed greatly to the study of ancient cultures, including the evcavation of King Tut's tomb, inspiring Hollywood character, Indiana Jones! We'll have snacks, and play activities inspired by Ancient Egypt, and much more! All children must be registered with a registered adult.This event will be in conjecture with a free lecture that is to be hosted at the Downers Grove Public Library on August 28th.
Underground Railroad 1846 House Tour 3700G03
Take a tour of the 1846 Blodgett House focusing on the role Downers Grove and the Blodgetts played in the Underground Railroad. Some parts of this tour may not be ADA accessible. All children under 16 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult. All participants must register.
GROUP PROGRAMS
Bring your group to the Downers Grove Museum! Programs are 1 or 1.5 hours in length depending on the program and can be tailored for adult and kid groups. Call 630.963.1309 to book your program today! Group programs are $6 per person with a minimum of 5 people.
Go Behind-the-Scenes!
1-hour program
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the DG Museum! Follow the Museum Curator through public and private museum spaces learning about our collections and exhibits.
Victorian Downers Grove
1-hour program
Explore what life was like in Downers Grove in the 1890s! Take a tour of the historic Victorian Blodgett House, complete a trivia scavenger hunt, and try out some Victorian era toys and games.
Pioneer Downers Grove
1-hour program
Explore what life was like in Downers Grove in the 1830s and 1840s. Tour the museum campus and learn about the early settlers in our area. Then try your hand at some early chores and games.
Scout Programs
1-1.5 hour program
Work with the Downers Grove staff to gear a tour/program towards earning a badge for your troop, such as your Community or Playing the Past badges.
GROUP TOURS
During your guided tour, you'll visit the foot print of the Blodgett family cabin, discuss the 1850s, visit the Pioneer Blodgett House and learn about the 1890s inside the Victorian Blodgett House. Tours are one-hour in length. Call the Museum at 630.963.1309 to book your tour today!
School Tours
One class per 1-1.5 hour tour, $60 per class
Group Tours
$35 for up to 10 people
