Photo: Esani Parida
Photo: Ira Gon
Photo: Ira Gon
Arlington Heights Memorial Library
★4.7(370 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers thrive in gentle storytimes and sensory play areas, while elementary-aged kids enjoy the maker spaces, STEM challenges, and extensive book selection. Teens also benefit from dedicated spaces and technology resources.🧡 Saved by 13 families
About
Arlington Heights Memorial Library is a haven for families, offering far more than just books. This award-winning facility features dedicated children's areas, regular storytimes for various age groups, hands-on STEM activities, creative maker spaces, and engaging family programs throughout the week,all completely free to the public.
Highlights
- ✓Weekly storytimes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers led by engaging librarians
- ✓Hands-on maker spaces with crafts, building materials, and creative activities
- ✓Interactive STEM programs and science demonstrations
- ✓Extensive children's book collection with cozy reading nooks
- ✓Special family events including summer reading programs and holiday celebrations
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive 10-15 minutes early for popular storytimes as they can fill up quickly, especially on weekday mornings
- 2.Check their online calendar before visiting to catch special programs like science demonstrations, craft sessions, or author visits
- 3.The maker spaces require advance signup for certain activities,reserve spots online to avoid disappointment
- 4.Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience; Saturday mornings tend to be the busiest
- 5.Get a library card on your first visit (free for Arlington Heights residents) to access take-home materials and digital resources
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) are ideal for toddlers and preschoolers when storytimes are scheduled and crowds are lighter. Saturday mornings offer the most family programs but expect bigger crowds. Avoid the after-school rush (3:00-5:00 PM) on weekdays if seeking a calmer atmosphere.
What to Know
All programs and entry are completely free. Ample parking is available in the library lot. No food is allowed in most areas, though there are designated spaces for snacks. The facility is fully accessible and stroller-friendly.
Seasonal Notes
The Summer Reading Program (June-August) features extra activities, performers, and prizes. Holiday-themed storytimes and craft sessions are offered around major holidays. Reduced Sunday hours provide a quieter atmosphere for focused browsing.
Nearby Eats
Visit nearby Buffalo Wild Wings (kid-friendly with a game area) or Portillo's Hot Dogs (classic Chicago fare with a nostalgic atmosphere) both within a 5-minute drive for post-library meals.
More Activities Near Arlington Heights
Park
North School Park
Free❤️9
North School Park is a beloved Arlington Heights neighborhood gem that checks all the boxes for family fun. With its refreshing splash pad for summer cooling, multiple playgrounds catering to different ages, and spacious fields perfect for running around or spreading out a picnic blanket, this park offers hours of entertainment. Parents appreciate the variety of activities all in one location, making it easy to keep kids of different ages happy.
Park
Melas Park
Free
Melas Park is a beloved Arlington Heights community park that delivers everything active families need for a fun outdoor day. With top-notch playground equipment, multiple sports facilities including basketball courts and baseball diamonds, plus spacious shaded picnic areas, it's ideal for everything from casual playground visits to full-day family gatherings and birthday parties.
Nature
Lake Arlington
★4.9Free❤️90
Lake Arlington offers families a peaceful natural escape right in the suburbs with a scenic 3.5-mile paved loop perfect for strollers, bikes, and scooters. The tranquil lake setting provides excellent opportunities for kids to spot ducks, geese, and other wildlife while parents enjoy an easy, traffic-free path that's ideal for teaching little ones to ride bikes or for a relaxing family walk.
Theater
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
★4.7$$❤️150
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre brings the magic of live theater to families in Arlington Heights with a stellar lineup of Broadway-style musicals, children's performances, and interactive shows. Beyond being audience members, kids can get on stage themselves through popular theater camps and youth programs that build confidence and creativity.