Toys! Exhibit December 7, 2011 - January 22, 2012 Do you remember the toy that you begged your parents to buy you for Christmas when you were a kid? Did you run downstairs on Christmas morning to see if Santa brought you the doll or board game that you just had to have? If so, then visit our special exhibit gallery over the holidays for our toy and holiday-themed exhibit. We’ll display toys from our collection from days gone by and tell stories of how families from around the world celebrate the holidays. Children can make an ornament to decorate our holiday tree and engage in hands-on activities to learn how different cultures celebrate the holidays and ring in the New Year. A fun, nostalgic-filled experience for the whole family!
THE SOARING ACHIEVEMENTS OF JOHN C. HOUBOLT
New permanent exhibit now open
This state-of-the-art Apollo/Houbolt Exhibit celebrates the historic 1969 moon landing and honors former Joliet resident and key proponent of the lunar orbit rendezvous concept, Dr. John C. Houbolt. The 500 square-foot, two-story exhibit features interactive panels, diagrams and maps, audio-visuals, flat-screen narratives, and period dioramas to tell the exciting story of the race to the moon, the Apollo 11 mission, the moon landing, and Dr. Houbolt’s vision.
A step-in Lunar Lander Simulator challenges visitors to begin their daring journey of space exploration. Once inside, visitors see the same controls used by the first lunar explorers during their missions. Using a throttle and a joystick, guests use skill and wit to guide their craft to the approaching lunar surface.
Do you remember the toy that you begged your parents to buy you for Christmas when you were a kid? Did you run downstairs on Christmas morning to see if Santa brought you the doll or board game that you just had to have? If so, then visit our special exhibit gallery over the holidays for our toy and holiday-themed exhibit. We’ll display toys from our collection from days gone by and tell stories of how families from around the world celebrate the holidays. Children can make an ornament to decorate our holiday tree and engage in hands-on activities to learn how different cultures celebrate the holidays and ring in the New Year. A fun, nostalgic-filled experience for the whole family! 
