Explore DuPage history after-hours during Night at the Museum

The DuPage County Historical Museum's 40,000-plus artifacts don't come alive when night falls. But during Night at the Museum, the building will come alive as dozens of children and their parents explore the museum after dark.

Last year's inaugural event sold out, said Carey Moreland, marketing and development assistant.

"We wanted to give our members the unique experience of exploring the museum after dark," she said. "Since it's after hours, that allows us to take advantage of the entire building."

Night at the Museum is 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, April 21, at 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton. Recommended for children ages 4 to 12 with an adult, the event includes a flashlight scavenger hunt that will send guests through all three stories, including exhibits.

"Children will be asked to find artifacts hidden within the exhibits and can turn the completed scavenger hunt in for a prize," Moreland said.

They also can watch "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian" in the second-floor auditorium, make movie-related crafts, play games, see the museum's HO-gauge model railroad run and munch on snacks.

Admission is $10 per person and free for children younger than 2 and Explorers Club members.

"The Explorers Club is a children's membership program designed to give kids and their families a fresh way to experience the museum," Moreland said. "Along with free admission to Night at the Museum, members receive VIP access to the semiannual Lego Train Show and certain Train Saturdays, plus 10 percent birthday party discounts and presale access to Santa Express tickets."

Anyone can join the club by contacting dupagemuseum.org or (630) 510-4941.