Take the children to the Crystal Lake Public Library, which has been rated twice as one of the top 10 libraries in the country, according to Hennen's American Public Library Ratings. Children can participate in activities including story time, youth programs such as art classes and workshops, summer and winter reading programs and computer classes. Children have access to the Internet and Wi-Fi, CDs, video games, CD-ROMs, DVDs and books. Crystal Lake Public Library is open daily.
Raue Center for the Arts is an 800-seat showcase theater that not only features performances but educational activities for children. In June and July, children can participate in activities such as a theater/comedy workshop, film boot camp, storytelling series and sculpture classes. The Raue Center also hosts a talent show for youth 18 and under for visual arts, performing arts and design.
Built during the Civil War, the Historic Dole Mansion is a place where you can take the children to tour the art galleries. Admission every first Friday of the month is free and features tours, art, music, food and drinks for the entire family. Sign your children up for the McHenry County Youth Orchestra or the St. Thomas the Apostle Youth Choir and perform during the holiday concert. Also during the holidays, children can participate in a Christmas crafts workshop or attend story time with Mrs. Claus and sip hot cocoa. The Historic Dole Mansion is open from Monday to Friday.
Children can enjoy indoor ice skating at the Crystal Ice House from September through May and June through August. Twice a week from September through May, "Parent and Tot" classes are offered, which introduces children to ice skating with a parent and an instructor. Ice skating is open to the public daily during the fall/winter schedule except for major holidays. During its spring/summer schedule, ice skating is open to the public from Friday to Sunday. Hockey lessons, summer hockey camps as well as lessons in figure skating, broomball, speed skating and curling are also offered. Skate rental is available.
Children can bring their own roller skates or roller blades or rent a pair of skates and go skating in Xtreme Wheels Roller Skating and Family Fun Center. The center also features special events, including "Wacky Wednesdays," "Family Funday Sunday" and "Family Skate," which features specials such as special rates for families and free skate rentals. Private skate lessons are also offered several times a year. Xtreme Wheels features concessions that serve food such as pizza, hot dogs, cheese fries, nachos and pretzels.
