With Over 2,000 Sock Monkeys, This Small Town Museum In Illinois Is A True Hidden Gem

One misconception about the Prairie State is that it's boring. Sure, the repetition of day-to-day life anywhere can get a bit old sometimes, but the truth is that there are actually tons of great attractions in Illinois that excite and educate. And, if you've ever wondered what happened to that lost sock that never came out of the dryer, this hidden gem museum in Long Grove, IL might just be the spot for your next adventure.

The Sock Monkey Museum, located at 210 Robert Parker Coffin Road, is a whimsical museum, workshop, and gift shop that specializes in — you guessed it — sock monkeys.

The museum was established in 2019, but dates back to 2006 when the sock monkey that would become the inspiration for the business was first discovered at a Cracker Barrel restaurant. After that, the monkey began traveling with its owners around the world, and later a collection began to form from monkeys found at garage and estate sales, antique stores, and as gifts and donations.

It's since been featured in Melanie Homes' latest edition of "100 Things to do in Illinois Before You Die" book.

The classic sock used for the monkeys has roots in Rockford, Illinois, when Swedish immigrant, designer, and inventor John Nelson perfected what would become known as the "Nelson Sock" in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Now, over 2,000 sock monkeys live together in harmony at the museum.

The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 12-4 p.m. (5 p.m. on Saturdays) and costs between $4-6 per person for entry — though kids 4 and under get in for free.

Museum offers party packages and a workshop where you can make your own sock monkey with a pair of Rockford Red Socks. Everything you need is provided from the thread to the stuffing, and no sewing experience is necessary.

The Sew-A-Monkey Package comes with monkey-building materials, access to the museum, and help from staff. The session lasts 2.5 hours and costs $40 per person.

Throughout the year, the museum and monkeys are decorated to match holidays, themes...

...and special occasions. New grads will go bananas for this cute, congratulatory friend.

I know I would!

The museum also offers a gift shop where you can buy monkeys and monkey accessories, vintage candies, goods from local makers, and much more.

So, would you visit this hidden gem museum in Long Grove, IL? Would you want to make your own sock monkey friend? Are there any other unique museums in Illinois you've been to? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by checking out the Sock Monkey Museum website and the Sock Monkey Museum Facebook page! And there is plenty else to do while you're in the charming small town of Long Grove, like shopping or visiting the oldest bar in Illinois!