Things To Do With Kids in Chicago, IL
Explore Chicago with the kids today, think Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier fun, and hands-on museums the whole family will love!
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Discover Fun-filled Kids Activities in Chicago
Fun and Engaging Family Activities in Chicago
Finding exciting things to do in Chicago with kids is easy thanks to the city's diverse selection of family-friendly attractions. Whether you're planning a weekend outing, an educational experience, or simply looking for ways to keep little ones active, Chicago offers something for every age and interest. From museums to parks, zoos to indoor play spots, there's never a dull moment when exploring this vibrant city together.
Top Things to Do in Chicago with Kids
- Visit World-Renowned Museums: The Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, and Chicago Children’s Museum offer interactive exhibits that make learning fun for kids of all ages.
- Explore the Great Outdoors: Chicago’s Millennium Park is perfect for family picnics or climbing around on the Crown Fountain and Cloud Gate ("The Bean"). Maggie Daley Park is another favorite, thanks to its large playgrounds and climbing walls specifically designed for kids.
- Animal Adventures: The iconic Lincoln Park Zoo is both free and packed with animals, interactive zones, and education stations. Brookfield Zoo, just outside the city, is another top pick for animal-loving families.
- City Tours: Try a family-friendly architecture boat tour or hop-on-hop-off bus ride to learn more about Chicago’s rich history and stunning skyline—with breaks at cool landmarks and snack stops.
Indoor Family Fun for Rainy Days
- Indoor Play Centers: Bounce houses, trampolines, and climbing gyms can be found all over the city. Places like Kid City and Altitude Trampoline Park are great for burning off energy indoors.
- Immersive Experiences: Attractions like LEGOLAND Discovery Center or indoor mini-golf courses help keep kids engaged when the weather isn’t cooperating.
- Art and Creativity: Participatory workshops at the Art Institute of Chicago or local animation and pottery studios allow families to get creative together.
There are countless family things to do in Chicago today, whether you're seeking cultural enrichment or simply something fun and memorable to do as a family. Parents can use Groupon’s local deals to discover new experiences while saving on admission prices, tours, and group outings.
With such a variety of family activities in Chicago, every outing can be a new adventure. Whether it's touring historic neighborhoods, spotting animals at the zoo, or getting hands-on in a science exhibit, things to do in Chicago with kids are never in short supply. Use this guide to plan a day your whole family will enjoy—from toddlers to teens.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no shortage of family-friendly activities in Chicago! A few of them include exploring the Children's Museum at Navy Pier, meeting animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo, discovering science at the Museum of Science and Industry, enjoying the views from the Skydeck at Willis Tower, and enjoying time at the Garfield Park Conservatory.
Absolutely, Chicago offers numerous indoor activities perfect for colder months. The Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, and Chicago Children's Museum are all wonderful places to explore. Plus, the city hosts various winter festivals, ice-skating rinks, and theater performances suitable for children.
Absolutely! Children can enjoy outdoor activities like taking a tour of Wrigley Field, visiting Lincoln Park Zoo, playing at the myriad of public parks, or taking a bike ride along the Lakefront Trail. During summers, there are also numerous beaches where families can have picnic or kids can play in the sand.
Yes, Chicago has various free activities for kids. For example, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the last free zoos in the country with an array of animals and exhibits. The city's public parks and beaches are also free, offering plenty of space for outdoor activities.
Many of Chicago's museums offer educational programs for kids. The Museum of Science and Industry, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum all have exhibits built to engage and educate children. The Art Institute of Chicago also offers family workshops. For nature education, consider visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden or the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.