31 Things to Do in Chicago with Kids
Chicago is a vibrant city, steeped in history and culture with countless activities for families. Whether your kids are budding scientists, art lovers, animal enthusiasts, or outdoor adventurers, Chicago offers something for everyone. From free attractions like Lincoln Park Zoo and Millennium Park to world-class museums like the Field Museum and Adler Planetarium, Chicago ensures that families can enjoy a wide range of adventures, both indoor and outdoor, all year round. In this guide, we’ll cover 30 of the best things you can do in Chicago with your kids, categorized to suit various interests.
1. Explore Chicago’s Iconic Parks
Chicago’s sprawling parks offer a chance for kids to explore the outdoors and enjoy nature, public art, and open spaces. The city’s parks are often equipped with playgrounds, interactive installations, and opportunities for recreational activities. Here are the most kid-friendly ones.
Millennium Park
One of Chicago’s premier tourist destinations, Millennium Park is a must-visit for families. The renowned Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”), a colossal, reflective sculpture kids love to see and touch, is at the center of the park. Families can explore the interactive Crown Fountain, with splashing water fun and changing faces on its glass blocks. Kids love chasing around the fountains or just enjoying the artistic displays. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion, with its open lawn and impressive steel design, often offers free concerts in summer where families can relax and picnic.
Maggie Daley Park
Connected to Millennium Park via the BP Pedestrian Bridge, Maggie Daley Park takes fun up a notch with its whimsical Play Garden. Inspired by storybook settings, the playground is divided into themed sections like Alice in Wonderland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Kids can also speed their way across the Skating Ribbon—either roller skating in summer or ice skating in winter, making it a year-round attraction. Nearby, the park’s mini-golf course is another fun-filled activity for families with obstacles inspired by famous Chicago landmarks.
Grant Park
Grant Park spans 319 acres and is home to several attractions, including the majestic Buckingham Fountain, which captivates families with its regular water shows. The park’s wide green spaces are perfect for picnics or family strolls. Seasonal events, such as outdoor movie nights and festivals, often add to its appeal for families.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park offers a blend of nature and culture. At the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the country’s oldest and free zoos, families can spot animals from various habitats. Adjacent to the zoo is the tranquil Nature Boardwalk, where kids can enjoy wildlife sightings. For indoor adventures, the Lincoln Park Conservatory features beautiful botanical gardens, offering a peaceful respite from the city’s buzz.
2. Visit Kid-Friendly Museums
Chicago is home to several forward-thinking museums designed to engage children with hands-on learning and unforgettable experiences across various fields of science, art, technology, and more.
Chicago Children’s Museum
Located at Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum is a haven for creativity and discovery. Kids can explore the wonders of water in the WaterWays exhibit, dig through sand in the Dinosaur Expedition, and let their imaginations run wild while climbing and playing in the Treehouse Trails. The museum ensures that every room invites interaction, making it highly immersive and fun for younger children.
Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry promises excitement for kids of all ages with its hands-on exhibits. Among the most popular attractions is the U-505 Submarine exhibition, where kids can step aboard a captured World War II German submarine. Other top exhibits include “Science Storms,” which explores natural phenomena like tornadoes and tsunamis, and “Numbers in Nature,” where children can explore patterns in the world. The museum’s Idea Factory gives younger children a chance to build, create, and experiment freely.
Field Museum
The Field Museum is world-famous for its extensive collection of natural history artifacts. Kids will stand in awe of Sue, the most complete T. rex skeleton ever discovered. The museum’s “Evolving Planet” exhibit takes visitors on a journey through Earth’s history, while the Crown Family PlayLab offers young children an interactive environment with exhibits featuring music, art, and hands-on discovery.
Adler Planetarium
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Adler Planetarium offers families a journey into the depths of space. Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits detailing our solar system and galaxies beyond. Popular features include the “Planet Explorers” exhibit designed for young astronauts, and sky shows that make learning about the stars and universe fun and inspiring.
DuSable Museum of African American History
The DuSable Museum provides an excellent opportunity to teach children about African American culture and history through kid-friendly programs. Special exhibits and events showcase stories, struggles, and successes that have shaped the nation’s past and continue to inspire today.
3. Animal Encounters
If your children are fans of animals, Chicago offers several spots for them to get up-close-and-personal with wildlife in immersive settings.
Lincoln Park Zoo
This historic zoo, located northwest of downtown, is a longtime favorite for Chicago families. It’s entirely free and open to visitors year-round. The zoo offers an engaging experience that includes dozens of animal species, interactive animal talks, and feedings. With a petting zoo section for younger kids, playgrounds, and peaceful gardens, it’s a must-visit for any family.
Brookfield Zoo
Located just outside Chicago, Brookfield Zoo stands as one of the nation’s premier zoos. It houses more than 2,000 animals, spread across themed exhibits like Tropic World (featuring animals from different rainforests), or the dolphin show at their Seven Seas exhibit. This paid-admission zoo is a larger, more extensive option for families seeking an all-day adventure into the world of animals.
Shedd Aquarium
A visit to the Shedd Aquarium is nothing short of extraordinary. Some of the world’s most magnificent sea creatures can be found within its tanks, from beluga whales to sea otters. The aquarium offers interactive touch tanks, live dolphin shows, and vibrant aquatic exhibits that dazzle and teach. Its beginner-friendly aquatic experiences, like the “Polar Play Zone,” make it perfect for children, and it’s a great escape on a rainy day.
4. Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor pursuits are plentiful in Chicago, from scenic lakefront trails to thrilling boat rides. Here’s how to make the most of the city’s open spaces with your family.
Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile-long path stretching alongside Lake Michigan’s waters, linking several beaches, playgrounds, and parks. It’s ideal for a family stroll, bike ride, or jog. There are numerous bike rental stations along the trail for families to hop on and off as they explore Chicago’s stunning lakefront and access popular destinations like North Avenue Beach or the Adler Planetarium.
Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk offers a scenic and vibrant pedestrian path along the Chicago River. Walk along and stop at family-friendly restaurants, watch the passing boats, or marvel at Chicago’s stunning architecture. Families will also enjoy river tours like the Chicago Water Taxi, which allows passengers to experience the city from the perspective of its waterways.
Urban Kayaks
For families with older kids who crave adventure, Urban Kayaks offers a safe and exciting way to paddle along the Chicago River. Guided tours are available and provide life jackets, ensuring everyone’s safety as you explore the city’s skyline while kayaking through the calm waters.
Bike Tours
Bobby’s Bike Hike offers fun family-friendly bike tours around Chicago. The company provides child seats and trailers to accommodate younger riders. Tours along the Lakefront Trail or city streets provide a fun way to explore the past and present of this grand city in a safe, controlled environment.
5. Fun at Navy Pier
Navy Pier has long been one of Chicago’s most iconic family destinations, offering several different amusements and events for kids.
Centennial Wheel
The Centennial Wheel provides stunning 360-degree views of Chicago. This enclosed Ferris wheel is both slow and smooth, creating a safe, leisurely ride for families. As it ascends high above Lake Michigan and the city below, it’s the perfect opportunity for family photos and unforgettable memories.
Pier Park Rides
In addition to the Centennial Wheel, Pier Park features other kid-friendly rides. Little ones can hop on the whimsical carousel or experience the swirl of the Wave Swinger. Additionally, the remote-controlled boats allow children to captain their own vessel on the small pond within the park.
Fireworks Shows
During the summer months, Navy Pier hosts dazzling fireworks displays bi-weekly, set to music. The fireworks are visible from several points around the pier and surrounding lakefront. It’s a magical experience that lights up the night sky, thrilling kids of all ages.
6. Indoor Play Spaces & Unique Experiences
In addition to Chicago’s great museums, there are unique indoor experiences tailored to families looking for fun, engaging activities.
Sloomoo Institute
The Sloomoo Institute is a sensory play museum dedicated to the irresistible world of slime. Families can try hands-on activities like slime-making workshops, touch hundreds of different textures, and engage in various experiments sure to fascinate kids who enjoy tactile experiences and creativity.
iFLY Indoor Skydiving
If your older kids are thrill-seekers, they’ll love iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Children as young as three can “fly” in a vertical wind tunnel that simulates the free-fall experience of skydiving in a perfectly safe and controlled environment.
Escape Rooms
Escape room experiences are now a popular family bonding activity for solving puzzles and cracking codes. Family-friendly rooms at Escape Artistry or The Escape Game Chicago offer age-appropriate challenges where kids and parents can work together to beat the clock.
Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions challenges perceptions with a collection of mind-bending exhibits. From rooms that shift perspective to holograms and optical illusions, everything here is designed for interactive play. It’s a fun photo-op and thought-provoking experience for curious minds.
7. Seasonal Activities & Special Events
Chicago’s calendar is packed with events that are fun for families — from airshows and food festivals to holiday exhibitions. Here are three standout festivals:
Chicago Air & Water Show
Each summer, Chicago hosts one of the largest free airshows in the U.S. The Chicago Air & Water Show takes place over Lake Michigan, where fighter planes, stunt planes, helicopters, and boats put on jaw-dropping aerial and aquatic displays that thrill onlookers from beachside and beyond.
Taste of Chicago Festival
This annual food festival offers more than delectable eats — it has family zones with games, face-painting, and live music. Kids will love sampling mini-portions from local restaurants and attending family events like cooking demonstrations.
Chicago Auto Show
Held annually at McCormick Place, the Chicago Auto Show is the longest-running auto exhibition in the United States. It showcases hundreds of the latest cars, trucks, and SUVs, often offering interactive experiences like test drives, simulator rides, and children’s play areas.
8. Educational & Historical Sites
Chicago has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of educational stops for curious kids.
Chicago History Museum
Kids can dive into the city’s unique past at the Chicago History Museum. The Great Chicago Fire exhibit, in particular, offers a detailed multimedia look into one of the city’s most significant events. Children will also enjoy learning about Chicago’s industrial past, transportation evolution, and iconic landmarks.
Pullman National Monument
This little-known national site is an educational gem. The Pullman National Monument teaches families about Chicago’s industrial roots, the Pullman Strike, and the development of one of the nation’s first planned industrial communities. Guided tours and educational programs make it an engaging stop for kids and adults alike.
9. Themed Stores & Experiences
No trip with kids is complete without special shopping experiences tailored to what they love.
American Girl Place at Water Tower Place
Dolls come to life at American Girl Place, where kids can customize their own dolls, participate in tea time at the café, and even take part in an American Girl–themed photo shoot. It’s a top attraction for young doll enthusiasts.
LEGO Store at Water Tower Place
LEGO fans can build their own creations at the LEGO Store, wander through towering LEGO sculptures, or work on special collaborative projects with other kids. A separate play area is available for little ones to pile into a massive LEGO pit and start building their own city.
10. Free Things to Do in Chicago with Kids
While there are endless paid attractions, Chicago also offers plenty of free family activities that help you experience the best of the city without spending a fortune.
Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory is a botanical wonderland, filled with lush tropical plants and flowers. Kids will enjoy exploring the Children’s Garden, which has interactive exhibits designed specifically to engage young minds.
Millennium Park & Maggie Daley Park
These have already been covered above, but it’s worth noting again how wonderful they are for free family activities — from public art to playgrounds and skating rinks.
FAQs Section
- What are some free things to do in Chicago with kids?
- Lincoln Park Zoo, Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, and Garfield Park Conservatory all offer free admission for families.
- What are good indoor activities for kids in Chicago?
- Some top indoor attractions include Shedd Aquarium, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Sloomoo Institute, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, and escape rooms.
- What are the best outdoor activities for families?
- Playgrounds at Maggie Daley Park, the Lakefront Trail, Chicago Riverwalk boat tours, and picnics at Lincoln Park or Millennium Park are all excellent outdoor options.
- Is Navy Pier worth visiting with kids?
- Yes, Navy Pier is a top destination for families with its Centennial Wheel, carousel rides, movie theaters, children’s museum, and free fireworks in summer.
- What are some good rainy-day activities in Chicago?
- Indoor attractions like the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago Children’s Museum, indoor skydiving at iFLY, and escape rooms offer engaging, weather-resistant fun.
Conclusion
Chicago is an incredibly diverse and vibrant city that caters to families of all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re raising budding explorers, science buffs, animal lovers, or art enthusiasts, there is something in this Windy City to spark their curiosity and keep them entertained. From playing in the iconic Millennium and Maggie Daley Parks, visiting world-class museums, or taking in the stunning views from Navy Pier, Chicago offers a rich tapestry of experiences, both indoors and out.
What makes Chicago remarkable for families is the thoughtful way in which attractions are designed to engage and educate kids while keeping things fun. The city’s wealth of free activities, such as exploring Lincoln Park Zoo or wandering through the Garfield Park Conservatory, ensures you’re never at a loss for kid-friendly, budget-conscious things to do. Meanwhile, cultural institutions like the Museum of Science and Industry and the Field Museum bring learning to life with their interactive exhibits and captivating stories of history, nature, and innovation.
Outdoor adventurers can enjoy long walks along the Lakefront Trail, bike tours, or the exhilarating experience of kayaking with Urban Kayaks on the Chicago River, while those visiting during summer or the holidays can experience seasonal delights such as fireworks at Navy Pier, the Chicago Air & Water Show, and festive lights at various city landmarks.
Ultimately, a trip to Chicago offers much more than just a visit to a big city — it’s a journey through dynamic neighborhoods, awe-inspiring architecture, and interactive playgrounds for the imagination. Whether you’re planning to spend a day, a weekend, or an entire vacation in Chicago, the activities outlined will ensure that each moment spent in the city is filled with wonder and adventure. No matter what your child’s interests are, the heart of the city is open and ready to welcome you with endless opportunities to smile, learn, and play.
