Best Things To Do In Chicago With Kids

Chicago is a fantastic destination for families with kids, offering a wide variety of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or just a quick weekend getaway, this city has something for everyone. World-class museums like the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago engage young minds in interactive learning and artistic exploration. Outdoor spaces like Millennium Park and Lincoln Park Zoo provide ample opportunities for kids to have fun and connect with nature. Navy Pier offers a complete entertainment package with a Ferris wheel, a children’s museum, numerous dining options, etc.

In this guide, we will explore the best things to do in Chicago with kids, helping you plan an unforgettable family adventure in this beautiful city. Chicago has it all, whether you want to pique your child’s curiosity, let them run around in lovely parks, or enjoy the area’s delicious treats. This guide will assist you in navigating the city’s attractions to provide your kids with a special experience that will leave them with priceless memories and a sense of wonder. Our goal is to show you the best of what this city has to offer and make your visit stress-free.

Google Review – “Can’t express how great this zoo is, and the fact that it is free is amazing. What a gem. Right in the middle of several amazing parks. The grounds are really set up well, the animal enclosures are fantastic, and it’s a beautiful garden. If you are ever in the area it is completely worth the visit.” – Michael Penton

If you are planning a trip to Chicago with your family, you must visit the 360 Chicago Observatory, which is located in the famous John Hancock Building in Chicago. This attraction provides awe-inspiring, 360-degree views of the city’s magnificent skyline and Lake Michigan. Children will be mesmerized as they peer out of massive windows, taking in the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets below. What makes it even more thrilling is the Tilt experience, where visitors are gently tilted outward for a heart-pounding view over the city.

The observatory provides interesting educational possibilities in addition to its stunning views. To teach children about Chicago’s history, architecture, and cultural diversity, interactive displays are available. It combines learning with enjoyment, so parents and kids can both enjoy it. Additionally, it’s simple to fit a visit to the observatory into a day of seeing other top Chicago sites because of its accessible location on Michigan Avenue. The 360 Chicago Observatory promises an unforgettable family adventure with a bird’s-eye view of Chicago City. Whether you’re watching the city light up during a mesmerizing sunset or sipping on a delicious beverage at the best café, your kids will be thrilled by the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets below.

Google Review- “This place has great customer service. You have the option to get your picture taken before going up. And if your doing the tilt and view they also take pictures. Great views all around and great place to visit even with children.”– Taha Altareb

A visit to Millennium Park in Chicago promises a day of endless fun and excitement for families with kids. Start by admiring the iconic “Bean” sculpture, where kids can enjoy playful photo ops with their reflections. Nearby, the Crown Fountain offers a unique interactive experience as children cool off in the shallow pool beneath the spouting water screens.

Additionally, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll in the lovely Lurie Garden, which is like a calm oasis in a busy city. Don’t forget to check out the fun family events at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, especially in the summertime when they have concerts and outdoor movies. If you’re in the mood for some active play, head over to Maggie Daley Park, where there’s a huge playground, ice skating in the winter, and even a nice spot for a picnic surrounded by green trees. Millennium Park is an exciting place where you can discover cool art and enjoy outdoor concerts. And if you want to cool off, there are fountains to splash around in. It’s a fantastic spot for a family outing if you are planning a getaway with your kids.

Google Review- “A truly great space that is clean, safe, huge, lots of nearby parking, lots of things to do.  A must see for any tourist.  I did wish that the different zones of the park had better connections to each other, plus the Bean was fenced off.” – Scott Payette

The Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) in Chicago is a must-visit for families with kids. This immersive and interactive museum offers an exciting blend of education and entertainment. Kids can engage with hands-on exhibits that cover everything from transportation and technology to the wonders of nature and space exploration. It’s a place where young scientists can unleash their curiosity and explore the world of science in a fun and engaging way. One of the highlights is the Transportation Gallery, where children can step inside real aeroplanes, locomotives, and submarines.

The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is an awesome place with loads of cool stuff to see. You can check out a scale model train and a German submarine from World War II, which is pretty amazing. Kids especially enjoy seeing the first-ever diesel-powered passenger train. Some exhibits make science come to life, like Science Storms, where you can experience things like tornadoes and earthquakes. Plus, you can explore topics like microbiology and genetics. Overall, it is a fantastic place for kids to learn and have fun.

Google Review- “Absolutely a must see! Buy your tickets through Chicago City Pass, it’s economical and allows you to cut the regular line.This is the museum for all ages. The exhibits are well organized and cleverly presented. They pull you in and keep your attention. People of all ages will enjoy the museum. I highly recommend the mining attraction for parents with older kids. Bring your lunch with you they have seating in the basement for families. Vending machines are also available.”– Marcus Shukes

Navy Pier is an absolute delight for families visiting Chicago with kids. This iconic destination offers a wide array of exciting activities and attractions that will keep children of all ages entertained. First and foremost, the gigantic Ferris wheel at Navy Pier is a highlight. It provides breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan, making it a thrilling experience for kids and adults alike. Inside the pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum offers hands-on learning and creative play, allowing kids to explore, build, and imagine to their heart’s content.

Navy Pier also offers boat trips, including educational and entertaining choices such as architectural tours and pirate-themed adventures. A carnival with rides and games adds to the fun during the summer. There’s also an Imax Theater for individuals who want big-screen movie experiences, as well as a choice of food and shopping alternatives. During the summer months, the pier frequently hosts live entertainment, street performers, and spectacular fireworks displays, making it an all-around wonderful destination for families looking for a fun day out in Chicago with their kids.

Google Review- “This is a must when in Chicago. Beautiful view and a lot ot activities for kids and adults. Several restaurants to try. A indoor market with souvenirs and more restaurants. There is an small amusement park on top where the Ferris Wheel is located, you have to try it, it gives you 3 rounds and the view from above is fantastic! 100% recommended!” – Lucy Yep.

The Shedd Aquarium is an aquatic wonderland in Chicago that’s perfect for families with kids. This world-class attraction offers an exciting blend of entertainment and education. At the Shedd Aquarium, you get to see more than 1,500 different kinds of animals, including birds, insects, fish, snakes, and even marine creatures. There are some super cool permanent exhibits like the Caribbean Reef, Waters of the World, Amazon Rising, Abbott Oceanarium, and Wild Reef. And guess what? You can watch exciting 4D movies and a fantastic aquatic performance called One World.

But the most awesome exhibit right now is called Underwater Beauty, where you can see some of the most stunning marine life. A must-see at the best aquarium is the Wild Reef, where kids can explore a colorful coral reef full of amazing fish. There are also dolphin shows that kids absolutely love. Shedd Aquarium is an ideal place where you can have a great time with your family while learning about the incredible world under the sea, making it a must-visit spot when planning a trip with your kids.

Google Review- “Fantastic experience! There are lots of interactive exhibits enjoyable for any age group. They have a very large assortment of aquatic life and we were very pleased to see that their enclosures were well suited and maintained. Exploring the entire place took about 3 hours to see everything. Definitely recommend the sturgeon and stingray touch pools! ” –  AnaCecilia Lezama

Located in Chicago, the Botanic Garden is a beautiful oasis that offers families with children a perfect combination of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and entertainment. The destination boasts a variety of gardens, each exhibiting distinctive plants and flowers from different parts of the globe. Children can engage in an exciting botanical expedition as they explore stunning flower exhibits, serene Japanese gardens, and verdant landscapes. The Butterfly Garden is another charming attraction that enables kids to witness colorful butterflies fluttering through the air, adding a magical touch to their adventure.

And if you’re bringing your little explorers, there’s a special place just for them called the Children’s Garden. It’s like a paradise of fun where kids can splash around in fountains, climb on sculptures, and even do some gardening. Train lovers will be fascinated by the Model Railroad Garden, where tiny trains chug through miniature landscapes. The garden also offers educational stuff, seasonal events, and tram tours to help kids have a great time while learning about nature. Plus, there are picnic spots and chances to spot wildlife, making the Chicago Botanic Garden a peaceful and educational spot for families looking to have a fantastic day surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Google Review – “The Chicago botanical garden is an absolute marvel of nature’s beauty. The meticulously curated collection of plants and flowers creates a breathtaking display. Walking through the garden feels like stepping into a magical oasis. Best part of the place was the Japanese Garden. A must-visit for nature lovers and anyone seeking tranquility amidst stunning surroundings. Purchase a reservation & parking ahead of time in order to get in quicker.”– Natalia

The Chicago Children’s Museum is a super fun place for families with kids in Chicago. It’s all about playing and learning by doing cool stuff. Kids can touch, build, and explore in different areas, like building with blocks, sailing model boats, and even pretending to be archaeologists digging for dinosaur bones. There’s also a pretend forest to explore.

They have a special place called the Tinkering Lab where kids can be inventors and create cool stuff. And there’s an Art Studio where you can paint and make sculptures. The Waterways area is all about splashing around, and at the Play Café, you can have fun while eating. They even have a space for little babies to play safely. Plus, they do lots of fun events and have changing exhibits, so every visit is a new adventure. The Chicago Children’s Museum is all about kids having an exciting time while learning, so it’s a top spot for families looking for an awesome day out in Chicago!

Google Review- “First I have read all the reviews and was curious to go. Some people said it’s boring for elders to play.. my 11 years old son loved it. Many things to do, and nice area to walk around, many places to have nice lunch. Definitely must go!💝 also don’t forget to ask museum representatives to validate your parking, 10% off “– Meri K

Chicago is a fantastic city for families with kids, offering a wide range of activities that combine learning and fun. From interactive museums where kids can get hands-on with science and art to beautiful parks and gardens that provide a peaceful escape into nature, Chicago has something for everyone. You can enjoy breathtaking views, explore aquatic wonders, and discover the joys of hands-on play. The city’s family-friendly atmosphere, special events, and diverse attractions ensure that children and their parents can create lasting memories and enjoy quality time together in the vibrant heart of Chicago.