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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.
Animals Encounter At Lincoln Park Zoo
Located in Chicago, Lincoln Park Zoo is an incredible destination where visitors can observe animals from various parts of the world. The zoo features a diverse range of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, penguins, giraffes, and many others in their natural habitats What makes it even more special is the chance for kids to get up close to some friendly farm animals at the petting zoo, where they can interact and feed goats, cows, and pigs, creating unforgettable memories.
Lincoln Park Zoo also provides a wide range of educational activities. Children can take part in educational and entertaining activities like summer camps and thrilling animal encounters where they will learn about the creatures and how we can preserve their habitats. Your visit will be made even more exciting by the zoo’s year-round special activities, which include Halloween celebrations and seasonal light displays. More activities for children include the AT&T endangered species carousel, which features 48 reproductions of endangered animals. Another fun activity for youngsters is the zoo’s train ride, which features a 28-passenger Lionel Train excursion. Overall, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a fantastic place for kids to have a great time, and learn about animals.
| Name | Lincoln Park Zoo |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.lpzoo.org/ |
| Address | Chicago, IL 60614, United States |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/uq9SSoXgCKwAxoeAA |
| Distance from CCC (Chicago City Center) | 8.1 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: Traveling via S DuSable Lk Shr Dr from Chicago City Center will take you to Lincoln
Park Zoo in around 15 minutes. By Bus: To get to Lincoln Park Zoo, take bus lines 151, 22, 36, and 73. By Train: Catch the train line- UP-N, UP-NW |
| Contact Number | +1 312-742-2000 |
| Opening Time |
Monday : 8am–5pm Tuesday : 8am–5pm Wednesday : 8am–5pm Thursday : 8am–5pm Friday : 8am–5pm Saturday : 8am– 7pm Sunday : 8am–7pm |
| Entry Tickets | 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
Stunning City View From 360 Chicago Observatory
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.
| Name | 360 CHICAGO |
|---|---|
| Website | https://360chicago.com/ |
| Address | 875 N Michigan Ave 94th floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ff5JeZ6acnvNhV8d8 |
| Distance from CCC (Chicago City Center) | 3. 2 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: Travel via S Franklin St, W Wacker Dr, and N Michigan Ave from Chicago City Center
to reach 360 CHICAGO, you will be at your destination in around 11 min. By Bus: To reach 360 CHICAGO, you can catch bus lines 146, 147, 148, 151, and 3 By Train: The following train line stops near 360 CHICAGO- ME, UP-N, UP-NW |
| Contact Number | +1 888-875-8439 |
| Opening Time |
Monday : 9am–11pm Tuesday : 9am–11pm Wednesday : 9am–11pm Thursday : 9am–11pm Friday : 9am–11pm Saturday : 9am–11pm Sunday : 9am–11pm |
| Entry Tickets | https://360chicago.com/tickets |
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 Fun Visit In Millennium Park
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.
| Name | Millennium Park |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.chicago.gov/city/en.html |
| Address | 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/efKLkmwybwA61tMr8 |
| Distance from CCC (Chicago City Center) | 1.4 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: It will take you approx. 4 min to reach Millennium Park from Chicago City Center via
W Jackson Blvd. By Bus: The following bus lines stop near Millennium Park- 147, 20, 3, 56 and 6. By Train: To reach Millennium Park you can catch the train line - BNSF, ME, RI, UP-N, UP-NW |
| Contact Number | +1 312-742-1168, 312-744-5000 |
| Opening Time |
Monday : 6am–11pm Tuesday : 6am–11pm Wednesday : 6am–11pm Thursday : 6am–11pm Friday : 6am–11pm Saturday : 6am–11pm Sunday : 6am–11pm |
| Entry Tickets | Free |
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
Explore The Museum Of Science And Industry, Chicago
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.
| Name | Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.msichicago.org/ |
| Address | 5700 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60637, United States |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/q1E8BtCD2zmCuvZL9 |
| Distance from CCC (Chicago City Center) | 12.5 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: To reach the Museum of Science and Industry from Chicago City Center travel via S
DuSable Lk Shr Dr/S Lake Shore Dr/US Hwy 41 N, and you will get there in around 14 min. By Bus: To reach the Museum of Science and Industry you can take the bus lines 2 and 6. |
| Contact Number | +1 773-684-1414 |
| Opening Time |
Monday : 9:30am–4pm Tuesday : 9:30am–4pm Wednesday : 9:30am–4pm Thursday : 9:30am–4pm Friday : 9:30am–4pm Saturday : 9:30am–4pm Sunday : 9:30am–4pm |
| Entry Tickets | https://tickets.msichicago.org/ |
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.
| Name | Navy Pier |
|---|---|
| Website | https://navypier.org/ |
| Address | 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/aaJFTdTL5cVErbTN8 |
| Distance from CCC (Chicago City Center) | 3.6 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: To Reach the Navy Pier from Chicago City Center travel via W Jackson Blvd and S
DuSable Lk Shr Dr, you will reach your destination in 7 min. By Bus: Take bus lines 29, 65, and 66 to reach the Navy Pier from Chicago City Center. By Train: The following train lines stop near Navy Pier ME, UP-N, UP-NW. |
| Contact Number | +1 312-595-7437 |
| Opening Time |
Monday : 11am–8pm Tuesday : 11am–8pm Wednesday : 11am–8pm Thursday : 11am–8pm Friday : 11am–9pm Saturday : 11am–9pm Sunday : 11am–8pm |
| Entry Tickets | https://navypier.org/plan-your-visit/buy-tickets/ |
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.
Discover Aquatic Wonders At Shedd Aquarium
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.
| Name | Shedd Aquarium |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.sheddaquarium.org/ |
| Address | 1200 S DuSable Lk Shr Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, United States |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/xSiXUSX4pDk2S9fZ8 |
| Distance from CCC (Chicago City Center) | 3.4 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: To reach Shedd Aquarium from Chicago City Center go via S Columbus Dr, you will
reach your destination in around 8 min. By Bus: Take bus lines 146 and 6 to reach Shedd Aquarium from Chicago City Center. By Train: To reach Shedd Aquarium you can also catch the respective train lines MD-N, ME, UP-N, UP-NW. |
| Contact Number | +1 312-939-2438 |
| Opening Time |
Monday : 9am–5pm Tuesday : 9am–5pm Wednesday : 9am–5pm Thursday : 9am–5pm Friday : 9am–5pm Saturday : 9am–5pm Sunday : 9am–5pm |
| Entry Tickets | https://www.sheddaquarium.org/purchase_mode_sessions/new |
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
Visit Nature Wonderland, Chicago Botanic Garden
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.
| Name | Chicago Botanic Garden |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.chicagobotanic.org/ |
| Address | 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022, United States |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/YdGyTiT2Sq9No7bR9 |
| Distance from CCC (Chicago City Center) | 38 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: To reach Chicago Botanic Garden from Chicago City Center via I-94 W it will take you around 26 min. By Bus: You can take bus line 22 and line 213 to reach Chicago Botanic Garden. By Train: To reach the Chicago Botanic Garden, you can also catch the train line UP-N. |
| Contact Number | +1 847-835-5440 |
| Opening Time |
Monday : 8am–5pm Tuesday : 8am–5pm Wednesday : 8am–5pm Thursday : 8am–5pm Friday : 8am–5pm Saturday :8am–5pm Sunday : 8am–5pm |
| Entry Tickets | https://www.chicagobotanic.org/admission |
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
Play & Learn At Chicago Children's Museum
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!
| Name | Chicago Children's Museum |
|---|---|
| Website | https://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/ |
| Address | 700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States |
| Directions | https://maps.app.goo.gl/EnSbe3rhVPDUHArTA |
| Distance from CCC (Chicago City Center) | 3.5 km |
| How To Reach |
By Car: Travel via W Jackson Blvd and S DuSable Lk Shr Dr to reach Chicago Children's
Museum, you will reach your destination in around 10 min. By Bus: To reach Chicago Children's Museum you can take the bus line 29 from Chicago City Center. |
| Contact Number | +1 312-527-1000 |
| Opening Time |
Monday : 10am–2pm Tuesday : Closed Wednesday : 10am–2pm Thursday : 10am–2pm Friday : 10am–5pm Saturday :10am–5pm Sunday : 10am–2pm |
| Entry Tickets | https://forgeparks.com/tickets/ |
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
Conclusion
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.
