Kids Activities in Chicago: 26 Exciting Things to Fill Your Itinerary

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People stand in a glass observation area at the Chicago Skydeck looking out onto the city below. — Photo Courtesy: Choose Chicago

When it comes to finding the best kids activities in Chicago, there’s no shortage of options! In fact, the Windy City offers endless possibilities for entertaining kids of all ages. With world-class museums, thrilling attractions, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder Chicago is a top destination for families. And with so many delicious restaurants to choose from, even the pickiest eaters will be happy! When planning a family trip to Chicago, this list of fun and exciting activities for toddlers and young kids has you covered with tons of suggestions to add to your itinerary. We’ve also included recommendations for where to stay and where to eat in Chicago for families. Keep reading to plan your Chicago family vacation with toddlers and young kids!

Fun Things to Do in Chicago with Toddlers + Young Kids

If you’re looking for fun and exciting activities in Chicago for toddlers and young kids, you’ve come to the right place! From kid-friendly museums and zoos to playgrounds and parks, there’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained. Keep reading to learn more about family things to do in Chicago with kids!

Shedd Aquarium

If you and your family are looking for an exciting and educational day out, then a trip to the Shedd Aquarium is a must! As one of the best things to do in Chicago with toddlers and young kids, this historic Chicago destination is home to more than 30,000 animals and a selection of permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Visit The Caribbean Reef, home to green turtles, stingrays, bonnethead sharks, and more. Add the daily diving sessions to your schedule as well, and your kids can watch the aquarium staff interact with the impressive animals! While at the aquarium, take a walking tour of the rainforest through Amazon Rising to see catfish, piranhas, and stingrays. Children can also enjoy some playtime in the Polar Play Zone, wearing penguin suits and exploring the North and South Poles.

Adler Planetarium

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Chicago with kids, make sure to visit the Adler Planetarium. This world-renowned facility is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and it’s perfect for a family outing. With interactive exhibits and plenty of hands-on activities, your kids will be sure to have a blast while learning about our solar system and beyond.

Kids can learn about the solar system and Chicago’s night sky, peek through a telescope, or look inside a real spaceship! There are also plenty of interactive exhibits about space travel and astronomy, and a special area for kids between 3 and 8. Plus, the planetarium’s prime location on the shores of Lake Michigan makes it an ideal spot for a day of exploring all that Chicago has to offer.

Planning a trip away from the city? Check out these 10 Weekend Getaways Near Chicago Families Will Love!

Chicago Children’s Theater

If you’re looking for something fun and educational to do with your kids in Chicago, be sure to check out the Children’s Theater. It’s one of the best things to do in the city with children, as they offer a variety of shows that are perfect for all ages. From musicals to comedies, the shows are always high-quality and entertaining, making them a great option for a family outing.

Right now, families can check out The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, which brings the classic story to life through music and dancing. Plus, as one of the best family things to do in Chicago, there are often special family events and activities at the theater, so there’s always something new to check out!

Skydeck Chicago

A young African American boy uses a view finder to look out on the Chicago skyline from the Skydeck. — Photo Courtesy: Choose Chicago

Skydeck Chicago is definitely a must-do for any family visiting Chicago! With its spectacular views of the cityscape, this observation deck and tourist attraction allow families to travel up the tallest building in the city. In fact, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Windy City!

A basic admission ticket gives you access to the Skydeck, The Ledge, and various glass floor balconies. From up there, you can see some of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks, like the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center. And on a clear day, you can even see all the way out to Lake Michigan! Best of all, kids 3 to 11 get a discount on admission, and 3 and under can enter for free (making this one of the free things to do in Chicago with toddlers)!

Looking to go to multiple Chicago Attractions? Save money with CityPass Chicago here!

Cheer on a Local Sports Team

A family of three stands in front of the iconic Wrigley Field sign, one of the best kids activities in Chicago. — Photo Courtesy: Megan Tucker

A fun trip to Chicago would be incomplete without experiencing a baseball game! (Chicagoans take their sports teams and loyalties a little seriously, in fact!) There’s nothing quite like experiencing the energy and excitement of a live game, and it’s a great way to bond with your family or friends. Because the city has teams in all the major sports, you can catch a game no matter the season.

Of course, the city’s greatest divide is with baseball. Generally, locals are north or south-siders, meaning they are Chicago Cubs or Chicago White Sox fans. Whichever team you go watch, you’ll find a memorable local experience and historic baseball parks. Then there’s the Chicago Bears for football fans. If you’re in town for basketball season, catch a Chicago Bulls game and see the team that made Michael Jordan a universally known figure. Of course, for hockey season, there’s the Chicago Blackhawks, and soccer lovers will enjoy watching a Chicago Fire match.

Go Shopping

A young girl looks at a large case of American Girl dolls, while shopping at American Girl Place in Chicago. — Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

A young girl looks at a doll in a case at the American Girl Place, one of the best kids activities in Chicago. — Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Chicago offers so many fun places for kids and is also a perfect shopping destination! Many families easily spend half a day wandering through the stores along The Magnificent Mile. This famed stretch of Michigan Avenue is home to some of the city’s best shops, from high-end department stores to luxury boutiques. And whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends or unique gifts, you’ll find something special here! When you’re browsing with young kids, you may find certain stores to be of interest, like the American Girl Store.

While in the area, you can also thrill your kids with a carriage ride downtown.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago

There’s no shortage of amazing things to do with kids in Chicago, but visiting LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a must if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience. From the minute you step into the massive indoor playground, your kids will be transfixed by the endless possibilities for fun! With plenty of hands-on activities and opportunities to build and play with LEGO bricks, it’s easy to see why this is one of the best activities for kids in Chicago.

Even if your kids are already big fans of LEGO, they’ll still be amazed by all that LEGOLAND offers. There are rides, 4D movies, and an incredible array of interactive exhibits to explore. Kids will love feeling like they’re taking flight on the Merlin’s Apprentice ride, for example! And if they get tired of all the excitement, there’s even a chill-out zone where they can relax and take a break.

Outdoor Things to Do with Toddlers and Young Kids in Chicago

A Chicago family vacation isn’t complete without adding some of the best outdoor things to do in Chicago with kids to your itinerary. From beautiful gardens to large parks, Chicago has a surprising array of beautiful green spaces for families to enjoy.

Chicago Botanic Garden

Chicago Botanic Garden is one of the best things to do with kids in Chicago, especially if you love the outdoors! Located on the city’s northwest side, the garden features over 27 acres of beautiful plants and flowers, as well as a variety of interactive exhibits. Kids will love learning about different plant species and exploring all the different colors and shapes. Depending on your visit, you can also take advantage of seasonal displays, like the Orchid Show or the Daffodil Show.

Plus, there are a ton of family-friendly, educational workshops that families can enroll in. Budding artists can even enroll in an art class to help channel their creativity!

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of the best attractions in Chicago for families! Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, this kid-friendly destination welcomes visitors with shops, restaurants, and of course, the Children’s Museum. Once you’ve visited the museum, you can stroll by the pier on a nice sunny day and enjoy the view.

Kids will love the Centennial Wheel (a giant Ferris wheel), carousel, and countless other games they can play, like the Funhouse Maze. The Navy Pier is also a jumping-off point for other ways to explore Chicago with kids, whether you want to rent Divvy Bikes, see the city from a new perspective on a boat tour, or even hang out and play at a Chicago beach.

Purchase the Go City Chicago pass here for discounted admission to Chicago attractions!

Millennium Park

A dad crouches with his toddler son in front of "the Bean", one of the best kids activities in Chicago. — Photo Courtesy (L-R): Tina Maree, Antonia Grant, Antonia Grant

If you’re looking for some of the best things to do in Chicago with kids, visiting Millennium Park should definitely be on your list! This world-famous park has many kid-friendly attractions, including one of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks, The Cloud Gate, aka “The Bean.” It was designed to reflect the city’s skyline in its stainless steel plates. For sure, this is a must-do photo opportunity for your family! Families can also get great shots in front of the Crown Fountain or by walking across the Frank Gehry-designed bridge.

In the winter, the park even boasts an ice skating rink! Plus, it’s right in the heart of The Loop, making the park a perfect place to let kids run around in between seeing nearby sites, like The Art Institute.

Maggie Daley Park

If you’re looking for something fun to do with the kids in Chicago, look no further than Maggie Daley Park! This world-class park has everything your family needs for a day of adventure, including an expansive playground, a giant climbing wall, and plenty of open space to explore. Kids will also love exploring the park’s Play Garden, where they can channel their creativity and make new friends. Certainly, those seeking toddler activities in Chicago will find a lot to do!

Other activities include a mini-golf course where families can play a round or two. Also, in the winter, this kid-friendly park has an ice-skating ribbon which is a magical place to skate with the city and lake as a backdrop.

Grant Park

When it comes to kid-friendly things to do in Chicago, a visit to Grant Park is a must! With plenty of shady trees, open fields, and playgrounds, it’s a great spot to spend a day outdoors. There are also free concerts and events held in the park throughout the summer, so you can always find something new to do.

The best part about Grant Park is that it’s centrally located in the Business District, so you can easily get there no matter where you’re staying in the city. There are also several museums located within the park, like the Art Institute of Chicago, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring with the family. And if you’re looking for some great photo ops, be sure to check out Buckingham Fountain!

Brookfield Zoo

Families looking for the best animal encounters in Illinois for kids will love the Brookfield Zoo! Located west of downtown Chicago, it features more than 450 species of animals spread across a sprawling park. Here, kids will have the chance to spot penguins, bears, wolves, and so much more!

Plus, there are also ticketed experiences, like the dolphin show. Kids who dream of becoming zookeepers or veterinarians can try the Hamill Family Play Zoo, where they’ll learn all about the zoo’s resident animals. Remember to also check out the 3D Theater, the Carousel, Hamill Family Wild Encounters, and the Motor Safari. Since the Brookfield Zoo is open year-round and has indoor exhibits, it’s also an excellent winter destination.

Discover Chicago on a Hop-on, Hop-off Big Bus Tour!

Lincoln Park Zoo

One of the best free things to do in Chicago with kids is to visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, among the oldest zoos in the United States. Located in downtown Chicago, it’s near all the best restaurants, shopping destinations, and other attractions in Lincoln Park. Families could easily spend two to three hours seeing the animals.

Check out the Helen Brach Primate House, then continue to the new polar bear exhibit, the camels, and the lions. If you’d like interactive experiences, Lincoln Park Zoo offers a Malott Family Penguin Encounter to get up close with the adorable creatures. When kids want to feed goats, chickens, or ponies, head to Farm-in-the-Zoo! Undoubtedly, this zoo offers some of the best toddler activities in Chicago!

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is one of the best places to take kids in Chicago! From exploring the exhibits and learning about different animals and ecosystems to participating in hands-on activities and crafts, little ones will definitely stay busy (and entertained) here. There are hands-on activities for kids of all ages, including a chance to feed live butterflies in the museum’s garden, build a nest for birds, and explore a replica of a Chicago River ecosystem.

Plus, for kids seven and under, the museum also boasts a special play center where they can climb, crawl, and more. The museum also offers regular programs and events, such as nature-themed story times, Junior Ranger activities, and family scavenger hunts.

The Chicago Riverwalk

People meander the Riverwalk along the Chicago River on a sunny day. — Photo Courtesy: Choose Chicago

When it comes to finding the best kid-friendly activities in Chicago, the Riverwalk is definitely top of the list! This incredible pedestrian pathway stretches along the south bank of the Chicago River, offering breathtaking views of the skyline, access to some of the city’s best museums and attractions, and plenty of opportunities for fun and play.

In fact, there are tons of free things to do in Chicago with kids along the Riverwalk, from playing in one of the many parks and playgrounds to appreciating the architecture. Families can also take a boat ride or rent a paddleboard to explore. When you’ve worked up an appetite, stop at one of the many restaurants along the Riverwalk for a bite to eat with great views!

Morton Arboretum

Families who want a break from the hustle and bustle of Chicago can make a trip to the suburbs to visit Morton Arboretum. Less than an hour from downtown, it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Illinois for families!

Stroll peacefully through curated gardens to see colorful flora and fauna, take the park’s Acorn Express tram tour, and explore sixteen miles of trails for a scenic view. Plus, there’s also a Children’s Garden, where little ones can climb giant acorns, slide down “tree roots,” and splash through hidden streams.

Once you’re hungry, the park has you covered with the on-site Ginkgo Restaurant. There are also various special events throughout the year, like the Illumination Holiday Light display.

Planning an extended trip to Illinois with kids? Check out the Best Places To Visit In Northern Illinois For Families!

Six Flags Great America

There is no shortage of things to do in Chicago with kids, but one of the best is undoubtedly a day trip to Six Flags Great America! Located in Gurnee in northern Illinois, around two hours from Chicago, this classic amusement park guarantees a fun-filled day for the entire family.

Little kids have their pick of small but mighty rides, including the Little Dipper or Krazy Kups. Plus, you can visit the Splish Splash Zone when the weather is warm! Older kids can tackle the thrilling Dare Devil Drive, Giant Drop, or the Raging Bull. Together, families can challenge one another with water guns at the Buccaneer Battle! Aside from rides, Six Flags Great America also offers families live performances. On-site restaurants and cafes are perfect for grabbing a bite to eat.

Best Chicago Museums for Kids and Toddlers

Looking for something fun and educational to do with the kids in Chicago? Why not visit one of the city’s many great museums? From hands-on science exhibits to art galleries and history museums, these are certainly some of the best activities for kids in Chicago. Here are some suggestions!

Chicago is also among the Best U.S. Cities For A Memorial Day Weekend Getaway With Kids!

Museum of Science and Industry

Impress your whole family with a trip to the Museum of Science and Industry! Located on the south side of Chicago, this large museum has a ton of exhibits to interest families, whether you’re interested in science, history, or mathematics. Explore a World War II German submarine, journey to the inside of a coal mine, or mesmerize kids by stepping into a simulated tornado! Children under the age of ten can also visit the Idea Factory, a hands-on science lab for young visitors. Before you leave, don’t hesitate to see a film at the Giant Dome Theater, a domed five-story, wrap-around theater. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best things to do in Chicago for families!

Field Museum

Dinosaur lovers flock to the Field Museum in Chicago, one of the biggest dinosaur museums in the world! This natural history museum showcases a variety of dinosaur-related permanent and timed exhibits, as well as other species. Don’t forget to say hi to Maximo, the Titanosaur, and SUE, a 40-foot-long T-Rex!

Kids can get to know animals from around the world as they stroll through the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet, featuring a variety of fossils, animated videos, and other interactive displays. Other exhibits include the Hall of Birds, a look inside ancient Egypt, and the Grainger Hall of Gems. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best Chicago museums for kids.

Note: Every Wednesday in the winter, the museum also offers free admission to Illinois residents.

Chicago History Museum

There’s no better place to learn about the history of Chicago than the Chicago History Museum. From the city’s beginnings as a small trading post to its transformation into a global metropolis, the museum tells the story of Chicago and its people in an engaging and exciting way. Located in Lincoln Park, the museum is also a great place to take kids, with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs that will keep them entertained and engaged.

Right now, there’s an exhibit exploring the summer of 1871, when Chicago experienced an unprecedented heat wave and lots of fires. There are also permanent exhibits exploring different aspects of Chicago’s history, like its transportation history. Kids will love climbing aboard a vintage railway car or inside the window of a classic department store display!

Lincoln Park Conservatory

There is no shortage of family-friendly fun to be had in Chicago, but if you’re looking for the best kids activities in the city, look no further than the Lincoln Park Conservatory. This world-class conservatory is home to a wide variety of plant life, as well as several interactive exhibits and programs that are perfect for kids of all ages. From educational programs to hands-on opportunities to simply exploring the beautiful gardens, there’s plenty for them to see and do, and they’re sure to love it. Be sure to check out the four different display rooms – Palm House, Fern Room, Orchid House, and Show House. And best of all, admission is free!

Garfield Park Conservatory

Garfield Park Conservatory is one of Chicago’s best-kept secrets! Not to mention, one of the best free things to do in Chicago with kids. From the captivating plant displays to the hands-on educational programs, this hidden gem is a must-see for anyone visiting the city with kids. It’s a great place to learn about plant life and ecology, and it’s also just a beautiful place to explore. The conservatory has several different gardens, each with its own unique plants and flowers. Kids will especially love strolling through the outdoor gardens on a sunny day. There are also ponds and streams, which are home to fish, turtles, and other creatures. No wonder this is one of the most popular fun places for kids in Chicago!

Chicago Cultural Center

Chicago Cultural Center is the perfect place to take your kids for a day of exploring and learning! From concerts and performances to workshops and classes, there is always something going on here. On-site exhibitions provide visitors with a look at different aspects of Chicago’s history and even some art and culture. Meanwhile, there’s also an on-site Learning Lab, where kids of all ages can explore through sound, touch, smell, etc.

Kid-friendly events range from live music to dance, theater performances, and more. And best of all, many of the events are free or have a nominal fee. If you get hungry, there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat nearby too. Certainly, this is a great option when looking for things to do in Chicago for kids!

Chicago Children’s Museum

The Chicago Children’s Museum is one of the best museums in Chicago for kids! Located on the Navy Pier, this interactive destination features a variety of hands-on exhibits to get kids thinking, from math to science and arts and crafts. In general, we recommend this museum for kids between four and eight years old.

Journey through the forest at Treehouse Trails, learn something new at the Tinkering Lab, or dig for dinosaur bones at Dinosaur Expedition with hammers, saws, and other tools! With special areas for younger kids, even toddlers will have fun. Plus, there’s plenty of entertainment to enjoy before and after your visit. No wonder it’s one of the best places to visit in Illinois for families.

Bronzeville Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity for your toddlers and young kids, be sure to check out the Bronzeville Children’s Museum in Chicago. With interactive exhibits on African American history and culture, the museum is a great way to educate your children about different cultures and history. The museum also offers a variety of other activities, such as arts and crafts, storytime, and music.

Kids can learn all about eating healthily, try their hand at being a veterinarian, or even check out the S.T.E.M. Center, where they can learn about African American inventors such as Lewis H. Latimer. Plus, it’s located in the heart of Chicago’s historic Bronzeville neighborhood, so you can explore all this vibrant community offers after you visit the museum. With so much to offer, no wonder this is one of the top kids activities in Chicago.

Where to Eat in Chicago with Kids

A young boy and his mom smile while enjoying deep dish pizza in Chicago. — Photo Courtesy: Megan Tucker

If you’re looking for the best kids activities in Chicago, look no further than the Windy City’s many great restaurants. From pizza places to hot dog stands, there’s something to please every palate! Of course, don’t miss the chance to try Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. We recommend famous pizza joints like Giordanos, Gino’s East, and Lou Malnati’s. If you’d rather go for a different option, Chicago residents also love their Italian beef. Two favorite restaurants are Portillo’s and Johnny’s Beef.

Don’t forget about Garrett’s Popcorn Shop – get in line and order the cheddar and caramel mix! Another perfect pit-stop with kids is JoJo’s Shake Bar for over-the-top shakes! Then for a truly magical experience for your kids, get tickets and head to the suburbs for an evening at the kid-friendly Medieval Times dinner show.

Where to Stay in Chicago with Kids

A young girl plays in a cozy, pink in-room tent at The Langham, Chicago. — Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

Families traveling to Chicago searching for kids activities will find an array of kid-friendly options in town! The Four Seasons Hotel Chicago offers luxury accommodations in the middle of all the action, as well as stunning lake and skyline views in the center of the Magnificent Mile. Another option families love along the Magnificent Mile is InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, which has been a staple since 1929 and beautifully combines its vibrant history with contemporary style.

Then, showcasing stunning views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, Swissôtel Chicago offers European-inspired elegance in large rooms and suites, ideal for families. For more suggestions, check out our list of the Best Family Hotels in Chicago!

Click here to Stay at The Langham, Chicago, for an Exciting Chicago Vacation with Kids!

Use Our Interactive Map to Explore More Hotels in Chicago with Kids

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Check out this interactive map of hotels in Chicago for families to plan your next stay in the city with kids! Regardless of where you choose to stay, we know your trip will be filled with fun activities in Chicago with kids!

Happy Travels!

A young boy stands in front of a mural of a butterfly at the Brookfield Zoo, one of the best kids activities in Chicago. — Photo Courtesy: Carly Frederick, Antonia Grant, Amanda Donnelly

A young girl and her mom ride in the Centennial Wheel together, while visiting Chicago. — Photo Courtesy: Carly Frederick, Antonia Grant, Amanda Donnelly

We hope you found this list of 26 Fun and Exciting Activities For Toddlers + Young Kids To Fill Your Chicago Family Vacation helpful in planning your own trip. From kid-friendly museums to amazing outdoor spaces and great food across the city, Chicago is truly a family-friendly paradise with lots of activities for the whole family. We hope you found plenty of fun kid’s activities in Chicago to fill your itinerary. Enjoy your Chicago family vacation!

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision.

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.