Chicago Trips With Kids: Top Family-Friendly Activities In The Windy City

Chicago is a city that has something for everyone, including families with children. There are countless activities and attractions that are perfect for kids, making it an ideal destination for a family trip. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, Chicago has it all.

One of the best things about Chicago is the abundance of kid-friendly attractions. For example, Millennium Park is a popular destination for families, where kids can splash around in Crown Fountain's shallow pool and enjoy a self-guided scavenger hunt through Lurie Garden. The Chicago Riverwalk is another great spot for families, with restaurants, gardens, fountains, statues, boat tours, and more. And let's not forget about the city's famous deep-dish pizza, which is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, there are plenty of things to do in Chicago with kids. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. However, with a little research and planning, you can ensure that your family has a memorable and enjoyable trip to the Windy City.

 

Top Attractions

Chicago is an amazing city to explore with kids, offering a wide range of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Here are some of the top attractions that you should definitely check out on your trip to Chicago with kids.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a must-visit attraction for families visiting Chicago. This popular destination offers a wide range of activities, rides, dining options, and events throughout the year. In the summer, you can enjoy fireworks, live music, shows, and even go for a cruise on the lake. Kids will love the Ferris wheel and other rides, while parents can enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline.

Zoo

The Chicago Zoo is a great place to take kids for a fun and educational experience. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and many more. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and animal encounters, while parents can enjoy the beautiful scenery and educational opportunities.

Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is another must-visit attraction for families visiting Chicago. This world-class aquarium is home to over 32,000 animals, including dolphins, whales, sharks, and more. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, while parents can enjoy the stunning marine life and educational opportunities.

Adler Planetarium

The Adler Planetarium is a great place to take kids who are interested in space and astronomy. This museum offers a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays that explore the wonders of the universe. Kids can learn about the planets, stars, and galaxies, and even take a virtual trip to outer space.

Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is a great place to take kids who are interested in art and culture. This world-famous museum is home to an incredible collection of art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Kids can explore the galleries and learn about different art styles and techniques.

The Field Museum

The Field Museum is a great place to take kids who are interested in science and history. This museum is home to a wide range of exhibits and artifacts that explore the natural world and human culture. Kids can learn about dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and much more.

Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is another great place to take kids who are interested in science and technology. This museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that explore the wonders of science and technology. Kids can learn about robots, space travel, and much more.

Legoland Discovery Center

The Legoland Discovery Center is a great place to take kids who love Legos. This indoor attraction offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities that allow kids to build and play with Legos. Kids can explore the Lego Ninjago City Adventure, build their own Lego creations, and much more.

Chicago Sports Museum

The Chicago Sports Museum is a great place to take kids who love sports. This museum is home to a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays that explore the history of Chicago sports. Kids can learn about famous athletes, participate in sports challenges, and much more.

American Writers Museum

The American Writers Museum is a great place to take kids who love literature and writing. This museum offers a wide range of exhibits and interactive displays that explore the works of American writers, including Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, and many more. Kids can learn about different writing styles and techniques, and even try their hand at writing their own stories.

Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum is a great place to take kids who are interested in history. This museum offers a wide range of exhibits and artifacts that explore the history of Chicago and its people. Kids can learn about the Great Chicago Fire, the World's Fair, and much more.

Sloomoo Institute

The Sloomoo Institute is a great place to take kids who love slime. This interactive attraction offers a wide range of slime-related exhibits and activities, including a slime pit, a DIY slime bar, and much more. Kids can learn about the science of slime and create their own slime creations.

Museum of Ice Cream

The Museum of Ice Cream is a great place to take kids who love ice cream. This interactive attraction offers a wide range of ice cream-related exhibits and activities, including a sprinkle pool, a banana split room, and much more. Kids can learn about the history of ice cream and enjoy some sweet treats.

Chicago Architecture Foundation

The Chicago Architecture Foundation is a great place to take kids who are interested in architecture and design. This museum offers a wide range of exhibits and tours that explore the history and architecture of Chicago. Kids can learn about famous buildings, take an architecture boat tour, and much more.

Parks and Nature

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is one of Chicago's largest parks, spanning over 1,200 acres. It offers a variety of activities for kids, including a zoo, conservatory, and plenty of playgrounds. The Lincoln Park Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. The conservatory features exotic plants from around the world, and the playgrounds are perfect for kids to burn off some energy.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a must-visit for families visiting Chicago. The park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," which kids will love to climb on and take pictures with. The park also features a large outdoor concert venue, a skating rink in the winter, and plenty of green space to run around.

Maggie Daley Park

Maggie Daley Park is located next to Millennium Park and offers even more fun for kids. The park features a large playground with a variety of unique structures to climb and play on, as well as a skating ribbon in the winter. There is also a mini-golf course and a rock climbing wall for older kids.

Grant Park

Grant Park is another large park in Chicago that offers plenty of activities for families. The park is home to the famous Buckingham Fountain, which kids will love to watch as it shoots water high into the air. The park also features a large playground and plenty of green space for picnics and games.

Garfield Park Conservatory

The Garfield Park Conservatory is a great place to take kids who love nature. The conservatory features a variety of plants and flowers from around the world, as well as a children's garden where kids can learn about gardening and nature.

Lake Shore Drive

Lake Shore Drive is a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Michigan. Kids will love to see the beautiful views of the lake and the city skyline. There are also plenty of parks and beaches along the way to stop and explore.

North Avenue Beach

North Avenue Beach is a popular spot for families to spend a day in the sun. The beach features a large playground, volleyball courts, and plenty of space to build sandcastles and swim in the lake.

Buckingham Fountain

Buckingham Fountain is a Chicago landmark and a must-visit for families. The fountain shoots water up to 150 feet in the air and features a light and music show in the evenings.

Lakefront Trail

The Lakefront Trail is a paved path that runs along the shores of Lake Michigan. It's a great place to take a bike ride or a walk with kids, and offers beautiful views of the lake and the city skyline.

The 606

The 606 is a unique park that runs along an old elevated railroad track. The park features a bike and walking path, as well as plenty of green space and playgrounds. Kids will love the unique views of the city and the chance to explore a park built on a railroad track.

Chicago's parks and nature areas offer plenty of opportunities for families to explore and have fun. From large parks with playgrounds and beaches to unique nature conservatories and bike paths, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Architectural Wonders

Chicago is known for its stunning architecture, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore it with kids. Here are some of the top architectural wonders to check out in the city:

Willis Tower

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower is a must-see for anyone visiting Chicago. This 110-story skyscraper is one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere, and it offers incredible views of the city from its observation deck. Kids will love looking out over the Chicago skyline and spotting all the landmarks they've visited.

360 Chicago

Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center, 360 Chicago offers another incredible view of the city. The observation deck features floor-to-ceiling windows and an interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about Chicago's history and architecture. For an extra thrill, kids (and adults) can try TILT, a glass-enclosed platform that tilts out over the edge of the building.

John Hancock Center

Besides the 360 Chicago observation deck, the John Hancock Center is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Kids will love the Lego Store and the Hershey's Chocolate World, while adults can enjoy a drink at the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor.

Cloud Gate

Also known as "The Bean," Cloud Gate is a public sculpture located in Millennium Park. This massive, reflective structure is a popular spot for photos and offers unique views of the city skyline. Kids will love seeing their reflections in the mirrored surface and exploring the park's other attractions, like the Crown Fountain.

Thorne Miniature Rooms

Located in the Art Institute of Chicago, the Thorne Miniature Rooms are a fascinating look at architecture and design on a small scale. These tiny rooms are incredibly detailed and accurate, and they offer a glimpse into different time periods and styles. Kids will love trying to spot all the tiny details and imagining what it would be like to live in each room.

Chicago's architectural wonders offer something for everyone, from towering skyscrapers to intricate miniature rooms. Exploring these landmarks and attractions is a great way to learn about the city's history and design, and it's sure to be a memorable experience for kids and adults alike.

Shopping and Dining

Chicago is a great place to visit with kids, with plenty of options for shopping and dining. From the upscale shops on the Magnificent Mile to the kid-friendly American Girl Place, there's something for everyone.

Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a shopper's paradise, with over 460 stores and restaurants. It's a great place to take kids, with plenty of options for dining and shopping. Some of the top stores include American Girl Place, Lego Store, and Disney Store. There are also plenty of places to eat, including Rainforest Cafe, The Cheesecake Factory, and Hard Rock Cafe.

Water Tower Place

Water Tower Place is a shopping mall located on the Magnificent Mile. It has over 100 stores and restaurants, including Macy's and American Eagle Outfitters. There are also plenty of dining options, including M Burger and Wow Bao. Kids will love the Lego Store and the American Girl Place, which has a cafe and a doll hair salon.

American Girl Place

American Girl Place is a must-visit for families with young girls. It's a store, cafe, and doll salon all in one. Kids can bring their American Girl dolls and have them styled at the salon, or enjoy a meal at the cafe. The store also has a wide range of dolls, clothing, and accessories.

Overall, Chicago has plenty of options for shopping and dining with kids. Whether you're looking for upscale shops on the Magnificent Mile or a kid-friendly experience at American Girl Place, there's something for everyone.

Kid-Friendly Activities

Chicago is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, from biking to kayaking and everything in between. Here are some of the top kid-friendly activities in Chicago.

Biking

Chicago has an extensive network of bike paths and lanes, making it easy and safe to explore the city on two wheels. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride along the Lakefront Trail, which stretches for 18 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan. For a more challenging ride, head to the North Branch Trail, which winds through forest preserves and parks.

Climbing Wall

If your kids have energy to burn, take them to Maggie Daley Park, where they can climb a 40-foot-tall climbing wall. The wall has routes for all skill levels, so everyone can have fun and challenge themselves.

Skating Ribbon

In the winter months, head to the Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park for some outdoor ice skating. The ribbon is a winding path that takes skaters through a winter wonderland of trees and lights.

Kayaking

Take a guided kayak tour of the Chicago River and see the city from a unique perspective. Urban Kayaks offers a variety of tours, including a sunset paddle and a fireworks paddle.

Stand-Up Paddleboard

For a more challenging water adventure, try stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Michigan. Chicago SUP offers lessons and rentals, and the calm waters of the lake are perfect for beginners.

Guided Tours

There are plenty of guided tours in Chicago that are perfect for families. Take a Segway tour of the city, or hop on a trolley for a guided tour of the top sights. The Chicago Architecture Foundation offers family-friendly walking tours that explore the city's fascinating architecture.

Chicago has activities for teens and kids of all ages, making it a great destination for families. With so much to see and do, everyone is sure to have a memorable trip.

Iconic Museums

Chicago is home to some of the most iconic museums in the world. From interactive exhibits to dinosaur expeditions, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular museums in Chicago that are perfect for families with kids.

Chicago Children’s Museum

Located at Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. Children can explore the interactive exhibits, including a giant water playground and a climbing wall. The museum also offers a variety of programs and workshops for kids, including art classes and science experiments.

Field Museum

The Field Museum is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. It is home to over 30 million specimens, including Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever discovered. Kids can explore the museum's many exhibits, including the Dinosaur Hall, the Ancient Egypt exhibit, and the Grainger Hall of Gems. The museum also offers a variety of programs and events for families, including overnight stays and behind-the-scenes tours.

Bronzeville Children’s Museum

The Bronzeville Children’s Museum is a unique museum that focuses on African American history and culture. Kids can explore the museum's many exhibits, including the Underground Railroad exhibit and the Tuskegee Airmen exhibit. The museum also offers a variety of programs and workshops for kids, including art classes and storytelling sessions.

Interactive Museums

Chicago is home to a variety of interactive museums that are perfect for families with kids. The Art Institute of Chicago offers a variety of family-friendly programs and workshops, including art-making activities and family tours. The Lincoln Park Zoo is another great option for families, offering a variety of animal exhibits and programs.

Science Museums

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. Kids can explore the museum's many exhibits, including the U-505 submarine exhibit and the Science Storms exhibit. The museum also offers a variety of programs and events for families, including science experiments and workshops. The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is another great option for families, offering a variety of interactive exhibits and programs focused on nature and the environment.

Overall, Chicago is a great destination for families with kids who love museums and interactive exhibits. With so many options to choose from, there is something for everyone.

Sports and Entertainment

Chicago has a lot to offer in terms of sports and entertainment for families with kids. From catching a game at one of the famous ballparks to enjoying concerts and film screenings, there's always something to do. Here are some of the top sports and entertainment options for families in Chicago.

Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is one of the most iconic ballparks in the country, and it's a must-visit for any sports fan. Located in the heart of the Windy City, this historic stadium is home to the Chicago Cubs. Families can catch a game and enjoy the classic ballpark experience, complete with hot dogs, popcorn, and Cracker Jacks. The stadium also offers tours, so visitors can learn about the history of the Cubs and Wrigley Field.

Guaranteed Rate Field

Guaranteed Rate Field is another famous ballpark in Chicago, and it's home to the Chicago White Sox. Families can catch a game and enjoy the lively atmosphere, with plenty of food, drinks, and entertainment. The stadium also offers tours, so visitors can learn about the history of the White Sox and the stadium.

Concerts

Chicago is a hub for live music, and families can enjoy a variety of concerts throughout the city. From outdoor festivals to indoor venues, there's something for everyone. Some popular venues for family-friendly concerts include the Chicago Theatre, the House of Blues, and the United Center.

Film Screenings

Chicago also has a thriving film scene, with plenty of opportunities for families to catch a movie. The Chicago International Film Festival is a great option for families, with screenings of international films and documentaries. Other popular venues for film screenings include the Music Box Theatre and the Gene Siskel Film Center.

Escape Rooms

Escape rooms are a fun and challenging activity for families, and Chicago has plenty of options to choose from. Some popular escape rooms include Escape Artistry, Fox in a Box, and Room X Escape. Families can work together to solve puzzles and escape from themed rooms, such as a haunted house or a spy mission.

Whether you're a sports fan or a music lover, Chicago has plenty of options for families with kids. From catching a game at Wrigley Field to enjoying a concert or film screening, there's always something to do. Don't forget to explore other attractions in the city, such as the Chicago River and the Riverwalk, for a complete Chicago experience.

Accommodation

Chicago is a popular destination for families with its numerous attractions and activities. When planning a trip with kids, finding suitable accommodation is crucial to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Fortunately, Chicago has a wide range of family-friendly hotels to choose from, catering to different budgets and preferences.

One of the top-rated hotels for families is the Staypineapple, An Iconic Hotel, The Loop. This boutique hotel offers spacious rooms with colorful decor and modern amenities, including a mini-fridge and a Nespresso machine. Kids will love the complimentary pineapple cupcakes and the cute pineapple stuffed toy. The hotel also provides loaner bikes, perfect for exploring the city with the family.

Another excellent option is the Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile, located near many of Chicago's family-friendly attractions such as Navy Pier. The hotel offers spacious two-room suites, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool, making it an ideal choice for families.

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is a top pick. The hotel features a 50-foot indoor pool and whirlpool, as well as plenty of other activities for kids. Children even receive an activity book and toy at check-in, a stuffed animal in their room, and access to a lending library of games and DVDs.

Other family-friendly hotels in Chicago include:

• Loews Chicago Hotel - The Loop: This hotel features a ton of special kid-friendly amenities, including free baby bath amenities, coloring books, crayons, PS3 systems, and kid-friendly iPads on loan, as well as pool toys.
• Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile: This hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the city, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. Kids will love the scavenger hunt activity and the milk and cookies delivered to the room.
• Hyatt Regency Chicago: This hotel boasts a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, and a rooftop sun deck. Families can also enjoy the hotel's arcade games, board games, and movie rentals.

Overall, Chicago has plenty of family-friendly hotels to choose from, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for families of all sizes and ages.

Budget and Planning

Planning a family vacation to Chicago doesn't have to break the bank. With some careful budgeting and planning, you can enjoy all the city has to offer without overspending. Here are some tips to help you plan your budget-friendly trip to Chicago with kids.

Lodging

When it comes to lodging, there are plenty of affordable options in Chicago. Look for hotels that offer free breakfast, as this can save you money on your morning meal. Consider staying in neighborhoods outside of downtown, as they often have lower rates. If you're traveling with a larger group, consider renting an apartment or house through a vacation rental website.

Transportation

Getting around Chicago can be expensive if you're not careful. Consider using public transportation, such as the L train or buses, instead of renting a car. The city also has a bike-sharing program, which can be a fun and affordable way to explore the city.

Food

Eating out can quickly add up, especially if you're dining in popular tourist areas. Look for restaurants that offer kids eat free promotions or have affordable kids' menus. Consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the city's many parks.

Activities

Chicago has plenty of free and low-cost activities for families. Many of the city's museums offer free admission days, so plan your visit accordingly. Take a stroll along the Lakefront Trail or explore Millennium Park. Don't forget to check out the city's many playgrounds and splash pads, which are perfect for younger kids.

By following these budget-friendly tips, you can enjoy a memorable family vacation in Chicago without breaking the bank.

I have never been to Chicago with my family. However, we will definitely have a Chicago trip with the kids within the next few months.