Known as the Windy City, Chicago offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages, making it the perfect destination for families with kids. From exploring world-class museums and hopping on thrilling amusement park rides to taking in stunning views of Lake Michigan and indulging in delicious deep-dish pizza, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Find your family fun® with our list of 22 recommendations for kid-friendly things to do in Chicago, Illinois.
4 Family-Friendly Places to Stay Overnight in Chicago
The Lincoln Park Zoo ~ Visiting Chicago in the Summer? On select dates throughout the warm-weather season, enjoy a family campout. Stay overnight at the zoo in one of their unique safari tents (or bring your own) and wake up to the sounds of the animals. Guests can enjoy after-hours programming including a campfire and s'mores.
Four Seasons Chicago ~ Walking distance to some of Chicago's most notable tourist attractions, the Four Seasons is a family-friendly hotel to call "home base" during a visit to the Windy City. In addition to a 50-foot indoor pool, the hotel has a Kids' Clubroom that includes video games, foosball, arts and crafts, and a movie area.
Swissotel Chicago ~ Nestled against the Chicago River, Swissotel Chicago treats every child like a VIK (very important kid). The ever-popular Kids Suite is equipped with age-appropriate toys, books, games, and more to make it an unforgettable vacation spot. Plus, the hotel is within a 5-minute walk of two different playgrounds: the Riverwalk Playground and the Elizabeth Benton Playground.
Dozin' with the Dinos at the Field Museum ~ Families and groups with kids (ages 6 to 12) can spend the night at the museum on select dates throughout the year. This exclusive experience gives visitors the opportunity to explore the museum after hours with flashlight tours and specially-curated kid-friendly activities.
7 Indoor Activities for Families in Chicago:
The Chicago Children's Museum ~ Filled with interactive fun, this hands-on learning environment is a great stop for curious kids. Located at the entrance of Chicago's Navy Pier, this museum is perfectly positioned near other family-friendly tourist attractions so you play, explore, and dine with convenience.
Shedd Aquarium ~ Home to over 32,000 animals from 1,500 different species, including fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals, the Shedd Aquarium is designed to showcase the beauty and diversity of aquatic life from around the world. Visitors can experience interactive animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, as well as educational programs throughout the year.
Chicago Museum of Science and Industry ~ The Chicago Museum of Science and Industry boasts 400,000 square feet of interactive experiences for guests of all ages. Explore biology, geology, physics, and so much more in STEM-based exhibits including a giant model of the human heart, a replica of a coal mine, and a full-sized German submarine. As an added experience, check out the five-story, domed movie theater for an immersive film.
Museum of Illusions ~ Filled with mind-bending exhibits that will leave you questioning your perception of reality, the Museum of Illusions is designed to be interactive, so not only will you challenge your senses but you'll get the chance to discover how the illusions work.
WNDR Museum ~ The WNDR Museum is a place where art, science, and technology come together to create an unforgettable adventure. You can touch, smell, hear, and see the exhibits, which range from interactive light shows, virtual reality experiences, and optical illusions to giant ball pits and reflective installations that take you on a journey through different worlds.
Chicago History Museum ~ Located in Lincoln Park, the Chicago History Museum showcases the rich history and culture of the city. Visitors can explore a wide variety of exhibits including the city's role in the Civil War, the rise of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, and the impact of the city's famous architecture on the world. The museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to step back in time and experience life in Chicago during different eras.
Chicago Theatre District ~ Chicago is home to renowned venues such as the Chicago Theatre, the Auditorium Theatre, and the Goodman Theatre, as well as smaller, more intimate spaces like Steppenwolf Theatre and The Second City. From Broadway-style shows to experimental theater, dance performances to live music, Chicago's performing arts scene will inspire visitors of all ages.
5 Outdoor Activities for Families in Chicago:
Navy Pier ~ Navy Pier is a one-stop shop for family-friendly fun. Located on Lake Michigan, this popular tourist destination features a variety of entertainment options (indoor and outdoor!) including restaurants, shops, theaters, and amusement park rides. It is also a hub for boat tours and offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
Millennium Park ~ With a large open lawn for running and playing, a splash pad for cooling off, a playground with climbing structures and swings, and the interactive Crown Fountain, Millennium Park is a great place for kids and adults alike. As an iconic Chicago destination, the park is also host to family-friendly events and concerts throughout the year.
Maggie Daley Park ~ Maggie Daley Park is a sprawling outdoor recreational area located in the heart of downtown Chicago. The park boasts a wide range of amenities including rock climbing walls, a skating ribbon, a playground, and a picnic grove. The park also features stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.
Chicago Riverwalk ~ Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile pedestrian path that winds along the Chicago River through four distinct Chicago districts: The Confluence, The Arcade, The Civic, and The Esplanade. In addition to scenic views of the city skyline and architecture, visitors can explore restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops, as well as boat tours and water activities.
Beaches ~ Chicago is more than just a pretty urban skyline. With a 26-mile lakefront, the city offers an abundance of opportunities for visitors to relax, swim, kayak, or bike along the shoreline.
6 Family-Friendly Places to Eat in Chicago
Pizza ~ Invented in Chicago in 1943, deep-dish pizza has become an iconic piece of Chi-town culture. Have your own deep-dish taste-off with Pizano's, Giorano's, Lou Malnati's, Pequod's, or any other of the numerous pizza eateries in town. For original stuffed crust pizza, try Nancy's Pizzeria, and for a quick bite of Neapolitan-style pizza, try Frankie's by the Slice.
Nutella Café Chicago ~ From breakfast to dessert, the Nutella Cafe offers an array of sweet, decadent creations crafted with the iconic chocolate hazelnut spread.
Kaiser Tiger ~ Located in the West Loop neighborhood, Kaiser Tiger offers comfort foods with a twist. Guests can dine indoors or alfresco in a rustic, cozy environment. If you've got a competitive side, pick up a game of bocce ball or curling - which are seasonally available.
The Doughnut Vault ~ Despite a pint-sized storefront, The Doughnut Vault has made a big name for itself. Known for its delicious, made-from-scratch doughnuts, the store often sells out of its highly sought-after treats.
Eataly Chicago ~ If you're seeking authentic Italian cuisine, Eataly Chicago is THE place to be! With restaurants, cafes, and a fully-stocked marketplace, Eataly offers an assortment of fresh, flavorful foods from pizza to gelato.
Portillo's ~ Portillo's began as "The Dog House" in Villa Park, IL in 1963. Since then it has grown to more than 70 locations across the country, serving up classic hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and more in a fun, retro atmosphere.
Even More Fun Things to Do:
For special events and activities in Chicago, use the Macaroni KID location drop-down menu ("Change Your Town" in the upper right-hand corner) to find an event calendar closest to your destination.
