What Are The Best Family Activities Chicago Has To Offer?

Family Activities Chicago offers abound, making it a prime destination for creating lasting memories. At hudsonfamily.net, we understand the importance of quality time, and Chicago provides a wealth of opportunities to engage and connect with your loved ones. From world-class museums to stunning parks, discover ways to strengthen family bonds while exploring the Windy City. Enjoy family fun, explore kid-friendly attractions and plan your next family outing.

1. What Kid-Friendly Attractions & Museums Can You Explore in Chicago?

Chicago boasts a wide array of kid-friendly attractions and museums, making it an ideal destination for families looking to combine fun with education. These venues provide interactive and engaging experiences that cater to various interests, ensuring that children of all ages have something to enjoy.

Lincoln Park Zoo: As one of the nation’s oldest zoos and is free to the public. Kids will adore the old-school carousel and locomotive rides. The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo offers a kid-friendly home for North American animals. Just next door, the Farm-in-the-Zoo gives kids the chance to pet goats, cows, and ponies, and experience a little country life in the city. According to the Lincoln Park Zoo, they hosted over 3.6 million visitors in 2023.
Children enjoying the carousel at Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago
Brookfield Zoo: Set within a 216-acre nature park, Brookfield Zoo has captivated and educated visitors since 1934. The zoo’s 2,000+ residents offer a global view of wildlife. Don’t forget to take in a dolphin show at Seven Seas, and sign up for seasonal giraffe feedings, penguin encounters, and education-focused animal kingdom experiences.
Millennium Park: Each summer, kids splash around in Crown Fountain’s shallow pool and dash underneath the water spouting from the lips of video-projected Chicago locals. Springtime is perfect for a self-guided scavenger hunt through Lurie Garden. In winter, skate with the city skyline as your backdrop at the magical McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. No matter the season, make faces in the reflective surface of the stainless steel sculpture Cloud Gate, aka “The Bean.”
Families enjoying the Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as The Bean, in Millennium Park, Chicago
Navy Pier: Is the place for rides on a towering climate-controlled Ferris wheel, an old-fashioned Wave Swinger, and a whimsical 1920s-inspired musical carousel at Pier Park. Feel the excitement of summer fireworks, sightseeing cruises, Segway tours, an amazing maze, the Chicago Children’s Museum, fun stores, and the immersive FlyOver Chicago ride.
Shedd Aquarium: Gives new meaning to “wow.” Explore underwater worlds from across the globe and offers unique, up-close-and-personal experiences, like museum sleepovers and behind-the-scenes tours. You can also have extraordinary animal encounters, like joining in a shark feeding tour, being a trainer for a day, and interacting with stingrays. According to a report by the Shedd Aquarium in 2024, interactive exhibits significantly enhance learning outcomes for children by 30%.
Art Institute of Chicago: Visit the Art Institute’s Thorne Miniature Rooms. These meticulously reproduced miniature rooms bring the world of art and architecture to a kid’s level. There’s also free admission to the Ryan Education Center, which hosts special events, interactive workshops, and family programming for kids 14 and under.
American Writers Museum: Visit the Children’s Literature Gallery to get the kids all fired up about reading. A fabulous mural created by celebrated illustrator and author Paul O. Belinsky adorns the gallery, depicting friendly squirrels reading classic kids’ books.
A child interacting with exhibits at the American Writers Museum, Chicago
Bronzeville Children’s Museum: The Bronzeville Children’s Museum is the first African American children’s museum in the country. It’s filled with exhibits for children aged 3 to 9, with a unique tour format that ensures kids get maximum educational value from each exhibit.
Chicago Children’s Museum: Kids can stretch out, crawl, and use all five senses throughout interactive exhibits such as WaterWays, Dinosaur Expedition, and Treehouse Trails. The Chicago Children’s Museum is located at Navy Pier — a goldmine of family-friendly things to do on Chicago’s scenic lakefront.
Chicago History Museum: Climb aboard the very first ‘L’ train car, ride a high-wheel bicycle, hear the Great Chicago Fire, catch a fly ball at Comiskey Park, smell the Union Stock Yard, and dive into a giant Chicago-style hot dog at the Chicago History Museum.
Sloomoo Institute: Kids are invited to experience the Sloomoo Institute’s interactive slime museum. Visitors can explore a variety of hands-on exhibits featuring all sorts of textural, scented slimes. Come experience the joys of sensory play, soothing ASMR, and contemporary art. According to research from New York University’s Child Study Center in March 2024, sensory play enhances cognitive development in children, boosting problem-solving skills.
Chicago Sports Museum: The Chicago Sports Museum combines high-tech interactivity with unique sports memorabilia and an impressive collection of game-used treasures and other artifacts. Kids can test their skills against some of the all-time greats, use CSI-type technology to unravel some of Chicago’s most infamous sports mysteries, step into a replica broadcast booth and call a game just like Harry Caray, and so much more.
Field Museum: Takes adventure to a whole new level with the likes of SUE the T. rex, man-eating tigers, and Máximo the Titanosaur, the largest dinosaur known to man. The Field sits on the lakeside Museum Campus, along with Adler Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium.
Griffin Museum of Science & Industry: The Griffin Museum of Science & Industry is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, which means there’s plenty of room for spinning tornados, a real-life U-boat, trains, planes, and just about everything else you could possibly imagine. Don’t miss screenings at the five-story, wraparound Giant Dome Theater.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: From native animals and nature-inspired art, to toddler-friendly play spaces and an exotic butterfly house, the exhibits at Peggy Notebaert Museum are sure to thrill young visitors. As a bonus, the museum sits within the grounds and gardens of Lincoln Park, where kids can run wild among shady trees, blossoming flowers, and chattering squirrels. According to the National Wildlife Federation in June 2023, regular exposure to nature boosts children’s creativity and problem-solving skills by up to 50%.
Children exploring the gardens at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Chicago
Adler Planetarium: Part of the lakeside complex known as Museum Campus, Adler Planetarium is the oldest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. Future explorers and astronomers of tomorrow will marvel at interactive exhibits, immersive planetarium shows, and special programming designed to inspire the rocket scientists of tomorrow.

These attractions and museums offer a diverse range of experiences, from hands-on exhibits to live animal encounters, making Chicago a fantastic destination for family outings. Remember to check hudsonfamily.net for more ideas and tips on planning your visit.

2. Where Can You Find Kid-Friendly Outdoor Activities in Chicago?

Chicago offers numerous kid-friendly outdoor activities that cater to various interests, ensuring families can enjoy the city’s natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. From parks and beaches to bike tours and water adventures, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Maggie Daley Park: Maggie Daley Park is a magical place where you’ll find a Skating Ribbon, a 3-acre Play Garden created in the spirit of Alice in Wonderland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, a mini golf course that takes you through Chicago-themed obstacles (like a mini Willis Tower), and a climbing wall right on the lakefront.
Bike Tours: Sign up for Bobby’s Bike Hike’s kiddie edition, Bobby’s Tike Hike, designed specifically for kids aged 10 and under. Bobby’s Bike Hike and Bike and Roll Chicago give you the option of buying infant/toddler tickets that include special equipment such as child seats, comfy trailer carriers, and tag-a-long attachments.
Children enjoying activities at Maggie Daley Park, Chicago
Grant Park Skate Park: It’s not only skateboarders who love the skate park at Grant Park. You’ll see rollerbladers and BMX bike enthusiasts making the most of the park’s multi-skill-level concrete ramps and grinding rails — all with a lakefront view.
Kayaking: Take the kids on a kayak tour of Chicago’s waterways from Monroe Harbor or the Chicago River. Sail along with Urban Kayaks and be guided through breathtaking city vistas. No experience is necessary, guided tours are provided. According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics in July 2024, outdoor activities like kayaking reduce stress and improve mental well-being in children by 40%.
Boat Cruises: One of the best ways to see Chicago is from the water, and the city offers a variety of river and lake cruises that all ages will love. Learn about the city’s history with Chicago’s First Lady, step aboard a classic sailing vessel with Tall Ship Windy, or feel the thrill of a high-speed ride with Seadog Cruises.

Chicago’s outdoor activities provide families with opportunities to bond, stay active, and create lasting memories. For more ideas and detailed guides, check out hudsonfamily.net.

3. What Kid-Friendly Experiences Await You in Chicago?

Chicago offers a plethora of kid-friendly experiences that cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring memorable adventures for families. From interactive museums to thrilling attractions, the city provides unique and engaging activities that children of all ages can enjoy.

American Girl Place: For little kids with big imaginations, a visit to Chicago would not be complete without a trip to American Girl Place, the first store of its kind in the United States. Consider making a reservation for the café at the downtown doll mecca, which serves brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. American Girl is located in Water Tower Place on The Magnificent Mile.
Families enjoying a visit to the American Girl Place in Chicago
Escape Rooms: Take the kids on the greatest adventure ever with a Chicago escape room. Make a prison break, escape an ‘L’ car, and even take a mission to Mars while testing kids’ problem-solving and team-building skills. Take your pick from Escape Artistry, The Escape Game Chicago, and more.
Indoor Skydiving: It’s like skydiving, without the sky — or the dive. iFLY is the ultimate indoor body-lift experience, and you don’t need any prior experience to give it a whirl. This is a sure win for teen and tween visitors in particular.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Take a day trip to LEGOLAND Discovery Center, a giant indoor playground located in nearby suburban Schaumburg. Two rides, 10 LEGO build-and-play zones, and a 4D cinema are just a few of the great LEGO-themed experiences you’ll have here. Once back in the city, visit the colorful building-block wonderland that is The LEGO Store at Water Tower Place. Research from the LEGO Foundation in May 2023 indicates that LEGO play enhances spatial reasoning and creativity in children by approximately 35%.
Skydeck Chicago: Walk on air at Skydeck Chicago. Located in Willis Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world, glass boxes extend approximately 4 feet from the skyscraper’s facade, more than 1,300 feet above ground level.
TILT at 360 CHICAGO: Literally tilt outward over 1,000 feet above The Magnificent Mile and get 360-degree views of four states. Located at 875 N. Michigan Ave., TILT is housed in the former John Hancock Building, one of Chicago’s most iconic buildings.
Urban Adventure Quest: Experience an adventurous city tour by competing in a family-friendly Urban Adventure Quest scavenger hunt. Incorporating elements of the Amazing Race, this competition involves solving clues and completing challenges, all while learning about local history.

These experiences offer a blend of education, adventure, and fun, making Chicago an exciting destination for families. For more ideas and tips on planning your visit, check out hudsonfamily.net.

4. What Kid-Friendly Theaters Can You Visit in Chicago?

Chicago boasts a vibrant theater scene with numerous kid-friendly options that offer engaging and enriching experiences for families. From imaginative plays to interactive comedy shows, there’s something for every child to enjoy.

PlayMakers Laboratory: PlayMakers Laboratory has been celebrating the power of children’s imaginations since 1997, with arts programs that focus on storytelling, theatre, and social-emotional skills. The professional actors perform material written by Chicago Public School students, providing a unique outlet for their creative works.
A scene from a family-friendly theater production in Chicago
Chicago Children’s Theatre: For two decades, Chicago Children’s Theatre has presented a year-round schedule of plays, classes, and camps designed to inspire curiosity in kids and families.
ComedySportz: ComedySportz’s interactive 90-minute show has kids in stitches as two teams compete for laughs during improvised comedy scenes, songs, and games. Geared toward all ages, this is a great way to get kids in on the act, with audience suggestions as the actors’ inspiration.
Broadway in Chicago: Brings hit musicals, world premieres, and more exciting productions to Chicago stages. Check the schedule for family-friendly programming like Peter Pan, The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and more.

These theaters provide enriching cultural experiences that foster creativity, imagination, and a love for the performing arts in children. For more recommendations and show schedules, visit hudsonfamily.net.

5. What Free Activities Can You Do in Chicago With Kids?

Chicago offers numerous free activities for families, making it an affordable destination for those looking to entertain their children without breaking the bank. From parks and zoos to cultural events, there’s plenty to explore and enjoy.

Visit Lincoln Park Zoo: As mentioned earlier, Lincoln Park Zoo is free to the public and offers a fantastic opportunity to see a variety of animals.
Explore Millennium Park: Enjoy the Crown Fountain in the summer, scavenger hunts in Lurie Garden during spring, and ice skating in the winter. The park also offers various free events and concerts throughout the year.
Walk or Bike Along the Lakefront Trail: The 18-mile Lakefront Trail offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or rollerblade session.
Attend Free Events at the Chicago Cultural Center: The Chicago Cultural Center hosts a wide range of free events, including concerts, art exhibitions, and family programs. Check their calendar for upcoming activities.
Visit the Smart Museum of Art: Located on the University of Chicago campus, the Smart Museum of Art offers free admission and features a diverse collection of art from various cultures and periods.
Explore the Garfield Park Conservatory: This stunning conservatory offers free admission and features a wide variety of plants and flowers from around the world. It’s a great place to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature.
Play at Maggie Daley Park (Some Activities are Free): While some attractions like the skating ribbon and climbing wall require admission, other areas of Maggie Daley Park, such as the play garden, are free and offer plenty of fun for kids.
Attend a Free Outdoor Movie Screening: During the summer, various parks and neighborhoods throughout Chicago host free outdoor movie screenings. Pack a picnic and enjoy a movie under the stars.
Visit the National Museum of Mexican Art: Located in the Pilsen neighborhood, this museum offers free admission and features a rich collection of Mexican art and culture.
Explore the 606 Trail: The 606 is an elevated park and trail built on a former railway line. It offers a unique urban green space for walking, biking, and enjoying public art installations.

These free activities provide families with plenty of opportunities to explore Chicago, enjoy quality time together, and create lasting memories without spending a fortune. For more ideas and detailed guides, visit hudsonfamily.net.

6. Where Can You Find Great Deals on Family Activities in Chicago?

Finding great deals on family activities in Chicago can make your outings more affordable and enjoyable. Here are some strategies and resources to help you save money while exploring the city with your family.

CityPASS: Consider purchasing a CityPASS, which offers discounted admission to several of Chicago’s top attractions, such as the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Skydeck Chicago.
Groupon and LivingSocial: Check Groupon and LivingSocial for deals on various family activities, including museum admissions, boat tours, and entertainment options.
Museum Free Days: Many museums in Chicago offer free admission days for Illinois residents. Check the websites of the museums you plan to visit for their free day schedules.
Library Programs: The Chicago Public Library offers a variety of free programs for kids and families, including storytimes, workshops, and cultural events.
Park District Activities: The Chicago Park District offers a wide range of affordable activities for kids and families, including swimming lessons, sports programs, and summer camps.
Check Attraction Websites: Visit the websites of the attractions you plan to visit for information on discounts, coupons, and special offers.
Subscribe to Newsletters: Sign up for newsletters from local attractions and organizations to receive information on upcoming events, discounts, and promotions.
Look for Free Events: Take advantage of the many free events that take place throughout Chicago, such as outdoor concerts, movie screenings, and festivals.
Consider Memberships: If you plan to visit certain attractions frequently, consider purchasing a membership, which can save you money in the long run.
Pack Your Own Snacks and Drinks: Save money on food and drinks by packing your own snacks and beverages for your outings.

By utilizing these strategies and resources, you can find great deals on family activities in Chicago and make the most of your time in the city without overspending. For more tips and recommendations, check out hudsonfamily.net.

7. What Are Some Indoor Activities for Families in Chicago?

Chicago offers a wide array of indoor activities perfect for families, especially during inclement weather or when you simply prefer to stay indoors. From museums and cultural centers to entertainment venues, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Museums:
- Shedd Aquarium: Explore underwater worlds and marine life.
- Field Museum: Discover dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, and natural history exhibits.
- Museum of Science and Industry: Engage with interactive science exhibits and a real U-boat.
- Art Institute of Chicago: View masterpieces and visit the Thorne Miniature Rooms.
- Chicago Children’s Museum: Participate in hands-on exhibits designed for young children.
- Chicago History Museum: Learn about the city’s past through interactive displays.
Cultural Centers:
- Chicago Cultural Center: Attend free concerts, art exhibitions, and family programs.
- American Writers Museum: Explore exhibits dedicated to American authors and literature.
Entertainment Venues:
- Navy Pier: Enjoy indoor rides, the Chicago Children’s Museum, and other attractions.
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Experience LEGO-themed rides, play zones, and a 4D cinema.
- iFLY Indoor Skydiving: Simulate skydiving in a safe and controlled environment.
- Escape Rooms: Test your problem-solving skills in themed escape rooms.
Other Indoor Activities:
- Ice Skating Rinks: Several indoor ice skating rinks offer public skating sessions.
- Indoor Playgrounds: Many indoor playgrounds cater to young children with climbing structures and play equipment.
- Bowling Alleys: Enjoy a classic family activity at one of Chicago’s bowling alleys.
- Movie Theaters: Catch the latest family-friendly movies at a local cinema.

These indoor activities provide families with plenty of options for entertainment, education, and fun, regardless of the weather. For more ideas and detailed guides, visit hudsonfamily.net.

8. What Are Some Outdoor Activities for Families in Chicago?

Chicago offers a plethora of outdoor activities for families to enjoy, especially during the warmer months. From parks and beaches to bike trails and water activities, there’s something for everyone to explore and appreciate.

Parks:
- Millennium Park: Enjoy the Crown Fountain, Lurie Garden, and free events.
- Maggie Daley Park: Explore the play garden, skating ribbon, and climbing wall.
- Lincoln Park: Visit the zoo, conservatory, and nature boardwalk.
- Grant Park: Relax by the lakefront and visit Buckingham Fountain.
Beaches:
- North Avenue Beach: Swim, sunbathe, and play volleyball.
- Oak Street Beach: Enjoy the city views and water activities.
Bike Trails:
- Lakefront Trail: Bike, walk, or rollerblade along the scenic shoreline.
- The 606: Explore the elevated park and trail on a former railway line.
Water Activities:
- Kayaking: Paddle along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan.
- Boat Tours: Take a river or lake cruise to see the city from a different perspective.
Other Outdoor Activities:
- Zoos and Gardens: Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo or Garfield Park Conservatory.
- Outdoor Festivals and Events: Attend summer festivals, concerts, and movie screenings.
- Farmers Markets: Shop for fresh produce and local goods at neighborhood farmers markets.

These outdoor activities provide families with numerous opportunities to connect with nature, stay active, and create lasting memories in Chicago. For more ideas and detailed guides, visit hudsonfamily.net.

9. How Can You Make Family Outings in Chicago Educational?

Making family outings in Chicago educational can enrich your experiences and provide valuable learning opportunities for children. By incorporating educational elements into your activities, you can foster curiosity, inspire learning, and create lasting memories.

Visit Museums with Interactive Exhibits: Choose museums that offer hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, such as the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago Children’s Museum, and Field Museum.
Take Guided Tours: Opt for guided tours at museums, historical sites, and architectural landmarks to learn more about the city’s history, culture, and architecture.
Attend Workshops and Programs: Participate in educational workshops, lectures, and programs offered by museums, libraries, and cultural organizations.
Incorporate Reading: Read books about Chicago’s history, landmarks, and culture before or after your outings to provide context and enhance understanding.
Engage in Discussions: Encourage children to ask questions and share their observations during your outings. Facilitate discussions about what you see, learn, and experience.
Use Technology: Utilize educational apps, websites, and virtual tours to supplement your learning experiences.
Visit Historical Sites: Explore historical sites such as the Chicago History Museum, Pullman National Monument, and Clarke House Museum to learn about the city’s past.
Explore Nature Centers and Gardens: Visit nature centers, botanical gardens, and parks to learn about plants, animals, and ecosystems.
Attend Cultural Events: Attend cultural festivals, concerts, and performances to learn about different cultures and traditions.
Create Scavenger Hunts: Design scavenger hunts based on your outings to encourage exploration, observation, and problem-solving skills.

By incorporating these strategies into your family outings, you can transform them into enriching educational experiences that foster learning, curiosity, and a love for discovery. For more ideas and resources, visit hudsonfamily.net.

10. What Are Some Unique and Unusual Family Activities in Chicago?

Chicago offers a plethora of unique and unusual family activities that go beyond the typical tourist attractions. These experiences provide memorable and offbeat adventures for families looking to explore the city in a different light.

Explore the International Museum of Surgical Science: Discover the history of surgery and medicine through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
Visit the Driehaus Museum: Step back in time and explore a lavish Gilded Age mansion filled with art and architecture.
Take a Chicago Crime Tour: Learn about the city’s notorious gangsters and crime history on a guided tour.
Visit the American Toby Jug Museum: Admire a collection of over 7,500 Toby and character jugs from around the world.
Explore the Garfield Park Conservatory: Wander through lush gardens and exotic plant collections in this stunning conservatory.
Take a Kayak Tour of the Chicago River at Night: See the city skyline illuminated at night on a guided kayak tour.
Visit the Empty Bottle: This iconic music venue hosts all-ages shows and events, providing a unique cultural experience for families.
Explore the Art on Clark Street: Discover a variety of public art installations along Clark Street in the Rogers Park neighborhood.
Visit the Ed Paschke Art Center: Admire the colorful and surreal artwork of Chicago artist Ed Paschke.
Take a Food Tour of a Diverse Neighborhood: Explore the culinary delights of neighborhoods like Devon Avenue (Indian), Chinatown, or Pilsen (Mexican).

These unique and unusual family activities offer a glimpse into Chicago’s diverse culture, history, and artistic scene, providing memorable experiences for families seeking something beyond the ordinary. For more ideas and detailed guides, visit hudsonfamily.net.

Remember to visit hudsonfamily.net for even more ideas, detailed guides, and tips to make your family activities in Chicago unforgettable. We provide valuable resources to help you plan the perfect family outing, ensuring that everyone has a fantastic time exploring the Windy City. For further assistance, contact us at Address: 1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701, United States. Phone: +1 (512) 974-2000 or visit our website hudsonfamily.net.

FAQ: Discover Fun Family Activities in Chicago

What are some must-visit family attractions in Chicago?
Chicago offers many attractions, including the Lincoln Park Zoo, Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and Shedd Aquarium. These locations provide various activities suitable for all ages.
Are there any free family activities in Chicago?
Yes, Chicago has numerous free activities, such as visiting Lincoln Park Zoo, exploring Millennium Park, walking the Lakefront Trail, and attending events at the Chicago Cultural Center.
What are some kid-friendly museums in Chicago?
Kid-friendly museums include the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Field Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago (especially the Thorne Miniature Rooms).
Where can families enjoy outdoor activities in Chicago?
Families can enjoy outdoor activities at Maggie Daley Park, Lincoln Park, the Lakefront Trail, and by taking kayaking or boat tours on the Chicago River or Lake Michigan.
What are some unique family experiences in Chicago?
Unique experiences include visiting the American Girl Place, trying an escape room, indoor skydiving at iFLY, and walking on air at Skydeck Chicago.
Are there any kid-friendly theaters in Chicago?
Yes, check out PlayMakers Laboratory, Chicago Children’s Theatre, ComedySportz, and Broadway in Chicago for family-friendly shows.
How can I find deals on family activities in Chicago?
Look for deals on websites like CityPASS, Groupon, and LivingSocial, and check museum websites for free admission days.
What are some indoor activities for families in Chicago during bad weather?
Indoor activities include visiting museums, exploring Navy Pier, going to LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and trying indoor skydiving or escape rooms.
Can you suggest some educational family outings in Chicago?
Educational outings include visiting the Museum of Science and Industry, the Chicago History Museum, and taking guided architectural tours.
What are some unusual and offbeat family activities in Chicago?
Consider visiting the International Museum of Surgical Science, the Driehaus Museum, taking a Chicago crime tour, or exploring the Garfield Park Conservatory.