Kids Activities Chicago: 20 Fun and Amazing Things to Do
Skyscrapers as far as the eye can see, the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan, and ooey gooey deep dish pizza. The Windy City may have many dazzling attributes, but few visitors are aware of the family-friendly nature of Chicago.
Planning a trip to Chicago with your kids can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. Chicago offers a wide variety of activities that cater to children of all ages, and knowing where to go can help ensure your family has an unforgettable experience. From iconic museums and parks to thrilling attractions, here are some of the best kids activities Chicago has to offer.
Things to Do in Chicago with Kids
1. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: For a truly unique experience, take your kids back in time with a trip to Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament at 2001 N Roselle Rd, Schaumburg. This dinner show, located just outside Chicago, offers an exciting live-action performance with knights, horses, and sword fights. Kids will love cheering for their favorite knight while feasting on a medieval-style meal (eating with their hands is encouraged!).
The immersive experience includes jousting, horseback stunts, and falconry, making it a must for families looking for high-energy entertainment. It’s a fantastic way to combine dinner with kids entertainment, and you’ll leave with plenty of fun memories.
2. iFly Indoor Skydiving: For adventurous families, iFly Indoor Skydiving at 5520 Park Pl, Rosemont is one of the most thrilling things to do with kids Chicago has to offer. It lets you experience the sensation of skydiving in a safe, indoor environment. Suitable for kids as young as three, iFly’s state-of-the-art wind tunnels give you and your children the chance to float on air under the guidance of trained instructors.
This activity is ideal for families seeking outdoor activities in Chicago without the unpredictability of Chicago’s weather. After a session at iFly, your kids will be talking about this experience for days!
3. LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Located at 601 N Martingale Rd, Schaumburg, about a 40-minute drive from downtown Chicago, LEGOLAND Discovery Center is an absolute hit for kids who love LEGO. This indoor attraction includes everything from building workshops to themed rides and 4D cinema experiences. There’s also MINILAND, a detailed LEGO replica of Chicago’s skyline, complete with the Willis Tower, Wrigley Field, and Navy Pier.
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It’s a perfect spot for younger kids to burn off some energy while engaging in creative play. Plus, you might even get inspired by some of the impressive LEGO sculptures on display!
4. Big Bus Tours: For a more relaxed way to see the city, hop on a Big Bus Tour. These open-top, double-decker buses are an excellent way to introduce your kids to the main Chicago family attractions. The tours offer hop-on-hop-off flexibility, allowing you to stop at landmarks like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, and more.
It’s an easy, fun way to explore Chicago, with kids enjoying top-deck views and learning about the city’s history and architecture.
5. Shedd Aquarium: A visit to the Shedd Aquarium at 1200 S Dusable Lk Shr Dr is a must for any family visiting Chicago. As one of the largest aquariums in the world, it features a vast collection of marine life, from sea turtles and sharks to beluga whales and penguins. The aquarium offers plenty of interactive exhibits, where kids can touch stingrays, explore underwater habitats, and watch live animal shows.
Located on the Museum Campus, Shedd is close to other popular Chicago attractions for families, making it easy to pair with a visit to the nearby Field Museum or Adler Planetarium.
6. Museum of Science and Industry: If your kids are curious and love hands-on activities, the Museum of Science and Industry at 5700 S Dusable Lk Shr Dr is the perfect place to visit. A top kid-friendly museum in Chicago, it offers a German submarine, a coal mine tour, and the world’s largest model train display.
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The museum is designed to engage children and adults alike, and with so many exhibits to explore, it’s easy to spend an entire day there. The museum frequently updates its exhibits, so you’ll always find something new to discover.
7. Lincoln Park Zoo: For a more laid-back day in Chicago for kids, consider visiting Lincoln Park Zoo at 2400 N Cannon Dr. This historic, free zoo is located in the heart of the city and is a great place for families to enjoy wildlife without breaking the bank. Home to lions, polar bears, giraffes, and more, the zoo offers a variety of exhibits and is one of the most beloved Chicago things to do with kids.
The zoo is set in a beautiful park, so you can combine your visit with a picnic or a leisurely stroll along the nearby lakeshore.
8. Navy Pier: No family trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to Navy Pier at 600 E Grand Ave. Known for its 200-foot Ferris wheel, the pier offers a range of activities for kids, including the Chicago Children s Museum, a carousel, and a variety of food vendors.
The Chicago Children’s Museum is particularly popular with families, offering hands-on learning and play areas. Navy Pier also frequently hosts special events like fireworks shows, making it a top spot for kids activities in Chicago.
9. Maggie Daley Park: When your kids need to run off some energy, head to Maggie Daley Park at 337 E Randolph St, one of the best parks in Chicago for families. This large play area has a climbing wall, winding slides, and play zones for all ages. In winter, enjoy ice-skating, and in summer, try mini-golf and picnic spots.
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This park is part of the larger Millennium Park, so you can easily combine your visit with a stop at Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”) or a walk along the nearby lakefront.
10. Brookfield Zoo: Just a short drive from downtown, Brookfield Zoo at 8400 31st St, Brookfield is one of the top Chicago family attractions. This sprawling zoo is home to over 2,000 animals and offers a variety of exhibits designed to educate and entertain kids.
Highlights in this Chicago zoo and aquarium include Tropic World, a massive indoor rainforest exhibit, and the Hamill Family Play Zoo, where younger kids can interact with animals and enjoy hands-on activities. With its wide range of animals and experiences, Brookfield Zoo is a great choice for families who love wildlife.
11. Adler Planetarium: For space-loving kids, Adler Planetarium at 1300 S Dusable Lk Shr Dr is a must-visit. This interactive museum is full of space-themed exhibits and activities, including a theater that showcases immersive planetarium shows. Kids can explore the solar system, touch a meteorite, and even participate in live demonstrations.
Located on the same Museum Campus as the Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium is an easy stop on your itinerary for a fun and educational experience.
12. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum: For a more intimate museum experience, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum at 2430 N Cannon Dr is a great choice for families with younger children. This charming museum focuses on Chicago’s natural ecosystems and features a butterfly haven where kids can walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies.
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The museum also has plenty of interactive exhibits for kids, including water play areas and nature-inspired hands-on activities. It’s an excellent way to introduce your children to the natural world while enjoying a peaceful day out.
13. Field Museum: No list of family activities in Chicago would be complete without mentioning the Field Museum at 1400 S Lake Shore Dr. Famous for its dinosaur exhibits—especially Sue the T. rex—the museum is packed with kid friendly exhibits. Children can dig for fossils, explore ancient cultures, and learn about wildlife from all over the world.
With so many engaging exhibits, the Field Museum is one of the top kid-friendly museums in Chicago, offering plenty to explore for kids of all ages.
14. Chicago History Museum: For families interested in learning more about Chicago’s rich history, the Chicago History Museum at 1601 N Clark St offers a variety of interactive exhibits that explore the city’s past. From the Great Chicago Fire to the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893, this museum brings history to life with hands-on displays that are great for kids.
The museum also has special exhibits designed just for children, making it a fun and educational stop during your trip to Chicago.
15. Magnificent Mile: While it might seem more suited to shopping enthusiasts, the Magnificent Mile has plenty of appeal for families with kids. Along this famous stretch of Michigan Avenue, you’ll find family friendly spots like the American Girl Store, the LEGO Store, and plenty of spots to grab a treat.
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Even if you’re not there to shop, walking down the Magnificent Mile allows you to take in some of Chicago’s famous architecture and stop at nearby attractions like Millennium Park.
16. Chicago Riverwalk: The Chicago Riverwalk is a fantastic spot for families to enjoy some outdoor time while taking in the stunning views of the city’s skyline. Spanning from Lake Michigan to the heart of downtown, the Riverwalk is perfect for a leisurely stroll, renting bikes, or simply enjoying a boat ride. It’s one of the best outdoor activities Chicago has to offer.
Families can hop on a Chicago Architecture River Cruise, which offers kid-friendly tours. The tour guides are knowledgeable and keep the storytelling fun and interactive, providing a unique way to learn about Chicago’s famous buildings.
Along the Riverwalk, you’ll find parks, cafes, and public art installations, making it a scenic spot for parents to relax while kids run around and explore.
17. Chicago Sports Museum: For sports enthusiasts, the Chicago Sports Museum at 835 N Michigan Ave, Water Tower Place, offers a fun and interactive experience. The museum combines traditional sports memorabilia with interactive exhibits that allow kids (and adults!) to test their skills.
Kids can compare their vertical jump to that of Michael Jordan, measure their fastball speed, and learn about the science behind sports. It’s a fun stop for families who want to dive into Chicago’s rich sports history, including the city’s iconic teams like the Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, and Bears.
18. Wrigley Field Tour: Still looking for things to do in Chicago for kids? Baseball-loving families can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the legendary Wrigley Field, 1060 W Addison St, home of the Chicago Cubs.
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Even if you’re not attending a game, the guided tours offer a peek into the stadium’s storied history and a look at areas like the dugout, press box, and outfield bleachers. It’s a great experience for kids to feel the excitement of being in one of Major League Baseball’s oldest ballparks. Plus, Wrigleyville, the surrounding neighborhood, is full of kid-friendly eateries and shops.
19. Skating at McCormick Tribune Ice Rink: In the winter months, families can lace up their skates and hit the ice at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park, 1 N Michigan Ave. It’s a fun way to enjoy the festive winter atmosphere in Chicago, and the rink is free to use if you bring your own skates (though skate rentals are available for a fee).
The rink offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline, including the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, and is surrounded by holiday lights during the winter season. It’s a perfect activity for families looking to embrace Chicago’s winter charm.
20. 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck: Last but not least on our list of Chicago kids activities, For breathtaking views of the city, the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck at 875 N Michigan Ave 94th floor offers an incredible panoramic experience from the 94th floor of the John Hancock Building. Families can take the elevator up and enjoy views of Lake Michigan, the skyline, and even four surrounding states on a clear day.
The observation deck also features the TILT experience, where visitors can lean outward from the building to get a thrilling downward view of the city below. It’s an exhilarating experience for older kids and adventurous family members.
Plan Your Family Adventure to Chicago with Tripster
Now that you’ve discovered all the incredible family activities in Chicago, it’s time to start planning your trip! Whether you’re eager to explore iconic landmarks like Navy Pier, visit kid-friendly museums in Chicago, or experience thrilling adventures like iFly Indoor Skydiving, Chicago offers endless fun for kids and parents alike.
To make your vacation even more affordable and convenient, check out Tripster’s discount tickets, hotel deals, and vacation packages. By bundling your Chicago attractions with accommodations, you can save big and simplify your travel plans. From discounted entry to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center to hotel stays near top attractions, Tripster has everything you need to create the perfect family getaway.
Don’t miss out—start planning your family’s unforgettable adventure to Chicago today with Tripster, and enjoy all the magic this vibrant city has to offer at unbeatable prices!
Kids Activities Chicago FAQs
Why is Chicago a fun city?
Chicago is a fun city because it offers diverse experiences, from world-class museums and theaters to lively sports events and stunning architecture. Chicago is a melting pot and home to people from all over the world, adding rich cultural experiences and a vibrant food scene.
What’s so special about Chicago?
Chicago is special for its jaw-dropping architecture, vibrant music scene, amazing food — including deep-dish pizza — and iconic neighborhoods. These unique qualities make the city an exciting and culturally rich destination for visitors.
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