SPECTACULAR CHICAGO FAMILY ACTIVITIES AND THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS
Chicago, the Windy City, offers a world of family attractions and recreation, so planning a trip to Chicago and its attractions can be exciting for people of all ages. Visitors and residents can spend a great time at cultural and historic places and vibrant neighborhoods, perform water activities at the shore of Lake Michigan, and have a great time at its iconic skylines.
Undoubtedly, Chicago is a great place to spend vacations with family and friends. Let’s explore Chicago’s most spectacular family activities, from museums to outdoor spaces, amusement parks to food carts, and outdoor and indoor recreational places. You’ll learn about the most famous places in Chicago with costs, locations, and activities to perform there.
Save on Admission to Kid-Friendly Attractions:
Before starting a fantastic journey, saving on admission to a kid-friendly attraction in Chicago is a great idea. The Chicago offers various CityPASS discounts, and you can easily access the multiple magnets. By getting a pass, you can have great family fun and save a few bucks to spend on the fantastic foods of Chicago.
CityPASS allows you to access the top attractions of Chicago, such as the Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck Chicago, The Field Museum, and more, at low prices. You can also choose the option of Go Chicago Card, which is accessible to 26 top attractions at meager rates. Get your passes and enjoy the Windy City tour without spending much money.
City-pass Price and Attractions:
Children (3-12)- $104
Adults – $134
You can visit these attractions via CityPASS;
- Shedd Aquarium
- Skydeck Chicago
- Field Museum
- Art Institute Chicago
- Museum of Science and Industry
- 360 Chicago Observation Desk
- Adler Planetarium
- Shoreline River Tour
Go Chicago Card and Attractions:
There are four types of tickets Go Chicago Card offers; you can choose according to your budget and requirements.
- Day Pass- $116
- Day Pass- $169
- Day Pass- $214
- Day Pass- $246
You can choose from over 25 attractions from museums, sightseeing, cruise tours, and more.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream:
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a sweet treat at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream in the Wicker Prak. It is a must-visit place in town that offers innovative and delicious flavors that delight your and your little one’s taste buds.
You can enjoy unique flavors like Sweet Potato with Torched Marshmallows, Goat Cheese with Red cherries, and Brambleberry crisps. They make their Ice cream with local and natural ingredients to satisfy your sweet cravings. The rates of this fantastic ice cream start from just $5.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream parlor is just 2 miles from Downtown Chicago, and takes only 10 minutes to get there via car or Taxi for $60-80. You can even get there by walk.
Visit Brand-New Live-Action Gaming experience:
For older kids and adults, Escapades Gaming Chicago offers a virtual gaming arena and live-action gaming experience. The games here cater to various age groups, so your kids can have a thrilling experience with state-of-the-art technology. You can solve puzzles and experience a real-life escape room with a set time fame challenge.
Imagine you are in a video game where you can fight like a hero, kill the Zombies, or save the world like a warrior. Escapade Gaming is located in Lincoln Park and takes only 8-10 minutes from Downtown Chicago, which is only 4 miles away. You can take a taxi or Private Car Service to get there for just $60-80.
Charming Small Towns Near Chicago:
If you are roaming in the city for many days and want a short break from the bustling life of Chicago, hit the road with any reliable car service or local transportation services to one of the nearby charming small towns.
While planning Chicago family activities, you can always visit places like Naperville, Evanston, Oak Park, Lake Geneva, Galena, or any nearby town to gather lasting memories.
Each town offers unique characteristics, a calming community, attractions, and historical places.
Naperville
Naperville is about 30 miles from Downtown Chicago and takes 45 minutes to reach. It is famous for its natural beauty, riverwalk, downtown, and the Naper Settlement Museum.
Evanston
It is about 14 miles and takes 30 minutes to get here. Evanston offers the Northwestern University campus, Grosse Point Lighthouse, and the beautiful Lkae Michigan Shoreline.
Oak Park
Oak Prak is only 10 miles away and takes 20 minutes to reach by car or limo. You can have a great time at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio and Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Museum.
Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is about 80 miles from Downtown Chicago and takes an hour to reach by Car. It is famous for Lakeside views, Grand Geneva Resort, resort-style atmosphere, zip-lining, boat tours, and horseback riding.
Galena:
It is 164 miles from downtown Chicago and takes only 3 hours. This astray town offers historical places, shops, eateries, Main Street, the Ulysses S. Grant Home, and the Galena River Trail to explore.
Enjoy a Scavenger Hunt at Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park is not only a Zoo, but it also offers the best fun activities for families at the zoo, such as the scavenger hunt. You can explore the collection of Zoo, engage yourself in fun-filled activities, and have educational advantages.
The Scavenger Hunt encourages the kids to explore the Zoo and search for answers and clues. You can gather lots of information about wildlife and animals. Lincoln Prak is just 4.5 miles from downtown and takes only 10-15 minutes.
Have a Cinematic Experience in Chicago
Are you a movie buff or a budding filmmaker? You can explore the iconic filming locations of Chicago. Millennium Park and Navy Pier have been featured in many films. You can visit the sites of blockbuster movies such as The Blues Brothers, The Dark Knight, and Home Alone.
Take a movie tour, visit your favorite sites, and experience a drive-in movie at Chicago’s favorite haunt, the Davis Theater. The theater offers movies on a large outdoor screen; you can enjoy that with good sound and food. It would be a new experience for a family.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
The Peggy Notebeart Nature Museum is excellent for exploring nature and the environment. You can enjoy the exhibitions and different activities for fun at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. It offers various exhibits and programs for visitors.
Chicago Family Activities at North Park Village Nature Center
For an outdoor experience, you can head to North Park Village Nature Center. It is a peaceful oasis that offers walking trails such as Prairie, Savanna, Woodland, wetland, Wildlife viewing, and a serene atmosphere than the vibrant urban life.
The Field Museum of Natural History is a must-visit museum featuring dinosaur exhibits, ancient mummies, gems and minerals, and more.
Field Museum of Natural History
The Field Museum is a treasureland of natural history. It is a must-visit museum to explore exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient mummies, civilizations, gems, minerals, and more. It’s an educational and entertaining place for a family.
Shedd Aquarium
To observe the aquatic life, visit Shedd Aquarium for a vast collection of marine life. You can get close to creatures from oceans, rivers, and lakes. The Shedd Aquarium also offers exhibits and an aquatic show featuring dolphins and whales.
Chicago Riverwalk
You can enjoy the beautiful views, outdoor arts, kayaking, and water taxi rides at Chicago Riverwalk. Experience the city’s riverfront scenic walk and enjoy delicious food at different restaurants, bars, and shops.
Adler Planetarium
Visit the Adler Planetarium for your young astronomers and space buffers. Explore the cosmos, participate in exhibitions, and gaze at the stars through powerful telescopes. Adler Planetarium also features 360-degree space shows and exhibits.
Art Institute of Chicago
Introduce your kids to Arts from all over the world. The museum offers a variety of family programs and exhibitions to engage young minds and ignite their creativity. You can watch famous art pieces like American Gothic and attend a unique family program where you can create your own masterpiece.
Chi-Town Art Activities for Kids
Chicago offers plenty of opportunities for kids to enhance their creativity.
Jump ‘N Jam Playland: This playland offers various arts & crafts activities and dress-up activities, and kids can learn a lot while playing.
Centennial Wheel and Rides: You can take an adventurous 200-foot ride on the Ferris wheel and enjoy other attractions at Navy Pier.
Legoland Discovery Center: Legoland is a place where kids can express their imagination and enjoy Lego-themed rides, games, 4D cinema, and building activities.
Chicago Children’s Museum: It is the favorite place of kids, located at Navy Pier, and provides exhibitions and play areas. You cal also visit the Kohl Children’s Museum for fun activities.
360-degree Views at the Willis Tower Skydeck:
Enjoy the inspiring views of Chicago’s skyline at the Willis Tower Skydeck. Step onto “The Ledge,” a glass box for a thrilling experience and stunning photos. It provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of Chicago’s skyline. The glass-bottom ledge allows visitors to stand 1,300 feet in the air and experience the city’s view. It is an unforgettable experience for a whole family to enjoy.
Mind-Bending Museum of Illusions:
If you want to get a unique and mind-boggling experience, visit the Museum of Illinois. You can have an entertaining and educational experience at the Museum of Illinois. You can get an amazing experience in a room with a vortex tunnel and another with infinity mirrors. This museum is a great way to introduce kids to science and optical illusions.
Chicago Cultural Center:
To attend a wide range of family-friendly events, concerts, and exhibitions, visit the Chicago Cultural Center. Must check their schedule for upcoming activities for family enjoyment. The Chicago Cultural Center is an amazing place to learn about the culture and heritage of the city.
Chicago Farms and Orchards:
Explore the farms and orchards surrounding the Chicago city. It’s a beautiful way for kids to learn about from where their food comes. They can enjoy fresh products and outdoor activities. Some notable options include:
Millennium Park:
This iconic Chicago landmark features the Crown Fountain and the interactive Lurie Garden, offering a unique urban oasis.
Lincoln Park Conservatory:
Explore the lush gardens and discover plants for a perfect educational experience.
Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm:
This farm offers pumpkin picking, hayrides, a petting zoo, a corn maze, and various activities to perform for a memorable autumn outing.
Homestead Orchard:
Located in Woodstock, it offers apple and pumpkin picking and tastings of apple ciders and donuts during the fall season.
Kuipers Family Farm:
This farm is in Maple Park and offers apple and pumpkin picking, a corn maze, hayrides, and other seasonal fun.
Outdoor Kid-Friendly Family Activities in Chicago
Chicago offers beautiful parks and recreational spaces with plenty of opportunities to have adventure:
Lincoln Park: This park features a zoo, a conservatory, and beautiful gardens, a great place for picnics and family outings.
Kohl Children’s Museum: Located in Glenview, it is designed for younger children and offers many activities.
Lincoln Park Conservatory: You can explore gardens, discover various plants, and get a perfect educational experience.
Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm: This farm offers pumpkin-picking hayrides, making your visit a memorable autumn outing.
Homestead Orchard: This orchard offers apple and pumpkin picking during fall.
Kuipers Family Farm: This farm provides apple and pumpkin picking with other outdoor activities.
Skokie Heritage Museum: Explore local history and culture at this museum in Skokie.
Maggie Daley Park: It is in the heart of downtown Chicago and offers a climbing wall, mini-golf, and a magical playground.
Grant Park: It is also known as “Chicago’s Front Yard,” offers plenty of open space for picnics, games, and beautiful views of Lake Michigan.
Milton Lee Olive Park: This park offers a peaceful atmosphere with views of the Chicago skyline, an excellent place for a family picnic.
Chicago Botanic Garden: Located in Glencoe, it offers beautiful landscapes and a variety of family-friendly events.
Chicago Beaches: Explore Chicago’s beaches along Lake Michigan and have great fun at playgrounds, sports facilities, and green spaces.
Chicago is a stunning city with cultural institutions, scenic parks, charming farms, and outdoor adventures. You can have a great time to do family-friendly activities. So, what are you waiting for? Get your CityPASS, pack your bags, and begin an unforgettable journey through Windy City’s attractions.
Chicago is a haven for family activities, offering a wide range of attractions to cater to all ages. Families can start their adventure at the Lincoln Park Zoo or explore the engaging exhibits at the Chicago Children’s Museum. Art lovers will appreciate the renowned Art Institute, while Millennium Park provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor fun.
A stroll along the scenic Chicago River or a ride on the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel offers panoramic views of the Windy City and Lake Michigan. From the iconic skyline to interactive exhibits at the Shedd Aquarium and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, there are countless opportunities for fun and learning.
Downtown Chicago boasts landmarks like the former John Hancock Building and Maggie Daley Park, while behind-the-scenes tours and family-friendly events ensure there’s never a dull moment. Whether enjoying Chicago-style hot dogs, exploring the Museum Campus, or marveling at the beauty of the Cloud Gate sculpture, Chicago promises unforgettable experiences for the entire family, making it a beautiful and exciting destination to visit with kids of all ages.
Create long-lasting memories with your loved ones in this dynamic, Windy city that entertains even the pickiest family member. Don’t forget to try the iconic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, tap your feet to blues and jazz music, and explore the history and culture of Chi-Town.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning Chicago family activities today and book a Limo and Black Car Service to make your travel comfortable at affordable rates.
