Think the Windy City is just for adults? Think again. Chicago offers a wide selection of family-friendly museums, restaurants, shops, shows, and gardens, making it an exciting city to visit with little ones. And the icing on the cake? The best attractions are centrally located, requiring minimal transportation — a huge plus for families.
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is one of the coolest aquariums around. Its diverse and global animal collection, stunning architecture, and boundless learning opportunities make it a fascinating place for the whole family.
Kids can dress up like penguins, explore Arctic waters in a kid-sized submarine, watch beluga whales, and touch live sea stars at the Polar Play Zone. Parents will find exhibits like "At Home on the Great Lakes" inspiring as they consider their impact on local and global ecosystems.
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Don't miss a visit to the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere! The Museum of Science and Industry brings science to life for children and adults through interactive exhibits that encourage inventive thinking.
Children can watch chicks hatch from their eggs and learn about genetic research in engaging hands-on exhibits. Parents will enjoy the It's All About You exhibit and other insightful and unique exhibitions.
Skydeck Chicago
Skydeck Chicago offers spectacular city views from a unique vantage point. Its museum-quality exhibits and engaging experiences like "The Ledge" take fun to the next level.
Kids can participate in a scavenger hunt and enjoy the breathtaking views. Parents will love the chance to get the perfect family photo.
Field Museum
Located right on Lake Shore Drive, the Field Museum invites you on a journey of scientific discovery with immersive exhibitions that inspire curiosity and understanding.
The Crown Family Playlab offers interactive science experiences, and kids will love "shrinking" in the Underground Adventure exhibit. Parents will enjoy life-size replicas and interactive exhibitions on topics ranging from DNA to rare jewels.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is the perfect place to spend a day with the family. It offers rides, shopping, and unique events, all in one central, historical location.
Kids will enjoy the 1920s-style carousel and a visit to the Chicago Children's Museum. Parents will appreciate the different activities and the convenience of having everything in one place.
360 Chicago Observation Deck
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, the 360 Chicago experience is both convenient and thrilling. Take in 360-degree views from 1,000 feet up, or try the exhilarating TILT attraction. TILT has a height minimum of 42", so this may or may not work for your family, depending on your kid's age and height.
Kids will enjoy the interactive panoramic touchscreens, and parents will love the fantastic views.
Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium seamlessly merges education and scientific wonder, making it the perfect place for aspiring scientists.
Kids can take a rocket to "Planet X," launch their own rocket, or create an object that stays suspended in a wind tunnel. Parents will enjoy the sense of wonder as they explore exhibits like The Universe and Mission Moon.
Art Institute of Chicago
A trip to Chicago wouldn't be complete without visiting the Art Institute of Chicago. Its stunning curation ensures that you'll find something that speaks to you.
Kids can partake in discussions, form opinions on art, and participate in artist workshops. Parents will enjoy the wide range of familiar and new works and the opportunity to introduce kids to various artists and styles.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park offers state-of-the-art sculptures and landscape design, perfect for family photos. Learn more about Cloud Gate, affectionately known as The Bean.
Kids will enjoy watching 50-foot-tall faces spout water at Crown Fountain and making faces in the reflective surface of Cloud Gate (The Bean). Parents will appreciate the modern public space created by the combination of architecture, landscape, and art.
Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a must-visit for families. With its old-school carousel, locomotive rides, and the Pritzker Family Children's Zoo, it offers a kid-friendly environment that houses North American animals. Adjacent to the zoo is the Farm-in-the-Zoo, where kids can pet goats, cows, and ponies, experiencing a bit of country life in the city.
Parents will appreciate the scenic walking paths and the educational value of the exhibits.
Maggie Daley Park
Maggie Daley Park is perfect for when you need some time in a green space where the kids can run wild. Kids will enjoy the Skating Ribbon, a 3-acre Play Garden, a mini-golf course, and a climbing wall right on the lakefront. Parents will appreciate the variety of activities and the scenic lakefront views.
Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory is a botanical haven in the city, offering a serene escape with beautiful gardens and drop-in activities for kids.
Kids will love the hands-on activities at the Learning Campus. Parents will enjoy the peaceful environment and the opportunity to explore the diverse gardens with their children.
Chicago Children's Museum
Located at Navy Pier, the Chicago Children's Museum offers interactive exhibits where kids can stretch out, crawl, and use all five senses.
Kids will enjoy WaterWays, Dinosaur Expedition, and Treehouse Trails. Parents will appreciate the educational value and the convenience of its location at Navy Pier.
American Writers Museum
The American Writers Museum's Children's Literature Gallery gets kids excited about reading with a fabulous mural by Paul O. Belinsky. The entire museum is tucked away on the 2nd floor of the building, but you'll all get a kick out of the typewriter exhibit and the visit with some of your favorite authors.
Kids will love the interactive workshops and special events. Parents will appreciate the educational aspect and the focus on literature.
Chicago Botanic Garden
The Chicago Botanic Garden offers specialized drop-in activities and a serene atmosphere.
Kids will enjoy the activities at the Learning Campus. Parents will love the relaxed environment and the endless gardens to explore with their children.
Grant Park
Grant Park, known as Chicago's front yard, offers a series of parks and features, including baseball diamonds, the Museum Campus, and Buckingham Fountain.
Kids will enjoy running around in the open spaces and ice skating in the winter. Parents will appreciate the people-watching opportunities and the chance to stumble upon unique events and festivals.
Make the Most of Your Trip with Kids in Chicago
Family trips should feel fun for everybody. Chicago is a fantastic city for families, offering a wide range of kid-friendly attractions that are also enjoyable for adults. Make the most of your trip with Chicago CityPASS® tickets, which provide savings on the best things to do in Chicago. Plan your visit today and create lasting family memories.
Chicago Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Chicago, we recommend finding lodging near Chicago's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
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