Chicago is one of the most popular cities to visit in the country with its world-famous architecture, museums, and other cultural activities. Luckily, it’s not just a great city for adults, but also offers many kid-friendly things to do!
Here are some of the best things to do in Chicago with kids.
Chicago Botanic Garden | 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe
If you’re looking for family things to do near you in Chicago, we recommend exploring the beautiful hills, bridges, and grassy areas at the Chicago Botanic Garden. It features 27 gardens and a new 26,700-square-foot learning center. Depending on the season, you can see a wide variety of plants, insects, and animals. They even offer different activities that even your small kids will enjoy like family cooking and seed weekend.
Kohl’s Children’s Museum | 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview
Another fun thing to do in Chicago with kids is visit the 17 permanent exhibits at the Kohl’s Children’s Museum. The museum also offers temporary exhibits so your child can discover something new every time they go. Your child can complete hands-on activities that help to increase their imagination and foster their education.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum | 2430 N Cannon Dr
Located in Lincoln Park, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is one of the best places to explore Illinois natural history and ecology. Stop by the butterfly greenhouse or the water tables to learn more about nature. You can even see how the museum raises different animals like turtles.
Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier | 600 E Grand Ave
If you’re searching for things to do in Chicago with kids this weekend, we recommend visiting Navy Pier to ride the Ferris Wheel. At the top of the wheel, you’ll get 360-degree views, 200 feet up in the air. No matter what the season is, it’s an unforgettable sight.
Chicago Riverwalk
An excellent family thing to do near you in the city is visit the Chicago Riverwalk. It has been fully extended to include 1.5 miles of pedestrian walkway all the way from the western end of the loop to Lake Michigan. Stroll along peacefully as you check out the free theater performances, fishing piers, or art installations along the way.
Millennium Park | 201 E Randolph St
As Illinois’ most popular attraction, Millennium Park is a must for visitors and tourists alike. Wander through the 25-acre park and discover the Cloud Gate, better known as “The Bean.” You can also go rock climbing, play in the Lurie Garden, or watch a movie or musical performance at the outdoor concert pavilion. During the winter, Millennium Park has two ice skating rinks that are perfect for family time.
Chicago Children’s Theatre | 100 S Racine Ave
The Chicago Children’s Theatre is a theatre that is dedicated to providing family things to do. You’ll see everything here from life-size puppets to original plays.
Willis Tower Skydeck | 233 S Wacker Dr
A symbol of Chicago, the Willis Tower was the tallest building in the world for 30 years. Now, it is home to the observational Skydeck where you can get some of the best views of Chicago. If you have older kids, they might like to visit the Ledge—a glass box that juts out more than 4 feet from the edge of the building, providing a straight-down view to the street hundreds of feet below.
Shedd Aquarium | 1200 S Lake Shore Dr
This aquarium is one of the largest in the world and is filled with colorful coral and fish from all over the world, dolphins, sea otters, and beluga whales. This is an excellent thing to do in Chicago with kids of all ages.
Field Museum | 1400 S Lake Shore Dr
The Field Museum is full of natural history, from dinosaurs to mummies to tons of hands-on activities. You can even check out a 3D movie if you want.
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Featured Image Credit: Millennium Park
