20 Exciting Things To Do In Chicago With Kids

The Shedd Aquarium provides exhibits that make learning about marine life one of the top things for kids to do in Chicago. It's right by Lake Michigan, with thousands of marine animals, from fishes with an array of colors to playful dolphins and interesting sea turtles.

Exhibitions showcasing the world's various marine habitats, such as the Amazon River and the coral reefs, are opened up for children to go hopping. There are always special interactive experiences included in the aquarium, such as the touch tanks, where children can feel the sea stars and stingrays.

Other major attractions include the daily shows featuring dolphins and sea lions, which are sources of entertainment as well as education.

Lincoln Park Zoo is a family-friendly and entry-free establishment and is populated with an array of diversified animals from the majestic big cats to playful primates. The children might be thrilled to see some of their favorite animals up close when they go through habitats like the African savanna or the birdhouse.

Interactive exhibits and shows with kids' play areas all together mean a family fun and educational treat. If just seeing all the varied animals isn't entertainment enough, families will also especially enjoy the beautiful surrounding park, including picnic areas, walking paths, a lagoon where you can rent paddle boats, and special events like the ZooLights during the holiday months.

Millennium Park is yet another place for fun things to do in Chicago that are simply fun for everybody. There's plenty of park space, where children can spread their legs and find something new from all play angles.

Beyond this, the iconic park is something of an islet of greenery right in the center of the city and one of the hubs for public art and entertainment. Families can gaze at the iconic Bean sculpture, otherwise known as Cloud Gate, which reflects the city's skyline off its shiny surface.

There's much else to entertain at Millennium Park: Cloud Gate, better known as the Bean to the kids, and playing and splashing in Crown Fountains keep children entertained for hours.

Among the long list of best things to do for kids in Chicago is The Field Museum which is quite the discovery world for kids, thanks to its interesting exhibits and experiential learning. Some favorite attractions among the kids will be the exhibits of the famous dinosaurs, including Sue, the most massive and best-preserved T. rex to date.

The museum's interactive displays will enable children to explore and divulge information about ancient civilizations and natural histories, learning to walk through the recreated tomb of the Egyptians. There also exist areas set aside for the youngest visitors to dig for fossils or discover for themselves the science behind the natural world.

The Chicago Children's Museum is among the best things to do in Chicago with kids, featuring interactive exhibits made specifically for younger children. Within Navy Pier, this museum offers a great variety of hands-on displays meant to open creative play and exploration.

These include building large-block structures, exploring an actual fire truck, or playing in a mini city. There are also art workshops where creativity can run wild and children can do their masterpieces, and there are science exhibits to make learning fun and interactive.

Focusing on interactive and creative play, the Chicago Children's Museum offers an experience that is hard to forget in children's memories, and it's a great chance to enjoy.

Navy Pier is an excellent fun spot for kids visiting Chicago where you will find many activities. They will enjoy riding the Ferris wheel, which is symbolic and offers great views over the city and Lake Michigan.

Another pride of Navy Pier is the Chicago Children's Museum, with its interactive exhibits that work wonders for little ones and make learning fun. Catch a movie at the IMAX theatre for a different movie experience, with an immersive view from its gigantic screen.

In addition to seasonal events and boat tours, loads of dining places at Navy Pier will help end the visit in a great way. It tops the list for any family seeking an eventful and fun kind of day.

The Museum of Science and Industry features among the best things for kids to do near me, whereby the kids can engage in various exciting interactive experiences. Kids can get on board a real World War II submarine that simulates life on the vessels during the war.

It has a mirror maze in which visitors are turned into reflections and optical illusions, an entertainment and confusing activity. The exhibits are most exciting with the Tornado Simulator, where kids get to view a tornado close-up while experiencing the science behind it.

The hands-on exhibits and displays make the Museum of Science and Industry an adventure for kids to learn science and history and experiences they shall not forget.

The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago offers the most exciting experience for people to enjoy vast views of the city. It's composed of glass boxes on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, which extends out from the building so you can look straight down at the streets below. Having this view from above the Chicago skyline and its landmarks makes for an adrenaline view like no other.

But that's not all, Skydeck Chicago also offers interactive exhibitions and information displays covering the history and architecture of this city. It's a must-visit for those who want memorable and highly exciting experiences while exploring the Windy City.

Adler Planetarium has to be one of the greatest Chicago kids' activities for any kid with an interest in space or astronomy. The planetarium has various interactive exhibits and immersive shows that will bring to life the wonders of galaxies and stars.

The children get to explore interactive displays about stars, planets, and galaxies, with amazing dome theatre shows that give simulations of space trips and other celestial phenomena. The Adler also hosts hands-on activities and educational programs that nurture curiosity about the cosmos.

Interactive exhibitions and fun learning create an engaging platform at the Adler Planetarium, a place of adventure for kids and families looking to explore space.

Brookfield Zoo is assuredly one of the perfect places to go in Chicago for families. The zoo pampers a large number of varying animals from around the world, from lions, elephants, and giraffes. A major attraction is the dolphin show, in which you can observe intelligent marine mammals performing incredible tricks.

There are plenty of exhibits also for children, and then there's the Hamill Family Play Zoo, which allows interaction with the wildlife through such activities as climbing, exploring, or even playing in animal-themed environments. With so many exhibits and interesting things to do, the Brookfield Zoo provides children and families with a full day of adventure and learning.

For families seeking fun things to do with kids in Chicago, The Art Institute of Chicago has to be on the list of must-places to visit. Children will love the Thorne Miniature Rooms, a collection of exquisitely built small-scale models of historic interiors. Its popular works include famous pieces like Grant Wood's "American Gothic," which can foster interesting discussions regarding art and history.

It is at a more interactive level, with kid-friendly art activities and workshops designed to get children enthused about creativity and curiosity. Indeed, it is the result of richly diversified exhibits and programs keeping one busy that makes the Art Institute both enriching and enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

The Chicago Riverwalk is fun, and bustling with different activities that a family can do. Walking down the riverwalk, one gets the most beautiful glimpses of the architecture and waterfront of the city. There are public art installations around, making this walk a smidgen on the cultural side. Boat tours on the Chicago River get you the history of the local scene recognition with informative commentary in between.

The Riverwalk is dotted with plenty of places to eat, from casual eateries and cafes to more upscale possibilities, where one can sit and have a meal while watching the various water activities.

Maggie Daley Park is a fabulous place for family travelers seeking out fun things for kids to do in Chicago. Just steps from Millennium Park in downtown Chicago, this park has kids hooked on the ability to climb colorful play structures at Play Garden, tunnels and slides, and climbing walls that set their imagination into physical activity.

The Skating Ribbon offers another way to enjoy rollerblading or ice skating, depending on the season. Families can find something a bit less energetic by enjoying a game of mini-golf.

Maggie Daley Park is very abundant in different activities amidst its natural beauty and offers a great way to spend time full of adventure in the very heart of Chicago.

606 is the Chicago elevated trail, which is a great opportunity for walking, biking, or even jogging while exploring the diverse neighborhoods of the city. Along The 606 one can observe some changes in public art installations that have been added to The 606.

The families are being promised from time to time provisions of designated open spaces for play, picnic sites, and plane spaces for kids to run and play. It interlocks several neighborhoods and presents one with the opportunity to view and feel different parts of the city under the comfort of a secure, picturesque path.

The Chicago Architecture Boat Tour is a great time for any person who likes to appreciate the rich history of the city. You cruise down the Chicago River while knowledgeable guides give an interesting insight into the city's iconic skyscrapers and other historical buildings.

Architectural styles represented range from classic Beaux-Arts to more modern masterpieces featuring the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and the Wrigley Building. Structures are easier to view up close on a boat tour, which will allow one to appreciate the details and design elements that make Chicago architecture so famous.

It is a windy and relaxed way to explore the city, offering unique views of the skyline and landmarks.

One of the great spots for families in search of what kids can do for fun in Chicago is the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Situated in Lincoln Park, the museum brings interactive exhibits and educational programs that discover the natural world.

Children will like visiting the Butterfly Haven, where they get to see hundreds of butterflies close-up in a lush, tropical environment. It also hosts exciting exhibitions on local wildlife, ecosystems, and care for the environment.

Activity-based hands-on exhibitions include a nature boardwalk and the EcoLab, which further allow children to learn through play and exploration. Its focus on nature and science will ensure a fun and informative experience at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.

Oz Park is a gem of green space within the Lincoln Park neighborhood in Chicago, offering a myriad of activities that families and kids will find enjoyable. The L. Frank Baum–named Oz Park, from his famous The Wizard of Oz, incorporates whimsical, Oz-themed sculptures featuring a statue of the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Dorothy herself.

There is, of course, a clear serving, and designing the parking area is done here with climbing structures, slides, swings, and different age group facilities creating a wonderful children's park. The open grassy areas are great for picnics, sports, or just dwelling. Events are held everywhere within the community at the park and programs offer the right kind of atmosphere.

Garfield Park Conservatory is a historical conservatory with a variety in size and beauty that relates to botanical conservatories. There are different plant collections, such as tropical rainforests, desert landscapes, and seasonal displays, all rich in content.

The kids would love walking through all of the rooms, which are full of faraway plants, the Fern Room flowers of the most varied hues, and color mixes of the Palm House. It also offers educational programs in plant science and environmental stewardship.

Outdoor gardens provide more space for exploration and play. The Garfield Park Conservatory is a delightful place to visit, its beautiful settings allow visitors and children of all ages to enjoy.

The Chicago Botanic Garden is one of the wonderful places for families to wander around, going through the experience of nature. The interactive and educational experiences brought by the garden are sure to enthrall kids, especially from the hands-on activities, water features, and play areas designed within the Family Discovery Garden to attract young visitors.

The garden has seasonal events and workshops on things like plant-themed crafts and nature walks, so something's always happening. In addition to family-friendly activities, guests can enjoy walking paths, tranquil ponds, and beautiful flower displays that round out this experience into something worthwhile for anyone of any age.

A visit to the Ravinia Festival will make for a great time for families looking for a relaxed and fun outdoor event. Set in Highland Park, this popular music festival features a broad range of classical symphony to modern contemporary music with world-class performers and ensembles.

Families can pack a picnic and enjoy a meal on the huge lawn for a casual setting that makes it extra fun. By having it outdoors, patrons will be able to view high-quality live music in an atmosphere that is relaxed under the stars.

But due to the family-friendly environment of this venue, Ravinia has so many more of its activities and events in store for kids, so it will turn out perfect after all.