Chicago, often called the Windy City, is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the United States. Sitting on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, this vibrant metropolis offers world-class museums, sprawling parks, iconic architecture, and food that kids absolutely love. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, here are 15 things to do in Chicago with kids that will create lasting memories.
Explore the Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium, located on the scenic Museum Campus along Lake Michigan, is a must-visit attraction for families. Home to over 32,000 aquatic animals, kids can marvel at beluga whales, sea otters, penguins, and sharks. The Abbott Oceanarium and Caribbean Reef exhibits are fan favorites. Pro tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip long lines, especially during the summer.
Discover Dinosaurs at the Field Museum
Right next door on the Museum Campus sits the Field Museum of Natural History, one of the largest natural history museums in the world. Kids will be awestruck by SUE, the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered. The Crown Family PlayLab is specially designed for younger children to explore science and nature through hands-on activities.
Have a Blast at Navy Pier
Navy Pier is Chicago’s lakefront playground and one of the city’s most visited landmarks. Families can ride the Centennial Wheel (a 196-foot Ferris wheel) for breathtaking skyline views, enjoy seasonal fireworks, take a boat tour on Lake Michigan, or stroll along the pier. During the summer, free concerts and festivals add to the excitement.
Play at Maggie Daley Park
Maggie Daley Park is a 20-acre urban playground paradise located in the heart of downtown Chicago, just east of Millennium Park. It features massive climbing walls, a skating ribbon (ice skating in winter, inline skating in summer), an enchanted forest-themed play area, and an 18-hole miniature golf course. Best of all — it is completely free!
Visit the Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry (MSI), situated in the Hyde Park neighborhood, is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. Children can descend into a recreated underground coal mine, walk through a captured German U-505 submarine from World War II, and interact with over 400 hands-on exhibits. This museum guarantees hours of educational fun for curious minds.
Take a Selfie at Cloud Gate (The Bean)
No trip to Chicago is complete without visiting Cloud Gate, affectionately known as The Bean. This iconic public sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor is located in Millennium Park and reflects the stunning Chicago skyline. Kids love making funny faces in the mirror-like surface, and it makes for the perfect family photo opportunity.
See Animals for Free at Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in North America, and remarkably, admission is always free. Located in the beautiful Lincoln Park neighborhood, the zoo is home to gorillas, lions, polar bears, and red pandas. The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo area lets little ones get up close to farm animals and climb nature-themed play structures.
Ride to the Top of Willis Tower Skydeck
For a thrilling experience, head to the Willis Tower Skydeck, standing 103 stories above the city. Kids and adults alike can step out onto The Ledge — a series of glass-bottomed balconies that extend 4.3 feet from the building. On a clear day, you can see four states: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
Enjoy the Chicago Children’s Museum
Located inside Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum is purpose-built for kids ages 0 to 10. Interactive exhibits include a water playground, a tinkering lab, building zones, and imaginative play spaces. It is one of the best rainy-day activities in the city, keeping kids entertained and learning for hours.
Cruise Down the Chicago River
A Chicago River architecture cruise is an unforgettable experience for the entire family. Narrated boat tours glide past more than 40 iconic buildings, including the Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building, and Marina City. Several tour companies offer kid-friendly options, and the boat’s gentle pace keeps even toddlers content.
Bike Along the Lakefront Trail
The Chicago Lakefront Trail stretches 18.5 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the lake. Rent bikes (including family tandem bikes and kid trailers) from stations near Millennium Park or Navy Pier and enjoy a scenic ride through beaches, parks, and harbors. It is one of the best outdoor activities for active families.
Reach for the Stars at the Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium, also on the Museum Campus, is America’s first planetarium. Kids can explore the solar system through immersive sky shows, touch a real moon rock, and interact with space-themed exhibits. The planetarium’s location also offers one of the best panoramic views of the Chicago skyline from across the harbor.
Splash Around at Crown Fountain
Crown Fountain in Millennium Park features two 50-foot glass block towers that project video images of Chicagoans’ faces — and periodically spout water from their “mouths.” During warm months, kids splash freely in the shallow reflecting pool between the towers. It is a unique, free, and fun way to cool off during a Chicago summer.
Eat Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago is the birthplace of deep-dish pizza, and no family visit is complete without trying it. Head to legendary pizzerias like Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s for thick, cheesy, saucy perfection. For another quintessential Chicago food experience, grab a Chicago-style hot dog at Portillo’s — no ketchup allowed!
Walk the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile, a stretch of North Michigan Avenue, is Chicago’s premier shopping and entertainment district. While parents browse flagship stores like the LEGO Store (a huge hit with kids) and Disney Store, families can also enjoy street performers, seasonal light displays during the holidays, and easy access to some of the city’s best restaurants.
Tips for Visiting Chicago with Kids
- Save Money with City Passes: The Chicago CityPASS or Go City Explorer Pass can save families up to 50% on admission to top attractions like the Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck, and Field Museum.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to peak summer.
- Getting Around: Chicago’s CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) trains and buses are affordable and kid-friendly. The L train is itself a fun experience for children.
- Stay Central: Book hotels near Millennium Park or the Magnificent Mile to walk to many top attractions easily.
Final Thoughts
Chicago truly stands out as one of the best cities in the United States for a family vacation. From free attractions like Lincoln Park Zoo and Maggie Daley Park to world-renowned institutions like the Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum, there is something for kids of every age. Add in the iconic food scene, stunning lakefront views, and vibrant cultural energy, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable family trip to the Windy City.
Start planning your Chicago family adventure today — the kids will thank you!
