14 Fun Things to Do in Chicago for Families

Chicago, often called the “Windy City,” is a vibrant metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan in the Midwest. The city is recognized for its iconic skyline, rich cultural heritage, and diverse neighborhoods. It also offers families a surplus of exciting activities and attractions.

From thrilling rides and outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and educational outings, Chicago offers families excellent activities and attractions. You can take your time to explore the Navy Pier or the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. You can also cruise along the Chicago River with your family. One thing is sure: there is always something to create cherished memories during your visit to this Windy City.

So, get on board as I unveil this list of fun things to do in Chicago, Illinois, with your family!

1. Visit Millennium Park

The first on my list of fun things to do in Chicago is to visit this exciting park. Millennium Park is a must-visit destination for families in Chicago, Illinois. Home to the famous “Bean” sculpture (officially known as Cloud Gate), the park offers unlimited opportunities for fun and exploration.

Kids can run and play in the Crown Fountain, where interactive LED screens display images of faces spouting water. They can also choose the playground with state-of-the-art facilities and exciting equipment for all ages.

While at it, their parents can relax on the pavilions and chitchat with friends. They can also stroll through the park’s lovely trails, taking in nature and letting everyone be themselves.

You can also enjoy free concerts, movie screenings, and cultural events at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion during the summer. With its beautiful gardens, stunning architecture, and interactive art installations, Millennium Park is a favorite spot for families to spend an enjoyable day outdoors.

Address: 201 E. Randolph St. Chicago, IL 60601, United States

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2. Things to do in Chicago: Explore Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a beloved waterfront destination with entertainment and excitement for the whole family. Ride on the iconic Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.

As one of Chicago’s top attractions, this location is not called the People’s Pier for nothing. You can do more here to take the fun to the next level as you explore fun things to do in Chicago.

Your children will love this Museum because they can engage in hands-on exhibits and educational activities.

All year round, the site attracts guests countrywide and beyond for its public programs and events. There is always something for everyone here. So, come expectant if you are looking for fun things to do in Chicago, nay this award-winning location.

Families can enjoy boat tours, sightseeing cruises, and fireworks displays during the summer. You can also enjoy the flavors of the pier by walking into one of the exquisite restaurants within for an authentic meal.

With its wide range of attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues, this 50-acre scenic waterfront destination is a must-visit. Besides, it is free for all.

Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

3. Discover the Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium is an indoor public aquarium in Chicago. It was opened on May 30, 1930. This 5 million-US-gallon aquarium holds about 32,000 animals and is the third largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere. That is after the Georgia Aquarium and Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Dive into the wonders of the aquatic world at the Shedd Aquarium, one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world. This spot offers diverse fun options for everyone in the family.

Explore exhibits featuring different marine life, from colorful tropical fish to majestic beluga whales. Your kids will delight in these features. They will also love interactive experiences like touching stingrays and watching dolphin shows.

In addition to the above, the Aquarium offers educational programs throughout the year. They also have behind-the-scenes tours for families interested in learning more about ocean conservation and marine biology.

Coming here is a fascinating and educational experience you won’t forget in a hurry. Hence, this is another top place on your bucket list of exciting things to do in Chicago for families.

Address: 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, United States

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4. Experience the Museum Campus

Chicago’s Museum Campus is home to some of the city’s most renowned cultural institutions. It is a perfect destination for families to explore together. If you want somewhere to take the kids to this weekend, you not regret coming to this fantastic spot.

Visit the attraction to journey back in time and discover dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, and natural history exhibits. You can also walk into the Adler Planetarium to learn about space exploration and astronomy. There are various interactive displays and immersive planetarium shows to excite you.

After your visit, you can take everyone to the nearby Museum of Science and Industry to engage in hands-on experiments and explore a replica coal mine. One of the top attractions is the German U-boat from World War II. Your children will be excited about it.

Moreover, the Museum Campus offers endless opportunities for family-friendly fun and learning. Add this to your top place to visit if you are looking for explorative things to do in Chicago, Illinois.

Address: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, USA

5. Enjoy a Day at Lincoln Park Zoo

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourselves in nature at Lincoln Park Zoo. This attraction is one of the oldest in the United States; it was founded in 1968.

You can stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds and take in the nature surrounding you. While strolling along the path, observe different animals, including lions, gorillas, penguins, and more.

The zoo also offers educational programs, animal feedings, and interactive exhibits for children. You can hear a lion’s roar or other animal noises. The children can even forget where they are as they immerse themselves in rainforests or play with other excited children.

Best of all, admission to this zoo is free. That makes it a budget-friendly option for families looking to enjoy a day of outdoor adventure and wildlife discovery.

Address: Chicago, IL 60614, United States

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6. Ride the Centennial Wheel at Chicago’s Navy Pier

Thrill-seekers looking for things to do in Chicago should not miss this spot. Take your family on a thrilling ride on the Centennial Wheel, an iconic attraction at Navy Pier. It was debuted in 2016 to honor Navy Pier’s centenary. This was how it got its name.

The Wheel towers 200 feet above Lake Michigan and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and sparkling waters. If you want to see Lake Michigan, rolling on this wheel allows you to do so.

Families can hop into one of the climate-controlled gondolas and enjoy a leisurely ride while taking in the sights. You will enjoy a great experience here and the staff is amazing.

The Centennial Wheel is a must-do experience for families looking for panoramic views and memorable moments in Chicago. It is truly worth it.

Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

7. Explore the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a natural history museum operated by the Chicago Academy of Sciences. It was established in 1857 and has outdoor walkways for observing nature.

Immerse yourselves in the natural world at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Lincoln Park. There are several things to do in Chicago as a family if you choose here as your destination.

Take your time to explore interactive exhibits, observe live animals, and learn about the diverse ecosystems of the Midwest.

Your children can get hands-on with nature through butterfly gardening, bird watching, and pond dipping. The museum also offers outdoor spaces, including a butterfly haven and a nature trail, where you can walk around and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding park.

Address: 2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

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8. Catch a Show at Chicago’s Theater District

Treat your family to a live performance at Chicago’s Theater District. This elegant spot is home to a vibrant theater scene. You will find productions ranging from Broadway musicals to cutting-edge plays.

Families can choose from family-friendly shows like Disney classics or beloved children’s stories. Most importantly, these activities are sure to entertain everyone with you.

If you are looking for an amazing way to give your family a memorable night out filled with laughter and enchantment, here is an opportunity. Moreover, weekends or holidays are the best time to visit.

Address: Fullerton & Lake, Chicago, IL 60602, USA

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9. Play and Picnic at Maggie Daley Park

Spend a day of outdoor fun at Maggie Daley Park if you want some exciting activities. This park is a sprawling recreational space located in the heart of downtown. This 20-acre public park in the Loop community area sits near the Lake Michigan shoreline in northeastern Grant Park where Daley Bicentennial Plaza previously stood.

Your children can play on the playgrounds and climbing walls. There is also a whimsical skating ribbon that winds through the park during the winter months.

Another thing you can do is to pack a picnic and relax on the expansive lawn, or rent bikes and let yourself loose on the scenic trails that meander through the park. Top attractions and beautiful activities are for families looking to enjoy active outdoor recreation in the city.

Address: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

10. Take a Chicago River Architecture Tour

Embark on a scenic boat tour along the Chicago River. This is the time to discover the city’s iconic architecture from a unique perspective.

Bring everyone on board and cruise past historic landmarks, skyscrapers, and famous buildings. Some of them were designed by renowned architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. There are numerous knowledgeable guides to take you and your little ones across the river.

These guides provide fascinating commentary and insights into Chicago’s rich architectural history. And that makes it an educational and entertaining experience for you and your family. You will love it here for an exciting weekend if you are looking for things to do in Chicago.

Address: 465 N McClurg Ct, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

11. Adventures at the Museum of Science and Industry

Dive into interactive exhibits and hands-on activities at the Museum of Science and Industry. As one of the largest science museums worldwide, it is a not-to-miss location.

You will love several spots in this award-winning location. Explore a replica coal mine, board a real-life U-505 submarine, and witness awe-inspiring demonstrations of scientific principles.

For your children, the museum rolled out numerous activities. They can engage in STEM-focused play in the interactive exhibits. Here, they can learn about everything from space exploration to renewable energy.

You may have to pay a few dollars for admission. But I assure you that it is worth the money. You can spend at least an hour with a tour guide. The museum is large with fascinating exhibits.

Address: 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637, United States

12. Family-Friendly Dining at Portillo’s

Treat your taste buds to a Chicago classic with a family-friendly meal at Portillo’s. It is a popular hotspot known for its delicious hotdogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake shakes. Hence, it offers something for everyone.

In addition, their Chicago-style hotdog is never to be missed if you want to relish the best meal. If you want something light, consider a salad, with Italian beef or burgers.

Take your children to this casual atmosphere and indulge in awesome Chicago cuisine. Everything is served with a side of nostalgia.

It promises an awesome delight with tasty meals you cannot resist. Make it a date on weekends and you won’t regret it.

Address: 100 W. Ontario St. Chicago IL 60654, United States

13. Playtime at the Chicago Children’s Museum

Spark your child’s imagination and creativity at the Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier. It provides interactive exhibits designed to engage young minds and inspire playful learning. The museum was founded in 1982 by The Junior League of Chicago, responding to programming cutbacks in Chicago public schools.

Your children can splash and experiment in the WaterWays exhibit. Others can build and construct in the Skyline exhibit or role-play in the Play Cafe.

The museum has exciting things to keep everyone glued all day. It focuses on hands-on exploration and discovery, providing your family with a fun and enriching experience.

Don’t let your kids miss here if you want some explorative things to do in Chicago this weekend.

Address: 700 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

14. Family-Friendly Performances at Chicago Shakespeare Theater

This is another exciting place for families looking for fun things to do in Chicago. Introduce your children to the magic of live theater with a family-friendly performance at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Located at Navy Pier, the theater offers a lineup of productions inspired by classic stories, fairy tales, and beloved children’s literature.

You can enjoy musicals, comedies, and interactive performances. With its talented performers and engaging storytelling, Chicago Shakespeare Theater offers families a memorable theatrical experience.

Address: 800 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

When do People Visit Chicago, Illinois?

Chicago experiences four distinct seasons, with unique charm and attractions. The summer (June to August) is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and a full calendar of outdoor events and festivals.

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are also pleasant times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy. But it’s a magical time to visit if you’re interested in ice skating at Millennium Park or attending holiday events like the Christkindlmarket. Overall, Chicago is a vibrant destination that welcomes families year-round with its attractions and activities.

Conclusion

From exploring science museums and dining on wonderful cuisine to enjoying live theater and outdoor adventures, Chicago has something for every family. I hope you had an exciting read with our top things to do in Chicago, Illinois for families. Which have you been to before? Don’t forget to leave a comment and share it.