A toddler in a pink outfit climbing a playground structure with a red slide in a grassy area.

Best Playgrounds for Chicago Toddlers

When it comes to toddlers and playgrounds, sometimes the littlest of kiddos need their own space! Here's a list of the best tot lots in Chicago according to local parents. These smaller and softer outdoor playgrounds allow toddlers to freely crawl, walk and run—just not so much into the bigger kids! Use our interactive map to find the playground closest to you or venture farther from home and try something new!

When your tots have found more footing, you'll love touring our top playgrounds around Chicago!


 

    North School Park

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    Sarah D. said:  North School Park is a beautiful place to spend time with the toddlers in your family! The park is renowned for it's beautiful fountain and frequented as a locale for wedding photos. The park also hosts seasonal concerts and is home to one of Arlington Heights' most extraordinary Christmas lights displays. But, this little gem gets an Upparent nod for it's pristine and specially designed "tot lot!" With space to explore and a playground just tots, this place is perfect for your littlest ones.

    Arlington Heights, IL
    playforalldupage.org

    Sensory Garden Playground

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    Kristy Pepping said:  We ran into this playground by accident one day taking a wrong turn and I am glad we did! It is perfect if you have little ones. This playground was developed by the Play For All Playground & Garden Foundation. Their mission is to create playgrounds for all children and abilities. What I like best about it is they have a separate area for kids 2 to 5. Kids can play on the jungle gym and also run through the garden. The garden includes several walking paths with scented flowers and sounds to enlighten your toddler's senses!

    Lisle, IL
    napersettlement.org

    Early Learning Playscape at Naper Settlement

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    The Early Learning Playscape at Naper Settlement is a fort-themed playground and splash pad featuring a replica covered wagon, trading post, animal track path, and sensory prairie garden. Naperville's settlers built the original fort during the Blackhawk War of 1832 as a temporary shelter for their small community.

    Naperville, IL

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