38 Things to Do in Chicago with Kids

The Bronzeville Children's Museum opened in 1993 as the first and only African-American children's museum in the country. One-hour tours are provided to introduce children to four different subject matters, allowing them to play as they learn. Tours occur every hour on the hour. Learn about African American inventors, STEM leaders, athletes, innovations in medicine, and more. Each exhibit is play-based, with age-appropriate toys and activities to match.

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. Exhibits focus on the history and future of science and science education, and kids love the interactive exhibits and jaw-dropping experiences geared just for them. It has an amazing model train exhibit, too, that will wow train enthusiast kids (and adults).

Chicago's most popular stargazing spot offers education and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Explore a variety of out-of-this-world exhibits and breathtaking shows, and check out the Planet Explorers area, where kids can climb, crawl, play, and join the crew on a mission to space!

Navy Pier offers restaurants, entertainment, a children's museum, and a friendly venue for year-round special events. You'll also find a quick swing ride, spinning tea cups, a carousel, a drop tower, and more. The 200-foot Centennial Wheel is available year-round (weather permitting). The enclosed gondolas offer 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. This iconic ride is a 'must-do adventure' for local and tourist families alike.

Erin P. said:  My mom used to love taking us to Chicago and going for a ride on the Seadog, and I look forward to continuing the tradition with my own kids one day! You can enjoy views of Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Chicago Harbor, and Chicago’s Museum Campus. A great summer activity! Thrill-seeking Chicago families should try the extreme thrill ride, where speeds hit 45 mph, and they do 360-degree spins. You'll get wet!

Sarah Calamita said:  If you have dinosaur lovers this is THE place to go. The great thing is you can go in and spend a few hours inside, but then it is right on the lake so you can spend time outside and walk the path along the lake! It is an amazing museum. Don't miss the SUE exhibit!

See whales, dolphins, sharks, stingrays, jellyfish and more! Many exhibits are play-based, like the Polar Play Zone, where your kiddo can slip into a penguin suit and waddle around! Experience touch tanks, animal chats, dolphin and whale shows, shark feedings, behind-the-scenes tours, sleepover events, youth camps, and more.

Maggie Daley Park spans 20 acres, with a focus on imaginative play features unique structures inspired by nature, as well as a climbing wall, mini golf, and a skating ribbon.

Millennium Park is located on famed Michigan Avenue and within walking distance of several hotels, restaurants, and shopping. It also provides the backdrop for several (often free!) cultural programs, including concerts, exhibitions, awesome outdoor movie nights, and more. Kid-specific attractions include an outdoor ice skating/roller skating ribbon, rock climbing, splash parks, mini golf, Maggie Daley Park playground, and lush gardens where you can run or take a leisurely stroll.

Thomas Hughes Children’s Library sits on the second floor of the Harold Washington Library Center as a lively, modern space tailored to kids from birth through early teens. Organized into three “neighborhoods” for early learners, elementary kids, and tweens, it blends play-based learning, STEAM activities, and cozy reading nooks—all anchored by a central “plaza” for families to gather and participate in storytime, puppet shows, and creative exploration.

The Chicago Water Taxi may be your mode of transportation while going to work, but it can also be fun as a tourist or as part of a Chicago family staycation! It's a great way to quickly (and cheaply) see the sights and architecture that Chicago has alongside the river without taking a formal tour, and it is a fun boat trip for kids. If you're arriving downtown via Metra to either Oglivie or Union Station, just walk a couple of blocks to the river and you've arrived! You can ride the Chicago Water Taxi to Navy Pier, Chinatown, Michigan Ave, or even the Museum Campus.

This comprehensive tour takes you on a boat ride through the heart of Chicago while a professionally-trained guide shares the story behind its legendary architecture and renowned skyline. There is an indoor section on the boat if it is chilly outside, along with bathrooms and snacks for a comfortable ride. Several different tours are available, including a shorter, family-friendly version of the Chicago River Architecture Tour at only 45 minutes.

Before it was Macy's, it was Marshall Field's. The founder, Marshall Field, was from Chicago, and his flagship department store still stands on State Street today. Inside this historic building, a lot has changed, but the Walnut Room remains true to tradition. This iconic restaurant is located on the 7th floor and was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. If you are visiting during Chicago's Christmas season, they have an enormous tree in the center of the room - viewable from upstairs in the store, too. Make a whole day of shopping and dining on Chicago's State Street!

Serving lunch and dinner

Alexandra F. said:  If you have a doll-loving kid, it is really worth making a visit to the American Girl Store. It's so fun to just browse (though be prepared to maybe also buy!) the elaborate dolls, clothing, and accessories throughout the huge store. Plus, the various experiences like tea or lunch can really make the visit even more special! It's nice, too, that this store is in the heart of Mag Mile, so you can enjoy walking this iconic strip of Chicago's Michigan Avenue with a kid-friendly destination (or starting point!) in mind.

Kristy Pepping said:  There are a few landmark buildings that are must-see stops when visiting Chicago. One of them is the former Hancock Center located on Michigan Avenue. Go to the 94th floor of the building for some great views at 360 CHICAGO. 360 CHICAGO observation deck is also home to TILT – Chicago’s highest thrill ride – an enclosed moving platform that literally tilts you out over Michigan Avenue.

The Willis Tower and John Hancock buildings both compete for skydeck view experiences, but both are great - and you get a view of the opposing building! It just depends on what location you find yourself in for the day. Hancock is along the mega shopping district on Michigan Avenue, closer to the lake, while The Willis Tower is conveniently located right off the Metra commuter trains a bit southwest.