What are the best things to do with kids in Chicago, IL?

Some of the top-rated family activities in Chicago, IL include North Shore Channel Trail, Salt Creek Trail System - Brown Unpaved Spur, Bean Sprouts Cafe at Kohl Children's Museum, Larry Fink Memorial Park, West Ridge Center. We have 180 curated activities with ratings, age recommendations, and parent tips.

What are free things to do with kids in Chicago, IL?

There are 92 free things to do with kids in Chicago, IL, including Millennium Park, Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago Riverwalk, Maggie Daley Park, Lincoln Park Zoo, and more.

What are indoor activities for kids in Chicago, IL?

Chicago, IL offers a variety of indoor activities for kids including museums, indoor play areas, and entertainment centers. Browse our full guide for details.

Family Activities Guide

Things To Do With Kids in Chicago, IL

Discover 180 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Chicago.

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Explore Neighborhoods

Arlington Heights(11)Brookfield(11)Downers Grove(12)Elmhurst(12)Evanston(12)Glenview(12)Highland Park(11)La Grange(11)Lake Forest(10)Libertyville(11)Oak Lawn(9)Oak Park(12)Park Ridge(12)Schaumburg(12)Skokie(12)Wheaton(12)Wilmette(12)

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🎨 Museum

Photo: Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art

★4.9(974)$17 mi · Elmhurst

The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art offers a sparkling adventure that captivates kids with its dazzling collection of gems, minerals, and intricate jade carvings. This hidden gem in the western suburbs provides an educational yet visually stunning experience where children can marvel at nature's colorful treasures, from shimmering geodes to ancient fossils, all displayed in a manageable, not-overwhelming museum setting perfect for young attention spans.

🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours

Bahá'í House Of Worship Welcome Center visitor center in Wilmette, IL

⭐ Activity

Photo: Bahá'í House Of Worship Welcome Center

Bahá'í House Of Worship Welcome Center

★4.9(448)Free14 mi · Wilmette

This stunning architectural marvel offers families a peaceful retreat with nine meticulously maintained formal gardens, gentle fountains, and tranquil walking paths. Kids can explore the beautiful outdoor spaces while learning about different cultures and religions, making it both an educational and calming experience. The magnificent domed temple and expansive grounds provide a unique backdrop for a leisurely family outing that's completely free to enjoy.

🕑 1-2 hours

🌳 Park

Photo: Gustavo Alvarado

Millennium Park

★4.8(91,189)Free

Millennium Park is Chicago's ultimate family-friendly destination, combining world-class art installations with interactive features that kids absolutely love. From taking silly photos in the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean) to splashing in the Crown Fountain's giant video faces that spray water, this 24.5-acre park offers endless entertainment without costing a penny.

🕑 2-4 hours (plan 2 hours for casual exploring, 3-4 hours if ice skating or doing mini golf, or if letting kids play extensively at Crown Fountain)

🎨 Museum

Photo: Gustavo F. Coria

The Art Institute of Chicago

★4.8(37,333)$$$

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world's greatest art museums, featuring iconic works like Grant Wood's 'American Gothic' and the massive collection of Impressionist paintings that fascinate kids when they learn the stories behind them. The Ryan Learning Center offers hands-on art activities specifically designed for children, making this world-class museum accessible and fun for young visitors.

🕑 2-3 hours with kids; focus on highlights and Ryan Learning Center rather than trying to see everything

The Morton Arboretum tourist attraction in Chicago, IL

⭐ Activity

Photo: Mandee F

The Morton Arboretum

★4.8(14,002)$

The Morton Arboretum is a magical outdoor destination where kids can explore 1,700 acres of trees, gardens, and nature trails. The 4-acre Children's Garden features hands-on activities, water play, and climbing areas, while the famous Troll Hunt sends families on an adventure to find massive wooden troll sculptures hidden throughout the grounds. It's the perfect blend of education and outdoor adventure that keeps kids engaged for hours.

🕑 3-5 hours for a full visit including Children's Garden and Troll Hunt

🌳 Park

Photo: Auguste N

Garfield Park Conservatory

★4.8(10,296)Free

This stunning glass palace houses lush tropical plants, towering palms, and vibrant gardens that transport kids to different climates without leaving Chicago. Children love the enormous ferns in the prehistoric-feeling Fern Room and can hunt for fish in the lagoons. Best of all, it's completely free, making it an incredible value for families looking to escape the city or beat bad weather.

🕑 1.5-2 hours

🎨 Museum

Photo: _ ogisa

Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio

★4.8(2,708)$9 mi · Oak Park

Introduce your kids to architectural genius at Frank Lloyd Wright's actual home and studio where he lived for 20 years and designed 140 buildings. The family-friendly tours make complex design concepts accessible and exciting for children, encouraging them to see buildings and spaces in creative new ways. With an impressive 4.8-star rating, this Oak Park gem turns architecture into an engaging adventure.

🕑 1-2 hours (including the tour and time in the gift shop)

🎨 Museum

Photo: Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

★4.8(1,397)$$14 mi · Skokie

The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center offers a profound educational experience designed to teach older children and teens about history, tolerance, and human rights through thoughtfully curated exhibits. With age-appropriate programs and a focus on fostering empathy and understanding, this award-winning museum provides families an opportunity for meaningful conversations about standing up against hatred and prejudice.

🕑 2-3 hours

🌿 Nature

Photo: From a Google User

Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley

★4.8(1,396)Free24 mi · Schaumburg

Vera Meineke Nature Center at Spring Valley offers 130 acres of natural exploration perfect for curious kids. This working nature preserve combines scenic hiking trails, interactive wildlife exhibits, historic farm buildings, and hands-on educational programs that make learning about nature exciting and accessible for young explorers.

🕑 2-4 hours

🌿 Nature

Photo: Starandatyle Photo

The Grove

★4.8(1,218)Free19 mi · Glenview

The Grove is a stunning 145-acre nature preserve in Glenview that brings the outdoors to life for curious kids. With its excellent interpretive center, easy walking trails through native prairies and woodlands, and hands-on educational programs, it's the perfect place to spark a love of nature while letting little ones explore and burn energy.

🕑 2-3 hours

🎭 Theater

Photo: Classic Cinemas Tivoli Theatre

Classic Cinemas Tivoli Theatre

★4.8(1,047)$21 mi · Downers Grove

Step back in time at this stunning 1928 movie palace where kids can experience the magic of cinema in a truly special setting. With its vintage charm, ornate architecture, and family-friendly film selections, the Tivoli Theatre transforms a regular movie outing into a memorable cultural experience that combines entertainment with a touch of history.

🕑 2-3 hours (including pre-show arrival time to enjoy the historic atmosphere and typical movie length)

🌾 Farm

Photo: Jacob Miller

Volkening Heritage Farm at Spring Valley

★4.8(532)$25 mi · Schaumburg

Step back in time at this authentic 1880s living history farm where kids can meet heritage breed chickens, pigs, sheep, and horses while learning how families lived over a century ago. Children get hands-on experience with farm life through interactive demonstrations, seasonal workshops, and exploring historic buildings including a farmhouse, barn, and one-room schoolhouse.

🕑 1.5-2.5 hours