Discover 27 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Wheaton.
11 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first β start here.
Lincoln Marsh Natural Area offers families an accessible introduction to wetland ecosystems right in Wheaton. The elevated boardwalk trails make it easy to navigate with strollers while keeping little ones dry, and the educational signage turns every walk into a fun learning adventure about local wildlife and plants.
Cantigny Park is a sprawling 27-acre destination in Wheaton that offers something for every family member. Kids absolutely light up when they see the vintage tank display, while parents appreciate the beautiful gardens, well-maintained walking trails, and ample picnic areas that make it easy to spend an entire day outdoors without breaking the bank.
π³ ParkNorthside Park is a Wheaton gem that truly has something for every family member. With its popular splash pad for cooling off, well-maintained playground equipment, and spacious athletic fields, this park serves as both a quick afternoon stop and an all-day destination. The combination of active play areas and shaded picnic shelters makes it perfect for birthday parties, playdates, or just burning off energy after school.
π¨ MuseumThe 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
β ActivityThe 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
π TheaterStep 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.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
π³ ParkButterfield Park is a beloved Elmhurst gem that delivers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With its well-maintained modern playground equipment, spacious open fields perfect for soccer or frisbee, and scenic walking trails, this neighborhood park punches above its weight for family entertainment. The abundance of space means kids can run freely while parents enjoy the peaceful, well-kept grounds.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
π LibraryElmhurst Public Library is a highly-rated community gem that goes far beyond books, offering award-winning children's storytimes, hands-on maker spaces, and engaging family programs throughout the week. With its extensive kids' collections and interactive activities, this library makes learning fun and provides a welcoming indoor space for families year-round.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
πΏ NatureHerrick Lake Forest Preserve is a sprawling 887-acre natural wonderland perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure in the western suburbs. Kids will love exploring the miles of scenic trails, fishing from the dock, spotting wildlife around the beautiful lake, and enjoying wide-open picnic areas for family gatherings. The preserve offers a peaceful escape from screens with plenty of space for little ones to run free and bigger kids to discover nature.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
π³ ParkMcCollum Park offers 43 acres of outdoor adventure right in Downers Grove, making it a fantastic destination for active families. With well-maintained sports fields, winding walking trails through native prairie areas, a modern playground, and shaded picnic shelters, this community park provides everything you need for a memorable day outside without spending a dime.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
π³ ParkWilder Park is Elmhurst's crown jewel for family fun, offering something for every age across its beautifully maintained grounds. From cooling off at the splash pad on hot summer days to exploring the historic Wilder Mansion and conservatory filled with exotic plants, this park combines classic playground fun with unique educational opportunities that keep kids engaged for hours.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
π LibraryWheaton Public Library stands out as a destination library for families, featuring an exceptional children's department that goes beyond books. With dedicated play areas, engaging storytimes for various age groups, and a robust calendar of family-friendly programs year-round, this library creates an interactive learning environment where kids actually want to spend time.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
πΏ NatureLyman Woods offers 146 acres of pristine forest where families can explore winding interpretive trails, spot native wildlife, and discover nature through hands-on learning at the William F. Sherman, Jr. Interpretive Center. With engaging educational programs designed for young learners and well-maintained trails perfect for little legs, it's an ideal escape into nature right in the western suburbs.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
β½ SportsCourts Plus is Elmhurst's premier family fitness destination where parents can stay active while kids have a blast. This comprehensive recreation center features multiple pools including kid-friendly areas, youth sports courts, engaging children's programs, and convenient on-site childcare,making it easy for the whole family to embrace healthy living together under one roof.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
β½ SportsArrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton is an ideal introduction to golf for families, offering dedicated junior programs and lessons specifically designed for young learners. The welcoming, non-intimidating atmosphere makes it perfect for parents wanting to share their love of golf with their kids or learn the sport together as a family.
Tap for hours, tips & photos β
11 upcoming family events in Wheaton
Ready to kick off summer with a bang? Family Fun Night at Darien Park District, 7301 Fairview Ave in Wheaton, IL is the perfect celebration as school winds down and warm weather kicks in. Your family will enjoy inflatables, obstacle courses, hands-on crafts, games, and more,giving everyone a chance to play, create, and make memories together before the summer schedule really gets rolling.
via Google Events
Celebrate the end of the school year with an evening packed with fun at Family Fun Night, hosted by Darien Park District in Downers Grove on Thursday, May 7. Your kids will jump through inflatable obstacles, tackle challenge courses, create crafts, and play games,it's the perfect low-pressure way to kick off summer vacation with the whole family.
via Google Events
Unleash your child's creativity at the Jewelry-Making Workshop, held at Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art in Wheaton, IL, where kids ages 8 and up design their own unique gemstone creations including a necklace and keychain to take home. This hands-on arts and crafts experience combines artistic expression with the beauty of natural materials, giving your child a wearable masterpiece they'll be proud to show off.
via Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
Get ready for a fossil-filled adventure at the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art in Wheaton, IL, where young paleontologists can explore real fossils up close, build awesome 3-D dinosaur puzzles, and create their own fossil imprints to take home. This hands-on STEM experience brings prehistoric wonder to life and gives kids a chance to engage with genuine geological treasures in an interactive, fun way.
via Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
Showing 11 events in and around Wheaton