Things To Do With Kids in Wilmette, IL

The Original Rainbow Cone is a legendary Chicago-area ice cream destination that's been delighting families for generations with its signature five-flavor rainbow slice stacked in a cone. Kids' eyes light up when they see the towering combination of orange sherbet, pistachio, Palmer House (vanilla with cherries and walnuts), strawberry, and chocolate ice cream that's become an iconic summer tradition for local families.

Hometown Coffee & Juice is a welcoming neighborhood cafe where families can unwind over breakfast or lunch without the stress of fancy dining. With fresh juices, smoothies, and a relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for a casual meal when you need a break from cooking or want to fuel up before exploring nearby Glenview attractions.

Gallery Park is a standout Glenview destination that truly delivers on inclusive play for all children. The modern playground equipment accommodates kids of varying abilities, while the splash pad provides refreshing summer fun and the expansive green spaces invite families to spread out blankets for leisurely picnics. With paved walking paths perfect for strollers and bikes, this well-maintained neighborhood gem earns its impressive 4.7-star rating from nearly 1,000 families.

Glenview Park Center is a one-stop community hub that keeps families active year-round with its heated indoor pool, gym facilities, and rotating activity programs. Whether your kids need to burn energy on a rainy day or you're looking for structured classes and drop-in childcare, this well-rated facility offers something for every age group under one roof.

Glenview Park Golf Club offers a welcoming introduction to golf for families, with dedicated junior programs and lessons designed for beginners. This public 18-hole course takes pride in being accessible to all skill levels, making it an ideal spot for parents looking to introduce their kids to the sport in a non-intimidating environment.

Bean Sprouts Cafe at Kohl Children's Museum offers the perfect combination of active play and parent convenience. While kids burn energy on climbing structures and explore creative play areas, parents can relax in comfortable seating with quality coffee and snacks. It's the ideal spot where both kids and adults get what they need in one convenient location.

This hands-on museum in the suburbs is designed entirely for younger children to learn through play across 17 interactive exhibits. Kids can shop in a realistic Whole Foods replica, become construction workers, vets, or artists, and splash in water play areas. Unlike downtown museums, it's spacious, never feels overly crowded, and every exhibit is built specifically for little hands and big imaginations.

Billy Caldwell Golf Course in Chicago offers the perfect introduction to golf for families with its compact nine-hole executive layout that won't overwhelm beginners. With dedicated junior programs, affordable green fees, and a welcoming atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for kids to learn golf fundamentals while parents enjoy quality family time on the course.

Peterson Food Mart is a charming, family-owned ice cream parlor that's been delighting generations since 1919. This Oak Park institution offers classic homemade ice cream, towering sundaes, and old-fashioned malts in a nostalgic setting that takes parents back to their own childhood while creating new memories with their kids.

Flick Park is a neighborhood gem in Glenview that offers something for the whole family with its recently updated playground equipment, multiple sports courts, and plenty of green space for running around. The shaded picnic areas make it perfect for extended visits, whether you're planning a birthday party or just a casual afternoon of play.

Step back in time at this beloved Chicago institution where kids can experience the novelty of classic drive-in dining complete with carhop service and larger-than-life hot dog mascots perched on the roof. The retro atmosphere, generous portions, and fun presentation make eating hot dogs feel like a special adventure that creates lasting family memories.

Francesco's Hole In the Wall is a Highland Park institution that welcomes families with open arms and delicious Italian comfort food. With generous portions of kid-approved pizzas and pasta served in a no-fuss atmosphere, parents can actually relax while children enjoy classic Italian fare without the stuffiness of traditional restaurants.

Park Ridge Public Library is a highly-rated community gem that goes far beyond books, offering exceptional programming for young learners including interactive storytimes, hands-on STEM activities, and age-appropriate youth spaces designed with kids in mind. With its award-winning children's department and 4.6-star rating from over 100 parents, this library has become a go-to destination for families seeking enriching, free educational entertainment.

Step back in time at this magnificent 1928 movie palace where kids can experience the magic of cinema in a truly special setting. The Pickwick Theatre combines the wonder of classic architecture,think ornate ceilings, vintage decor, and a dazzling marquee,with family-friendly film screenings that make every movie feel like an event rather than just another trip to the multiplex.

Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy Store is a Park Ridge institution where families gather for premium hand-dipped ice cream made with quality ingredients from their local dairy. Kids love choosing from the colorful array of ice cream flavors, watching their sundaes being built, and enjoying classic treats like shakes and malts in a nostalgic setting that parents appreciate too.

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.

Hodges Park is a well-maintained neighborhood gem in Park Ridge that offers something for every member of the family. With its modern playground equipment perfect for climbing and exploring, open sports fields for running around, and plenty of shaded picnic spots, it's an ideal destination for a relaxed family outing or an active afternoon of play.

Community Park West is a sprawling neighborhood gem in Glenview that checks all the boxes for active families. With well-maintained playground equipment, spacious sports fields, scenic walking paths, and plenty of open green space for running around, it's the perfect spot for burning energy and enjoying outdoor play. The park even welcomes four-legged family members with a dedicated dog park area.

Rosewood Beach is Highland Park's gem on Lake Michigan, offering families a perfect blend of sandy shoreline, gentle waves, and well-maintained amenities. With its combination of beach play, playground equipment, and shaded picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for families seeking a classic summer day by the lake without traveling far from the northern suburbs.

Hinkley Park Skatepark offers a fantastic free outdoor venue where kids can practice skateboarding, rollerblading, and scootering without any admission fees. With features designed for multiple skill levels,from beginners just learning to balance to more advanced riders tackling bowls and rails,this skatepark provides an inclusive environment where kids can build confidence, learn new tricks, and stay active.

Larry Fink Memorial Park is a well-loved Highland Park gem that hits all the marks for families seeking outdoor fun. With its modern playground equipment, refreshing splash pad for hot summer days, and wide open green spaces perfect for picnics and running around, this neighborhood park offers something for every child's energy level and interest.

West Ridge Center is Highland Park's premier community recreation hub offering something for every family member year-round. From swimming lessons and open swim times in the indoor pool to fitness classes designed specifically for children, this multi-purpose facility keeps kids active, engaged, and learning in a welcoming environment.

Centennial Park is Park Ridge's crown jewel for family recreation, offering something for every age year-round. From its popular aquatic center perfect for beating summer heat to extensive playgrounds and sports fields, this well-maintained park provides endless entertainment possibilities. With its combination of active play areas, peaceful walking trails, and shaded picnic spots, it's an ideal destination for everything from quick afternoon outings to all-day family adventures.

Mystic Waters Family Aquatic Center is Arlington Heights' go-to destination for beating the summer heat with kids of all ages. This seasonal outdoor water park features multiple water slides, a zero-depth entry pool perfect for little ones, diving boards for adventurous swimmers, interactive splash features, and dedicated shallow areas where toddlers can safely play while parents keep watch from nearby.

Hidden Creek Nature Sanctuary offers 54 acres of peaceful trails perfect for introducing kids to the wonders of local wildlife and ecosystems. Families can cross charming bridges, spot birds and small animals, and explore well-maintained paths that wind through diverse habitats, making it an ideal outdoor classroom for curious young naturalists.

Highland Park Public Library is a gem for families, earning its 4.6-star rating with exceptional children's programming that goes far beyond basic story time. With an extensive collection of books, interactive activities, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere, this award-winning library makes learning feel like play and has become a beloved community hub for local families.

Port Clinton Square offers a delightful downtown stroll for families who appreciate a slower pace with plenty to explore. This walkable historic district combines boutique shopping, family-friendly restaurants, and regular community events including a seasonal farmers market that kids love browsing for treats and fresh finds.

Walker Bros Original Pancake House is a Highland Park institution that turns breakfast into a family event. Kids are mesmerized watching the enormous Dutch baby pancakes puff up, while the famous apple pancake,baked with Granny Smith apples and cinnamon glaze,is big enough to share and always a hit with young diners. The welcoming atmosphere and extensive menu ensure even picky eaters find something they love.