As parents, summertime presents us with the challenge of entertaining our kids during the school break. Looking for fun things to do in Chicago with the kids? We’ve got you covered with this great list of 100 entertaining activities for kids of all ages. From outdoor adventures to fun-filled indoor activities, there’s something that everyone in your family will love. So whether it’s discovering a new culture, learning about science, or just getting out adventures together, get ready for an awesome summer in the Windy City!
1. Navy Pier
This iconic Chicago location offers a host of family-friendly attractions like the Centennial Wheel, an indoor botanical garden, and the Chicago Children’s Museum.
2. Millennium Park
Home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (better known as The Bean), Millennium Park offers beautiful green spaces and a great city view. Don’t forget to check out the Crown Fountain where the kids can splash around!
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park.html
3. Lincoln Park Zoo
An engaging and fun place for kids, Lincoln Park Zoo provides an opportunity to see animals from all over the world. The best part? Admission is free!
4. Maggie Daley Park
A unique and modern park filled with play gardens, rock-climbing sculptures, mini golf, and an ice-skating ribbon during winter.
5. Chicago Botanic Garden
Filled with a variety of different gardens and landscapes, the Botanic Garden offers children an opportunity to learn about plants and nature.
https://www.chicagobotanic.org/
Museums and Learning Experiences
6. Museum of Science and Industry
Houses an impressive collection of exhibits that encourage interactive learning, like a walk-through heart and a recreated coal mine.
7. Field Museum
A natural history museum that will captivate the kids. They’ll love Sue, the world’s largest and most complete T. rex.
8. Adler Planetarium
Give your kids a chance to learn about our universe and enjoy interactive exhibits, sky shows, and a Doane Observatory visit.
https://www.adlerplanetarium.org/
9. Shedd Aquarium
Features a diverse collection of marine life from all over the world, from colorful fish to playful dolphins and more.
https://www.sheddaquarium.org/
10. Chicago Children’s Museum
Located in Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum offers hands-on learning experiences with exhibits on water, dinosaur excavation, and more.
https://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/
Sport Activities
11. Chicago Cubs Game
Take your kids to Wrigley Field for an unforgettable experience watching one of the oldest baseball teams in action.
12. Visit the United Center
Book a tour to walk the halls where the Bulls and Blackhawks play, or try to catch a game.
13. Take a Bike Ride along Lakefront Trail
Enjoy the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan’s beauty on a family-friendly bike ride.
https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/lakefront-trail
14. Rock Climbing at Maggie Daley Park
The park offers unique, fun, and safe rock climbing activities that your kids will love.
15. White Sox Game at Guaranteed Rate Field
Another excellent option for baseball lovers. Be sure to enjoy the kid-friendly areas and food options!
https://www.mlb.com/whitesox/ballpark
Cultural Experiences
16. Chicago Cultural Center
Known for its stunning stained-glass domes, it offers free music, dance, and theater events, as well as films, lectures, art exhibitions, and family events.
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/ccc.html
17. Art Institute of Chicago
While it might seem high-brow, the Art Institute offers family-friendly art-making activities and a dedicated kids’ area.
18. Chinatown
Experience Chinese culture, food, and architecture. Check out the annual Dragon Boat Race for Schools in Ping Tom Memorial Park.
https://www.choosechicago.com/neighborhoods/chinatown/
19. National Museum of Mexican Art
A vibrant museum located in Pilsen, it showcases 3,000 years of art and culture from both sides of the border.
https://nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org/
20. DuSable Museum of African American History
Dedicated to the study and conservation of African American history, culture, and art, this museum offers a wealth of knowledge for the entire family.
https://www.dusablemuseum.org/
Food and Treats
21. Gino’s East
Give the kids a taste of Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza at this well-known restaurant.
22. Navy Pier Food Court
A variety of food options that cater to every taste, perfect for satisfying picky eaters.
https://www.navypier.org
23. Rainbow Cone
Beat the summer heat by enjoying this unique ice cream creation – a stack of different flavors all on one cone.
24. Portillo’s
Try some of the city’s best hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches at this iconic Chicago eatery.
25. Eli’s Cheesecake Bakery Cafe
Known for their heavenly cheesecakes, it’s the perfect place for an indulgent sweet treat.
Entertainment
26. Chicago Magic Lounge
Family-friendly magic shows that will keep kids of all ages entranced.
https://www.chicagomagiclounge.com
27. The Chicago Theatre
Catch a family-friendly show or concert at this iconic venue.
https://www.msg.com/the-chicago-theatre
28. Navy Pier IMAX Theatre
Enjoy a larger-than-life movie experience, with some educational films available too.
29. Broadway In Chicago
Check out the family-friendly musicals and shows offered this summer.
30. Blue Man Group
A thrilling, high-energy show that will entertain both kids and adults.
Water Activities
31. Oak Street Beach
One of Chicago’s most popular beaches, with volleyball rentals, a restaurant, and a beautiful view of the skyline.
https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/oak-street-beach
32. Centennial Beach
An old quarry turned into a beach in suburban Naperville, with depths ranging from zero to 15 feet.
33. Navy Pier Centennial Wheel and Rides
Besides the iconic Ferris Wheel, there are other exciting rides and a funhouse maze to enjoy.
34. Chicago Riverwalk
Take a walk or a bike ride, or even rent a kayak to paddle down the river.
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/chicagoriverwalk/home.html
35. Hurricane Harbor
This large water park with a wide range of water activities is located in the suburb of Gurnee, near Six Flags Great America.
https://www.sixflags.com/hurricaneharborchicago/things-to-do/all-rides
Tours
36. Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise
A boat tour that offers stunning views of the city’s world-renowned architecture.
https://www.viator.com/tours/Chicago/Chicago-Architecture-River-Cruise/d673-5580ARC
37. Skydeck Chicago
Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower.
38. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.
See the city’s top attractions in this hop-on-hop-off tour.
https://www.facebook.com/chicagotrolley/
39. 360 Chicago Observation Deck
Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Building, it offers breathtaking views and an interactive TILT experience.
40. Lincoln Park Conservatory
An indoor botanical garden with a range of plants from around the world.
https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/lincoln-park-conservatory
Parks and Nature
41. Garfield Park Conservatory
One of the largest conservatories in the US, kids will love the Children’s Garden where they can explore and learn about plants.
https://garfieldconservatory.org/
42. Humboldt Park
This park offers trails, a beach, sports fields, and a historic boathouse. Great for picnics and outdoor activities.
https://www.choosechicago.com/neighborhoods/humboldt-park/
43. Lurie Garden
Located in Millennium Park, this beautifully designed garden provides a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
44. North Park Village Nature Center
A natural oasis that offers trails through woodland, wetland, prairie, and savanna.
https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/north-park-village-nature-center
45. Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary
A great spot for bird watching, with plenty of space for kids to run around.
https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/lincoln-park-montrose-point-bird-sanctuary
Shopping and Exploration
46. The Magnificent Mile
Chicago’s premier commercial district filled with shops, restaurants, museums, and hotels. Kids will love the candy shops and the Disney Store.
https://www.themagnificentmile.com/
47. Water Tower Place
An impressive shopping center with a range of stores that cater to kids and adults alike.
https://www.shopwatertower.com/
48. American Girl Place
Perfect for fans of American Girl dolls, this store offers a range of dolls, clothes, and accessories, and even a doll hair salon!
https://www.americangirl.com/pages/retail-chicago
49. Lego Store on Michigan Avenue
Featuring a huge selection of Lego and numerous impressive displays, this place is a dream come true for Lego fans.
https://www.lego.com/en-us/stores/store/water-tower-place
50. The Wndr Museum
A museum where science and art intersect. Expect immersive art installations and interactive exhibits.
Historic Sites
51. The Chicago History Museum
A great place to learn about the city’s past and how it has grown over the centuries.
https://home.chicagohistory.org/
52. Robie House
A beautiful example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture located in Hyde Park. Offers guided tours suitable for older kids.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robie_House
53. Pullman National Monument
Discover the historic Pullman neighborhood, built in the 1880s as a company town for Pullman Palace Car Company workers.
54. Chicago Cultural Center
Built in 1897, it’s the city’s official reception venue where you can admire beautiful mosaics, marble and stunning stained glass domes.
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_culturalcenter.html
55. The Rookery Building
A historic Chicago skyscraper with a beautiful light-filled atrium. Perfect for architecture-loving families.
https://www.therookerybuilding.com/
Festivals
56. Chicago Kids and Kites Festival
A fun annual event where kids can enjoy professional kite flying demonstrations and even fly their own.
https://www.chicagokite.com/event-details/chicago-kids-and-kites-festival
57. Taste of Chicago
The world’s largest food festival offering a taste of the city’s diverse food scene. There’s plenty for kids to enjoy, including music and activities.
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/taste_of_chicago.html
58. Grant Park Music Festival
Outdoor classical music performances in the park. Bring a picnic and enjoy an evening of music.
https://www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/
59. Chicago Air and Water Show
Watch the thrilling display of aerobatics over North Avenue Beach.
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_air_and_watershow.html
60. Chicago Jazz Festival
A free festival held over Labor Day Weekend, perfect for introducing kids to jazz music.
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_jazz_festival.html
Offbeat Attractions
61. Oz Park
This charming park is filled with statues of characters from The Wizard of Oz.
https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/oz-park
62. The 606
An elevated trail that provides a unique perspective on the city’s neighborhoods.
63. Chicago Riverwalk’s Art on the MART
An impressive public art installation projecting contemporary artwork on the Merchandise Mart building.
64. Chicago’s Chinatown Square Zodiac Sculptures
A chance to learn about the Chinese Zodiac while exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown.
http://chicagopublicart.blogspot.com/2013/09/chinatown-square-zodiacs.html
65. Ping Tom Memorial Park
A beautifully designed park in Chinatown, with an impressive Pagoda-style pavilion.
https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/tom-ping-memorial-park
Public Art
66. Crown Fountain
Interactive public art where kids can splash around in the water.
67. Picasso Statue in Daley Plaza
A chance to see a sculpture by Picasso in the heart of the city.
68. Mural on Lake Street
A huge mural painted by Jeff Zimmermann that showcases the history of the area.
69. Flamingo Sculpture
An iconic red steel sculpture located in Federal Plaza.
https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/illinois/articles/a-brief-history-of-chicagos-flamingo/
70. Four Seasons Mosaic
A stunning mosaic by Marc Chagall located in Exelon Plaza.
https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_s_publicartchagallsfourseasons.html
Historic Neighborhoods
71. Pilsen
Filled with vibrant murals, it’s the heart of the city’s Mexican-American community.
https://www.choosechicago.com/neighborhoods/pilsen/
72. Bronzeville
Explore the area known as the city’s Black Metropolis.
https://www.choosechicago.com/neighborhoods/bronzeville/
73. Andersonville
A traditionally Swedish area filled with unique local businesses.
https://www.choosechicago.com/neighborhoods/andersonville/
74. Greektown
Experience the food, culture, and history of Chicago’s Greek community.
75. Albany Park
One of the most diverse neighborhoods in the U.S. with a range of ethnic eateries to explore.
https://www.choosechicago.com/neighborhoods/albany-park/
Day Trips
76. Six Flags Great America
A large amusement park located in Gurnee with a range of thrilling rides.
77. Morton Arboretum
A large outdoor museum of trees located in Lisle, offering kids’ activities and beautiful landscapes.
78. Indiana Dunes National Park
Beautiful beaches, sand dunes, hiking trails, and bird watching just a short drive away.
79. Brookfield Zoo
A world-class zoo with over 2,000 animals located in suburban Brookfield.
80. Starved Rock State Park
Offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and camping opportunities. Perfect for families who love nature.
Farmers Markets
81. Green City Market
The city’s largest sustainable farmers market, offering a range of fresh produce and baked goods.
82. Logan Square Farmers Market
This market features local produce, meats, baked goods, and more.
83. Andersonville Farmers Market
A great chance to buy local produce and other goods.
84. Wicker Park Farmers Market
Explore the market’s assortment of local produce, freshly prepared food, and handmade crafts.
85. Hyde Park Farmers Market
This market offers a variety of locally sourced fruits, vegetables, meats, and other products.
Libraries and Bookstores
86. Harold Washington Library
The city’s main library, it offers a huge selection of books, including a great children’s section.
87. Chicago Public Library, Thomas Hughes Children’s Library
An entire floor dedicated to children’s books and learning materials.
88. Myopic Books
This extensive used bookstore in Wicker Park is a treasure trove for book lovers of all ages.
89. Open Books
A nonprofit social venture that provides literacy experiences for thousands of readers each year through inspiring programs.
90. 57th Street Books
A cozy, subterranean bookstore in Hyde Park that kids and adults will love.
Activities for Teens
91. Second City Classes
This famous comedy club offers classes for teenagers interested in improv.
92. Vertical Endeavors
This indoor rock-climbing gym is a fun place for teens to burn off some energy.
93. Fitness Centers
Martial arts, strength and conditioning, The best time to cut down all carbs from the whole summer vacation!
https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/fitness-centers
94. The Hangout at Navy Pier
A summer-only teen space offering sports, art, music, community service, and academic support.
95. Adler After Dark
A monthly 18+ event at the Adler Planetarium, perfect for older teens.
Bonus: All Ages
96. Millennium Park Summer Workouts
Free summer workout sessions on the Great Lawn – from Tai Chi to Yoga, something for every fitness level.
97. Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Free summer concerts in various parks around the city.
98. Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park
In the summertime, the ice skating ribbon becomes a free roller skating track!
99. Chicago Riverwalk Fishing
Teach the kids how to fish with this free, family-friendly event.
100. Movies in the Park
The Chicago Park District hosts free outdoor movie screenings in parks throughout the city during the summer. An excellent way for families to enjoy a warm summer night!
And there you have it, 100 things to do with your kids in Chicago during the summer! Enjoy the exploration and fun times.
