10 Best Things to Do for Kids in Chicago

Looking for a family vacation? You should definitely consider Chicago! The Windy City is full of kid-friendly attractions, including zoos, theaters, museums, and parks. With so many options, deciding where to go and what to do can be challenging. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 10 entertaining places to visit in Chicago with kids, organized by category. Every child has different interests, after all! From outdoor adventures to hands-on activities, there’s something to keep the whole family entertained for hours and create lifelong memories.

Chicago’s escape rooms offer thrilling adventures for families. Kids can go on missions such as traveling to Mars, saving the White House, or escaping from zombies. Nothing beats the excitement of racing against the clock while solving puzzles to escape a gold mine, prison, or art heist! Popular escape rooms include:

• Fox in a Box – Chicago
• Escape Artistry
• The Escape Game Chicago

For an all-in-one adventure, Maggie Daley Park is perfect for kids. Scale outdoor rock climbing walls up to 40 feet high, with routes suitable for beginners and advanced climbers. Skate or scoot along the Skating Ribbon, a winding path that becomes a one-of-a-kind ice-skating venue in winter. Younger kids can enjoy mini-golf, featuring miniature models of famous Chicago landmarks such as the Picasso sculpture, Wells Street Bridge, and Willis Tower.

The Museum Campus is home to Chicago’s most iconic museums:

• Shedd Aquarium– Kids can feed sharks, interact with penguins, and touch stingrays under the guidance of expert trainers.
• Field Museum– Meet Máximo the Titanosaur, a 122-foot-long dinosaur, and see the world’s most complete rex skeleton, along with exhibits on insects, gemstones, and mummies.
• Adler Planetarium– Explore planets, stars, and galaxies with interactive exhibits, and enjoy immersive sky shows in the state-of-the-art theater.

It’s the perfect place for a mix of learning and fun.

For teenagers who love trendy shops, Chicago’s neighborhoods offer unique shopping experiences. Explore Lincoln Park, Andersonville, Wicker Park, and Pilsen for independent boutiques, artisan stores, and quirky vintage shops. For larger selections in one spot, check out Block 37 on State Street or Water Tower Place on The Magnificent Mile.

bike and explore the mile-long pedestrian trail while enjoying public art and waterfront views. You can also hire a kayak from Urban Kayaks or take a guided river tour. For a short history lesson, visit the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum.

No family trip is complete without Navy Pier. The Centennial Wheel features covered gondolas that soar nearly 200 feet above the city, offering stunning skyline views. In summer, enjoy fireworks on Wednesdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Pier Park includes rides like the Pepsi Wave Swinger, carousel, climbing walls, and the Light Tower Ride. For thrill-seekers, the Seadog Extreme Thrill Ride provides jet-powered spins and splashes over Lake Michigan. Other attractions include Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Chicago Children’s Museum, and FlyOver Chicago.

Chicago’s observation decks are a must for breathtaking views:

• Skydeck Chicagoat Willis Tower (103rd floor) – See four states on a clear day and step onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending four feet outside the building.
• 360 Chicagoat 875 N. Michigan Avenue – Ride TILT, a platform that leans you forward 1,000 feet above the city for thrilling skyline views.

The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry offers hands-on science adventures. Highlights include:

• A mock coal mine shaftexperience
• Science Storms, simulating lightning, tornadoes, avalanches, tsunamis, fire, sunlight, and moving atoms
• The only U-505 German submarinein the U.S.

It’s a place where curiosity and fun come together for the whole family.

The Kohl Children’s Museum emphasizes playful learning. Kids can explore aquatic exhibits, play grocery stores, and engage in interactive activities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and socialization. Families love it for its fun, educational environment that keeps children engaged for hours.

For fast-paced fun, head to WhirlyBall in Bucktown. Kids can play the signature game, drive bumper cars, and try laser tag. With multiple activities, children can spend an entire day exploring and trying new games. On-site dining ensures everyone stays energized.

Make your Chicago visit stressfree — lock in a stay at Skylark Motel Chicago today and enjoy easy access to the city’s best family spots.