66 Things To Do in Chicago With Kids (Parent Reviews)

Yoli B said:  Do you have little ones that can't get enough of their train table, or watching the trains pass by? If so the Illinois Railway Museum is a perfect place to spend the day. They have collections of vintage rail cars and modern subway cars. Exhibits are outdoors and in hangar style facilities and the best part is you can touch and climb aboard most of the cars and engines. Pack a lunch or eat at the onsite diner, but make sure you enjoy the 25 minute train ride before you leave! This is the venue for the annual Days Out With Thomas.

April-September

Gina I. said:  Step back in time, and experience Schaumburg as an early German settler at Volkening Heritage Farm. Authentically dressed interpreters will show you around the 1880s farmhouse, let you help with seasonal farm chores, and teach you all about what life was like for some of Schaumburg's early residents. Visit the barn and say 'hello' to the local livestock. While you're there you may even see some chickens roaming freely throughout the grounds!

Kristy Pepping said:  Skydeck is located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, the tallest building in Chicago. This 360-degree experience offers a fun way of experiencing the city, and those who dare can walk out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony that extends 4 feet away from the building.

Sarah D. said:  The Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve boasts 11 miles of trails, many of which are 8 feet wide limestone navigable by stroller or wheelchair. I recommend Waterfall Glen for the main trail access to Rocky Glen trail (.2 miles) which leads to a beautiful waterfall of the same name. The views are amazing, the access parking lot is nearby, and the trail is suitable for all ages!

Shila said:  Lincoln Park Zoo is home to rhinos, monkeys, tigers, bears, lions, penguins, giraffes, exotic birds and more! Open daily and always free since it was first established in 1868, it is one of the best things to do in Chicago with kids for those who live here as well as those who are visiting.

Shila said:  Millennium Park's Crown Fountain consists of two 50-foot glass block towers at each end of a shallow reflecting pool. It is a popular gathering place and one of the best splash pads in the city! The fountain acts a public play area and offers people an escape from the summer heat while walking through the fountain's ankle high water.

Kristy Pepping said:  Chicago families love MSI! The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. Exhibits focus on both history and on the future of science and science education, but kids love the interactive exhibits and jaw-dropping experiences geared just for them. They have an amazing model train exhibit, too, that train-enthusiast kids (and adults!) go wild for.

This museum is located a little south of downtown, but a very quick drive. Its campus has tons of open park area for kids to burn off some energy and right next to the lake, too.

Kristy Pepping said:  There are a few landmark buildings that are must-see stops when visiting Chicago. One of them is the former Hancock Center located on Michigan Avenue. Go to the 94th floor of the building for some great views at 360 CHICAGO. 360 CHICAGO observation deck is also home to TILT – Chicago’s highest thrill ride – an enclosed moving platform that literally tilts you out over Michigan Avenue.

The Willis Tower and John Hancock buildings both compete for skydeck view experiences, but both are great - and you get a view of the opposing building! It just depends on what location you find yourself in for the day. Hancock is along the mega shopping district on Michigan Avenue closer to the lake, while The Willis Tower is conveniently located right off the Metra commuter trains a bit southwest.

Erin P. said:  Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens is an 85-acre non-profit park that features woodlands, prairie, wetlands, gardens and a 10-acre lake. Adventure seekers can rent canoes or kayaks, or those who prefer dry land might enjoy hiking, jogging or walking along the lake. Their nature center includes reptiles and other animals, as well as books and exhibits for kids. It offers the opportunity for hands-on learning and also hosts several kid-friendly nature programs throughout the year. There is also a children's play area in the Children's Forest.

Shila said:  American Girl Place is a retail store for everything American Girl and is located on the exciting strip of Michigan Avenue at Water Tower Place. It's a destination in itself! Enjoy selections that appeal to girls and grown-ups alike—plus, they offer special seats just for doll friends. Reservations recommended.

Kristy Pepping said:  Before it was Macy's, it was Marshall Field's. The founder, Marshall Field, was from Chicago and his flagship department store still stands on State Street today. Inside this historic building, a lot has changed, but the Walnut Room remains true to tradition. This iconic restaurant is located on the 7th floor and was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. If you are visiting during Chicago's Christmas season, they have an enormous tree in the center of the room - viewable from upstairs in the store, too. Make a whole day of shopping and dining on Chicago's State Street!

Serving lunch and dinner

Kristy Pepping said:  Millennium Park is located on famed Michigan Avenue and within walking distance to several hotels, restaurants, and shopping. It also provides the backdrop for several (often free!) cultural programs including concerts, exhibitions, awesome outdoor movie nights, and more. Kid specific attractions include an outdoor ice skating/roller skating ribbon, rock climbing, splash parks, mini golf, Maggie Daley Park playground, and lush gardens to run or take a leisurely stroll through. Remember to take a picture at "The Bean" sculpture (aka Cloud Gate)!

Sean Keisman said:  All Seasons Orchard is one of the largest u-pick apple orchards in northern Illinois with more than 15,000 apple trees and two orchards. Their wagon ride will take you to one or both orchards, depending on the pick-your-own apple varieties that are available. They also have thousands of pumpkins to choose from whether you want to pick your own or grab an already-picked pumpkin from their pumpkin farm. The orchard also includes a corn maze, petting zoo, bunny village, giant swings, pedal karts, and more.

Kristy Pepping said:  Lost Mountain is located in Chicago's western suburb of Woodridge that is built around a mystical three-tiered waterfall. As the saga goes, "Lost Mountain is said to be the last remnant of the fabled Illini Mountains" more than 2 million years ago. The course today challenges young adventurers through daunting holes, bridges, rivers, passing quick sand and racing rapids, and more obstacles to theme. Make your way to the summit of Lost Mountain!

Erin P. said:  My mom used to love taking us to Chicago and going for a ride on the Seadog, and I look forward to continuing the tradition with my own kids one day! You can enjoy views of Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Chicago Harbor, and Chicago’s Museum Campus. A great summer activity! Thrill seeking Chicago families should try the extreme thrill ride, where speeds hit 45 mph and they do 360 degree spins. You'll get wet!