top of page
Activities image for CMS (1)_edited.jpg
Filter by category

Things to Do in Chicago with Kids

This Summer

Find the best activities, places, and experiences for kids in Chicago and beyond. Use the filters below to find exactly what you need today.

Quick Filters (Activities)

pools
Pools &
Splash Pads
nature
Outdoor
Playgrounds
home
Indoor Play Spaces
nature 2
Nature &
Zoos
classes
Classes & Activities
camps
Summer Camps
Website Activity page (35).png

Popular Activities in Chicago

Discover playgrounds, museums, indoor play, splash pads, classes, and more.

Beaches

Osterman Beach

Known for its shallow water and calmer waves, making it one of the best beaches in Chicago for younger kids.

Read More
Playgrounds + Parks

Palmisano Park

A hidden gem with hills, walking paths, and skyline views that feels different from traditional flat parks.

Read More
Playgrounds + Parks

Oz Park Playground

A unique, themed playground with Wizard of Oz statues that adds a fun twist to a typical park outing.

Read More
Classes & Workshops

Pedalheads Bike Camp

A high-energy program that builds confidence for new and developing riders while keeping kids moving outdoors. Must be age 5 and up. Available to 12.

Read More
Seasonal Events

PAW Patrol Experience at CAMP

A larger-than-life, interactive adventure where kids can climb, slide, and explore scenes straight from Adventure Bay. Themed play zones, creative activities, and plenty of photo ops. CAMP Store, 647 W North Ave. Open through early 2026.

Read More
Museums

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

A favorite for kids with live animals, hands-on exhibits, and a butterfly haven that feels immersive and engaging.

Read More

Looking for Summer Camps or School Break Care?

Browse summer camps, day-off camps, winter break programs, and school closure care all in one place. 

Website Activity page (34).png
Summer Camps
day off icon
Day-Off Camps
sports camps icon
Sports Camps
Website Activity page (31).png
STEM Camps
Website Activity page (39).png
Art Camps
Summer Camp Anchor
https://bbk12e1-cdn.myschoolcdn.com/1048/photo/orig_photo517115_5640053.jpg?w=1920
Summer Camp

Francis W. Parker School Summer Camp

High quality enrichment with a strong balance of academics, arts, and play.

Read More
https://d2rqvd0kuag1qx.cloudfront.net/_640x472_crop_center-center_none/camp-slide_2025-12-02-191811_zmdw.jpg
Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Nature Museum Camps

Hands on science and nature exploration with a strong focus on curiosity, environmental learning, and outdoor discovery.

Read More
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/059288_60f82f44115746b3b5d37402c7cb7e93~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_2760,h_812,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/059288_60f82f44115746b3b5d37402c7cb7e93~mv2.jpg
Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Stages Chicago

Weekly enrollment makes scheduling easier and it is a fun confidence builder for kids interested in acting and performance.

Read More
https://galileo-camps.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/STEAM-Projects-20230724_Galileo_SF_RG.webp
Summer Camp

Galileo Camp

Strong STEAM curriculum with creative projects and a good balance of learning and outdoor play.

Read More
https://www.bannerdaycamp.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/logo.png
Summer Camp

Banner Camp

Popular traditional summer camp experience with city transportation and a full camp feel while still coming home each evening.

Read More
Activity Logo 2

Your go-to guide for the best things

to do with kids in Chicago.

tiktok

SUBSCRIBE

Get our favorite kid-friendly spots & mom tips - straight to your inbox.

PRIVACY POLICY

TERMS OF USE

© 2026 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Select photos by Spoon Photo & Design and Katie Basil Photography​.

Food Photos from Eden and Moody Tongue

bottom of page