Things to Do in Chicago with Kids

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)

Classes & Activities

Outdoor
Playgrounds

Indoor Play Spaces

Nature &
Zoos

Pools &
Splash Pads

Summer Camps

Popular Activities in Chicago

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

Play Spaces

Block 37 Pedway The Flip

Explore the underground pedway and pop into Block 37 for a quick indoor walk that feels like an adventure.

Zoos & Petting Zoos

Brookfield Zoo

Enjoy indoor exhibits like Tropic World and The Living Coast on colder days.

Cafes

Caffe Oliva

Perfect for a quick bite or drink with lake views.

Seasonal Events

Chicago Children's Theatre

A go-to for thoughtfully produced shows designed specifically for young audiences. Current highlights include Carmela Full of Wishes . Use code FRIEND for 15% off tickets.

Sports Rentals

Bobby's Bike Hike

Offers family-friendly rentals including kids bikes, trailers, and guided tours.

Play Spaces

Bubbles Academy

A mix of infant and toddler classes including art, music, and open play.

Restaurants

Castaways

Offers quick bites with a fun, beachside atmosphere.

Museums & Exhibits

Chicago Cultural Center

Stunning architecture and free seasonal events including occasional family-friendly open houses and interactive art programs. Pro tip: check the DCASE calendar for upcoming one-day family events.

Museums & Exhibits

Bronzeville Children's Museum

A cultural gem offering interactive learning for kids. Ideal for 4 to 9 year olds.

Classes & Workshops

Bunny Ears Art House

Kid-friendly art classes and workshops perfect for fostering imagination and fun.

Museums & Exhibits

Chicago Children's Museum

Visit Kids Town and Pritzker Playspace along with many other exhibits and programs for young learners. Pro tip: buy a membership which includes parking, discounts at the gift shop, and more perks.

Water Tours

Chicago Fire Boat

A unique, family-owned experience within the Friend of a Mom community, offering a more personal and memorable way to explore the river.

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.

Day-Off Camps

Summer Camps

Sports Camps

STEM Camps

Art Camps

Summer Camp Anchor

https://bitspacechicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/summercamp2c.webp

Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

bitspace Summer Maker Camp

Fun Opportunities for Your Child to Flex Their Creative Muscles

https://mygymcontent.blob.core.windows.net/mygymcontent/images/stocktop/nophoto.jpg

Day-Off Camp

My Gym Camps

At My Gym, we activate the fun every single day – SO LET THE FUN BEGIN! Energizing games, exciting gymnastics, and music that guarantees to keep them moving and engaged.

Summer Camp

Old Town School of Folk Music Summer Camp

Get ready to rock this summer with Old Town School Summer Camp, an unforgettable adventure for 6 to 11-year old creative kiddos!

https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-1/165907626_134000698726597_1266840801960808149_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=2d3e12&_nc_ohc=Y08eqUNk38UQ7kNvwEZxrw-&_nc_oc=Adq3LSHvbKiSPo_c59uvHhCEZRdZFf-zsBl-M9yZMe9C99csj82ZpmRatBFq2RC7EJ8&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&_nc_gid=4ox6GVoiw-IEvFY5Fr0Awg&_nc_ss=79289&oh=00_Af610APILhJlqNc-O4zYTM8D2j4JYic9IdiO5xsRPSPpKA&oe=6A364C9B

Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Unicoi Studio Camp

Join us for amazing art projects, playtime and outside fun at the parks during warmer temperatures. Plenty of open crafts in between!

Day-Off Camp

Lakeshore Sport and Fitness School Days Out Camp

School Days Out Camp is LSF’s September-to-May camp option when school is not in session. We offer a full day of engaging and recreational programming that makes full use of our facility, neighborhood, and all-star staff.