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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.

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Popular Activities in Chicago

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

Play Spaces

Block 37 Pedway Play

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.

Festivals

Bud Billiken Parade

One of the largest parades in the country, celebrating community, culture, and back-to-school season with a strong family presence.

Restaurants

Castaways

Offers quick bites with a fun, beachside atmosphere.

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.

Classes & Workshops

Bunny Ears Art House

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

Seasonal Events

Chicago Air and Water Show

A high-energy summer highlight with planes and stunts that captivate kids and adults alike.

Museums & Exhibits

Bronzeville Children's Museum

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

Play Spaces

Bubbles Academy (Mag Mile)

Provides open play sessions and soft play areas for babies.

Cafes

Caffe Oliva

Perfect for a quick bite or drink with lake views.

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.

Looking for Camps or School Break Care?

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

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Summer Camps
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Day-Off Camps
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Sports Camps
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STEM Camps
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Art Camps
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Summer Camp

Bubbles Academy Summer Camp

Gentle introduction to summer camp in a nurturing, age appropriate environment.

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Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Easel Art Studio Summer Camp

Flexible art focused programming that is great for creative expression.

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Summer Camp

Columbia Sailing School

Strong beginner friendly sailing instruction with hands on learning in a real world setting.

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Summer Camp

TimberNook (Summer Camp)

Fun, imaginative outdoor play that feels like childhood should feel and can be a great fit for kids who struggle with sit still environments.

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Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Ultimate Ninjas Chicago Summer Camps

A great outlet for kids who love climbing, jumping, and obstacle courses while building strength and confidence.

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Summer Camp

Steve and Kate’s Camp

Unmatched flexibility for working parents with full day hours, meals, and snacks included.

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Summer Camp

YMCA of Metro Chicago Day Camps

Traditional day camp with neighborhood locations, games, sports, swimming, enrichment, full day options, and financial assistance.

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Summer Camp

Guidepost Montessori Summer Program

Calm Montessori based approach for kids who thrive with independence.

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Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Fit City Kids Summer Camp

Excellent for high energy kids with a structured day of movement, games, and creative play.

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Summer Camp

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Youth Programs

Highly specialized medical and therapeutic support from a trusted Chicago institution for children with physical and neurological needs.

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Summer Camp

Brains and Motion Discovery Camp

Combines physical movement with cognitive learning and offers good variety for younger elementary kids.

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Summer Camp

Summer at TGS The Gardner School

Full day programming ideal for working parents with structured curriculum, learning, play, and a consistent school routine.

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

Food Photos from Eden and Moody Tongue

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