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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.

Seasonal Events

Chicago Children's Theatre

A go-to for thoughtfully produced shows designed specifically for young audiences. Current highlights include Goodnight Moon. Use code FRIEND for 15% off tickets.

Classes & Workshops

Chicago Fire FC - Little Sparks

Introductory soccer programs designed for toddlers to learn the basics.

Trails

Chicago Lakefront Trail

A paved path stretching along Lake Michigan, perfect for family bike rides, long walks, and easy outdoor exploration with kids.

Playgrounds + Parks, Splash Pads

Chicago Park District Splash Pads

Free and easy water play options across neighborhoods that are perfect for hot summer days.

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.

Cafes

Chicago French Market

A casual indoor food hall where kids can walk around, pick snacks and try different foods without needing a full sit-down meal.

Classes & Workshops

Chicago Mosaic School

A unique studio where older kids can explore mosaic art and hands-on design techniques.

Pools

Chicago Park District Swimming Pools

A network of indoor and outdoor pools across Chicago, offering accessible, family-friendly swimming options all summer.

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.

Museums & Exhibits

Chicago History Museum

Kids can enjoy the interactive exhibits and dioramas while learning about Chicago's rich history.

Seasonal Events

Chicago Park District Events

Free programming including outdoor movies, concerts, and family-friendly activities in local parks.

Libraries & Storytime

Chicago Public Library

Many branches offer regular story times, singalongs, and toddler play sessions, along with maker labs and family programming. Popular locations include Sulzer Regional, Bezazian, Lincoln Belmont, Harold Washington, and Woodson Regional.

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

Museum of Science and Industry Summer Camps

Excellent for curious, STEM minded kids with a wide range of age specific themes.

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Summer Camp

Lincoln Park Zoo Camps

Unique animal experiences in an iconic Chicago setting with a strong outdoor and environmental focus.

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Summer Camp

Latin School of Chicago Summer Camps

High quality enrichment programming in a school based environment.

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Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Kids Science Labs Summer Camps

Real hands on science experiments for curious, analytical kids.

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Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Abbey Ryan Art Studio Summer Camp

Smaller group sizes feel personal and nurturing, especially for younger kids who may be overwhelmed by larger camps.

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Summer Camp, Day-Off Camp

Kid Create Studio Summer Camp

Great balance of creativity and light structure with age specific camps that make it approachable for younger kids.

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Summer Camp

Decoma Day Camp

Traditional summer day camp with sports, arts, swimming, outdoor play, transportation, and a strong community feel.

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Summer Camp

Pedalheads Bike Camp (Summer Camp)

Confidence building for new and developing riders in a high energy, outdoor focused program.

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Summer Camp

Chicago NFL Alumni Youth Football Camps

Kids ages 6 and up can strengthen their football skills and have fun. Half and full day camp options are available.

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Summer Camp

Green Explorers Club

Nature based learning with hands on projects and a balanced mix of structure and outdoor play.

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Summer Camp

Chicago Public Schools Summer Programs

Offers school based summer camps, academic enrichment, and district wide summer programs.

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Summer Camp

Chicago Yacht Club Sailing Camp

Unique on the water sailing experience in the city that builds confidence, teamwork, and outdoor movement.

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to do with kids in Chicago.

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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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