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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.

Classes & Workshops

Chicago Public Library Maker Labs

Free access to hands-on tech, building tools, and creative STEM programming for kids.

Trails

Chicago Riverwalk

A scenic, stroller-friendly path along the river that is perfect for walking, scootering, or a relaxed family outing with built-in stops along the way.

Classes & Workshops

Chicago Sparks Kids Soccer

A fun, beginner-friendly soccer program focused on skill-building, teamwork, and confidence. Great for ages 2 to 8.

Playgrounds + Parks

Chicago Women's Park and Gardens

A smaller, quieter park with a playground and open space that is easy to overlook but perfect for a low-key outing.

Libraries & Storytime

Chicago Public Library Storytimes

Free storytime, music, and play sessions for toddlers and younger kids throughout the week.

Trails

Chicago Riverwalk Downtown

A scenic place to walk, watch boats, and enjoy the city with plenty of places to stop along the way.

Museums

Chicago Sports Museum

Sports fans of all ages can enjoy learning about the Chicago Cubs, Bears, and Bulls and more.

Festivals

Chinatown Summer Fair

A cultural festival with performances, food, and kid-friendly activities that feel both fun and educational.

Sports Rentals

Chicago Rec Sports

Explore classes where toddlers can start their journey with sports in a low-pressure, engaging environment.

Classes & Workshops

Chicago School of Golf

Structured golf instruction for beginner and intermediate players who enjoy focused, skill-based learning. Best for ages 5 and up.

Water Tours

Chicago Water Taxi

A fun way to get around the city by boat, especially between the Loop and Chinatown. Pop down to Chinatown for lunch then take the train back for an easy adventure kids will love.

Museums

Chinese American Museum of Chicago

Offers exhibits that share Chinese American history and culture in a way that is approachable for families.

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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STEM Camps
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Art Camps
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GLASA Camp Trek

Adaptive sports focus for kids with physical or visual disabilities in a supportive, inclusive environment with trained staff and volunteers.

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Jens Camp

Good balance of outdoor time, creative activities, and free play for younger kids transitioning from daycare to camp.

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Tennis on the Lake (Summer Camp)

Outdoor tennis with a beautiful lakefront setting and skill building with lots of movement.

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Summer Camp

Stages Chicago Acting Camps

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

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Summer Camp

Life Time Kids Camp Summer Camp

Reliable full day style coverage and a convenient option for Life Time members.

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Figure Skating Chicago Summer Camp

Focused skating skill development for kids already skating or interested in learning.

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All About Dance Summer Camps

Great for kids who love movement and performance in a fun, expressive environment.

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Banner Camp

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

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Lycée Français de Chicago World Camp

Play based language immersion with lunch, snacks, cultural exposure, and field trips.

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Summer Camp

Game On! Sports 4 Girls Summer Camp

Girl centered sports environment focused on confidence, teamwork, fun, and a wide variety of movement based activities.

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Francis W. Parker School Summer Camp

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

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Summer Camp

Nature Museum Camps

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

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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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