10 Best Things to Do for Kids in Chicago

Chicago isn’t just a city of skyscrapers, deep-dish pizza, and lakefront sunsets—it’s also a playground for kids of all ages!

Whether your little ones are budding paleontologists, aspiring zookeepers, or just love chasing fountains, the Windy City has something to delight every curious mind. From hands-on museums to sprawling parks and even a sprinkle-filled wonderland, Chicago makes family adventures unforgettable.

Here’s our curated list of the 10 best kid-friendly attractions in Chicago, guaranteed to spark fun (and maybe a little chaos).

Why kids love it: Lions, gorillas, penguins, and more—oh my!

Lincoln Park Zoo, in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park, opened in 1868, making it one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. The best part? It’s free all year round. Kids can marvel at gorillas and chimpanzees at the Regenstein Center for African Apes, peek at majestic big cats in the Kovler Lion House, or say hello to farm animals at the Farm-in-the-Zoo. Don’t forget the carousel and playground—because sometimes spinning in circles is the true highlight.

Why kids love it: Dolls, tea parties, and personal styling!

Located on Michigan Avenue, American Girl Place is a paradise for doll lovers. Children can explore themed areas featuring historical and modern dolls, get doll hair styled at the salon, and even enjoy doll ear-piercing. The in-store café hosts tea parties, birthday events, and family meals, while design stations let kids create their personalized dolls—complete with matching outfits. Warning: your child may beg to bring home a new best friend!

Why kids love it: Endless playgrounds, climbing fun, and ice-skating!

Spanning over 20 acres next to Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park is a dream for little adventurers. The Play Garden features slides, climbing structures, and themed zones like the Watering Hole and the Harbor. Older kids can try the climbing walls, while winter brings an ice-skating ribbon that winds through scenic paths. Picnic areas and open lawns make it a perfect spot for family downtime, too.

Why kids love it: Walking on glass… at terrifying heights!

Skydeck Chicago, atop the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, features The Ledge: a glass box extending over the city for breathtaking views from 1,353 feet above ground. Prefer a slightly different thrill? TILT at 360 Chicago tilts visitors outward on a moving glass platform, offering stunning views from 1,030 feet. Both spots make for memorable family photos (and some squeals of excitement).

Why kids love it: Fountains, shiny sculptures, and splashy fun!

Millennium Park, along Michigan Avenue, is home to the iconic Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”), where kids can marvel at distorted reflections. The Crown Fountain entertains with digital faces spouting water in the summer months—perfect for splash-filled play. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion hosts outdoor concerts, and the beautifully landscaped Lurie Garden offers a quiet break from the excitement.

Why kids love it: Rainforests, deserts, and prehistoric plant worlds!

Opened in 1908, Garfield Park Conservatory on the West Side is a tropical and desert wonderland under one roof. Kids can explore towering palms, cacti, ferns, and waterfalls. The Desert House and Palm House transport visitors to far-off climates, while the Fern Room recreates lush prehistoric landscapes. Outdoor gardens and ponds provide additional exploration, and admission is free (donations appreciated).

Why kids love it: Sprinkles, slides, and unlimited ice cream!

Housed in Tribune Tower, the Museum of Ice Cream is a sugary dream come true. Kids can jump, slide, and play in colorful, themed rooms—including the famous Sprinkle Pool. Sample unlimited ice cream flavors, snap fun photos, and enjoy seasonal events. Warning: some parents report sugar-induced dance-offs.

Why kids love it: Hands-on learning and creative play!

Located at Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum encourages early childhood learning through interactive exhibits. Kids can build in the Tinkering Lab, dig for fossils in the Dinosaur Expedition, explore Water City with pumps and flowing streams, or role-play in Kids Town’s miniature grocery store and bus. Art studios and seasonal programs round out the experience, keeping little minds engaged for hours.

Why kids love it: Sharks, dolphins, and touch tanks!

Shedd Aquarium, part of Chicago’s Museum Campus, opened in 1930 and is home to thousands of aquatic animals. The Caribbean Reef features vibrant fish, while the Abbott Oceanarium showcases beluga whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Kids can touch rays and sturgeons, and exhibits like Amazon Rising introduce fish, reptiles, and plants from the Amazon. Daily presentations highlight animal behaviors, making the underwater world come alive.

Why kids love it: Dinosaurs, mummies, and underground adventures!

Opened in 1894, the Field Museum is a scientific wonderland. Children can meet SUE, the most complete T. rex skeleton ever discovered, explore fossils in the Evolving Planet exhibit, and marvel at Egyptian mummies in the Griffin Halls of Ancient Egypt. Hands-on discovery zones and the Underground Adventure let kids dig, touch, and crawl through soil habitats, turning learning into a full-on adventure

Wrapping up, Chicago is bursting with fun, educational, and downright magical experiences for kids. From zoos and museums to parks and sweet treats, every family can find adventures to make memories together. Pack your walking shoes, bring a sense of curiosity, and let the Windy City wow your little ones.

Book your Chicago stay with our handpicked selection of hotels and make your trip stress-free and unforgettable!

7.9 Good

Sheraton Grand Chicago

301 East North Water Street Chicago, us

8.5 Very good

Hyatt Regency Chicago

151 East Wacker Chicago, us

8.0 Very good

Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile

511 North Columbus Drive Chicago, us