Planning a trip to Chicago with your family? You’re in for a treat—literally (hello, deep-dish pizza!) and figuratively. If you’re on the hunt for the best things to do in Chicago with kids, you’ve come to the right place.
Chicago is one of our favorite big cities to explore as a family. It offers the perfect blend of interactive museums, iconic landmarks, lakefront adventures, and sweet and savory treats—all wrapped up in a walkable, kid-friendly package.
Whether you’re in town for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, we’ve rounded up our favorite kid-approved activities across the city—from cloud-gazing at The Bean to exploring giant dinosaurs and swimming belugas.
✨ And if you’re still figuring out where to stay, be sure to check out our companion guide: Best Places to Stay in Chicago with Kids. ✨
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Getting There + Getting Around
Chicago is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. If you’re flying in, you’ll likely land at O’Hare or Midway airport. The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) offers train service from both airports into the city.
Renting a Car
We rented one—mainly because we were in town for an extended stay for a family wedding. And while it was handy for errands and side trips, driving in downtown Chicago was… painful. Between traffic, sky-high parking fees, and hotel valet-only options (which added up fast), it became a bit of a headache.
Our hotel only offered valet, so we ended up ditching that and finding a public garage that allowed day parking with in-and-out privileges. The only catch? It was just six blocks away. Good thing Dad could sprint to grab the car in the morning while Mom and our two little girls took their time getting ready.
Getting Around Without a Car
Do you need a car in Chicago? Not really—especially if you’re staying downtown. The city is walkable, and public transportation is excellent. We did rent a car on our last visit since we were in town for an extended stay for a family wedding, but driving downtown was not our favorite (hello, traffic and pricey parking). Our hotel only offered valet, so we ended up parking at a nearby garage about six blocks away. Good thing dad was willing to jog over in the mornings while mom and the girls took their time getting ready!
If you’re using public transportation, look into getting a Ventra pass, which works for CTA trains and buses. It’s budget-friendly and makes getting around super easy.
Ventra Pass
Chicago’s public transportation system runs on the Ventra fare system, and it’s super family-friendly. You can pick up a Ventra Pass that gives you unlimited rides for a set number of days (1-day, 3-day, 7-day, or 30-day options). If you plan to take the train or bus more than a few times a day, this pass is totally worth it. It works on CTA buses and trains, and you can buy it at vending machines, online, or even add it to your phone.
Where to Stay with Kids in Chicago
We stayed near the Magnificent Mile, right in downtown Chicago, and it made getting around super convenient. We could walk to so many amazing restaurants—everything from deep-dish pizza joints to quick breakfast cafes and fancy sit-down spots when we were feeling ambitious with the kids. Being close to everything made it easy to pop back to the hotel for naps or outfit changes (because kids + city = inevitable spills).
Our Downtown Stay
We stayed near the Magnificent Mile, which was incredibly walkable and close to so many restaurants and attractions. One of our favorite stops? The Starbucks Reserve Roastery—even the kids were impressed by the giant copper roasting cask and multi-story layout. (Also, the dessert menu didn’t hurt.)
If you’re still figuring out where to stay, check out our full post on the Best Places to Stay in Chicago with Kids. It covers the top family-friendly neighborhoods like Streeterville, River North, the Loop, and Lincoln Park, along with hotel picks that offer great amenities for traveling families.
Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk – A riverfront favorite for families with spacious rooms, indoor pool, and unbeatable views. Walk to Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and right onto the Riverwalk for kid-friendly adventures.
Our Favorite Things to Do with Kids in Chicago
There’s no shortage of kid-friendly fun in the Windy City—but if you’re wondering where to start, we’ve got you covered. From iconic landmarks to hands-on museums, these are the best things to do in Chicago with kids that our family loved (and yours probably will too). Whether you’ve got a toddler, a grade-schooler, or a whole crew of mixed ages, these activities offer something for everyone—plus a little magic that makes Chicago unforgettable.
Visit The Bean (Cloud Gate)
Probably one of the most popular things to do in Chicago and a must if this is your first time visiting. It’s shiny. It’s huge. It’s weirdly magical. The Bean, officially called Cloud Gate, is a must-see for first-time visitors. Located in Millennium Park, it’s a great spot for photo ops and running around. Our daughter especially loved walking under it and giggling at her funny reflection from every angle. You’ll also find splash fountains and art installations nearby during the warmer months.
Play and Learn at the Color Factory
This interactive art museum in the Willis Tower is full of immersive exhibits that kids can touch, explore, and be wowed by. Think ball pits, confetti rooms, and plenty of Instagram-worthy backdrops. This was hands-down our daughter’s favorite thing to do in Chicago—the massive ball pit at the end was her ultimate highlight. Two years later, she still talks about it to her friends and insists we go back just to experience it again. It’s fun for kids and parents—and yes, there are sweet treats at the end!
Stroll Along the Chicago Riverwalk
Chicago’s Riverwalk is a gorgeous place for a family walk—and one of our favorite free things to do with kids in the city. Stretching along the south bank of the Chicago River, it’s stroller-friendly, scenic, and full of little surprises that kept our kids entertained the whole way.
You’ll pass by playful fountains, colorful art installations, and boats cruising by—plus plenty of snack vendors for a quick treat (we grabbed some popcorn and sat by the water to rest our feet). There are even built-in steps where kids can dangle their toes and watch the ducks swim past.
It’s a great place to unwind after a busy museum visit or to take in the city’s architecture without rushing. If your little ones need to burn off energy or just slow down, the Riverwalk is the perfect mix of chill and charm.
Walk and Play in Millennium Park
After visiting The Bean, take time to walk around Millennium Park—it’s one of the best open-air spots in the city for families. You’ll find wide, stroller-friendly paths, ever-changing art installations, and even a music pavilion where you might catch a free concert in the warmer months. In the summer, kids love splashing around the Crown Fountain, where digital faces spit water from giant LED towers. It’s a great place to slow down, let the kids explore, and enjoy Chicago’s urban green space.
Run Around at Maggie Daley Park
Just east of Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park is one of the most magical and imaginative play spaces we’ve ever seen in a city. It’s not just a playground—it’s a whole adventure. The park is divided into themed play zones like a ship-themed play structure, enchanted forest, and towering slides that older kids will love. There’s also a climbing wall for adventurous kids and adults, mini golf in the summer, and an ice skating ribbon in the winter that winds through the trees like a little rollercoaster for skaters. Bonus: It’s completely free and there are lots of benches and shaded spots for parents to relax while the kids burn off energy. Our kids didn’t want to leave!
Explore the Shedd Aquarium
Hands down, one of the best—and largest—aquariums we’ve visited yet. From sea otters to beluga whales, the Shedd Aquarium is packed with immersive exhibits that bring the underwater world to life. Our daughter’s favorite? The beluga whales—she was mesmerized by their graceful swimming and loved watching them glide through the water. She talked about them for days afterward. The aquarium also features interactive touch pools, colorful reef tanks, and rotating exhibits that mix education with plenty of wow factor. Don’t miss the aquatic presentation—it’s a highlight that combines dolphins, sea lions, and more in a live show that’s both educational and entertaining!
Meet the Dinosaur at the Field Museum
If your kids are into dinosaurs, the Field Museum is a must. Home to SUE, the most complete and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex ever discovered, this museum will wow dino fans of all ages. SUE stands tall in the main hall and is truly an impressive sight. The museum also has tons of interactive exhibits covering everything from ancient Egypt to ecosystems around the world. It’s a perfect mix of educational and fun—and a great spot for indoor exploring on a rainy day.
Visit Navy Pier
Home to the Chicago Children’s Museum, an old-school carousel, and a giant Ferris wheel with lake views, Navy Pier is an all-in-one stop for family fun. We loved walking the pier together, taking in the views of Lake Michigan, and stopping for some ice cream (even though it was chilly and windy—hello, Windy City!). Pack a jacket or hoodie even in spring or fall. There are also boat rides, fun food vendors, and seasonal events throughout the year, making it a great place to explore with kids any time of year.
Catch a View from the Skydeck
Located in the Willis Tower, the Skydeck lets you step out onto The Ledge—glass boxes extending from the building’s 103rd floor. It’s definitely one of the best spots for jaw-dropping city views and unforgettable photos.
We didn’t visit this time since we were short on time—and truthfully, our 7-year-old is not a fan of heights at the moment. Maybe when she’s older and a little braver! That said, the experience itself is super thoughtfully designed. From the start, you’ll find interesting facts about Chicago, fun interactive displays, and cool photo ops even before reaching the top. The elevator ride alone is an experience—and once you’re up there, the views are breathtaking.
If you’ve got a head for heights (or a kiddo who’s feeling bold), this is a must-do.
Say Hi to the Animals at Lincoln Park Zoo
This zoo is a Chicago classic—and yes, it’s completely free! Right in the heart of the city, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country and one of the few major zoos in the U.S. that doesn’t charge admission. It’s walkable, shady, and packed with kid-friendly exhibits.
You’ll see everything from lions and giraffes to penguins and monkeys, plus there’s a great Farm-in-the-Zoo area where little ones can meet goats, chickens, and cows up close (and even see a cow being milked). It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, learn a little science, and not spend a dime.
Explore Lincoln Park
While you’re at the zoo, make time to explore Lincoln Park itself—Chicago’s largest park and a total gem for families. Stretching along the lakefront, the park offers wide paths perfect for strollers, shady trees, and gardens that change with the seasons.
There are tranquil ponds with ducks, beautiful skyline views, and even a few quiet corners that feel like a mini escape from the city buzz. We especially love the large playground near the zoo—it’s a great spot to let kids climb, swing, and burn off extra energy.
In the warmer months, you might catch a free outdoor concert or stumble upon a pop-up activity on the lawns. It’s the kind of place where you can pack a picnic, stretch out on the grass, and feel like a local.
Take a Family-Friendly Architecture Boat Tour
If your kids can handle sitting still for a bit (or you bring plenty of snacks), the Chicago Architecture Boat Tour is an absolute must. We did this on our trip, and while our daughter had a great time just being on the boat—pointing at bridges, waving at kayakers, and enjoying the ride—she wasn’t exactly tuning into the fascinating history behind Chicago’s skyline.
Us parents, on the other hand? We were totally into it. The guides are full of stories and cool facts about the city’s buildings and how it all came to be. It’s a relaxing, scenic way to soak up the sights (and rest your feet), and a great option for older kids or younger ones who are happy with a snack and a view.
Ride the Water Taxi
If you think the architecture boat tour might be a bit too long for your kids, the water taxi is a perfect alternative!
Looking for a fun, budget-friendly way to get around the city with kids? Hop on a Chicago Water Taxi! It’s not just a mode of transportation—it’s an adventure all on its own. The boats cruise along the Chicago River, offering awesome views of the skyline without the price tag (or time commitment) of a full tour.
We loved how easy it was to hop on near Navy Pier or Union Station, and our daughter was thrilled to ride a “boat bus.” It’s perfect for little legs that need a break from walking, and way more exciting than your average subway or cab ride.
Water taxis run seasonally (usually spring through fall) and connect some of the city’s most popular spots. Bonus: they’re stroller-friendly and super chill—no need for a tight schedule or long lines.
Eat Your Way Through Chicago-Style Pizza
You can’t visit Chicago without trying its most famous food: deep-dish pizza. This isn’t your average slice. Chicago-style deep-dish is baked in a pan like a pie—with a thick, buttery crust, gooey mozzarella cheese, chunky tomato sauce on top (yes, on top!), and often layers of toppings in between.
It was invented in the 1940s at Pizzeria Uno, and since then, it’s become a beloved symbol of the city. The style is so hearty that even one slice can be a meal—so bring your appetite!
We made it a point to stop by Giordano’s, one of the most popular deep-dish spots in town. Our daughter loved watching the cheese stretch as we pulled each slice apart, and we all agreed it was a must-do Chicago experience. Just be warned: deep-dish takes time to bake (about 30–45 minutes), so order ahead if you can, or be ready with a coloring book or snack while you wait.
Other family-friendly favorites include Lou Malnati’s, Pequod’s, and Gino’s East—all offering their own twist on the cheesy, saucy, fork-and-knife feast.
Snack on Garrett Popcorn
If you’re strolling through downtown Chicago and catch a whiff of something buttery and sweet in the air—follow your nose to Garrett Popcorn. This iconic Chicago snack shop has been around since 1949, and it’s a must-try for any foodie (or snack-loving kid!).
We picked up a bag of the Garrett Mix (cheddar + caramel popcorn), and it was an instant hit. Our daughter loved the cheesy fingers, and we couldn’t stop sneaking extra bites of the caramel corn. The salty-sweet combo is surprisingly addictive, and perfect for sharing as you walk around Millennium Park or the Magnificent Mile.
Pro tip: grab a small tin to bring home—it’s the perfect souvenir that won’t take up suitcase space for long (because you’ll eat it on the plane). The lines can get long at peak times, but the smell alone is worth the wait!
Treat Yourselves at Starbucks Reserve
Even if you’re not a coffee fanatic, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery on Michigan Avenue is worth a stop. It’s not your typical Starbucks—it’s a five-story coffee wonderland filled with rare brews, fresh-baked pastries, and fascinating brewing equipment.
There are only six Reserve Roasteries in the world, and the Chicago location is the largest, making it a top attraction not just for coffee lovers, but for anyone looking to see something truly unique. From the beautiful copper roasting silos to the spiral escalator and rooftop views, it’s part museum, part café, part bakery—and totally kid-approved.
Speaking of kids, ours couldn’t wait to get in—until she saw the line. We snapped a funny photo of her making the ultimate sad face when we told her the wait might be 20–30 minutes. (Yep, it’s that popular!) But once inside, the mood shifted fast. She loved browsing the baked goods, picking out a fancy cookie, and sipping a warm hot chocolate while watching the coffee gear whir and hiss.
It’s a great break spot during your Michigan Avenue stroll—and definitely a memorable stop whether you’re there for espresso or just dessert.
Final Thoughts: Big Fun in the Windy City
Chicago truly has something for every kind of kid—and every kind of parent too. From sky-high views to hands-on museums, boat rides to buttery popcorn, and playgrounds tucked between skyscrapers, the Windy City delivers big on both fun and memories.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, we hope this list gives you a solid starting point (and maybe even a few surprises!) to help you plan an unforgettable family adventure.
And don’t forget—where you stay can make all the difference. Be sure to check out our full post on the best places to stay in Chicago with kids for family-friendly hotel picks in neighborhoods we know and love.
Safe travels, happy exploring, and may your deep-dish slices always be cheesy and warm
