I’ve had the privilege of visiting some incredible places. However, one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had as a parent traveling with children is exploring the vibrant and diverse city of Chicago. With a mix of engaging activities for all ages, Chicago is truly one of the best destinations for family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re in the mood for museum visits, outdoor excursions, or interactive experiences, this city has it all!
I’m going to share with you three activities I’ve personally enjoyed with my children, followed by four highly recommended attractions that are perfect for families. I’ll provide my personal experience at each, along with tips on the best times to visit, what to expect, pricing, and how to plan your family trip for an unforgettable experience.
1. The Shedd Aquarium: An Underwater World of Wonder
One of the first attractions that comes to mind when thinking of family-friendly activities in Chicago is the Shedd Aquarium. This is a place where you and your little ones can dive into the mesmerizing world of marine life. The Shedd Aquarium is not just an aquarium—it’s an entire experience that transports you to the depths of the ocean and brings you up close with creatures from around the world.
Location: 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Opening Hours:
- Monday through Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
General Admission: $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for children (ages 3-11), and free for children under 3.
My Experience
The Shedd Aquarium is an absolute must-see when visiting Chicago with kids. The moment we entered, my kids were immediately captivated by the large, colorful displays of tropical fish, sea turtles, and the vibrant underwater exhibits. The Wild Reef exhibit was one of their favorites—where we saw everything from sharks to stingrays gliding through the water. It felt like we were in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by these magnificent creatures.
I especially recommend the Amazon Rising exhibit. It’s an immersive experience where you and your family can explore the lush Amazon rainforest and encounter piranhas, electric eels, and even anacondas. What I appreciated most was how educational and interactive the exhibits were. My children loved the touchscreen displays that allowed them to learn about each species as they explored.
For a truly unforgettable experience, be sure to check out the Dolphin and Sea Lion Show. The show features these incredible marine mammals performing tricks and stunts, and it’s an excellent opportunity for the whole family to learn about marine animal training and conservation efforts.
Pros:
- Incredible variety of marine life
- Interactive exhibits and touch tanks
- Well-organized, easy-to-navigate layout
Cons:
- Can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays
- Parking is limited, so I recommend taking public transportation or using a ride-share service
Tips:
- Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
- Check for discounts online and take advantage of package deals that include access to other attractions, like the Adler Planetarium or the Field Museum.
- The aquarium has a fantastic family membership option that provides unlimited entry, discounts at the gift shop, and access to exclusive events.
2. Lincoln Park Zoo: A Day of Animal Encounters and Outdoor Fun
Another fantastic family-friendly attraction I highly recommend is the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the country. This zoo is unique in that it offers free admission, making it an ideal choice for families looking for an affordable yet entertaining experience.
Location: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Opening Hours:
- Daily from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
My Experience
We visited the Lincoln Park Zoo on a sunny Saturday afternoon, and it was nothing short of magical. The zoo is spacious and beautifully landscaped, making it the perfect setting for a family day out. My kids were thrilled to see the animals up close, especially the Big Cats exhibit, where we got a great view of lions and tigers lounging in their habitats. There’s something so exciting about seeing these majestic animals right in front of you!
One of the most memorable parts of our visit was the Farm-in-the-Zoo area, where children can interact with domesticated animals like goats, pigs, and chickens. My kids loved feeding the goats and petting the bunnies, and it was a great opportunity to teach them about farm animals and where our food comes from.
We also spent a lot of time at the Penguin and Polar Bear Exhibits. The penguins waddling around and the polar bears swimming in their large tanks were both adorable and awe-inspiring. The zoo’s Primate House was another highlight, where we got to watch orangutans, monkeys, and other primates up close in an environment that closely mimicked their natural habitats.
Pros:
- Free admission for all visitors
- Perfect for children of all ages
- Gorgeous park-like setting
Cons:
- While it’s free to enter, some special exhibits (such as the carousel) require an additional fee
- Limited dining options on-site, though there are nearby restaurants in Lincoln Park
Tips:
- The zoo is located near the beautiful Lincoln Park Conservatory, so I recommend visiting both on the same day if you’re in the area.
- Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo is quite large, and you’ll want to explore all the exhibits.
3. Navy Pier: Chicago’s Iconic Waterfront Destination
Next up on my list of family-friendly Chicago attractions is Navy Pier, a place that offers endless fun for both kids and adults alike. Located along Lake Michigan, Navy Pier features a wide variety of activities, including rides, interactive exhibits, and beautiful lakefront views.
Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Opening Hours:
- Daily from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Hours vary depending on the season)
Admission: Free to enter, but some attractions may have additional fees.
My Experience
Visiting Navy Pier with my children was like stepping into an amusement park by the water! The first thing that caught my kids’ attention was the Centennial Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers spectacular views of the city and the lake. We spent about 15 minutes in the air, and my kids were thrilled to spot the city’s landmarks, including the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Building, from such a high vantage point.
We also visited the Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier, which is packed with interactive exhibits designed to encourage creativity and learning. My kids especially loved the Waterways exhibit, where they could experiment with water flow and build their own structures using various materials. It’s both fun and educational, offering kids the chance to learn about engineering and the environment while having a blast.
After the museum, we took a walk along the pier, grabbed some ice cream from one of the kiosks, and enjoyed the street performers, who were out entertaining the crowds. It was a great way to end a fun-filled day.
Pros:
- Fantastic variety of attractions for all ages
- Amazing views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline
- Plenty of dining options and shops
Cons:
- Some of the attractions, such as the Ferris wheel and boat tours, can be pricey
- It can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during the summer
Tips:
- I recommend buying tickets for attractions online in advance to save time.
- Take a boat tour from Navy Pier to get a unique view of the city’s skyline from the water.
- Be sure to visit in the evening during the summer months when the pier lights up with vibrant colors, making it even more magical.
4. Museum of Science and Industry: A World of Hands-On Learning
For families who love science and interactive exhibits, the Museum of Science and Industry is a must-see attraction. As one of the largest science museums in the world, it offers a vast array of exhibits that will captivate both adults and children alike.
Location: 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637
Opening Hours:
- Daily from 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
General Admission: $21.95 for adults, $12.95 for children (ages 3-11).
Recommended Activities
- Coal Mine Tour: One of the most exciting parts of the museum is the Coal Mine Tour, where visitors get a chance to travel down into a simulated coal mine. It’s an immersive experience that allows kids to learn about the history of coal mining and the science behind it. The guided tour is engaging and informative, and my children loved how interactive it was.
- The U-505 Submarine: The U-505 submarine exhibit is another highlight, where families can tour a real WWII-era submarine. It’s a fascinating piece of history and a great way to teach kids about military history, technology, and engineering.
- Science Storms: If your kids are fascinated by weather and natural disasters, the Science Storms exhibit will be a hit. It’s an interactive exhibit that lets visitors experience the power of tornadoes, hurricanes, and other natural phenomena up close.
Pros:
- Great variety of interactive and educational exhibits
- A perfect place for kids to learn while having fun
- Well-maintained and spacious museum
Cons:
- Some exhibits require additional fees (e.g., the Coal Mine Tour)
- The museum is large, so it can take a few hours to explore everything
Tips:
- I recommend purchasing tickets in advance online to save time and take advantage of any special offers.
- Plan to spend at least half a day here to fully experience the exhibits.
Chicago truly offers something for everyone, but when it comes to family-friendly attractions, it’s hard to beat the options available here. From the aquatic wonders of the Shedd Aquarium to the animal encounters at the Lincoln Park Zoo and the interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago is a destination that will captivate your family’s imagination.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending a full week in the city, these attractions will provide unforgettable memories for both parents and children alike. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready for an adventure in one of the most family-friendly cities in the world!
