75+ Delightful (& Affordable) Things to Do in Chicago with Kids
Are you looking for things to do in Chicago with kids? If you have some free time from your busy schedule and now looking for kids activities and places to hang out with your tots, kids, tweens, or teens in Chicago this guide will help you get past the cabin fever and do a little family bonding that is so much fun, not forced. A family-friendly option is what everybody looks for. There are plenty of options, such as the Children’s art Museum, 360 Chicago skyline view atop John Hancock Building, Navy Pier, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Millenium Park, Adler Planetarium, Museum of Science, Maggie Daley Park, Field Museum, kayak tours, Lincoln Park Museum, and Chicago Architecture Center or even some family fun activities downtown Chicago.
Whether you’re a Chicagoland native, traveling to Chi-town for the first time, or even permanently moving to Chicago, you’ll find kid-friendly activities and places to go with your kids. From the best restaurants to tourist attractions, this guide has you covered. From downtown Chicago to Lake Michigan and Willis Tower, there’s something for everyone.
Things to do in Chicago with Kids
Each chapter is organized by topic so you can find suitable family activities in Chicago the quick and easy way. With so many options on offer, we hope by the end of reading this guide you’ll never have to wonder what to do in Chicago with kids again. Happy reading!
Snack Happy at These Fun Chicago Kid-friendly Restaurants
Who said you can’t have fun with your food? These Chicago-area eateries elevate dining to an attraction that kids of all ages will love. If you are in Chicago with kids, you’re in for a treat. From the most appealing food tour to one of the most beautiful city skyline. You can host a momentous birthday party or go visit a museum of science. From a medieval adventure complete with jousting to the only kid-friendly, G-rated restaurant where waitresses dance on the tables that we know of, this list is loaded with as much fun as food.
Rainforest Café (Fun Food Venue for Kids)
Located not far from Lake Michigan, Rainforest Cafe is one place not to miss. Perfect for all ages, the Rainforest Café makes mealtime an adventure. Part of a major chain of eateries, the food is tasty and kid-friendly, but the real benefit is the ambiance. Your kids will feel like they’re on an adventure in the depths of a rainforest. If you intend to visit this cafe in Chicago with kids, it’s all fun and no fear here, though.
Price: $$
Tip: This is a fun place to bring the grandparents, too, and AARP discounts are available.
The downtown Chicago location has since closed, but the Rainforest Cafe at Gurnee Mills is still open. It’s a bit of a drive but is still a fun way to pass the time. If you’re not quite ready for indoor dining, you can order take-out.
American Girl Place Café
A great stop for little girls who love dolls and pretending to be grown-ups, the American Girl Café is a fun place for ages 4-12. Brunch, lunch, and dinner are served here, but to make every little girl’s dream come true, check out tea time for the ultimate in tea parties. Reservations are strongly recommended, and meals and tea are served at specific hours, so you’ll need to plan ahead.
Price: $$-$$$
Entrances and capacity are limited. Dining is still possible, but hours and table sizes are limited so reservations are even more important than they were before.
Medieval Times
Located in Schaumburg, Medieval Times (Chicago Castle) brings the adventures of princes, princesses, knights, and the 11th century to life in a family-friendly dining experience. It’s the ideal spot to take little princesses and knights in training, of all ages. Best with the 4 to 10-year-old crowd, adults will have a good time, too. The set menu includes tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, sweet buttered corn – and no utensils. Vegetarian options can be provided on request (but ask in advance!).
Price: $$$
Billy Goat Tavern (Chicago Area)
Not a great place for little kids, the Billy Goat Tavern is a solid pick for pre-teens and teens. With nine locations serving the Chicago area, the chain is a local favorite with a quirky and entertaining back story. The food is worth the trip, but it’s the sarcasm and wit that keep this place popular – not to mention the prices. And don’t miss the Cheezborger.
Price: $
The restaurant is currently accepting orders for carryout and delivery. Dine-in is not available.
Ed Debevic’s
There’s a place in Chicago where table dancing isn’t something dirty – Ed Debevic’s is it. Snark, sass, and a cheap menu make this a fun place for teens. Little kids love the bright 1950s color scheme, and fast service is a plus for days when you’re in the mood to eat on the run.
Price: $
After a brief closure, Ed Debevic’s has reopened in Streeterville, as rude and fun as ever.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
Need something a little more upscale? Visit Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. Jenni’s ice cream is made fresh in small batches with local ingredients. The flavors range from seasonal specialties to traditional favorites like the white chocolate peppermint ice cream that made Jeni famous. If you can’t decide what flavor to try, there are always “flights” of mini scoops for tasting. Jeni’s ice cream is located on 3635 N Clark St Chicago, IL 60613.
Having company over before your Chicago outing? Book a quick deep clean so your home is guest-ready before everyone arrives.
Get Close to Nature in the Windy City
A wide range of habitats and diverse wildlife make Chicago naturally beautiful. Bring your kids closer to it when you visit one of the area’s many nature centers, botanic gardens, or zoos. One of the most prominent attractions is the Lincoln Park Zoo. With more picturesque additions like the Chicago children’s museum, you are up for one of the most exciting things in life.
Peggy Notebeart Nature Museum
This museum is more than a pretty name – it’s the Chicago Academy of Sciences Museum. Kids, teens, and adults will all learn something on a visit to this enchanting place. The museum operates numerous learning programs and classes, as well as citizen science projects. This museum is located at 2430 N Cannon Dr Chicago, IL 60614.
Price: $, Thursdays are suggested donation days (no set fee)
The museum is open to the public, with virtual visits and classes also available.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the last free zoos in America. Lincoln Park Zoo has a reputation for great holiday lights in winter and phenomenal views of the city when the weather is warm and clear. It’s a perfect spot to let the kids run wild and learn about their favorite animals.
