Chicago Staycation Ideas for Families

Stephanie W. said:  The Bennett-Curtis House is a unique restaurant that was built over 100 years ago and offers themed special events with delicious food! There are plenty of options for a great date night for you and your partner, but the ones your kids won't want to miss out on are the Harry Potter Witches & Wizards Themed Dinners. Themes change throughout the year, but you can expect over-the-top decor, trivia, and fun themed food and drink. Adults and children are encouraged to attend and dress up.

Kristy Pepping said:  Chicago families love MSI! The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. Exhibits focus on both history and on the future of science and science education, but kids love the interactive exhibits and jaw-dropping experiences geared just for them. They have an amazing model train exhibit, too, that train-enthusiast kids (and adults!) go wild for.

This museum is located a little south of downtown, but a very quick drive. Its campus has tons of open park area for kids to burn off some energy and right next to the lake, too.

Sarah D. said:  Northerly Island trails are an extension of the museum campus and Chicago's famous Lakefront Trail. These paved, pristine trails traverse a hilly, lakefront expanse of Illinois prairie and savanna that form a peninsula out into Lake Michigan. Renowned for the presence of migratory birds, Northerly Island is a sanctuary along the shoreline of a bustling city. With easy access via an on-site lot, this sanctuary is the perfect place to spend time in nature.

Gina I. said:  Chicago's most popular stargazing spot offers education and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Explore a variety of out-of-this-world exhibits and breathtaking shows, and check out the Planet Explorers area, where kids can climb, crawl, play, and join the crew on a mission to space!

Erin P. said:  My mom used to love taking us to Chicago and going for a ride on the Seadog, and I look forward to continuing the tradition with my own kids one day! You can enjoy views of Buckingham Fountain, Grant Park, Chicago Harbor, and Chicago’s Museum Campus. A great summer activity! Thrill seeking Chicago families should try the extreme thrill ride, where speeds hit 45 mph and they do 360 degree spins. You'll get wet!

Kristy Pepping said:  Navy Pier may be a "touristy" attraction, but even if you are from Chicago, there is so much to do and explore that you may have never seen before, including restaurants, shows, cruises, and events. Most notably, kids can enjoy one of the best children's museums in Chicago, as well as the Centennial Ferris Wheel that offers stunning views of the city skyline.

Shila said:  The Tall Ship Windy sails from Navy Pier and is often recognizable to those walking the pier because of its unique character - she is a 148 foot traditional four masted gaff topsail schooner. Tall Ship Adventures offers fireworks cruises, pirate cruises, and a variety of other public and private cruises. There are a few sails per day; guests can even sometimes be invited to assist with onboard sailing duties!

Sarah Calamita said:  If you have dinosaur lovers this is THE place to go. The great thing is you can go in and spend a few hours inside, but then it is right on the lake so you can spend time outside and walk the path along the lake! It is an amazing museum. Don't miss the SUE exhibit!

Kristy Pepping said:  See whales, dolphins, sharks, stingrays, jellyfish and more! Many exhibits are play-based, like the Polar Play Zone, where your kiddo can slip into a penguin suit and waddle around! Experience touch tanks, animal chats, dolphin and whale shows, shark feedings and behind-the-scene tours, sleepover events, youth camps, and more.

Lisa R said:  Consistently rated one of the best guided tours in Chicago, Bobby's Bike Hire has a range of walking and biking tours specially tailored for tourists, families with young kids, date night, etc. It's a great way to catch up on Chicago history, learn about new places that you'll want to return to again and again, and (best of all) learn obscure facts that will impress your friends!

Kristy Pepping said:  Millennium Park is located on famed Michigan Avenue and within walking distance to several hotels, restaurants, and shopping. It also provides the backdrop for several (often free!) cultural programs including concerts, exhibitions, awesome outdoor movie nights, and more. Kid specific attractions include an outdoor ice skating/roller skating ribbon, rock climbing, splash parks, mini golf, Maggie Daley Park playground, and lush gardens to run or take a leisurely stroll through. Remember to take a picture at "The Bean" sculpture (aka Cloud Gate)!

Vanessa M. said:   Chinatown is easily accessible by the CTA Red Line via the Cermak Station. Make sure to stop inside a few of the Chinatown shops on the way in! Enjoy fabulous food, shopping and culture.

Serving lunch and dinner

Kristy Pepping said:  Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago is a great way to introduce your child to art appreciation, plus see the iconic lions out front! This popular downtown Chicago museum offers family programs and daily workshops with hands-on experiences, story times and more. Families with younger kids may particularly enjoy walking through The Thorne Miniature Rooms, The Touch Gallery, or viewing the vibrant glass treasures found in the Paperweight Gallery.

Kristy Pepping said:  This comprehensive tour takes you on a boat ride through the heart of Chicago while a professionally-trained guide shares the story behind its legendary architecture and renowned skyline. There is an indoor section on the boat if it is chilly outside, along with bathrooms and snacks for a comfortable ride. Several different tours are available, including a shorter, family-friendly version of the Chicago River Architecture Tour at only 45 minutes.

Kristy Pepping said:  The Chicago Water Taxi may be your mode of transportation while going to work, but it can also be fun as a tourist or as part of a Chicago family staycation! It's a great way to quickly (and cheaply) see the sights and architecture that Chicago has alongside the river without taking a formal tour, and is a fun boat trip for kids!

If you're arriving downtown via Metra to either Oglivie or Union Station, just walk a couple blocks to the river and you've arrived! You can ride the Chicago Water Taxi to Navy Pier, Chinatown, Michigan Ave, or even the Museum Campus.

Shila said:  American Girl Place is a retail store for everything American Girl and is located on the exciting strip of Michigan Avenue at Water Tower Place. It's a destination in itself! Enjoy selections that appeal to girls and grown-ups alike—plus, they offer special seats just for doll friends. Reservations recommended.

Sarah Calamita said:  This is a milk shake bar with totally over the top milkshakes. Your child may only eat a few bites, but it is Instagram worthy and your kids will think they are just so fun!

Kristy Pepping said:  There are a few landmark buildings that are must-see stops when visiting Chicago. One of them is the former Hancock Center located on Michigan Avenue. Go to the 94th floor of the building for some great views at 360 CHICAGO. 360 CHICAGO observation deck is also home to TILT – Chicago’s highest thrill ride – an enclosed moving platform that literally tilts you out over Michigan Avenue.

The Willis Tower and John Hancock buildings both compete for skydeck view experiences, but both are great - and you get a view of the opposing building! It just depends on what location you find yourself in for the day. Hancock is along the mega shopping district on Michigan Avenue closer to the lake, while The Willis Tower is conveniently located right off the Metra commuter trains a bit southwest.

Kristy Pepping said:  Skydeck is located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, the tallest building in Chicago. This 360-degree experience offers a fun way of experiencing the city, and those who dare can walk out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony that extends 4 feet away from the building.

Sarah Calamita said:  The best doughnut shop in the city is in an old bank vault off a little side street in River North. Plan to wait in line, but they are fresh and to die for. (If you can't make it there, Fire Cakes and Stan's are the 2 runner ups!)

Sarah D. said:  The Chicago Riverwalk is a world-class tour through Chicago's famous "Loop" along the Chicago River. This paved pathway is frequented by walkers and boaters from all over the world. The stretch of riverfront extends from the lake inland below street level but with access points for strollers and wheelchairs. The Riverwalk is a great place to walk, eat, and play! This is a must-see for family-friendly outdoor walking fun!

Shila said:  Lincoln Park Zoo is home to rhinos, monkeys, tigers, bears, lions, penguins, giraffes, exotic birds and more! Open daily and always free since it was first established in 1868, it is one of the best things to do in Chicago with kids for those who live here as well as those who are visiting.

Kelly R. said:  The Lincoln Park area is a great spot to enjoy plentiful green space and to capture great skyline views from the north side. Take a walk along the lakefront or the nature boardwalk. Both paths are within blocks of the (free) Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Conservatory. Stop in at any one of the many family-friendly restaurants for lunch, like RJ Grunts or the Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder. And be sure to admire the historic tree-lined streets throughout the neighborhood. There are several playgrounds in the area, too, including the one at Oz Park - a local favorite!

Gina I. said:  From koi fish to tropical palms to ancient ferns, this conservatory houses both unique plants and grows thousands of plants used in local parks. Visit the Orchid Room featuring a gorgeous array of exotic blooms, and the live model train run that's set up during winter- when it's also toasty warm inside! The free Lincoln Park Zoo and Lily Pool are next door.

RebeccaH said:  A dynamic combination of art, music, comedy and technology, Blue Man Group encourages audiences to reconnect with their inner (and outer) child in order to see the world through a new perspective. Blue Man Group originally debuted at the Briar Street Theatre in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood in 1997. Three bald and blue men explore today’s cultural norms with wonder, poking fun at the audience’s collective quirks and reminding them how much they all have in common. The show is continually refreshed with new music, stories, custom instruments and state-of-the-art technology.

Kelly R. said:  If you're a Cubs fan in Chicago, you have likely watched a game from inside Wrigley. But have you had the chance to witness what goes on behind the scenes of the friendly confines? Wrigley Field offers 75-90 minute guided walking tours, where you can learn more about the ballpark and its history. Tour routes vary, but can include the press box, dugout, clubhouse, and field. This is a unique experience gift for kids who love sports!

Sarah Calamita said:  Even if you don't like baseball and aren't a Cubs fan, you will have a blast at Wrigley Field, the home of the beloved Cubs. It is a beautiful stadium in a fun neighborhood. Make sure you eat a hot dog there. Outside before game day you can access Gallagher Way which is a fun green space where they have a splash pad and kids games out 2 hours before the game. The atmosphere around Wrigley on game day is second to none.

Shila said:  The Chicago Magic Lounge is typically an adult-only bar and entertainment venue that features a calendar of events full of invigorating magic show performances. On select Sundays, they present family-friendly showcases geared for kids and adults alike. Performances vary and can range from magicians full of funny jokes for kids to mysterious illusionists full of jaw-dropping tricks.

Shila said:  Stroll through acres of indoor and outdoor botanical gardens featuring plant species and landscapes from around the world. The perfect family activity in Chicago to get in touch with nature all year long.

Brittany Kozielski said:  Brookfield Zoo houses around 450 species of animals on 216 acres. Don't miss their dolphin show! After going to the zoo for years I discovered the Hamill Family Play Zoo & Wild Encounters. The Play Zoo is perfect for kids up to age 10 and is very hands-on and lots of fun. During the day you can hear a zookeeper discuss certain animals and walk around with them for kids to pet. Enter the Wild Encounters section and you will be surrounded by red pandas, llamas, alpacas, wallabies, and reindeer...and can even pet and feed some of them!

Gina I. said:  The Chicago Botanic Garden features walkable gardens and natural areas on 385 acres! Beautiful in every season, it's the perfect place to stroll around and spend the day.

Kristy Pepping said:  The trails at the Morton Arboretum wind through an amazing display of carefully cultivated trees and provide exceptional play areas that give kids a space to explore nature. The Children’s Garden is a fun outdoor playscape with scavenger hunts, tunnels, mazes and whimsical structures.

Kristy Pepping said:  Six Flags Great America, located in Chicago's northern suburbs, has attractions running the gamut from roller coasters to gentler options for tots. It is Chicago's largest theme park, and most popular for thrill-seeking families. Plan for an entire day here if you've never been before. You'll find thrill rides like roller coasters, family rides, kiddie rides and even water rides at the adjacent Hurricane Harbor (separate admission).

Sarah D. said:  Don't want to drive too far to get out of town? Visit Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee, IL! Great Wolf is one of America's premier indoor and outdoor water resorts with splash-tastic activities for children of all ages! The resort makes family travel easy with an array of on-site dining options and activities for children including story time, pajama parties, visits from characters and so much more! Great Wolf sits just across the way from Six Flags Great America so your children can visit a world-class amusement park for additional thrills!

Gina I. said:  Step back in time, and experience Schaumburg as an early German settler at Volkening Heritage Farm. Authentically dressed interpreters will show you around the 1880s farmhouse, let you help with seasonal farm chores, and teach you all about what life was like for some of Schaumburg's early residents. Visit the barn and say 'hello' to the local livestock. While you're there you may even see some chickens roaming freely throughout the grounds!

Shila said:  Feast while you watch horses, knights in combat, swordplay, jousting and more.

Kristy Pepping said:  Santa’s Village AZoosment Park, located in Chicago's northwestern suburbs, offers fun for the whole family. Enjoy animal encounters like pony rides and feeding goats, rides, games, shows and more. Adrenaline-packed rides include Xtreme Elevation which is a 140-foot free fall, and the twisty-turny Super Cyclone Roller Coaster. But Santa's Village really shines best with their kiddie and classic family rides (e.g., Tilt-A-Whirl, flying jets, pendulum ship, carousel, etc.).

Yoli B said:  Blackberry Farm is a part of Fox Valley Park District's living-history museum. The Adventure Playground looks like an old farming community with climbing deck, rope tunnels, bridges and tons of slides. The coolest part will be watching your kid zip line from the silo back to Earth! In addition to the incredible playground, admission to Blackberry Farm includes access to its historical sites, rides and attractions, including the Discovery Barn, train, hay wagon, paddle boats, carousel and ponies.

May-October

Shila said:  Golden Age Cinemas McHenry Outdoor Theater offers a highly-recommended drive in movie experience complete with concessions, glow sticks, plenty of parking space, quality films, and more. If McHenry is too far, there are few additional drive in theatres near Chicago as distance could make a difference. Take advantage of a venue close to you! And, be sure to experience more outdoor movie events under the stars too!

Kristy Pepping said:  Donley's Wild West Town, located in Union, Illinois, is a family amusement park. All will have fun as they share the experience of panning for gold pyrite at the Sweet Phyllis Mine, shooting slingshots at Huck Finn's and watching a live action Wild West Stunt Show. There are pony rides, a smaller (yet exhilarating) roller coaster, carousel, lazy river canoes, hand carts, a train ride, and more! The museum can be enjoyed by all ages too, showcasing cowboy memorabilia, Civil War artifacts, etc.

Kristy Pepping said:  Enjoy a wet and wild family day at Grand Bear Falls with their 24,000 square foot indoor water park with play zones, slides, wave pool, lazy river, and 15 person hot tub!