Chicago Staycation Ideas for Families

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!