Family Friendly Behind The Scenes Tours Around Chicago

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  MSI is always listed as a Chicago family favorite, and they offer a variety of special tours that are geared towards kids of different age groups: under 10 years old, 10 –13 years and 14–17 years. Children can experience their favorite exhibits led by a fun and knowledgeable museum facilitator. Seeing the museum from behind the scenes will allow participants to gain deeper knowledge of it as well as access to areas which are not open to the general public. A truly special tour that is sure to inspire your kids' interest in STEM!

Cost: starting at $33.95 adults / $21.95 children

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  If your kids love a trip to Shedd Aquarium then these tours are perfect for them! Choose your experience, from a behind the scene tour that lets your little marine enthusiast experience the aquarium from the point of view of the highly skilled aquarium care-givers, to the ever popular shark feeding tour. See the inner workings of the aquarium and gain a new appreciation for this landmark attraction.

Ages: 7 +

Cost: Starting at $55.95 adults / $46.95 children

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  For your future stars the Chicago Marquee Tour offers a journey through the history of the majestic Chicago Theatre. Your family will have the chance to set foot on the famous stage which has hosted true greats including Frank Sinatra and Dolly Parton. The tour also includes the dressing rooms (which will surely please your little fashionista), where you can see their signatures memorialized on the wall. Don't miss out on touring this famous theater, recognized across the globe as a premier entertainment venue.

Cost: $18 adults / $13 children

Daily at 12 pm (exceptions apply)

Lisa R said:  The Plant is Chicago's first 'sustainable manufacturing center' that helps innovative companies create zero waste products. Inside this former stockyard you'll find vegetable growers, brewers, and bakers who all work together to make sure that one man's waste is another man's treasure. Kids and adults can learn more through weekly tours where they'll see fish and prawns being used for aquaponics and more.

Ages: all ages admitted

Cost: $7 for students and $10 for adults, free for residents of zip code 60609

Saturdays at 2 pm sharp and Market Saturdays 11:30 am

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:   Take a tour of Chicago with O’Leary’s Chicago Fire Truck Tours, where you and your kids can experience the sights and sounds of Chicago riding in a real fire truck. An unforgettable experience, whether it's for a birthday party or a tour of Chicago’s fire stations. In the age of cinematic heroes, it’s nice to remind our kids about the real life heroes in our emergency services.

All ages
Cost: upon registration

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!

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  Eli’s Cheesecake World Tours provide an educational experience describing Eli’s history and preparation of their delicious products, as well as offering a tasting. Yummy, scrumptious cheesecake...a sweet treat for adults and kids alike! Need I say more?

Daily at 1 pm

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  Chicago’s Brookfield Zoo offers a variety of ‘Backstage Adventures’ tailored to help educate your kids. Discover the daily routines of being a zookeeper or work alongside an expert animal caregiver and gain direct access to the variety of animals which call the Brookfield Zoo their home. Whether you’re interested in large mammals, snakes, or bugs, Brookfield Zoo is sure to offer an Adventure to satisfy your little ones.

Ages: 7 and up

Cost: Starting at $100

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  Looking for a perfect tour to please the whole family? What could be better than a chocolate factory tour?! Watch a delicious array of yummy chocolate and caramel products as they are created before your eyes. The tour includes a fact-filled video presentation as well as a tour through the factory, where viewing platforms can accommodate even the littlest chocolate lovers, and are accessible via wheelchairs. Bonus, each guest receives a free chocolate treat!

Ages: 5 +

Cost: $2 per ticket

Brigitte Nohra Miller said:  If your kids are like mine, ice cream is a summer (and winter) favorite. For those interested in knowing how ice cream is made, this tour will explain the process of milk and ice cream production, including videos of the farms where the rGBH hormone-free cows live. To make it all even more special, your family can end the tour with a cup of Oberweis vanilla ice cream. Hooray for ice cream!

All ages

Cost: $3 adults / $2 children