66 Things To Do in Chicago With Kids (Parent Reviews)

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.

Kristy Pepping said:  Before it was Macy's, it was Marshall Field's. The founder, Marshall Field, was from Chicago and his flagship department store still stands on State Street today. Inside this historic building, a lot has changed, but the Walnut Room remains true to tradition. This iconic restaurant is located on the 7th floor and was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. If you are visiting during Chicago's Christmas season, they have an enormous tree in the center of the room - viewable from upstairs in the store, too. Make a whole day of shopping and dining on Chicago's State Street!

Serving lunch and dinner

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.

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.

Sarah Calamita said:  The Chicago Riverwalk is an amazing space that runs from downtown to the lake. Along it you will find outdoor kids games, restaurants, bars, live music, kayaks, cycle boats, bike rentals and more. You can also take the water taxi there from various parts of the city, which kids will love!

Shila said:  One of Chicago's most popular beaches, North Avenue Beach features a unique, ocean-liner inspired beach house. In addition to the obvious sand & water, the beach also has a multitude of bikers, runners, walkers and rollerbladers streaming down the lakefront trail. It's a cool people watching spot. Most notably, though, this beach boasts one of the best views in and of the city.

Memorial Day-Labor Day Swimming

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!)

Kristy Pepping said:  Chicago History Museum is located at the South end of Lincoln Park. The building itself is beautiful and the museum hosts a great selection of rotating, interactive exhibits; it's the perfect place to bring your budding historian! Kids can step inside an old L train car, or pretend to be a steam train conductor. There's also a sensory exhibit geared for youth where they can dress up as a Chicago hot dog! Illinois residents 18 and under, and non-residents 12 and under, always enjoy free admission.

Shila said:  This 2 hour kayaking tour guides you down the Chicago River as it flows through downtown. From the water level up, you'll look up to mega skyscrapers, the riverside promenade and learn about Chicago's famous architecture while kayaking along the Chicago River. Other tours include a sunset tour, Navy Pier fireworks tour, gangsters tour, and a moonlight tour.

Sarah Calamita said:  Chicago boasts one of the best farmer's markets in the country! There is a variety of fresh and prepared foods (so even if you're visiting from a hotel, go there to soak in the vibe and grab a smoothie, grilled cheese or crepe!), music and cooking demos. It is across from an iconic hotel (go grab a coffee at the Lincoln Hotel beforehand) and across from the Zoo, if that's a destination.

Sarah D. said:  The Nature Boardwalk at the Lincoln Park Zoo is an oasis in the concrete jungle. This beautiful expanse in Lincoln Park stretches through Illinois prairie and wetland ecosystems with half a mile of boardwalk. The trail can be found at the southernmost end of the Lincoln Park Zoo and provides an educational experience for visitors including seasonal presentations. This trail provides access to the famous Chicago Lakefront Trail and North Avenue Beach.

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.

Kristy Pepping said:  This is a great museum to explore any time of year, with plenty of indoor conservation-based exhibits to complement the beautiful outdoor sanctuary. Kids especially love the bright and warm Butterfly Haven, interactive RiverWorks water play area and indoor playground.