The Best Things to Do in Chicago With Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide

If you’re planning a family trip to the Windy City, you’ll find no shortage of exciting things to do in Chicago with kids. From world-class museums to sky-high observation decks and hands-on attractions that spark curiosity, Chicago is one of the best big cities in the U.S. for families. After exploring it with my own children, here are the top things to do in Chicago with kids, ranked in order of our favorites.

Tip: I would highly recommend getting the the Chicago CityPASS to save both time and money! It covered all of our favorite attractions.

1. Architecture River Cruise (Our Top Pick!)

This might sound like a dull activity, but don’t let the name fool you—this was our favorite experience in Chicago. The Architecture River Cruise gives families a completely different view of the city, gliding along the river while hearing stories about Chicago’s past.

Kids will be fascinated to learn how the Great Chicago Fire gave architects the opportunity to rebuild from the ground up, creating the skyline we see today. It’s scenic, educational, and surprisingly captivating for all ages.

There are three companies to choose from, but Skyview is the most family friendly.

2. Chicago Riverwalk

After the cruise, take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk. This 1.3 mile waterfront path has plenty of spots to grab a snack, relax, and admire the boats passing by. It’s one of the simplest but most enjoyable things to do in Chicago with kids, especially on a sunny afternoon.

3. Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower)

If your kids love thrills, Skydeck Chicago is a must. Located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, this observation deck is famous for “The Ledge”—glass boxes that extend outside the building so you can stand 1,353 feet over the city with only 1.5 inches of glass between you and the world below. It’s an unforgettable photo spot and a highlight for brave kids.

4. Millennium Park (The Bean)

No trip is complete without seeing Cloud Gate—better known as The Bean. Kids love running under the giant mirrored sculpture and seeing their reflections warp and stretch.

Millennium Park is spacious, easy to access, and fun to explore before or after other nearby attractions.

Be sure to stop by the nearby Crown Fountain, where the towering digital faces change throughout the day—and even appear to “spit” water!

5. Maggie Daley Park

Just steps from Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park is a dream for families. With giant climbing structures, imaginative play areas, and a peaceful garden to wander through, it’s one of the best outdoor things to do in Chicago with kids. We had to practically drag the kids out of here.

6. Chicago’s Field Museum of Natural History

Kids can come face-to-face with Sue the T. rex, stand beneath Máximo the Titanosaur, and walk beneath a giant pterosaur- largest flying animal ever discovered. They can wander through ancient Egyptian tombs and see real mummies, encounter the infamous man-eating Tsavo lions, and explore the dazzling Hall of Gems.

The Field Museum is massive, so plan to spend several hours here to take it all in.

Keep an eye out for the Mold-A-Rama machines that create a dinosaur figurine right before your eyes. There are several throughout the museum, and my kids loved collecting the different designs.

7. Museum of Science and Industry

This is the kind of place where kids forget they’re learning because they’re having so much fun. With interactive exhibits, a replica coal mine, historic aircraft, and hands-on science demos such as standing inside of a tornado, the Museum of Science and Industry provides endless entertainment.

A couple of things to note- this museum closes at 4:00, which is earlier that the other museums. We made the mistake of coming later in the day and could have easily spent another hour or two here.

You also have to sign up for the tours before hand as they do sell out quickly. You can venture down into a coal mine to see what it is like to work below the earth’s surface or explore the inside of a real submarine. I would highly recommend adding on a tour!

8. Make pizza at Summer House Santa Monica

At Summer House Santa Monica, kids can roll up their sleeves and make their own personal pizzas, which quickly became a highlight for them. The restaurant provides dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings so little chefs can build their creations exactly the way they like them.

For dessert, pick a cookie from the mile long cookie bar! It’s a fun, hands-on dining experience that keeps kids entertained while giving parents a chance to relax and enjoy the bright, California-inspired atmosphere.

9. Art Institute of Chicago

Families who enjoy art will appreciate the Art Institute. Famous for works like American Gothic and its bright collection of impressionist pieces, the museum also offers family guides and kid-friendly activities.

I loved how their museum guide had a page on “what to see in an hour,” because let’s face it, you’re on a time restriction when you bring kids to an art museum. We buzzed through to see the highlights and it was like a scavenger hunt for them to find the artwork we wanted to see.

The highlights for us were staring at the tiny dots that make up La Grande Jatte in the River Seine, doing our best American Gothic impression, gazing at the Hartwell Memorial Window and seeing the famous Nighthawks painting in person.

10. Balloon Museum

The Balloon Museum is a colorful pop-up experience filled with inflatable art installations and playful rooms. It’s a hit with kids who love sensory activities and bright visuals—plus it makes for fantastic photos. We had SO much fun here and it really did blow away all of our expectations, no pun intended!

It is north of the city and requires an Uber ride, but I promise it’s worth it.

11. 360 Chicago

Located in the former John Hancock Center, 360 Chicago features sweeping views of the lake and city. The TILT attraction gives brave visitors a chance to lean outward over Michigan Avenue.

We went at night to have a different experience as the Willis Tower which we did in the morning. There is a very nice bar called CloudBar where you can build up some liquid courage to do TILT. The kids chickened out but James and I did it and it was such an adrenaline rush!

12. Eat at Ed Debevic’s

This diner is part meal, part show. The servers are intentionally sassy (in a family-friendly way), which turns the whole dining experience into comedy.

Funny story- we pranked the kids by not telling them the gimmick. When the waiter passed our table and threw our napkins at us, they were pretty horrified and thought people from Chicago were just really mean. Once they realized what was happening, they loved being part of the fun.

13. The Escape Game Chicago

Perfect for families with older kids or teens. These themed escape rooms challenge your group to solve puzzles, find clues, and work together against the clock.

Often described as the “Disney World of escape games,” The Escape Game truly lives up to the hype. The rooms are incredibly immersive—full of detailed sets, clever surprises, and secret chambers that reveal themselves as you progress.

To say that my kids were obsessed with this place would be an understatement. We started with the Special Ops room, which took us through a Moroccan spice market before tasking us with locating a nuclear bomb before it detonated. One of the best parts is that you can ask for unlimited clues, so you never feel stuck for long.

The kids loved it so much that they begged to go back every day, and I eventually booked another room for our last night. Legend of the Yeti was just as fun, full of mystery and adventure.

As a bonus, the kids were thrilled to collect the themed pins they earned for completing each escape room

14. Shedd Aquarium

Home to penguins, sharks, and more, Shedd Aquarium is a classic Chicago attraction. The aquatic presentations and immersive exhibits are especially engaging for younger kids.

Note that it gets very busy and crowded in the morning. In hind sight, I would have gone to the other museums first and come here in the afternoon.

15. Color Factory

The Color Factory is one of Chicago’s most joyful and immersive attractions. Every room is designed around a different color-inspired experience—think oversized ball pits, confetti-filled installations, and interactive art pieces that invite kids (and adults!) to play.

There are hands-on activities, secret surprises, and thoughtful storytelling woven throughout the exhibit, making it feel both creative and meaningful.

Tip: Color Factory is located inside of the Willis Tower, so this is an easy add on after the Sky Deck.

16. Have an original brownie at the Palmer House

After discovering that the brownie was invented at the Palmer House Hotel, we knew we had to stop in and try the original recipe.

When Chicago hosted the World’s Fair in 1893, the hotel was asked to create a portable cake that visitors could enjoy while walking the grounds—and the brownie was born.

We slipped into the gorgeous lobby bar to warm up with a coffee and a rich, fudgy brownie, and it ended up being the perfect little break in our day. I did try to take a picture of it, but by the time I got my camera out, it had mysteriously disappeared.

17. Starbucks Reserve Roastery

This multi-level coffee wonderland offers treats, pastries, and a behind-the-scenes look at coffee roasting. While parents enjoy the beverages, kids love the spiral escalator, the sweet treats, and watching beans swirl through tubes overhead.

With five floors to explore, this is the largest Starbucks in the world.

18. Harry Potter Shop

A must for fans of the Wizarding World. Kids can browse wands, robes, collectibles, and photo spots inspired by the books and films. My kids loved getting a personalized acceptance letter from Hogwarts.

An attached cafe serves up Butterbeer and themed sweets.

19. Jellycat Roadtrip at Nordstrom

If your kids are as obsessed with Jellycats as mine are, this store is a must-add to your Chicago itinerary.

It’s only the second Jellycat store in the U.S., with the first located in New York City. While it’s not an interactive experience like the Jellycat diner, you’ll find new releases, rare finds, and plenty of plush treasures to take home.

The shop is small, and lines can form, so be prepared for a short wait—but it’s worth it for Jellycat fans!

20. Navy Pier

With rides, games, restaurants, and lake views, Navy Pier is always buzzing with activity. While it can feel touristy, kids enjoy the Centennial Wheel and the lively atmosphere.

21. Catch a Baseball Game

If you are visiting during the right season, try catching a baseball game at Wrigley Field. Home of the iconic Chicago Cubs, this historic ballpark offers an electric atmosphere that kids and adults alike will love.

From the roar of the crowd to the classic scoreboard and fun concessions, a game here is more than just sports—it’s a full Chicago experience. Even if your family isn’t huge on baseball, the energy, sights, and stadium traditions make it one of the most memorable things to do in Chicago with kids.

22. 2D Restaurant

The 2D Restaurant is a whimsical dining spot where everything looks like a hand-drawn illustration. Kids love feeling like they’ve stepped into a cartoon. Not only is the food incredible, they have a really fun photo booth activity that my kids loved. Don’t miss the mochi doughnuts!

23. ART on the MART

Be sure to add ART on the MART to your Chicago itinerary. This free public show transforms the Merchandise Mart building into the world’s largest permanent digital art projection, bringing massive, colorful visuals to life along the Chicago River.

It runs Thursday through Sunday nights from September 12–December 30, with shows from 7:30–8:00 PM.

The best viewing spot is along the Chicago Riverwalk between Wells and Franklin/Orleans streets. Kids are mesmerized by the giant-scale projections, making it one of the most unique and memorable things to do in Chicago with kids.

24. Have a cozy meal at Trivoli Tavern

While not specifically a kids’ activity, our visit to Trivoli Tavern was such an unforgettable experience that it deserves a mention. The moment you step inside, the dark, moody atmosphere makes you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time, with rich wood accents, vintage décor, and an intimate, cozy vibe that’s perfect for a special night out.

The food was absolutely exceptional—each dish beautifully prepared with fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation. The staff went above and beyond, offering attentive service with a personal touch that made the evening even more enjoyable.

Reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurant fills up quickly, but it’s well worth planning ahead to experience this remarkable spot in Chicago.

25. Nutella Café

End your day on a sweet note with crepes, waffles, pastries, and other treats from the world’s first Nutella Café. We were never able to enjoy the cafe because there was a long line out the door each time we passed, but I have heard great things.

Final Thoughts

Before your trip, watching Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a fun way to get the kids excited about Chicago. They’ll enjoy spotting famous locations from the movie—like Wrigley Field, The Willis Tower, and the Art Institute—when you visit in person. It’s a playful way to bring the city to life and makes exploring Chicago even more memorable for the whole family. We had a smart tv in our hotel room and were able to watch it while we were there. Our tweens loved it.

Chicago is an incredible destination for families, offering museums, outdoor adventures, iconic views, and memorable experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, these things to do in Chicago with kids will help you build an itinerary packed with fun for all ages.

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