Planning a family trip to Chicago? We’ve traveled to this beautiful city many times as a couple, mostly for sightseeing. Recently, we had the chance to return, this time with our daughter, and focused on what to do in Chicago as a family. In this post, I’ll share the best places to visit in downtown Chicago with kids. You might not be able to fit everything into a weekend getaway, but this list is here to inspire your own Chicago adventure.
Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Chicago, packed with family-friendly attractions that make the Windy City a top destination for any family vacation.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Chicago
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a must-visit when exploring Chicago with kids. While many visitors come to see the famous Cloud Gate (better known as “The Bean”), families often spend most of their time at the playful Crown Fountain.
This interactive fountain features two giant screens displaying the faces of real Chicagoans. Every few minutes, water spouts from their mouths, creating the perfect splash zone for kids. It’s a fun, free way to cool off in the summer, and it lets children play in a unique, urban setting.
Pro tip: If you visit Chicago in the summer, check the Jay Pritzker Pavilion for free events like concerts, film series, and morning workouts.
Just next to Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park is another gem for families. It offers one of the most creative playgrounds in the city, complete with climbing towers, slides, suspension bridges, and themed play areas. In the winter, the ribbon-shaped skating path becomes a favorite spot for ice skaters. The park also has mini golf, a large climbing wall, picnic areas, and open green spaces. It’s easy to spend a full afternoon here with so many fun and enriching things for families to do together.
Pro tip: Cross the BP pedestrian bridge to get to Maggie Daley Park from Millennium Park; it’s a fantastic photo spot with stunning views of the skyscrapers.
Buckingham Fountain
Located in Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain is one of the largest fountains in the world. Its grand design and hourly water shows are impressive for all ages. From spring through fall, the fountain comes to life every hour with a 20-minute display. In the evening, lights and music add to the experience, making it a relaxing stop after a day of sightseeing.
Kids will enjoy watching the water shoot up to 150 feet in the air. It’s a great spot for photos, and nearby gardens offer space for children to run and explore. The fountain also sits near the lakefront, so it can be easily combined with a walk along the Lakefront Trail.
Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail stretches for 18 miles along Lake Michigan and offers stunning views of both the water and the city skyline. Families can walk, bike, or scooter along the trail. It connects many of Chicago’s popular parks and beaches, making it a scenic way to explore the city.
Several green spaces are located along the trail, so it’s easy to take breaks and let kids burn off energy. Bring a stroller or a bike and enjoy the lake breeze while discovering new spots along the way. The trail is a top pick for family-friendly attractions in Chicago.
Chicago Riverwalk
For a scenic and lively experience, head to the Riverwalk, one of my favorite spots in Chicago. The path runs along the Chicago River and is lined with public art, restaurants, and places to sit and watch the boats pass by. The flat path makes it perfect for a family-friendly stroll.
You can rent a kayak, hop on a water taxi, or simply enjoy some ice cream while taking in the view. The Riverwalk also features interactive elements and occasional live music during the summer months. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the city from a different angle while on your family trip to Chicago.
Architecture River Cruise
A river cruise is one of the best ways to see Chicago’s architecture and learn about the city’s history. Knowledgeable guides share the stories behind iconic buildings like the Wrigley Building, Marina City, and Merchandise Mart, while you cruise under the historic drawbridges.
The open-air decks allow for great photo opportunities, and the gentle ride along the river is relaxing for all ages. Choose a short cruise if traveling with younger kids, or opt for a themed cruise if your family enjoys storytelling and interactive experiences. It’s a must-do on any family vacation to Chicago.
Magnificent Mile
Shopping with kids might not always sound fun, but the Magnificent Mile offers more than just retail. The area is full of energy, with street performers, colorful displays, and large window exhibits. It’s also a great way to introduce kids to the city’s architectural beauty.
Although this area is filled with upscale boutiques and department stores, our favorite spot was the Harry Potter store. This shop is a magical find for fans of the wizarding world. You can find nearly everything Harry Potter-related, including wands, robes, chocolate frogs, butterbeer, and Hogwarts house apparel. The store’s decorations and themed displays kept us exploring every corner. There’s even a Butterbeer Bar inside where you can order themed drinks. It was one of the highlights of our visit.
Another spot for families on the Magnificent Mile is Water Tower Place, a shopping mall with various shops and restaurants. Inside the mall, you’ll also find the LEGO store, the American Girl store, and Hershey Super Sweet Adventure with its gift shop. The LEGO models of Chicago’s famous buildings displayed in the window were very impressive and caught all our attention. Our daughter especially enjoyed designing her own LEGO creations and playing with the dolls at the American Girl store. Kids will love exploring these themed shops, particularly the chance to build, play, and experience the fun. It’s a good indoor option for family-friendly things to do in Chicago on rainy or cold days.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is one of the most popular destinations to visit on a family trip to Chicago. This lakefront attraction features an iconic Ferris wheel with views of the lake and city skyline. Inside Navy Pier, you’ll find a variety of gift shops and restaurants. There are also playgrounds, boat tours, and the Chicago Children’s Museum located right on the pier. At the entrance, there is a nice splash pad area where children can play.
During the summer, Navy Pier hosts fireworks shows and family-friendly performances. At night, the pier offers breathtaking skyline views, making it an ideal spot for photos. With so many options in one place, it’s easy to spend several hours here during your Chicago family vacation.
Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago may not seem like the most exciting place for kids, but I couldn’t leave it off this list. It’s considered one of the best museums in the world and features one of my favorite paintings, Nighthawks by Edward Hopper.
The museum also has an impressive collection of impressionist art, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, Seurat, and Renoir, some of my personal favorites. From Roman sculptures and African art to European paintings and contemporary designs, its vast collection spans diverse artistic traditions. That’s why it’s a place I truly enjoy visiting in Chicago.
That said, the museum offers engaging activities for kids, too. The Ryan Learning Center provides hands-on art activities and materials to help kids explore the museum in a fun, interactive way. You can also create your own family tour using the museum’s guides, focusing on colorful, imaginative pieces that are sure to capture children’s attention. The Thorne Miniature Rooms are a favorite with kids thanks to their intricate detail and dollhouse-like scale.
Museum Campus
Chicago’s Museum Campus is a perfect place to explore more of the city’s educational and interactive attractions in one scenic location. Overlooking Lake Michigan, it’s home to three major museums: the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium. Each one offers hands-on exhibits and memorable experiences for families.
At the Field Museum, kids can meet Sue, the world’s most complete T. rex skeleton. Shedd Aquarium features thousands of aquatic animals and live shows, while Adler Planetarium brings space and stars within reach through immersive displays and sky shows. The Museum Campus is walkable, stroller-friendly, and filled with open spaces to relax and take in lakefront views.
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
This museum is a dream for curious kids. It offers interactive exhibits on everything from space travel to weather and transportation. The full-size planes, working model trains, and mirror maze are highlights that combine learning with hands-on fun.
You can also explore a real submarine or experience a simulated tornado. With so many exhibits to choose from, it’s wise to plan ahead and focus on a few favorites. The Griffin Museum is spacious and ideal for spending several hours on your family trip to Chicago.
Skydeck at Willis Tower
For the best panoramic views of Chicago, visit the Skydeck at Willis Tower. Formerly known as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the United States. The Skydeck offers unbeatable views of the city, and the famous glass ledge lets visitors step out and look straight down. Kids often find it thrilling and unforgettable.
However, watching Chicago from a panoramic viewpoint comes with a price: hours of waiting in line! Luckily, in recent years, Willis Tower has enhanced its experience by offering a dynamic museum, allowing visitors to learn about the city’s heritage while waiting in line. After taking the elevator up, you can face another long queue for photos on the Ledge. So, it’s best to visit early in the day to avoid long lines.
If you prefer a different experience, head to 360 Chicago at the John Hancock Center and try TILT, where glass panels tilt outward for an adrenaline-pumping view of the skyline.
Lincoln Park & North Avenue Beach
Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most scenic neighborhoods, offering a mix of historic charm, green spaces, and lively attractions. Within the neighborhood, you’ll find the historic Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the nation’s oldest. It offers free admission and is home to a diverse range of animals from gorillas to polar bears. The zoo is stroller-friendly and has plenty of shaded paths and seating areas.
There’s also a petting area for farm animals, a carousel, and a train ride for little ones. After visiting the animals, you can explore the nearby Lincoln Park Conservatory or have a picnic near the pond. It’s a favorite stop for anyone enjoying family-friendly attractions in Chicago.
North Avenue Beach, located just a short walk away, is also a favorite spot for families during the summer. The wide sandy beach is perfect for building sandcastles, splashing in the water, or sunbathing. With spectacular views of the Chicago skyline, it’s an ideal place to take a break and enjoy the lakefront during your vacation.
Tips for Visiting Chicago
- Public Transportation: The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) operates trains (the “L”) and buses, making it easy to get around without a car. A Ventra Card or mobile payment will give you access to both. Parking in downtown Chicago can be very expensive, so it’s best to use trains, buses, bikes, or rideshare services like Uber instead.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer is great for outdoor activities and festivals, but the city can get very crowded; spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Weather Tips: Chicago winters can be brutally cold, so dress in layers if visiting between November and March. Windproof jackets are a must! Also, carry an umbrella, as the weather can be unpredictable, and you never know when it might start raining.
- CityPASS: If you plan to visit multiple attractions, the Chicago CityPASS can save you money and time by offering discounted admission and skip-the-line benefits.
- Walk & Explore: Chicago is a very walkable city, especially in areas like the Loop, Riverwalk, and Magnificent Mile. Bring comfortable shoes!
Use this guide to plan your itinerary, and you’ll discover that a family trip to Chicago is both easy and rewarding. From interactive play to cultural experiences, this city has everything you need for a fun-filled Chicago family vacation.
For more travel inspiration, stay tuned to New Roots New Routes for more adventures and insider tips!