things to do in chicago with kids

Chicago is a fantastic city to visit with kids, offering a wide range of fun and educational activities. Here are some top things to do in Chicago with kids:

  1. Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower): Take in panoramic views of the city from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor. Kids will love the thrill of standing on the Ledge, a glass balcony that extends 4.3 feet outside the building.

  2. Lincoln Park Zoo: This free zoo is home to over 1,100 animals from around the world. The zoo also offers a petting zoo, pony rides, and a carousel.

  3. Navy Pier: This lakefront attraction offers boat cruises, an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, and entertainment options like the Chicago Children’s Museum and the Polk Bros Park.

  4. The Field Museum: One of the largest natural history museums in the world, featuring Sue, the largest T. rex skeleton ever found.

  5. Shedd Aquarium: Get up close and personal with dolphins, beluga whales, and other marine life.

  6. Maggie Daley Park: This 20-acre park features a rock climbing wall, a suspension bridge, and a playground with a unique "cloud gate" sculpture.

  7. The Chicago Children’s Museum: A museum designed for kids, with interactive exhibits and play areas focused on art, science, and imagination.

  8. Millennium Park: Explore iconic landmarks like the "Cloud Gate" sculpture (also known as "The Bean"), the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and the Lurie Garden.

  9. The Museum of Science and Industry: A science museum with interactive exhibits on topics like space exploration, dinosaurs, and the Great Train Story.

  10. Take a stroll along the Lakefront Trail: This 18.5-mile path runs along the shores of Lake Michigan and offers beautiful views of the city and the lake.

  11. The Chicago Botanic Garden: A 385-acre garden featuring beautiful flowers, trees, and a variety of wildlife.

  12. The Art Institute of Chicago: While not exclusively a children’s museum, the Art Institute offers family-friendly tours and activities, including a "Family Art Studio" where kids can create their own art.

  13. The Chicago Air and Water Show: An annual event featuring aerial performances and watercraft demonstrations.

  14. The Lincoln Park Conservatory: A beautiful greenhouse featuring a variety of plants and flowers from around the world.

  15. The Maggie Daley Park Ice Rink: An outdoor ice skating rink during the winter months, offering a fun and festive activity for kids.

  16. The Chicago Firehouse: Take a tour of a historic firehouse and learn about the history of firefighting in Chicago.

  17. The Museum of Contemporary Art: The MCA offers family-friendly tours and activities, including a "Family Art Studio" where kids can create their own art.

  18. The Chicago History Museum: Explore the history of Chicago and the United States through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

  19. The Garfield Park Conservatory: A beautiful greenhouse featuring a variety of plants and flowers from around the world.

  20. The Brookfield Zoo: A zoo located just outside of Chicago, featuring over 450 species of animals from around the world.

These are just a few of the many fun and educational activities to do in Chicago with kids. Whether you’re interested in science, art, history, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this great city!

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