Wondering what to do in Chicago with kids, amidst all those towering skyscrapers? Here is a list of things that can be enjoyed by kids and parents alike. Several Chicago tours now focus on kids-centric attractions, making it even better for parents to choose from. From education, leisure to entertainment Chicago will delight you with its gamut as one of the most idyllic child destinations.
1. Shedd Aquarium
A brilliant blend of edutainment, the Shedd Aquarium is one of the best things to do in Chicago with kids. Today home to some 32,000-odd species of aquatic mammals, this aquarium was once the largest indoor aquarium in the world with 5,000,000 US gallons of water. The “overnight adventure at Shedd” can be a great learning experience for kids. There are exclusive programs for kids aged between 5 and 14.
2. Lincoln Zoo
One of the oldest of zoos in North America, the Lincoln Zoo is one of the best places you can take your kids to. Given the fact that the zoo has free entry, it draws a large number of visitors annually. The zoo conducts daily programs for teens, kids and families. There are exclusive educational programs too. Daily activities include Feed the Cows, Meet an Animal, Polar Bear Training, Ape Cognition and Care and more.
3. Adler Planetarium
Dedicated to the sole purpose of studying astronomy and astrophysics, the Adler Planetarium is America’s first planetarium. Inspiring exploration and understanding of the Universe since its conception this Chicago attraction is a constant on all the best tours in Chicago. There are exclusive educational programs for kids like Astro-overnights, Drop-in programs, Field Trips, Let’s do Science, Scouts and Summer Camps.
4. Brookfield Zoo
Located in the outskirts of the city, the Brookfield Zoo is also called as the Chicago Zoological Park. This is smaller in comparison to the Lincoln Zoo but given its variety of activities, the kids are ought to love it. You can sign up for the Family Play programs, Conservation Scholars, Life At The Pond, Penguin Play and Seedlings for an eventful day out.
5. Chicago Children’s Museum
Perched next to the Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s museum has drawn a good number of visitors; children and adults alike. With a mission to “improve children’s lives by creating a community where play and learning connect.”, this Chicago attraction is abundant with activities for kids. Opportunities like their Once upon a Castle, Tinkering, Waterways, Skyline, Dinosaur expedition, Treehouse Trails and more are perfect for kids of all ages.
6. Maggie Daley Park
Located near the Lake Michigan shoreline, the Maggie Daley Park is connected to Millennium Park, another very popular Chicago attraction. The park is frequently abuzz with programs and activities, all through the year. In the summers, there are day camps, youth program and even fitness programs. While the spring sees early childhood classes in the form of sport and cultural programs for youth. Other than the programs the kids can have an active time at the parks’ Climbing Wall, Skating Ribbon, Play Garden, Fieldhouse, Tennis Courts, and Picnic Groves.
7. Grant Park
Best Chicago tours have the Grant park as their highlight owing to its eccentricity. Set in the Loop community area of Chicago, this Chicago attraction has a striking vastness. The ice rinks and pools here will have the kids looking forward to more. They have seasonal programs like the Summer Camp and Aquatics Programs in the summer. Winter and Spring programs include more of the sports action. Rest assured, your child is bound to have a great time here.
