Chicago
Explore the Windy City!
Chicago offers a variety of family and kid-friendly activities. Remember to follow The People's Dad on social media for weekly updated lists of family friendly activities in and around Chicago.
Museums and Educational Spots
1. Shedd Aquarium: Home to thousands of aquatic animals, interactive exhibits, and live shows.
2. Field Museum: Features Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever discovered, and a host of other fascinating exhibits.
3. Museum of Science and Industry: Offers hands-on exhibits, a giant dome theater, and a real German submarine from WWII.
4. Adler Planetarium: Provides interactive space exhibits and immersive sky shows.
5. Wonder Works Children's Museum: Located in nearby Oak Park, it offers various hands-on exhibits and activities for young children.
Entertainment and Theaters
1. Chicago Children's Theatre: Offers productions designed for young audiences.
2. Second City for Families: Hosts family-friendly improv shows.
Unique Experiences
1. iFLY Chicago: An indoor skydiving experience that's safe for kids.
2. LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Located in nearby Schaumburg, it features LEGO rides, a 4D cinema, and a variety of building zones.
3. Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise: Offers family-friendly tours that showcase the city's architectural wonders.
4. Maggie Daley Park: Includes a unique playground, climbing walls, and a mini-golf course.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
1. Millennium Park: Known for its iconic "Bean" sculpture (Cloud Gate), interactive Crown Fountain, and seasonal activities like ice skating.
2. Grant Park: Visit Grant Park and explore attractions such as Buckingham Fountain and the Art Institute of Chicago's South Garden.
3. Lincoln Park Zoo: A free zoo with a wide variety of animals and a beautiful conservatory.
4. Navy Pier: Features rides, games, boat tours, and the Chicago Children's Museum.
5. Chicago Riverwalk: Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk and enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline. You can also rent kayaks or take a boat tour for a different perspective of the city.
6. Chicago Park District: The Chicago Park District is a great resource of city parks, playgrounds, and indoor and outdoor pools, with family swim time schedules available on the park district website.
7. Brookfield Zoo: While not in Chicago proper, Brookfield Zoo is just a short drive away and offers a wide variety of animals and exhibits for kids to enjoy.
Seasonal Activities
1. Chicago Botanic Garden: Beautiful gardens and family programs, with special events during holidays.
2. Beaches along Lake Michigan: Enjoy swimming, picnicking, and playgrounds at popular spots like North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach.
These activities ensure that families have a diverse array of options to explore, learn, and have fun in Chicago.