Museum of Ice Cream
Ready to let your little explorers see the Windy City? Chicago is chock full of family-friendly activities for all ages, interests, and budgets. The city is more than a sprawling metropolis — it’s also a playground of possibilities. Pack some snacks and bring the whole family to these 10 best attractions for kids in Chicago.
Museum of Ice Cream
en.m.wikipedia.orgWho doesn’t love ice cream? This unique museum pays tribute to one of the most classic foods in American culture. Visitors can enjoy endless ice cream samples and lots of themed interactive activities, each one that looks good enough to eat.
Lincoln Park Zoo
commons.wikimedia.orgOne of the best zoos in the country, Lincoln Park Zoo offers so much more than an opportunity to view wildlife from around the world. They also have educational programs and play a role in conserving species. First opened in 1868, it’s also one of the oldest zoos in the United States.
Adler Planetarium
commons.wikimedia.orgFor out-of-this-world imaginations, the Adler Planetarium takes your whole family to new heights. They feature a variety of space-themed exhibits that teach kids and their families about the night sky and the universe surrounding them. They also host a variety of shows, each of which let you get up close and personal with the planets and stars.
Field Museum
www.flickr.comThe Field Museum in Chicago is one that kids and kids-at-heart can enjoy for hours. Focused on natural history and cultural heritage, the museum brings history to life with dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and interactive ocean exhibits. There’s always something new to be discovered here.
Play Garden
commons.wikimedia.orgPart of the Maggie Daily Park, the Play Garden is every kid’s playground dream come true. Massive structures span three acres and cater to kids of all ages, including a ship, a splash pad, enchanted forest, and multiple types of slides. Playing on structures is limited to kids ages 12 and under, so it’s truly a family-friendly outing.
Chicago History Museum
commons.wikimedia.orgA city with hundreds of years of history, the Chicago History Museum is a great resource to explore the city’s past and present in a new and exciting way. The museum features more than 23 million objects in its collection and offers new exhibitions frequently, each of which feature historical significance to the city. From the famed Chicago fire to political movements, children and families can learn more about what makes this city so special.
Navy Pier
www.flickr.comKnown for its nightlife, Navy Pier also welcomes families with open arms. It’s the site of the city’s Ferris wheel, along with other rides, games, shops, and restaurants. They also do firework shows during the summer two nights each week.
Color Factory
Scratch and sniff wall at the Color Factory
commons.wikimedia.orgStep inside the Windy City’s most immersive art experience, the Color Factory. Visitors can take in 14 art exhibits, including a ball pit and a theater, each showcasing the vibrant colors of the city. There are treats and other special surprises along the way, giving kids something to look forward to all the way to the end.
Wrigley Field
Photo by Ty Downs on UnsplashOne of the most iconic destinations in baseball, Wrigley Field is a must-visit for young athletes. This unique field has been showcasing the sport for over 100 years. The stadium offers tours and lots of photo opportunities, even in the offseason, letting each visitor become a part of its history.
Ichiban Candy and Snacks
commons.wikimedia.orgTaste the most delicious sweets and snacks from around the world at Ichiban’s. Chicago is home to the brand’s U.S. flagship store, giving kids a sample of flavors they won’t find anywhere else. With tons of quality edibles and plenty of variety, kids and grown-ups alike can experience a slice of Asian culture with every visit.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Features endless ice cream samples and interactive, Instagram-worthy exhibits celebrating everyone’s favorite treat.
- A historic zoo with diverse wildlife, conservation programs, and educational activities for the whole family.
- Space-themed exhibits and immersive shows that take kids and families on a journey through the universe.
- Home to dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and interactive exhibits that bring natural history to life.
- A three-acre kids’ paradise in Maggie Daley Park with splash pads, slides, and enchanted forest-themed play areas for children under 12.
- Offers engaging exhibits exploring the city’s rich history, from the Great Chicago Fire to local political movements.
- Includes the iconic Ferris wheel, family-friendly rides, games, shops, restaurants, and seasonal firework shows.
- Immersive art experience with 14 colorful exhibits, including a ball pit and treats, for a fun and vibrant family outing.
- Iconic baseball stadium with tours and photo opportunities, perfect for sports enthusiasts of all ages.
- Sample unique sweets and snacks from Asia at this flagship store, offering flavors for kids and adults alike.
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