If it's not already, a trip to Chicago with your family should be on your bucket list. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or adventurous getaway, there's something for everyone in Chicago. Even kids will love the hustle and bustle as much as the quietude of this spectacular holiday destination.

This diverse city is well-known for many things, some of which we'll explore in this guide. It aims to provide you with comprehensive resources for planning a trip to Chicago. Read on for more about the best family attractions, accommodations and eateries for the whole family to enjoy in Chicago.

Why Visit Chicago?

Chicago residents are friendly, warm and welcoming. They are revered for their strong music and sports influences and deep-rooted artistic culture. Chicago is reputable as a culinary destination and has claimed a Top 10 spot as one of the best U.S. cities for neighborhood restaurants in 2023 according to Food & Wine Magazine.

Spring and summer are the best times to visit Chicago, from March through August when the weather is optimal for the types of family-friendly activities in Chicago you can enjoy. Spring is mild with cooler temperatures averaging 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so you may want to dress a bit warmer around this time. Summer weather is humid and reaches higher temperatures with averages over 80 degrees Fahrenheit in July. 

Pack summer clothes for everyone and don't forget your sunscreen. You'll still need closed-toe shoes for many activities where you'll walk a lot. Avoid the colder seasons between December and February as Chicago winters can be unforgiving, with predominant snowfall and rain over this period.  

Benefits of Visiting Chicago With Your Children

Holidays with kids should have numerous benefits that stimulate them in every way. Besides all the fun and laughter, they should ideally take away some valuable lessons while visiting new sites. With bountiful educational opportunities, multiple cultural experiences and plenty of outdoor Chicago family adventures that will keep you occupied throughout your stay, your kids will never have a dull moment.

We'll explore some of the main attractions in and around Chicago that will keep everyone entertained. 

Tips on Transportation

Consider additional expenses like parking fees and space if you visit in your own car. Parking can get full due to the influx of tourists, making it difficult to park close to amenities. If you have young children, requesting an Uber may be better, especially for long distances between locations.

Alternatively, you may want to use the L or elevated train system to get to different sites but it could get crowded and uncomfortable, especially on warmer days. Traveling with a stroller is also not ideal, so it's probably best to use your own vehicle or rent one during your visit. Make sure you get to your destination early to secure convenient parking. Take advantage of family parking spots if your kids are too young to walk unaided.  

Chicago CityPass offers discounted visits to the main attractions in Chicago, ideal for families who want to explore without breaking the bank. 

Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Chicago

You don't have to spend an arm and a leg when visiting Chicago with your family. Some attractions are free, like the parks and beaches, while others require an entry fee and activity-related costs. We've listed some of the main attractions below.

Exploring Attractions in Chicago Neighborhoods

While downtown Chicago has plenty of attractions, its surrounding neighborhoods have their own special charms you might consider exploring. 

Volo Auto Museum 

The Volo Auto Museum has seven attractions for all ages to engage in. Located in Volo outside of Chicago, it's worth the drive to this exciting location as you're transported through different eras, from Jurassic Gardens to Titanic and the famous Volo museum car exhibitions. 

For car enthusiasts, view their endless inventory of cars, including hot rods and classics. You will surely be blown away by the variety of collector cars available. Who knows, you might drive away with one of your own!

Lincoln Park Zoo

Like the aquarium, the zoo is a wondrous place for kids to explore the beauty of nature. They may encounter animal species they've never heard of and learn fun facts as they navigate their way through. Located in a neighboring area in Lincoln Park close to Chicago, the zoo is one of a few that is free to enter.

It boasts magnificent animals in their reconstructed habitats, informative conservation and science projects and insightful youth programs to participate in. They have a big drive for donations to keep the zoo free and urge anyone to open their hearts and wallets for a good cause. 

Lincoln Park Conservatory

The kids might not enjoy this as much as the adults, but the Lincoln Park Conservatory is a special place to visit. You'll be astounded by the extensive exotic plant variety when you stroll through and admire the lush beauty of the facility. Admission is free for all ages at this historic site in Lincoln Park. 

Chicago Riverwalk

If you're seeking a laid-back option for exploring Chicago, the Riverwalk offers various modes of learning opportunities through sightseeing tours on boats, cruises, bikes and by foot. The whole family will learn about Chicago's waterways, architecture, movable bridges and other significant sites of interest. It is freely accessible to the public between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.

Educational Attractions for Kids

Stimulating young and old minds alike is beneficial even if you're on holiday. Educational attractions like museums, aquariums and zoos feed minds while providing entertainment. Here are a few mainly aimed at keeping kids open to learning. 

Shedd Aquarium

Kids love the mystery and awe of an aquarium. Shedd Aquarium is situated on DuSable Lake Shore Drive in Chicago and is accessible by car, bus and public transport. They offer discounted days if you book in advance, with various exhibits and feeding sessions available during your visit. Some of the animals kids can expect to see include:

• Sharks
• Beluga whale
• Stingrays
• Pacific white-sided dolphin
• Jellyfish
• Octopus
• Penguins
• Turtles
• Seahorses
• Various fish species
• Amphibians
• Reptiles
• Crustaceans
• Birds

The aquarium's Extraordinary Experiences include the Must See Tour, Sea Lion, Sea Otter, Beluga and Penguin Encounters and an exclusive shark feeding tour that will amaze everyone. These tailored experiences are a must for those who want an up close and personal encounter with these gentle beasts. Book in advance and adhere to their requirements to avoid disappointment.  

Adler Planetarium

A trip to Adler Planetarium offers kids one of the best educational experiences. It is near the Shedd Aquarium, so you can kill two birds with one stone by visiting both sites. The planetarium has many learning-focused activities for the family, not only kids. If you're interested in visiting the planetarium during your visit to Chicago, you must book tickets in advance. 

Attractions include various space-oriented exhibits, sky shows and out-of-this-world events to boggle your mind. 

Outdoor, Adventure and Recreational Activities

The outdoors is where you'll spend most of your time while visiting Chicago, so you want to make the most of every moment. We've compiled a few locations to provide your family with hours of fun as you create new memories together. 

Maggie Daley Park

Maggie Daley Park is one of the main attractions in Chicago. It is located at Randolph Street in Chicago and has multiple access points via bike, vehicle and public transport. It's always helpful to check out the various attractions' websites for information on parking and possible discounts. 

This exciting, family-friendly venue boasts a variety of activities, including:

• Play garden: One of the biggest areas for children aged 0-12, this 3-acre play garden brims with fun activities. Kids' imaginations run wild in this section as various themed areas stimulate their minds through interactive and sensory play. Some play areas are age-restricted, so watch out for the notice boards. 
• Mini golf: The whole family can enjoy the 18-hole miniature golf course. Prices and operating times vary depending on the seasons. 
• Picnic groves: Stop and enjoy a picnic at any of the freely accessible picnic groves at the park. They are also available for hosting birthdays and other family functions. 
• Roller blades, micro scooters and bungee: Older kids and adventurous adults might enjoy getting around the park on roller blades and scooters. They can be rented or you can bring your own, but be mindful of the operating times and seasons.
• Rink cafe: Check out the Rink cafe if you're feeling peckish and haven't packed lunch.

Millenium Park

Another main family attraction is the Millennium Park in downtown Chicago. It is located near Maggie Daley Park on Randolph Street in the Loop and hosts the iconic Cloud Gate statue, also known as “The Bean,” at its epicenter, where you can capture cute and quirky pics with your family. Admission is free and families can enjoy casual strolls while taking in the amazing sites.

Navy Pier

The People's Pier^™ at Navy Pier has an unbelievable variety of attractions for everyone to enjoy. It is located at Grand Avenue in Chicago and is easy to access using different modes of transport. The pier is home to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and a Children's Museum perfect for the whole family with numerous cultural opportunities to explore. 

Navy Pier has everything to make your stay worthwhile, including the best food and drinks, amusement park rides, shops, sightseeing cruises and various tours, with immense venues to host events. They have numerous nearby hotels to accommodate you during your vacation. 

Castaways

If you're looking to soak up some sun with your family, Castaways Bar and Grill on North Avenue Beach is a great spot to break away from the hustle and bustle of the city. They have a variety of fresh summer meals and tantalizing drinks to choose from as you unwind and let the kids run free and play in the sand. 

Top Family-Friendly Accommodations in Chicago

One concern many families have is finding kid-friendly accommodation. We've listed a few that are central so you can easily visit the various attractions. 

Aloft Chicago Downtown River North

This hotel is located in River North near the Shedd Aquarium and the Art Institute. Its modern flair caters to a wide audience, from vegans to dogs and children. Enquire about their Camp Aloft accommodation that includes a Two Queen guestroom with a themed air mattress, cookies and milk, games and a starry night light for younger guests. 

The hotel features amenities like a restaurant, fitness center, convenience store and gift shop, but you might have to go out with the kids to keep them entertained. 

Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North

This Chicago Embassy Suites is conveniently situated close to Millenium Park, The Willis Tower and the Navy Pier so you don't have to go far for fun. It hosts an indoor pool, restaurant, fitness center, connecting rooms for privacy away from the kids and free made-to-order breakfast. 

Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown

The North Loop and all its activities are easily accessible when you book accommodation at the Hampton Inn. It has spacious, modern connecting rooms, a fitness center, a lobby bar and a free hot breakfast with Cloud Gate and Navy Pier within walking distance. 

You may have to compromise as the amenities are limited for kid-friendly activities but if you plan on making the most of your time in the Windy City, older kids will still benefit.

Airbnb's in Chicago

If you prefer the privacy of a house or freestanding dwelling, check out the available Airbnb offers in and around Chicago. Most have kitchen facilities to cook your own meals and relax at leisure without any disturbances from immediate neighbors. 

Top Family-Friendly Restaurants in Chicago

One way to please every family member is by ensuring good and ample food options are available to cater to everyone's palate. Explore some of these family-friendly restaurants and eateries in Chicago during your visit: 

• Small Cheval: For some of the best burgers and fries in Chicago, visit Small Cheval. You won't be disappointed as they have numerous outlets throughout Chicago and the kids will love their burgers and milkshakes. 
• Lou Malnati's: Lou Malnati's Pizzeria has 61 Illinois locations for pizza lovers boasting exceptional deep-dish pizza creations. What sets this family-owned restaurant apart is that each pizza is handmade with the freshest ingredients to ensure the best taste and quality.
• Superdawg Drive-In: Superdawg Drive-In is a famous, exciting drive-in restaurant proudly sporting its famous beef hot dog with fries. It is unlike any eatery you'll find! Everything is supersized and uniquely crafted to match its extraordinary aesthetic appeal. The dessert menu is as impressive as the food menu, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
• Lola's Coney Island: For a more casual bite to eat, Lola's Coney Island has a delicious menu that features mouthwatering hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, salads, soups and a kids' menu to match. This spot is ideal for families on the go as they explore Chicago. 
• Chicago Pizza Tours: If you're keen on tasting a variety of pizzas, take the family on a pizza tour of Chicago. Learn about the history — and fierce competition — of the Chicago pizza scene and try some of the best examples the city has to offer.
• Chicago Farmer's Markets: Explore the various farmer's markets throughout Chicago for fresh food and local produce. If you'd rather cook your own family meal, a farmer's market offers a variety of ingredients to cater to your needs. 

Plan Your Chicago Trip Itinerary Today

Chicago has so much more to offer than we can list. We've aimed to accommodate families with kids so everyone can enjoy the best of this amazing holiday destination. If you're contemplating a trip to Chicago, start planning one today — and be sure to include Volo Auto Museum as one of your stops along the way!

Call us at 815-385-3644 or buy tickets online!