I have been working on my Chicago “favorites” page for awhile. Hopefully, I will have time on the next few flights *fingers crossed for working wifi* to finish the list. So stay tuned.
After looking through multiple travel guides for our upcoming trip, I thought it would be fun (and helpful) to put together a Chicago Travel Guide: Kids Edition.
My niece (who is five….sayyy what?!) came and stayed with my husband and I over a weekend in August. We definitely have Chicago down for our adult visitors, but this time it was a little different. I would say the weekend was a complete success (disclaimer: I’ve never been so exhausted), but it definitely took some research to find “kid friendly” activities in Chicago.
Chicago: Kids Edition
Maggie Daley Park: This place is kid heaven. Maggie Daley is located right next to Millenium Park. It has TONS of jungle gyms, water spots, rock climbing and ice skating in the winter. Definitely put this on the top of the list, especially if you have kids of all ages.
American Girl Doll Place: A little girl’s dream. We made reservations for the afternoon tea (they have a lunch option as well) and it was worth every penny. Their doll will be treated like royalty and EVERYTHING is tailored to children. Think Hot Chocolate, Cinnamon Rolls and Pigs in the Blanket.
Lakefront / Beach Day: A lot of people don’t realize that Chicago has a full beach/lakefront. We had a beach day and I swear my niece thought she was on the ocean. Pack a towel, sand toys and a few snacks!
Navy Pier Fireworks: Navy Pier is great for kids over 10. The Ferris Wheel was just renovated and it looks amazing! Navy Pier also does a firework show every Wednesday and Saturday night during the summer. You can watch them from the lakefront or on the pier.
Water Taxi: This is something we just recently stumbled upon. My niece really wanted to take a boat ride and most excursions are too long for small kids and overpriced. Enter the Water Taxi. There is a pick up/drop off station at Navy Pier. It was $6 dollars a person to either Museum Campus or the Willis Tower. The perfect solution!
Dylan’s Candy Store: Massive candy store in the middle of Chicago. No more explanation needed.
Movie in the Park: The city of Chicago offers A TON of free movies throughout the summer. Just check the Chicago activity calendar to find out what location is nearest to you. Bring a blanket, some snacks, wine for yourself and bam, golden.
Museum Campus: All the big museums are located in the same area in Chicago. I would definitely recommend the Shedd Aquarium for younger children. They have “touch” stations throughout the entire space. If your children are a little older, check out the Field Museum and be sure to go see Sue!
Obviously, there a ton of other options in the Chicago, we just had a lot of success at these mentioned locations.
Any kid activities that you can suggest in Chicago?
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