Summer in Chicago is a magical time filled with endless activities and attractions perfect for families. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in the Windy City. Here’s an in-depth guide to the best things to do in Chicago this summer with kids, starting with a new must-visit destination: The Butterfly House on Navy Pier.
1. Visit The Butterfly House on Navy Pier
The Butterfly House on Navy Pier is an enchanting oasis where kids and adults alike can marvel at the beauty of hundreds of butterflies fluttering around. Located at Navy Pier, this indoor garden offers a serene escape filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Children will be mesmerized by the colorful butterflies and some may even land on them! Don’t forget to check out the Chrysalis House while you’re there; a window to the inside reveals rows and rows chrysalises or newly hatched butterflies, just awaiting their transfer to the main Butterfly House.
Check out this video from one of our patrons:
2. Explore the Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is a favorite among families, offering a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. Kids can enjoy hands-on exhibits, watch live aquatic shows, and even participate in animal encounters. Highlights include the Amazon Rising exhibit, the Caribbean Reef, and the playful dolphins and belugas in the Abbott Oceanarium.
3. Spend a Day at Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the country, is a fantastic destination for families. Admission is free, and there are plenty of animals to see, from big cats and primates to reptiles and birds. The zoo also features a children’s zoo area, where kids can get up close with goats, pigs, and other farm animals.
4. Take a Stroll Through Millennium Park
Millennium Park is an iconic Chicago landmark that offers numerous activities for families. The Crown Fountain and its towering video screens that splash water are a hit with kids on hot summer days. Don’t miss the chance to take a family photo in front of the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as “The Bean.”
5. Visit the Field Museum
The Field Museum is home to Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex skeleton ever discovered. Kids will love exploring the museum’s vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, including the Ancient Egypt exhibit and the Evolving Planet, which tells the story of life on Earth over billions of years.
6. Enjoy a Day at Maggie Daley Park
Maggie Daley Park is a wonderland for children, featuring a whimsical playground with towering slides, climbing walls, and a pirate ship. The park also has a mini-golf course, a rock-climbing wall, and an ice-skating ribbon that transforms into a roller-skating ribbon in the summer.
7. Take a River Cruise
A river cruise offers a unique perspective of Chicago’s stunning architecture. Several companies provide family-friendly tours that are both entertaining and educational. The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise is particularly popular, providing insights into the city’s history and landmarks.
8. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry is a massive museum that offers a multitude of interactive exhibits designed to engage and educate kids. Highlights include the U-505 submarine, a replica coal mine, and the Science Storms exhibit, where children can learn about natural phenomena like tornadoes and lightning.
9. Have Fun at Navy Pier
Beyond The Butterfly House, Navy Pier is a hub of activity with attractions like the Centennial Wheel, an iconic Ferris wheel offering breathtaking views of the city. The pier also features the Chicago Children’s Museum, where kids can engage in hands-on exhibits and creative play.
10. Cool Off at a Beach
Chicago’s location along Lake Michigan means there are several beautiful beaches to enjoy. North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach are two popular options where families can relax, build sandcastles, and swim. Many beaches also offer facilities like playgrounds, restrooms, and food vendors.
11. Attend a Summer Festival
Chicago hosts numerous summer festivals that are perfect for families. The Chicago Air and Water Show, the Taste of Chicago, and various neighborhood street fairs offer food, entertainment, and activities for kids. These events provide a lively atmosphere and a chance to experience the city’s diverse culture.
12. Visit the Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium is a fantastic destination for budding astronomers. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, watch immersive sky shows, and learn about the wonders of the universe. The Doane Observatory allows for close-up views of celestial objects through its powerful telescope.
13. Spend a Day at Brookfield Zoo
Located just outside the city, Brookfield Zoo is worth the trip. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals and features exhibits like the Great Bear Wilderness, the Tropic World, and the Dolphinarium. The Hamill Family Play Zoo is especially popular with young children, offering hands-on animal encounters and activities.
14. Explore Grant Park
Grant Park, often referred to as “Chicago’s front yard,” is a sprawling urban park that offers plenty of green space for picnicking, playing, and relaxing. The park is home to Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world, which offers impressive water displays set to music.
15. Take a Bike Ride Along the Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile-long path that stretches along Lake Michigan, offering stunning views of the water and the city skyline. Renting bikes and riding along the trail is a fun and active way for families to explore the city. There are plenty of spots to stop for a picnic or to play at the numerous parks along the way.
16. Enjoy a Performance at the Chicago Children’s Theatre
The Chicago Children’s Theatre offers a range of performances that cater to young audiences. The theatre’s productions are designed to inspire and entertain children, with shows that often incorporate music, puppetry, and interactive elements.
17. Visit the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum focuses on the natural history of the Chicago region. Kids will love the Butterfly Haven, an indoor tropical garden with hundreds of butterflies, and the Hands-On Habitat, where they can explore and learn about local wildlife.
18. Check Out the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago might not seem like an obvious choice for families, but it offers several programs and activities designed to engage children. The Ryan Learning Center provides hands-on activities and workshops, and the museum’s extensive collection of art can be an inspiring experience for kids of all ages.
19. Visit the Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum offers exhibits that bring the city’s rich history to life. Kids can explore the Chicago: Crossroads of America exhibit, which features interactive displays and artifacts that tell the story of Chicago’s development.
20. Have Fun at a Splash Pad
Splash pads are a great way for kids to cool off on a hot summer day. Chicago has several splash pads scattered throughout its parks, including those at Maggie Daley Park, Humboldt Park, and the new splash pad at Adams Playground Park.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Summer in Chicago with Kids
- Plan Ahead: Summer is a busy time in Chicago, so it’s a good idea to plan your visits and check for any required reservations or tickets.
- Stay Hydrated: The summer heat can be intense, so make sure to keep everyone hydrated and take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
- Use Public Transportation: Chicago’s public transportation system is extensive and can save you the hassle of driving and parking in the city.
- Take Advantage of Free Days: Many museums and attractions offer free admission days, so be sure to check their schedules and take advantage of these opportunities.
With so many incredible things to do in Chicago with kids, you’ll have no trouble keeping everyone entertained and creating lasting memories. From the enchanting Butterfly House on Navy Pier to the educational museums and outdoor adventures, the Windy City offers something for every family to enjoy.
