Chicago Family Events

Chicago is a bustling metropolis situated on the edge of Lake Michigan. It’s the third largest city in the United States and a popular destination for tourists of all kinds. It’s a vibrant and diverse city full of activities and attractions that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly day out, or you want to explore the unique culture within the city, there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy in Chicago.

Top 10 Things to Do in Chicago for Families

From thrilling theme parks to an array of cultural attractions, there is something for families of all ages to enjoy in Chicago. Here are the top 10 things to do for families in the city:

1. Navy Pier

Navy Pier is Chicago’s most famous attraction and a must-visit for families. It’s a 3,300-foot-long, 15-acre pier on Lake Michigan that offers a variety of activities, including a children’s museum, a Ferris wheel, an IMAX theater, boat tours, and more. Navy Pier is open daily and free to the public.

2. The Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free 35-acre zoo located in Lincoln Park on the north side of Chicago. It’s one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. and is home to over 200 species of animals, including giraffes, hippos, lions, tigers, and more. It also features interactive exhibits, educational programs, and activities for kids.

3. The Field Museum

The Field Museum is a popular natural history museum on the Museum Campus which features exhibits on mammals, dinosaurs, and ancient cultures. It also offers interactive activities, educational programs, and a 3D movie theater. It’s open daily and offers discounted rates for children and families.

4. The Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is a world-class aquarium located on the Museum Campus. It’s home to over 32,000 animals, including dolphins, beluga whales, sea otters, and more. It also offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and activities for kids.

5. The Chicago Children’s Museum

The Chicago Children’s Museum is located in Navy Pier and is a great place to take the family. It offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and activities for kids. It’s open daily and offers discounted rates for children and families.

6. The Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum is a great place to explore the city’s past. It offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and activities for kids. It’s open daily and offers discounted rates for children and families.

7. The Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of Chicago’s most popular museums. It offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and activities for kids. It’s open daily and offers discounted rates for children and families.

8. The Adler Planetarium

The Adler Planetarium is located on the Museum Campus. It’s home to interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a 3D movie theater. It’s open daily and offers discounted rates for children and families.

9. The Chicago Botanic Garden

The Chicago Botanic Garden is a 385-acre garden located on the north side of the city. It’s home to over 2.5 million plants and offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and activities for kids. It’s open daily and offers discounted rates for children and families.

10. The Brookfield Zoo

The Brookfield Zoo is a 216-acre zoo located on the west side of the city. It’s home to over 4,000 animals, including tigers, giraffes, penguins, and more. It also offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and activities for kids. It’s open daily and offers discounted rates for children and families.

Other Attractions and Activities

In addition to the top 10 attractions above, there are plenty of other activities for families to enjoy in Chicago. These include:

1. Shopping at the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a section of Michigan Avenue between the Chicago River and Oak Street. It’s home to over 460 stores, restaurants, and attractions. It’s a great place to spend the day shopping and exploring.

2. Kayaking on the Chicago River

The Chicago River is a great place to explore the city from a different perspective. You can rent kayaks and take a tour of the city’s canals and waterways.

3. Bike Riding on the Lakefront Trail

The Lakefront Trail is a 18-mile paved path along Lake Michigan. It’s a great place to bike ride and explore the city.

4. Visiting the Lincoln Park Conservatory

The Lincoln Park Conservatory is a 4.5-acre Victorian-style greenhouse on the north side of the city. It’s home to over 400 species of plants and is a great place to explore.

5. Enjoying the Beach at Montrose Beach

Montrose Beach is a popular beach on the north side of the city. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.

Events for Families

In addition to the attractions listed above, there are plenty of events for families to enjoy in Chicago. Some of the most popular events include:

1. The Chicago Air and Water Show

The Chicago Air and Water Show is an annual event that takes place on the lakefront in August. It features aerial stunts, water performances, and more.

2. The Chicago Jazz Festival

The Chicago Jazz Festival is an annual event that takes place in September. It features live music, food vendors, and more.

3. The Chicago Marathon

The Chicago Marathon is an annual event that takes place in October. It’s a popular race that attracts thousands of runners from around the world.

4. The Taste of Chicago

The Taste of Chicago is an annual event that takes place in July. It features food from local restaurants, live music, and more.

5. The Chicago Children’s Museum Summer Festival

The Chicago Children’s Museum Summer Festival is an annual event that takes place in June. It features a variety of activities for kids, including face painting, arts and crafts, and more.

Conclusion

Chicago is a great city for families to explore. There are plenty of attractions, activities, and events for families of all ages to enjoy. From thrilling theme parks to an array of cultural attractions, there is something for everyone to experience in Chicago. From Navy Pier to the Chicago Children’s Museum, there is no shortage of family-friendly activities in the city. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly day out, or you want to explore the unique culture within the city, there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy in Chicago.