Fun Things To Do With Family In Chicago

Chicago is a great city to visit with your family whether you live nearby or come from out of town. Known as the Windy City, it is filled with attractions and activities to do with your family that can make your vacation unforgettable. From beautiful parks to amazing museums, Chicago is a great place to explore with your family and create lasting memories.

The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is one of Chicago’s most iconic attractions and is a great place to explore with your family. Stretching from the banks of Lake Michigan to the Chicago River, the Magnificent Mile features a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Check out the amazing views of the city from the Skydeck at the top of the Willis Tower, as well as the interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry. You can also spend the day at Navy Pier, where you can view the city skyline and enjoy rides and amusements.

Chicago’s Parks and Beaches

Chicago is home to some of the most beautiful and iconic parks in the world. From the sprawling Millenium Park to the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Garfield Park Conservatory, there are plenty of options for family fun. Spend a day at the beach, or take a boat tour of the city’s shoreline and learn about the city’s history. You can also explore some of the city’s lesser-known parks and botanical gardens.

The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most renowned art museums in the world. With its vast collection of artwork from around the world, the Art Institute is a great place to explore the history and culture of the city. Spend a day learning about the various artists and their works, or take part in one of the many interactive activities available.

Chicago’s Food Scenes

Chicago is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. Spend the day exploring the city’s vibrant food scene and sample some of the city’s unique cuisine. From deep-dish pizza to classic hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago has something for everyone. For those looking for a more unique experience, check out one of the city’s many food trucks, which offer everything from tacos to cupcakes.

Architectural Boat Tours

Take a tour of the city’s stunning architecture on a Chicago River cruise. From the iconic Willis Tower to the breathtaking Marina City, the city’s architectural landmarks will take your breath away. The cruises are perfect for families as they provide a unique perspective of the city and are a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture.

The Chicago Theatre

The Chicago Theatre is a historic venue that hosts a variety of shows and performances. Whether you’re looking for a Broadway show, a comedy act, or a concert, there’s something for everyone. The theatre offers family-friendly performances, so it’s a great place to take the kids to enjoy a show.

Museums and Zoos

Chicago is home to some of the best museums and zoos in the world. From the Field Museum of Natural History to the Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium, there is plenty to explore. Spend the day at the Lincoln Park Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals from around the world. The zoo offers interactive activities and educational programs, so your family can learn about the animals and have a fun day.

Additional Tips

No trip to Chicago would be complete without trying some of the city’s iconic foods. For a true Chicago experience, try the famous deep-dish pizza or an Italian beef sandwich. The city’s food scene is vast and there is something for everyone. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes as the city is quite large and you will be doing a lot of walking. As the weather can be unpredictable, bring layers so you can be prepared for any type of weather. Lastly, many of the city’s attractions offer discounts and free admission days, so be sure to check their websites for more information.

Chicago is a great city for families and offers something for everyone. From the beautiful parks and beaches to the museums and zoos, your family will have a memorable experience. With its vast array of attractions and activities, Chicago is the perfect place to explore with your family.

An Insider’s Guide to Fun Things to Do With Family in Chicago

Chicago is the largest city in the Midwest and home to many popular tourist attractions like Navy Pier, Magnificent Mile, and Cloud Gate. However, there are many hidden gems in the city that only locals know about. Here’s an insider’s guide to some of the most engaging and offbeat experiences in Chicago.

Local attractions

Chicago is not only known for its skyscrapers but also for its unique neighborhoods. Take a stroll through Pilsen, a Mexican-American community known for its colorful murals, street art, and authentic cuisine. Another hidden gem is the Osaka Garden, a serene Japanese garden nestled in the heart of Jackson Park.
For a family-friendly outdoor activity, catch a movie at the Midway Drive-In, one of the last remaining drive-in theaters in the area.

Dining spots

Chicago is the home of famous deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. For a more authentic Chicago-style pizza, try Pequod’s Pizza in Lincoln Park, which is famous for its caramelized crust. For a unique foodie experience, head to the Rainbow Cone in Beverly for a classic Chicago treat- a rainbow-colored ice cream cone.
Another hidden food gem is The Spice Room in Wicker Park, which offers homestyle Indian cuisine and a cozy atmosphere.

Cultural experiences

Chicago is home to many cultural festivals, including the famous Chicago Blues Festival in June. For a unique cultural experience, visit the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen, which showcases traditional and contemporary Mexican art. Another must-visit place is the Chicago Cultural Center, which hosts a diverse range of free events and exhibitions.
For music lovers, enjoy live jazz at the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, which has been around since 1907 and is famous for its history with gangsters and prohibition-era cocktails.

Local History

Chicago has a rich history, and one of the best ways to dive deeper is to take a free walking tour in the Loop with the Chicago Greeter program. Alternatively, check out the historic site of Hull House, which was one of the first settlement houses established in the US to aid newly arrived immigrants. Or visit the Field Museum to learn about Chicago’s prehistoric past through the eyes of Sue, the largest and most complete T-Rex ever discovered.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

For a unique experience, head to the Vertiport Chicago Helicopter Tours for a bird’s eye view of the city. Or take a boat tour on the river which gives an excellent view of the city’s architecture, history, and local lore. Take a bike ride along the 606, a trail built on an elevated railway line, which connects some of Chicago’s hippest neighborhoods and parks.

In conclusion, Chicago offers many offbeat and engaging experiences that go beyond the typical tourist destinations. Whether you are interested in food, history, or anything in between, the Windy City has something unique to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to discover your own hidden gems in Chicago.