Things To Do In Chicago With Teens

Chicago is a vibrant and diverse city that has been an important part of American history for centuries. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it is the third-largest city in the United States and has been home to millions of people from all over the world. From its iconic architecture and iconic skyline to its world-class museums and vibrant nightlife, Chicago is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an exciting and memorable vacation experience.

When traveling to Chicago with teens, there are plenty of things to do to keep them entertained. From thrilling amusement parks and zoos to interactive science museums and historic monuments, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this city. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top things to do in Chicago with teens to ensure they get the most out of a trip to the Windy City.

Explore Chicago’s Iconic Architecture

Chicago is renowned for its iconic architecture, and it is a great way to get teens out of the house and enjoying the city. The city’s iconic skyline is home to some of the most famous buildings in the world, including the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), the John Hancock Center, and the Tribune Tower. Teens can explore these buildings on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the history and design of some of these iconic buildings. The Chicago Architecture Center offers a variety of tours for teens, including one that explores the city’s “Loop” district, which is home to some of the city’s oldest buildings.

Visit Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions and is a great place for teens to explore. This 3,300-foot-long pier offers a variety of activities and attractions, such as rides, an IMAX theater, Ferris wheels, and a variety of restaurants. Teens can explore the pier on their own or sign up for one of the many guided tours, such as the Segway Tour or Chicago Trolley Tour. If teens are looking for something more thrilling, they can take a ride on the Navy Pier Flyer, a giant Ferris wheel with views over Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago.

Check out Lincoln Park Zoo

Located in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Teens can explore the zoo’s extensive grounds, which includes more than 1,100 animals from over 200 species from around the world. The zoo also offers educational programs and activities for teens, such as walking tours, animal feedings, and behind-the-scenes experiences. In addition to exploring the zoo, teens can also explore Lincoln Park, which is home to a variety of activities, including boat tours, bike paths, and botanical gardens.

Experience Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions and offers teens an opportunity to explore a variety of aquatic life from around the world. The aquarium is home to more than 32,000 animals from more than 1,500 species and includes exhibits such as Amazon Rising and Wild Reef. Teens can explore these exhibits on their own or join one of the many educational programs offered by the aquarium for an even more in-depth experience. In addition to exploring the exhibits, teens can also take part in a number of interactive experiences such as feeding dolphins and sea lions or taking a behind-the-scenes tour.

Shop on Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is one of Chicago’s most popular shopping destinations and is home to a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Teens can explore the mile on their own or join a guided tour that takes them past some of the city’s most iconic buildings. The area also offers plenty of entertainment options, including movie theaters, arcades, bowling alleys, and more. Teens can also explore the many restaurants in the area, which offer a variety of cuisines from around the world.

Experience Skydeck Chicago

Skydeck Chicago is an observation deck located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower). At 1,353 feet above ground level, it is one of the highest observation decks in the world and offers stunning views of downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan. Teens can explore the Skydeck on their own or join one of the many educational programs offered by Skydeck Chicago that teaches them about the history and architecture of downtown Chicago. The Skydeck also offers a variety of interactive experiences such as glass balconies that allow visitors to step out onto the ledge and experience a bird’s eye view of the city below.

Explore Navy Pier’s Tall Ship Experience

Navy Pier’s Tall Ship Experience is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions and offers teens an opportunity to explore a piece of history while sailing aboard an authentic tall ship. The experience includes a two-hour sailing tour along Lake Michigan as well as interactive learning opportunities such as knot tying lessons and navigation lessons. Teens can also explore Navy Pier’s other attractions while on board, such as its many shops and restaurants.

Visit Museum Campus

Museum Campus is located on Lake Michigan’s shoreline in downtown Chicago and is home to three world-class museums: The Field Museum, The Shedd Aquarium, and The Adler Planetarium. Teens can explore all three museums on their own or join one of the many educational programs offered by Museum Campus that teaches them about science, history, and culture. In addition to exploring the museums, teens can also enjoy views of Lake Michigan while exploring Museum Campus’ grounds or take part in activities such as kayaking or bike rentals along the lakefront path.

Take a Riverboat Cruise

A riverboat cruise is a great way for teens to explore some of Chicago’s most iconic sights while cruising along the historic Chicago River. Most cruises include narrated tours that teach teens about Chicago’s history while they explore some of its most iconic buildings such as Marina City and The Merchandise Mart. There are also plenty of restaurants along the river that offer food and drinks for those who want to take a break from exploring.

Experience Millennium Park

Millennium Park is located in downtown Chicago and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Teens can explore this 24-acre park on their own or join one of its many educational programs that teach them about its many sculptures, gardens, and public artworks. In addition to exploring Millennium Park, teens can also take advantage of its many activities such as ice skating in winter or relaxing on its lawn during summer.

Popular Tours in Chicago

When visiting Chicago with teens, there are two popular tours that offer an opportunity to explore some of the city’s most iconic sights while learning about its history and culture:

Chicago Trolley Tour

The Chicago Trolley Tour is a great way for teens to explore some of Chicago’s most iconic sights while learning about its history and culture. This two-hour tour takes visitors past some of the city’s most famous landmarks such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, The Field Museum, The Shedd Aquarium, The Adler Planetarium, Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain, Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), John Hancock Center, Tribune Tower, and more. Throughout the tour, visitors will have access to audio guides that provide information about each site along the way. Book a Chicago Trolley Tour here.

Segway Tour

The Segway Tour is a great way for teens to explore some of Chicago’s most iconic sights while learning about its history and culture from an experienced guide. This two-hour tour takes visitors past some of the city’s most famous landmarks such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, The Field Museum, The Shedd Aquarium, The Adler Planetarium, Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain, Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), John Hancock Center, Tribune Tower and more. Throughout this tour visitors will have access to audio guides that provide information about each site along the way as well as commentary from their experienced guide. Book a Segway Tour here.