Things to Do in Chicago With the Family

Chicago is an amazing city and there is plenty to do for everyone, but this past spring break we went on a family road trip and there were endless things to do; we had a blast in the Windy City.  For all my Winnipeg peeps, never mind on the way there, because there is a ton do on the way if you want to take a road trip there, but once you get to Chicago there are a ton of things to do and there are a ton of activities for families and kids.  Here are a list of things to do in Chicago:

Visit a museum

We only headed to the Children’s Museum because we had a 9 month year old baby, but there are tons of other museums like the Field Museum (we went inside and it looked cool, and heard good things), Museum of Contemporary Arts and the Museum of Science and Industry.  But back to the Children’s Museum, we couldn’t take the full advantage of the museum as our baby was still young and small, but it was a lot of fun and looked like a blast for kids that are a bit older.  The museum really focuses on hands on learning and play for the children.

Navy Pier

While you’re visiting the Children’s Museum you will definitely have to check out the Navy Pier, which is where the Children’s Museum is located.  Stroll along the shops, the restaurants or even take a ride on the Ferris Wheel.  If it’s a nice day the family will love it, but even if it’s not the shops are all inside the pier.

Willis Tower

Not only is the Willis Tower one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, but the museum you pass through on the way up to the Skydeck was a lot of fun.  Learn about the history of Chicago, the architecture, the food, the music scene and iconic locations.  The museum is interesting, engaging and is interactive too.  Then when you make it to the glass Skydeck, 103 stories above Chicago, the kids will love looking down into the streets!

Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is a famous aquarium in Chicago.  Watch the Beluga Whales, Dolphins, Sea Lions, or even sharks swim through their large aquariums.  You can also learn about local fish and fish from different parts of the world.  The best part is the coral reef section which is where you’ll find the sharks.  I was a bit underwhelmed when visiting the aquarium, but it’s something that the kids will definitely love.  The aquarium is right by the Field Museum and the Adler Planetarium so you can knock off a few activities at once.

Attend a professional sporting event

There are 6 legitimate professional sporting teams in Chicago: NFL, NBA, MLB (x2), MLS and the NHL all have teams.  There are even a couple more major league teams present too.  We attended a Chicago Bulls game and it was a lot of fun.  There was lots of entertainment at the commercial breaks which will keep the kids entertained.  But if NBA isn’t your thing there are other sports to check out, or maybe attend a couple of different games.

Chicago food scene

Chicago has a ton of food, check out my blog about must try foods or my VLOG about visiting iconic Chicago restaurants.  The food is excellent and many of the restaurants have entertaining themes.  And if your kids are picky eaters, I’m sure they’ll be happy with Deep Dish Pizza, Chicago Style Hot Dogs, Garrett Popcorn, world famous sandwiches and fried chicken!

Visit the Bean

Come on, what kids won't want to take a photo in front of a massive silver bean in a park surrounded by skyscrapers?  There are also lots of street food options in the park including Mexican corn, cotton candy and ice cream.  When we were there we couldn't get too close because the ground around the Bean was undergoing landscaping.

Go to the Beach

Did you know Chicago has plenty of beaches?  Depending on the weather, you should go to one of the beaches in town; the water is a beautiful blue and the beaches are surprisingly nice.  Try Ohio Street Beach, North Avenue Beach or Montrose Beach.