If you’re visiting Chicago with your little one, prepare to be delighted! The city has plenty of kid-friendly attractions that are perfect for toddlers. Here are our top picks:
Go ice skating
Navy Pier is one of the best places to take your toddler to play on the ice. From ice skating, to walking along the pier, or looking at the sailboats, it’s a great activity for the family.
Play in Playground Equipment at Millennium Park
The Millennium Park has a great kids’ area of the park, including equipment for toddlers to play on. You can even go with your little one and see the reflection of their face in the water feature. This is a fun activity for family bonding.
Another option is to let them take a ride on the Ferris wheel. The Crown Family PlayLab at The Field Museum also offers plenty of options for your toddler to have fun.
Visit the Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry has an extensive collection of objects that kids can explore. If your child is a budding scientist, they will love having the opportunity to use their imagination as they walk around the museum and identify different exhibits.
Hop on a train to see the city’s sights
Chicago has a lot of public transportation and train stations. The CTA is among the world’s largest, so getting around is very easy. And with the help of a 1-Day CTA Pass, you can ride all the trains.
You can also hop on the train or bus to get from one destination to another. For example, take a CTA bus from Union Station to Navy Pier, or hop on the Red Line and go for an adventure at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Eat a slice at a Chicago pizza joint
Chicago is the home of deep-dish pizza, and it’s no wonder. The city is full of amazing pizza joints that celebrate their deep dish with creative toppings. Pizzas like Giordano’s and Lou Malnati’s are worth the trip alone.
Don’t miss The Bean in Millennium Park
If you have a toddler, you’ll love taking them to see Cloud Gate, aka, the Bean!
Visit the Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium is the perfect place to introduce your toddler to the wonders of science. Your little one will love exploring the stars on the planetarium’s giant dome, and there are lots of experiments around for them to discover, too.
For even more fun, you can visit Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower where you’ll be able to see a view like no other!
Visit the Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is known for being a family-friendly attraction. Not only is it home to hundreds of fish and other aquatic animals, but it also has a hands-on play area for toddlers. You can watch your little one meet the fish or make friends with their favorite pet.
