Summer will be here soon, bringing warmer temperatures and the opportunity for fun activities that lead to new core memories.
The Windy City is large and bustling, and parents will discover no shortage of opportunities to get outside with their little ones if they know where to look. This guide strives to make the researching process easy, providing ideas to Chicago families. Take a look at some of the fun opportunities on the horizon.
Outdoor and active fun
Maggie Daley Park
Fun summer activities that allow children to use their imagination are invaluable opportunities. The Maggie Daley Park is a fantastic setting for children to expend energy on the massive playground, scooter track, and climbing wall. The park offers a fun setting for parents who want their children to remain active during the days when they’re not at preschool in Chicago this summer.
North Avenue and Oak Street beaches
The warmer weather also makes days at the beach more enjoyable for the entire family. Both North Avenue and Oak Street beaches have plenty of fun activities for children in Chicago, with splash pads among the most popular. Sunscreen and sand-appropriate toys can complete the ensemble for an enjoyable summer.
Zoo Visits
Chicago is home to two beautiful zoos, and kids in Chicago with a love of animals can enjoy a memorable day at either Brookfield Zoo or the Lincoln Park Zoo. The Lincoln Park Zoo has the added benefit of free admission, allowing families to save money while enjoying fun outside of the home.
Boating
Lake Michigan’s beautiful waters are an ideal spot for summer boating excursions. Families that want to enjoy the sun and go for a swim can enjoy boating on Lake Michigan or floating down the Chicago River.
Adventure Parks
Chicago has no shortage of adventure parks that are family friendly. Among the best in Chicago is The Forge Adventure Park at Lemont Quarries. Children can enjoy ziplining, ropes courses, and other adrenaline-packed adventures. Summer camps can also provide local children with a fun way to make friendships and build confidence through learning new skills.
Educational activities and museums
The Field Museum
The Field Museum has several exhibits that are geared toward helping children learn. It’s an especially great choice for children who are fascinated by and want to learn more about dinosaurs. The SUE dinosaur exhibit contains the most complete T. Rex skeleton ever discovered.
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Another fun option for child-friendly activities and learning is the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Children can enjoy the museum’s interactive exhibits, like the Idea Factory. They can also explore a real-life German submarine, spurring their imagination.
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Famous for its butterfly greenhouse, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum can help children in Chicago learn more about the nature surrounding them and discover a greater appreciation for nature’s creatures. It’s a fun setting for summer exploration and growth for young children.
Shedd Aquarium
Exhibits featuring marine life are accessible in Chicago, thanks to the Shedd Aquarium. The aquarium features several exhibits that teach children more about marine creatures, the role they play, and the habitat they reside in.
Free things to do with kids in Chicago this summer
Chicago is a city that is proud of its accessibility, so it should be no surprise that there is an abundance of child-friendly activities to look forward to this summer. Let’s look a little closer.
Park District programs
The Chicago Park District offers several free summer programs for children in town. These activities include sports, day camps, and cultural activities that allow them to learn more about the world.
Outdoor movies and concerts
The parks in Chicago are an ideal setting for free, public concerts and movies. Some parks promote movie nights as part of a series that runs throughout the summer months. Concerts can provide a fun way for families with young children to enjoy quality time outside of the home.
Local exploration
The beauty of a diverse city like Chicago is the variety of neighborhoods. Local exploration can take families and their children to neighborhoods like Chinatown and the Wild Mile.
Finally, to learn more about the summer camps we offer here at Kids’ Work Chicago Riverview, get in touch with the team today.