Fun things to do in Chicago with kids

As a Chicago native I have experienced a lot of what the city has to offer, and as a mom I want my daughter to get the most out of the city too! Every weekend my husband and I try and take Madeline somewhere that she’ll A. Have fun B. Get something out of, and C. Show her some culture!

I’m always looking for new experiences that are kid friendly, so I wanted to share our list of the some fun things to do with your little ones in the city!

Mommy outfit: Sweater (similar) // Jeans // Shoes Madeline’s outfit: Top // Leggings // Shoes // Bows

The Botanic Gardens

Over the weekend we took Madeline to The Botanic Gardens. It’s located just north of the city and has 27 beautiful gardens full of the prettiest flowers, lily ponds, and acres of greenery. She was having the time of her life running up and down the acres of grass (not something you can easily do in the city)! They also have a trolley ride that navigates the entire property. It was a fun experience for her! I would highly recommend checking Botanic Gardens out before it gets chillier!

The Lincoln Park Zoo

We frequent the zoo often, as Madeline loves animals! Not only is it fun to see the monkeys and zebras, but there is also a petting farm and a barn house with different kid friendly activities. Madeline sure got a kick out of it when the goat inside the petting farm started eating my draped blouse! I kid you not, the goat won! LOL!

Bixbee Imiginantion Station

So glad this fun little pop-up shop arrived in Chicago! Each room is a new, out-of-the-box experience! Madeline got a kick out of the life size mythical unicorn that we went on — and there was a selfie camera waiting to take her picture! Since she loves singing ‘Baby Shark’, she also loved that they had a shark that you could go in! They welcome and encourage pictures — and this is definitely the place to take them! Rumor has it that this pop-up is here to stay — I’m not certain, so don’t quote me, but I really hope that’s the case because I think Madeline will enjoy this even more when she’s a bit older.

Kohl Children’s Museum

Such a fun play land for kiddos! Although it’s located about 30 minutes north of the city, I would say it’s worth the drive! There are 17 permanent exhibits for your little one to explore. Our favorite definitely was the kid size Whole Foods Market. Madeline was able to pick out groceries, put them in her kid-size grocery cart, and then go through a check out line! It’s just adorable — and now I’m certain we need a play kitchen at home! She also loved the water works station, where she played with water falls and faucets and truly had a blast! (I would suggest bringing a change of clothes as she was soaked!)

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

An amazing experience to see your little ones eyes light up when they see the butterfly garden. You are surrounded by hundreds of beautiful, colorful butterflies that get close to you! The museum also has hands-on exhibits to explore Illinois ecology and natural history. Although it sounds quite nerdy, it’s pretty cool to see!

Millennium Park

25 acres of beautiful greenery and the home of “The Bean” aka a three-story steel sculpture. Go just to see your little ones reaction when they see its reflection of the Chicago skyline! There is always something to do in the park, whether it be a concert, movie or visiting the fabulous Crown Fountain.