Whether you’re a local looking for the ultimate staycation or you’re planning a trip to Chicago, spring break is right around the corner. There’s never a dull moment in the city—and no matter what your kids love to do, you’ll find something for everyone, whether they love the arts or are sports fanatics. Keep scrolling for the ultimate itineraries for a memorable spring break in Chicago, packed with ideas for every interest!
1. For Arts, Culture, and Music Aficionados
Stay at the 21C Museum Hotel
Experience contemporary art at the 21C Museum Hotel in downtown Chicago. With 297 rooms, free rotating exhibits, and the current showcase ‘OFF-SPRING: New Generations’ featuring 100 artworks exploring rituals, it’s an ideal art-centric stay. Enjoy bright rooms with original artwork, luxe bedding, Malin+Goetz Bath Amenities, a 24-hour fitness center, and onsite dining at Lure Fishbar.
Steve McCurry ICONS exhibit
The Steve McCurry ICONS exhibit is currently on display at Chicago’s LUMA museum until March 31st. Explore over 100 of his most famous photographs, including ‘Afghan Girl,‘ featured on the National Geographic cover in 1985.
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago offers a chance to explore world-class artworks with your children. The current exhibition ‘Picasso: Drawing from Life,’ showcases 60 drawings, prints, illustrated books, paintings, and sculptures until April 8th. Kids can also enjoy hands-on activities in the Ryan Learning Center during their spring break in Chicago, fostering a lifelong love for the arts. Check out all of the exhibitions to see in Chicago during spring break here!
Theatre productions and karaoke
The Marriott Theater in Lincolnshire has just unveiled its latest production, Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach—and it’s a playful adventure that will entertain audiences of all ages throughout the entire hour-long show. Perfect for kids and enjoyable for parents as well, the production takes you through a range of emotions, including grief, hope, love, and joy! Director Tommy Rapley commented, “This whimsical musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic contains the perfect blend of playful, spooky, heartwarming, mysterious, imaginative, and downright hilarious storytelling that I love as a director.” Plus, we love the Q&A with the actors after the show!
If you have teens, consider checking out a thought-provoking production at Lincoln Park’s world-class Steppenwolf Theatre at 1650 N. Halsted Street. The ensemble cast prides themselves in creating unique plays that “spark curiosity, empathy and joy.” See the latest plays at Steppenwolf.org.
Belt out your favorite poetic Taylor Swift tunes at Swift Serenades if you have a fan in your family. Write a “Dear John” letter, enjoy bracelet making, and parents can indulge in specialty cocktails inspired by Lavender Haze & Champagne Problems, and more through March 31st!
Candlelight concerts
Round out your cultural visit with a Candlelight Concert. These stunning concerts, illuminated by hundreds of candles, are found all across Chicago and the suburbs, showcasing different genres of music, including pop, jazz, and classical, so there’s something for every musical taste!
2. For Film and TV Lovers
Stay at The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, an IHG Hotel
The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline from many rooms. Movie buffs will love that it has also gained recognition for its appearances in films like The Dark Knight and Transformers: Dark of the Moon.
Disney100: The Exhibition
Disney100: The Exhibition has chosen Chicago to showcase its exclusive collection from the Walt Disney Archives for a limited time. Marvel at over 250 rarely seen artifacts, memorabilia, costumes, and more from your favorite movies. You’ll not only see iconic items from Disney films but also a selection from MARVEL, Pixar, and Star Wars. The exhibition closes in mid-April, making spring break in Chicago the perfect time to experience it. Secure your spot to enjoy the magic! Take 20% off from April 1st until the closing date of April 14th. Use code CLOSINGD100.
A self-guided tour of famous filming locations
The Dark Knight: Lower Wacker Drive, Chicago Board of Trade Building, the Berghoff Restaurant which was made to look like Sirens nightclub, LaSalle Street Bridge, and The Richard J. Daley Center. Home Alone: The McCallister House in Winnetka, Illinois, O’Hare International Airport, including the unforgettable scene where Kevin and his family rush through the airport to catch their flight, and the Rookery Building was the filming location for “Polka King” at 209 South LaSalle Street in Chicago.
Home Alone 2: Lost In New York: The Hilton Chicago, the popular hotel in the South Loop, was a filming location for the popular movie!
The Flyover Experience
Feel like you’re in a movie at the new FlyOver attraction at Navy Pier. The $40 million attraction opened on March 1st, and take it from us, you’ll feel as if you’re in the movies as the huge spherical screen swoops you through some of Chicago’s most epic attractions.
Catch a discounted movie at AMC theaters over spring break in Chicago. Grab the AMC Yellow Ticket to enjoy your favorite film on the silver screen.
Locations: Participating at the following AMC Theatres® locations in Chicago: AMC Randhurst 12, AMC River East 21, AMC Norridge 6, AMC Evanston 12, and more! For a unique theater, check out this list of movie theaters around the city to catch a film.
Want more ideas? Check out 8 Cinematic Experiences For Film Lovers To Enjoy In Chicago!
3. For History Buffs
Stay at Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel
The Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel, is a Beaux-arts-style steeped in 150 years of history. Located in Chicago’s theater district, and near attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park. Parents will love to sneak away for a cocktail in the stunning lobby. Fun fact: the entire family will want to try their famous brownies, right where they were invented, in the Palmer House Kitchen during the Columbian Exposition World’s Fair in 1893.
Titanic: The Exhibition
This Titanic exhibit has just arrived in the Chicago area, recounting the poignant journey of the liner from its 1908 design to its recovery in 1985. Experience the voyage through a boarding pass of an actual passenger, explore relics from the White Star Line, feel the chilling temperature of an iceberg, and immerse yourself in a cutting-edge VR experience.
Downton Abbey Exhibition
If someone in your family loves Downton Abbey, don’t miss the exhibit dedicated to the series, now open in Skokie. Get transported to post-Edwardian England at the Downton Abbey: The Exhibition—and see stunning room recreations, get a closer look at the fashion, from 60 costumes from the show including pristine dresses to jaw-droppingly beautiful jewelry, and so much more.
Night at the Museum
If you’ve ever wanted to have your own night at the museum, now’s your chance! Spend the night at the iconic Field Museum for Dozin’ with the Dinos. Enjoy the exhibitions after-hours, including the new ‘Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches’ at the Field Museum, get an up-close look at the legendary T-Rex Sue, and participate in a ton of late-night activities like dissecting owl pellets.
An Architecture Tour
The entire family would love the Chicago Architecture Tour that offers a unique vantage point of Chicago’s most stunning buildings from the water. See over 40 landmarks such as Marina City, the Tribune Tower, and the Wrigley Building.
4. For the Foodies
Stay at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk
Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk is the ultimate family-friendly hotel right on the river, offering proximity to Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Magnificent Mile for shopping. Kids will love the Sheraton Little Chef Experience, hosted by their onsite chef, learning basic cooking skills during a one-hour session. During your stay, don’t miss the chance to dine at the restaurant Shula’s Steak House. It offers delicious seafood, mouthwatering steaks the entire family will enjoy, and the best martinis, because parents should indulge too.
A neighborhood pizza tour
Love pizza? Go on a fun tour around town during the ‘only bus guided neighborhood pizza tour!’ Taking about three and a half hours, the day kicks off at Pizano’s Madison Street with stops at several pizza joints. Your ticket includes four slices of pizza, travel around the city in a private mini coach, and a guide who will divulge Chicago’s important ties to pizza.
Chicago Loop Secret Food Tour
The Chicago Loop Secret Food Tour is the ultimate idea for large families looking for a fun foodie experience with a guide who will show you some of our best-hidden gems and share great stories about the city. Ideal for groups of up to 12 people, prepare to enjoy some of our staples like deep dish pizza with sausage, gourmet popcorn, a Chicago-style hot dog, an Italian beef sandwich, a brownie, and a secret surprise dish!
Museum of Ice Cream Chicago
For something sweet on your foodie adventure during spring break in Chicago, plan a stop at the Museum of Ice Cream. The whole family will love the whimsical installations like the banana room and the iconic sprinkle pool. Plus, who wouldn’t enjoy trying so many sweet treats? Make your Chicago spring break end on a high note with a delicious indulgence!
Check out our top recommendations for food and drinks in Chicago
- 🍽️ Best new restaurants
- 🍳Top breakfast spots
- 🥞 Brunch spots
- 🍵 High-tea services
- 🍕Pizza spots
- 🍝 Italian eateries
- 🥩 Top steakhouses
- 🍹Fun mocktails
- 🏞️ Riverwalk restaurants
- ⛱️ Restaurants with outdoor patios
5. For Sports Enthusiasts and Thrill Seekers
Stay at Chicago Athletic Association Hotel or the Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
The historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, located near Millennium Park in downtown Chicago, was originally founded in 1890 as a prestigious private club for the city’s elite athletes and enthusiasts. Today, it offers modern amenities and vintage-inspired design within a landmark building that once served as a private athletic club. Throughout the hotel, guests can experience nods to its sporting heritage through various decor elements. Children, in particular, will love the signature boxing-style robes, the original basketball court for shooting hoops, and the game room featuring favorites like pop-a-shot, skeeball, billiards, shuffleboard, chess, and checkers.
Hotel Zachary, Chicago, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is located in the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, adjacent to the historic Wrigley Field. Named after Zachary Taylor Davis, the architect who designed Wrigley Field, the boutique hotel celebrates the rich history and culture of the area.
Indoor Skydiving
Calling all thrill seekers! Take your son or daughter to Lincoln Park Indoor Skydiving and experience their state-of-the-art iFLY Chicago. Not only will you see what it’s like to jump out of a plane, but you’ll even go home with a personalized flight certificate, too!
Enjoy rollerblading and skateboarding at Maggie Daley Park’s ribbon, and if your kids are into rock climbing, they’ll find that there, too.
Chicago Sports Museum
Just like ESPN SportsCenter Anchor Matt Barrie said, “If you’re a Chicago sports fan, this is a must.” He’s talking about the Chicago Sports Museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Chicago sports. If you love Chicago sports history, it’s a must-visit destination for spring break in Chicago. Explore exhibits and a vast collection of memorabilia that celebrates the city’s iconic sports teams and favorite athletes.
Catch a sports game
Experience the ultimate spring break in Chicago by catching a game! Whether it’s thrilling basketball with the Chicago Bulls or Chicago Blackhawks hockey at the United Center, baseball excitement with the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field or the Cubs at Wrigley Field, or cheering for the Chicago Fire at Soldier Field for soccer fans, attending a game is a fantastic idea for families who love sports!