Chicago is one of the best places to show your kids art, culture, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will leave lasting impressions on the youngest members of your family. If you’re looking for a unique adventure this February, we have you covered with many amazing experiences that the entire family will enjoy. Keep reading for the best things to do in Chicago with kids this month!
Go to the Forbidden Forest experience
Take the entire family to see the Harry Potter: Forbidden Forest experience in Illinois, just about an hour from Chicago! Go on an adventure and follow a moonlit path with enchantments, cast your own spells, and stumble upon Nifflers, Centaurs, and maybe even a Hippogriff…are you brave enough to bow? The experience is now open, grab your tickets here before it disappears!
Visit the world’s largest tubing hill near Chicago
If you’re looking for a snow-day adventure, Sunburst Winter Sports Park in Wisconsin has the world’s largest tubing hill with more than 45 chutes, a 90-foot drop, and runs that stretch a quarter mile. You can hit speeds close to 30 mph, making it an easy, thrilling winter escape for all ages. Whether you want to tube, ski, or snowboard, Sunburst is a fun and convenient day trip from Chicago. Need more spots? Check out our list for the top snow tubing hills near Chicago.
Write a letter to Santa at Chicago’s airports this holiday season
This season, if you’re traveling through O’Hare International Airport or Midway International Airport in Chicago, you can drop a letter straight into a real “Letters to Santa” mailbox. Airport staff dressed in festive outfits make sure your letters get sent to the North Pole, and if you add your address, Santa (or his helpers) might even send a reply back। It’s a fun, simple way to share your holiday wishes, and perfect during all the hustle and bustle of holiday travel.
Travel billions of years back to the start of life
Journey through Earth’s ancient past at the ‘Life Chronicles’ VR experience near Chicago starting on September 26. This immersive adventure transports you 3.5 billion years back in time, letting you witness the planet’s major evolutionary milestones, from the Archean period, when life first emerged, to the eras that shaped our world. Grab tickets!
This high-tech mini golf spot is serious about family fun
The entire family will enjoy Puttshack, a massive tech-infused mini golf destination with two Chicagoland locations in Oak Brook and Skokie. Beyond mini golf, families won’t want to miss the menu, featuring delicious bites like shiitake mushroom potstickers and Thai fried chicken—plus a full bar with craft cocktails and mocktails, including fun options like Cotton Candy Crush and H2NO Ranch Water that the kids will love.
📍 Puttshack at Oak Brook (Oakbrook Center), 1828 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523
📍 Puttshack at Skokie (Westfield Old Orchard), 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, IL 60077
Discover the most beautiful crystal caves at this new experience
Get ready to awaken your senses at Wondra, a new multi-sensory experience opening at the Woodfield Mall in October! Wondra takes you on a magical journey through the beauty, mystery and magic of nature. Step into crystal caves and the most enchanting landscapes. Get your tickets now!
Check out this enthralling Spider-Man exhibit
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition is now open at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, giving you an inside look at your favorite superhero. See everything from rare comic books to exploring modern-day movies through authentic props and costumes, interactive displays and more. Don’t miss out while it’s in Chicago!
Enjoy a luxe staycation steps from the city’s most iconic attractions
One thing we love most about living in Chicago is exploring our fantastic neighborhoods and cultural institutions and checking out all the unique experiences. Even though we call this city home, it’s always fun to live like a tourist sometimes. One of our favorite things is meandering slowly around downtown for a weekend staycation!
One of our favorite hotels—which is in a prime location near all of the city’s top attractions—is the Fairmont Chicago. And, if you’re visiting the city for the first time, even better. You’ll be steps away from must-see places like Millennium Park, where you’ll find Cloud Gate (our beloved Bean), Crown Fountain, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Lurie Garden, Michigan Avenue, and the Buckingham Fountain—which we must say, are all beautiful to see this time of year with the leaves changing colors for fall.
Back at the Fairmont Chicago, indulge in booking Fairmont Gold, a luxurious hotel-within-a-hotel experience with upscale amenities. Guests get a private check-in area with spectacular views located on the hotel’s 15th floor, along with a welcome amenity and the chance to enjoy the recently renovated lounge area.
The Gold Lounge is a great place to enjoy the standout complimentary continental breakfast, a variety of cocktails and wine, canapés in the evening, and so much more! If you’re planning a staycation this fall, watch for the launch of their signature pan-Latin restaurant Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval to open. And this winter, prepare for the same cozy offerings that we love like tableside s’mores, themed drinks, games, and more!
Plan your spring break in Chicago now!
Visit the largest arcade in the world just 30 minutes from downtown
Parents and kids alike will love experiencing the world’s largest arcade, just a mere 30 minutes from downtown Chicago! Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield has a whopping 980 games to indulge in, from rare finds like the ultra-rare Sega R360 to classics like Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, Pac-Man, and more!
🕹️Click here for more details!
👾 Check out the top arcades here!
Have your own night at the museum!
Have you ever wanted to spend the night at a museum? Now you can! The Field Museum offers the most exciting overnight experience with ‘Dozin’ with the Dinos’, providing you with an after-hours adventure. Get an up-close look at Sue, the famous T-Rex, explore the exhibitions, and take part in all of the late-night activities like exploring Chicago wildlife, previewing the Unseen Oceans exhibit, and dissecting owl pellets. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy a fun sleepover at the Field Museum.
🦖Learn all about ‘Dozin with Dinos here!
Check out this new Afrofuturistic Multiverse at the Adler Planetarium
Visit the Adler Planetarium and embark on an imaginative journey with ‘Niyah and the Multiverse,’ following the adventures of a creative Chicago pre-teen. If you’re looking for kid activities in Chicago, join her on a visually stunning Afrofuturist voyage through the multiverse.
Learn more here!Teach them the art of thrifting!
It’s official, I’ve passed on my love of thrift shopping to my children, so if your kids are anything like mine, they are going to love scouring the city for the perfect thrifted piece to add to their collection. While I nudge them to look for unique clothing items that can be deemed ‘cool’ at school, they are often on the hunt for old toys, dolls, or other fun gadgets they can add to their collections. It’s definitely the thrill of the hunt for us!
🛍️Check out the full list of our favorite thrift stores across the city!
Attend an evening dedicated to magic
Many Chicagoans have never heard about the city’s deep history with magic and illusion, but The Magic Gateway is bringing that enchantment to life for today’s families. Through interactive shows where kids help create the magic on stage, it offers a vibrant, hands-on way for the next generation to discover just how magical Chicago can be. It’s a 60-minute interactive magic show that’s designed to spark imaginations of all ages. Attendees must be aged 4 or over and be accompanied by an adult — because magic is way more fun when shared.
Find tickets for the whole family here!Go to this rad science shop for unique items
If you and your kids are looking for kid activities in Chicago and have a passion for science, you can’t miss out on one of the most fascinating shops dedicated to all things quirky and scientific! Explore a treasure trove of items at the American Science & Surplus store, from dissection frogs to vintage Russian microscopes and 1950s Geiger counters. This store promises to captivate the minds of both young kids (and their parents!), offering a thrilling journey through the wonders of science!
📍27 N. Northwest Hwy. Park Ridge, IL 60068
Check out this live-action gaming experience
An exciting and competitive indoor gaming facility has opened outside of Chicago that you must visit! The high-tech Activate Games in Oak Brook offers fun for the entire family by combining technology and physical activity. These live-action games require families to work together to test their mental and physical agility and complete the games in three-minute face-offs.
We loved the variety of games offered, such as Hoops, Push, Hide (which reminded us of a family-friendly version of Squid Game), Megagrid, a massive space with color grids on the floor (make sure you step on the right color!), and laser games, similar to thrilling spy movies like Entrapment. This heart-racing family adventure is perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Chicago with kids to add fun to any dull mid-week night or weekend!
🤸Learn more about Activate Games here!
Don’t miss these CityDays – Scavenger Hunts
CityDays Scavenger Hunts allow thrill seekers to see sights and landmarks in the city while working on challenges and puzzles! You can “Get Lost In The Loop” or choose from other exciting trails! Explore Old Town, the Magnificent Mile or Chicago’s China Town for unforgettable cultural and historical fun and challenges!
Discover secret treasures all over the city. No matter what trail, you will have lots of fun and adventure around every corner!
🕵️♀️ Head here for more info on CityDays Escape Room Games in Chicago.
Take the kids to a tribute of their favorite musicians at an upcoming Candlelight Concert
Expose the kids to some incredible sounds under the dim glow of candlelight at one of these fantastic Candlelight Concerts. From tribute concerts of world-class singers like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift to talented musicians performing popular classical ballads like Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & more, there’s never been a better time to introduce your youngsters to the gift of music.
🕯️See the full list of candlelight concerts taking place in Chicago here.
Go on a skydiving adventure
Calling all adventure seekers to Lincoln Park Indoor Skydiving! The state-of-the-art iFLY Chicago is home to an epic indoor skydiving destination right here in the Windy City! If you’re looking for a thrilling afternoon and the opportunity to take part in a unique experience with your son or daughter, consider spending the afternoon learning a fun new skill here. You’ll even go home with a personalized flight certificate too! It’s one of our favorite things to do in Chicago with kids.
Enjoy a trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo
Explore the wonders of Lincoln Park Zoo, noted for being one of the only free and privately managed zoos in the country. Plan for an unforgettable day with your child as you visit the best landmarks and discover hidden gems at this winter.
Besides the zoo, Chicago has also had some pretty unique animal sightings! Chonk, the giant snapping turtle, was spotted as a couple of Chicagoans kayaked the Chicago River, and a family of the sweetest red foxes has been spotted in Millennium Park!
Check out Funtopia, an exciting adventure playground
Venture to this dynamic new adventure playground in Glenview, IL, for an exciting day out with your family. This fun-tastic Funtopia play center is perfect for children of all ages. Kids can enjoy areas separated by Fun Zones so they can play with children in their own age group! There’s a climbing wall for older children, an obstacle course suitable for kids ages six to 13, and a playpen area for toddlers to enjoy.
Visit the mindbending Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions (25 East Washington Street) offers a mind-blowing day out with an interactive, immersive, and educational experience for its guests by featuring 80 different mystifying exhibits. The museum recently reopened with more space and over 20 new exhibits!
Check out ways to have a cinematic experience in Chicago, including checking out top filming locations
Chicago may not be Los Angeles when it comes to filming movies, but we’ve had our fair share of major Blockbusters filmed in this city. If you and your family love movies, check out these 15 cinematic experiences that you must do in Chicago!
🎥 Film lovers can read more here!
Take the kids to explore Chicago’s longest-running street
Besides checking out some of the unique events, museums, zoos, pop-ups, and cultural institutions, why not spend the day exploring Chicago’s longest-running street?
That’s right, one of our streets in this city stands out as the longest-continuous street in Chicago! It’s a cool 20+ mile stretch with car dealerships, unique neighborhoods, the Rosehill Cemetery, and everyday buildings and businesses you’ll find as you explore. It’s something your kids will absolutely love and one of the best things to do in Chicago with kids.
🚶Can you guess which street it is? Details here!
Enjoy a decadent high tea service!
Sure, Chicago boasts some of the most beautiful restaurants and new spots we can’t wait to try, but there’s something decadent about sitting down for a high tea service with your mini-me for an assortment of teas, pastry towers, and decadent cakes. It is one of our favorite things to do in Chicago with kids that will make them feel regal!
Check out our full list of top spots here!Escape to one of these charming small towns near Chicago
Sometimes you just need a getaway! Are we right? If you live in Chicago with kids, planning a little escape to a smaller and charming town can be just the respite you need.
Whether you meander over to New Buffalo, Michigan, to take in the sunset at the beach after dinner at the Stray Dog or venture to the charming town of Galena, Illinois, to stroll the cutest main street filled with shops, you’ll want to bookmark this list of top small cities near Chicago!
See 360-degree views of this magnificent city at the Willis Tower Skydeck
A trip to Chicago is only complete with making a trip up to the Sears Tower, or as we locals like to call it, the Willis Tower, for incredible 360-degree views of the city from the Skydeck. Check out this list for more things to do in Chicago with kids that are on our bucket list..
Immerse yourself in The Art of the Future at Holographic Art Gallery
One of the more incredible winter kid activities in Chicago can be found at Navy Pier. Verse: The Art of the Future fuses art and technology allowing guests to step right into the metaverse in a digital art exhibition featuring augmented reality holograms and artwork by top-selling artists from the burgeoning world of NFTs.
With the help of an AR headset, smartphone, or tablet, each guest will experience their own reality in the same activation area (like a silent disco for holograms!). Verse provides an introduction to the people, technology, and stories that are shaping this disruptive evolution of the art world.
Impress your little ones with a game of soccer in the sky at Chicago’s first-ever rooftop soccer pitch
Looking for an elevated spot with incredible views to train and play soccer? Look no further than this 25,000-square-foot elevated soccer venue in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. “Chicago is an amazing soccer town, and we built Skyline Pitch to celebrate the beautiful sport in the world’s most beautiful city,” said founder and managing director Ivan Lopez. “The only thing better than gathering with friends and teammates to play is to do so with an incredible panoramic view of Chicago’s skyline. Playing at Skyline Pitch will be an unforgettable experience for anyone who visits.”
Find something to do that’s FREE!
Isn’t that right because…the best things in life are free! Some of the best things to do in Chicago with kids cost absolutely nothing! From checking out the marvelous digital projections of Art on the Mart to visiting cultural institutions like the Chicago Cultural Center to marvel at the Tiffany Dome, there’s plenty to do in this city that won’t cost you a dime.
➡️ Check out the full list here!
Go on a marvelous street art and graffiti tour
There’s no doubt that Chicago has a stellar art scene, especially our murals that bring vibrant art to all 77 neighborhoods in our incredible city. If your child loves art, this is one of the best things to do in Chicago with kids. Explore Chicago’s exceptional street art masterpieces, learn all about the amazing history, and see where to find them.
🖌️ Check out 25 of our favorite murals here!
Take your kids to a Chicago bookstore
If you’re looking for an alternative to an iPad or iPhone, visit one of Chicago’s favorite bookstores. Wander through the Children’s section, or grab a TikTok trending book. Whether they love reading or you want a pile of more books in your home, a bookstore is a splendid way to start and one of the best things to do in Chicago with kids.
