Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Chicago is a city that effortlessly blends its rich history with a modern vibrancy that captivates locals and visitors alike. The skyline is a masterpiece of architectural innovation, from the iconic Willis Tower to the striking curves of the Aqua Tower. Walking through the streets feels like stepping into an open-air museum, where each building tells a story of the city’s past and future. But architecture is just the beginning. Chicago's music scene is alive with the sounds of jazz, blues, and contemporary tunes echoing from venues large and small. And when it comes to food, the city's culinary landscape is legendary, offering everything from deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to a plethora of international cuisines that reflect its diverse population.
The city's neighborhoods are just as iconic as its landmarks. From the historic streets of Hyde Park to the artistic pulse of Pilsen, each community offers a unique experience, full of charm, culture, and local flavor. Exploring these neighborhoods feels like uncovering hidden gems, whether you're browsing independent boutiques, discovering vibrant street art, or enjoying a cozy café tucked away on a quiet street.
Coming to Chicago without kids? Check out these Three Chicago Girls Trip Itineraries or this guide to Romantic Date Ideas in Chicago.
But beyond its cultural allure, Chicago is also a fantastic place to raise children. The city is filled with parks, museums, and activities that make it easy for families to enjoy quality time together. The vast green spaces of Lincoln Park, Millennium Park, and Maggie Daley Park provide plenty of room for kids to run, play, and explore. (And while you’re there, visit Cloud Gate, affectionately called “the bean” for reflection fun!) And when the weather gets chilly, indoor venues like the Chicago Children’s Museum and Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum offer endless fun and learning opportunities.
One museum that may not come to mind when thinking of things to do with toddlers is the Museum of Contemporary Art. But MCA Family Days, designed for children under 12 and their families, invite young visitors to become artists, thinkers, and collaborators at the museum. Held every second Saturday, these events blend play spaces, creativity, and learning, allowing kids to witness art in the making and engage with artists. Families can relax on comfy pillows, enjoy free snacks, and break the usual boundaries between artist and visitor in a contemporary art museum. Admission is free for all attendees.
For families with toddlers, there is no shortage of activities to keep little ones engaged. The city’s many playgrounds are designed with young children in mind, offering safe, creative spaces for them to burn off energy. The cultural institutions, such as the Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium, have interactive exhibits and programs tailored to toddlers, ensuring even the youngest visitors have a memorable experience.
Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, Chicago is a city that embraces families and offers countless ways to experience its magic through the eyes of a child. With a mix of cultural richness, community warmth, and a never-ending list of things to do, it’s truly a wonderful place to live and grow up.
PS - if you’re local, you might enjoy this Chicago Staycation Guide.
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Chicago is a city rich with opportunities for families, and when it comes to engaging toddlers, the options are endless. From interactive classes that nurture creativity to physical activities that help little ones burn off energy, there's something for every family to enjoy. Whether you're looking to introduce your child to music, art, sports, or nature, Chicago offers a range of toddler-friendly programs designed to spark curiosity and development. Here’s a roundup of activities local parents might be interested in enrolling their toddlers in, offering both fun and learning for your little ones.
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Little Book Club by Academic Connections
The Little Book Club is a pre-literacy class for students, ages 1 to 4 years. Among introducing literacy skills, the club aims to cultivate a lifelong love for reading and provide social interaction opportunities for children to develop valuable interpersonal skills.
I enrolled Miles in their Baby Book Club when he was around 4 months old and we’ve been members of the club ever since. I met some of my best mom friends through this class.
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Little Fitness Adventures by Skip and Scoot
Toddlers and young children need to explore all aspects of movement to promote gross motor learning. In this class, your child will practice balancing, early teamwork activities, dancing to new beats, mirroring, and spatial awareness proficiency! With a mixture of movement songs, a new obstacle course every week, gross motor and cardio games, as well as sensory experiences, your child will improve their strength, flexibility, and coordination while having fun with peers! Adults and children, please come wearing clothes that are easy to move in as adult participation is required.
This is another class we continued from Miles’ infant days. You can read more about Things to do with Infants in Chicago.
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
The Music Class with The Music Playhouse of Chicago
"Step One" in your child's music education! High energy and interactive songs and activities are designed and modified to benefit all ages. Music and methods are inspired by research in early child development and offer a wide variety of styles, eras, regions, modes, and rhythms to maximize musical potential. Mixed age classes offer developmental benefits and allow siblings to take class together! This class features music and curriculum by The Music Class, Inc.
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Soccer with Super Soccer Stars
Backed by 20 years of experience, Soccer Stars offers a unique, age-specific curriculum that is crafted to improve soccer skills, build self-confidence, and develop socialization skills. Soccer Stars offers the most popular children’s soccer program for kids ages 1 & up.
If you haven’t discovered Sawyer, it is a great way to find activities for your kids!
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Things to do in Chicago in Spring
Click here for more ideas on things to do in Chicago with kids.
Visit Lincoln Park Zoo
Where: Lincoln Park
What to Expect: Springtime at Lincoln Park Zoo is a magical experience as animals become more active and flowers bloom. The free zoo offers stroller-friendly paths, animal exhibits, and petting zoos that will fascinate toddlers.
Why It's Great: The open space, variety of animals, and interactive exhibits, like the Farm-in-the-Zoo, make it ideal for toddlers. There are also playgrounds nearby.
Considerations: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures.
Stroll Through the Chicago Botanic Garden
Where: Glencoe (just outside Chicago)
What to Expect: This sprawling garden comes alive in the spring with flowers, fountains, and wide-open spaces. The model train garden is a hit with toddlers.
Why It's Great: It’s a calm, scenic space perfect for wandering and exploring. Toddlers will love the variety of colorful flowers and the miniature train display.
Considerations: The gardens are expansive, so consider using a stroller. Dress toddlers in comfortable clothes and pack sunscreen.
Explore the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Where: Lincoln Park
What to Expect: This interactive museum is great in the spring when toddlers can explore both indoors and the outdoor butterfly garden.
Why It's Great: The butterfly haven is a magical experience for toddlers, while the interactive exhibits are both educational and fun. There’s also a special play area for young children.
Considerations: Weekdays are usually less crowded, and the space is well-suited for toddlers who love to explore at their own pace.
Riverwalk Play
Where: Chicago Riverwalk
What to Expect: A stroll along the Riverwalk in spring allows for scenic views of the city and river. Kids loved to watch boats and even stop by the family-friendly spaces along the way.
Why It's Great: It’s a relaxed way to get some fresh air and see Chicago’s architectural beauty. Toddlers will love watching boats go by and there are occasional art displays or street performers to enjoy.
Considerations: Keep toddlers close, as the river is open. There are plenty of restaurants with outdoor seating for snacks.
Discover the Museum of Science and Industry
Where: Hyde Park
What to Expect: The Museum of Science and Industry is packed with interactive exhibits and experiences that spark curiosity in toddlers. From trains to planes to giant tornadoes, there’s plenty to keep little ones entertained and engaged in this massive, hands-on museum.
Why It's Great: The museum’s Idea Factory is specially designed for toddlers and younger children, offering water play, building blocks, and simple machines that encourage exploration and experimentation. Toddlers will also love seeing real-life planes and trains up close and marveling at the spinning tornado exhibit.
Considerations: The museum is large, so plan breaks and bring snacks. The Idea Factory tends to get crowded, so consider visiting early in the day. A stroller is handy for navigating the museum, and dressing toddlers in water-friendly clothes is a good idea for the splashy fun in the Idea Factory.
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Things to do in Chicago in Summer
Splash at Maggie Daley Park
Where: Downtown Chicago
What to Expect: Maggie Daley Park’s Play Garden is an expansive space designed for young kids, complete with splash areas and shaded play zones.
Why It's Great: Toddlers can splash in the water features and enjoy climbing, swinging, and sliding in the play garden specifically built for younger children.
Considerations: Bring sunscreen, swim diapers, and extra clothes for water play. Arrive early to avoid the midday summer heat.
Visit the Beaches Along Lake Michigan
Where: North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and more
What to Expect: Chicago’s lakefront beaches offer calm, shallow water and plenty of sand for toddlers to enjoy. North Avenue Beach is especially family-friendly.
Why It's Great: Sandcastle building, wading in the lake, and picnics are perfect for young children. The beaches are spacious, so there's plenty of room for families.
Considerations: Watch for sunburn and bring plenty of water. Lake Michigan can be chilly, even in summer, so test the water before letting toddlers in.
Explore the Shedd Aquarium
Where: Museum Campus
What to Expect: The Shedd Aquarium offers fascinating marine exhibits, and toddlers will be captivated by the playful dolphins, penguins, and fish tanks.
Why It's Great: The Polar Play Zone is designed for younger children, with hands-on exhibits and play areas. Watching marine life swim by will mesmerize toddlers.
Considerations: Bring a lightweight stroller, as it’s a large facility. Plan for snack and bathroom breaks, as exploring can take a few hours.
Attend a Family-Friendly Festival
Where: Various Neighborhoods
What to Expect: Chicago summers are packed with neighborhood festivals. Many, like the Taste of Chicago, have family fun zones with activities specifically for kids.
Why It's Great: Toddlers will love the live music, art booths, and kid-friendly activities. Many festivals have shaded areas, bouncy houses, or interactive exhibits for little ones.
Considerations: Bring snacks, water, and sun protection. Check ahead to find festivals with toddler-friendly sections.
Enjoy Wiggleworms at Gallagher Way
Where: Gallagher Way, outside Wrigley Field
What to Expect: Wiggleworms at Gallagher Way offers free, outdoor music classes for toddlers and their caregivers. Hosted by the Old Town School of Folk Music, these interactive sessions feature lively sing-alongs, movement activities, and a fun introduction to music.
Why It's Great: Toddlers can dance, sing, and wiggle to engaging tunes in a relaxed, open-air environment. It’s a great way to enjoy music and socialization with other children while soaking up the summer sun in a vibrant part of the city.
Considerations: Classes are seasonal and weather-dependent, so check the forecast before heading out. Bring sunscreen, water, and a blanket or lawn chair to sit on, as seating is on the grass. It's also a great opportunity to explore the surrounding Wrigleyville neighborhood before or after class!
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Things to do in Chicago in the Fall
You might also be interested in my list of Fall Things to do in Chicago.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo (Harvest Fest), Goebbert’s Farm (outside Chicago)
What to Expect: Toddlers will love picking out their own pumpkins, enjoying hayrides, and navigating small corn mazes.
Why It's Great: Fall weather is crisp and ideal for outdoor fun. Many pumpkin patches also have petting zoos and train rides that toddlers enjoy.
Considerations: Dress warmly, as fall temperatures can vary. Go during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
Attend a Fall Festival at Chicago Botanic Garden
Where: Glencoe
What to Expect: The Botanic Garden’s fall festival features harvest-themed events, including hayrides, apple picking, and scarecrow making.
Why It's Great: It’s a beautiful setting, with lots of toddler-friendly activities, and toddlers can run around freely in the open spaces.
Considerations: Bring layers for the cooler weather. Arrive early for parking.
Explore Garfield Park Conservatory
Where: Garfield Park
What to Expect: This indoor conservatory is filled with lush greenery, and the toddler-friendly exhibits showcase changing fall plants and harvest decorations.
Why It's Great: The temperature-controlled environment is perfect for exploring during the cooler fall months. Toddlers can touch and feel some plants and explore the children’s garden.
Considerations: It’s an indoor/outdoor venue, so layers are helpful. Strollers are welcome but may not be needed for active toddlers.
Visit the Chicago Children's Museum
Where: Navy Pier
What to Expect: The museum has numerous interactive exhibits designed for toddlers, including art stations, climbing areas, and water play.
Why It's Great: It’s an educational, fun space where toddlers can get creative and active. The museum offers plenty of safe, soft play zones for younger kids.
Considerations: Bring a change of clothes for water play. Snacks are available, but it’s good to pack a few toddler-friendly options.
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
Things to do in Chicago in Winter
Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Where: Navy Pier
What to Expect: Navy Pier turns into a winter wonderland with lights, decorations, rides, and activities for kids.
Why It's Great: Toddlers can enjoy carousels, bouncy houses, and child-friendly rides. The indoor space means it’s fun even on snowy or cold days.
Considerations: Dress warmly for outdoor sections but be prepared to shed layers indoors. Arrive early to avoid long lines.
Sledding at Soldier Field
Where: Soldier Field
What to Expect: On snowy days, the hills at Soldier Field transform into a kid friendly sledding destination.
Why It's Great: Toddlers will love the excitement of sledding down gentle hills in a safe, controlled environment.
Considerations: Dress toddlers in waterproof winter gear. Bring your own sled and pack hot drinks and snacks for warmth.
Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park
Where: Maggie Daley Park
What to Expect: The park’s ice ribbon is perfect for families, with skate rentals and beginner-friendly areas for toddlers.
Why It's Great: Toddlers who are just learning to skate will enjoy this unique winter experience in the heart of downtown.
Considerations: Dress in layers and bring gloves and helmets for safety. Use double-blade skates for toddlers just starting out.
Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic
Where: Brookfield Zoo
What to Expect: During the winter, the zoo is decked out in millions of holiday lights, offering evening walks through illuminated exhibits and seasonal shows.
Why It's Great: Toddlers love the colorful lights and winter-themed displays, plus seeing the animals in a unique atmosphere.
Considerations: It can get cold, so bundle up and bring hand warmers. A stroller may be useful for tired little ones, but plan for extra layers to keep warm.
Explore the Field Museum
Where: Museum Campus
What to Expect: The Field Museum is a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits, and toddlers will love the immersive displays, including the giant dinosaur skeletons and interactive play areas. With vast open spaces and detailed exhibits, there’s plenty to capture the imagination of young children.
Why It's Great: The Crown Family PlayLab is specially designed for young children, offering hands-on activities like digging for dinosaur bones, playing musical instruments from around the world, and exploring a recreated Egyptian tomb. It's a great introduction to history and science in a fun, engaging way.
Considerations: The museum can get busy, so plan for a weekday visit if possible. Bring snacks and a stroller, as the museum is large and there’s a lot of walking involved. Make sure to stop by Sue the T. Rex—a highlight for many toddlers!
Things To Do With Toddlers in Chicago
