Chicago offers a vibrant city experience, but sometimes, a change of scenery is just what the doctor ordered – especially when you have kids! Luckily, a plethora of amazing kid-friendly day trips are within easy reach of the Windy City. This list showcases 19 of the best options, catering to various interests and ages, ensuring a memorable day out for the whole family. Remember to check websites for hours, admission fees, and any special requirements before your visit.
Nature & Outdoors
1. Morton Arboretum (Lisle):
This sprawling arboretum is a wonderland for kids of all ages. Explore themed gardens, climb the towering trees (safely, of course!), and enjoy interactive exhibits. The Children's Garden is a particular highlight, offering hands-on activities and play areas designed for younger children. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery.
Kid-Friendly Features: Children's Garden, interactive exhibits, walking trails suitable for strollers, seasonal events.
2. Indiana Dunes National Park (Porter, Indiana):
Experience the beauty of the Great Lakes shoreline! The Indiana Dunes offer breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and plenty of opportunities for exploration. Kids will love climbing the sand dunes, searching for wildlife, and splashing in the (relatively) calm waters. Remember sunscreen and water bottles!
Kid-Friendly Features: Easy hiking trails, stunning beach, nature center with interactive exhibits, ranger-led programs.
3. Starved Rock State Park (Oglesby):
For slightly older, more adventurous kids, Starved Rock State Park delivers dramatic canyons, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. Hiking trails vary in difficulty, so choose one that suits your family's abilities. The park's rich history adds another layer of interest.
Kid-Friendly Features: Varied hiking trails (choose easier ones for younger children), stunning waterfalls, historical significance.
Animals & Aquariums
4. Shedd Aquarium (Chicago):
While technically in Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium deserves a mention due to its immersive experience. See beluga whales, playful otters, and countless other fascinating aquatic creatures. Interactive exhibits make it engaging for children.
Kid-Friendly Features: Touch tanks, interactive displays, beluga whale exhibit, diverse marine life.
5. Brookfield Zoo (Brookfield):
Home to a vast collection of animals from around the world, Brookfield Zoo offers a thrilling day out. From African savanna animals to playful primates, there's something to excite everyone. Check for special events and feeding times.
Kid-Friendly Features: Hammond Open-Air Exhibit, dolphin shows (check availability), diverse animal habitats, kid-friendly areas.
6. The Wildlife Prairie Park (Hanna City):
Step back in time at this expansive park where you can encounter native North American animals in a naturally recreated environment. Observe bison roaming freely, spot graceful deer, and learn about the region's wildlife.
Kid-Friendly Features: Drive-through safari, walking trails, native animal encounters.
History & Culture
7. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation (Dearborn, Michigan):
A slightly longer trip, but well worth it for history buffs! This museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts reflecting American innovation and culture. Kids will love the cars, trains, and interactive exhibits.
Kid-Friendly Features: Interactive exhibits, classic cars, historic artifacts, hands-on activities.
8. Chicago History Museum (Chicago):
Explore the rich history of Chicago with interactive displays and exhibits designed to engage children. Learn about the city's beginnings, its development, and the significant events that shaped it.
Kid-Friendly Features: Interactive displays, engaging exhibits, kid-friendly programs.
9. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum (Springfield):
Delve into the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln. This museum offers an insightful and engaging experience for all ages, with exhibits suitable for different age groups.
Kid-Friendly Features: Interactive exhibits, kid-friendly programs, engaging storytelling about Lincoln's life.
Fun & Entertainment
10. Six Flags Great America (Gurnee):
For thrill-seekers, Six Flags offers a wide range of rides, from gentle carousels to exhilarating rollercoasters. Make sure to check the height restrictions for individual rides.
Kid-Friendly Features: Rides for all ages (check height restrictions), themed areas, water park (seasonal).
11. Navy Pier (Chicago):
Another Chicago option, Navy Pier provides various entertainment, including rides, shows, and restaurants. The Ferris wheel offers spectacular city views.
Kid-Friendly Features: Ferris wheel, carousel, various rides, children's museum.
12. Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago):
Discover the wonders of science and technology through interactive exhibits and engaging demonstrations. Kids will love exploring the U-505 submarine and the coal mine.
Kid-Friendly Features: U-505 submarine, coal mine exhibit, interactive exhibits, kid-friendly areas.
Unique Experiences
13. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (Columbus, Ohio):
Another slightly longer trip, but a worthwhile one. This conservatory features beautiful plant displays, interactive exhibits, and a butterfly exhibit that will delight children.
Kid-Friendly Features: Butterfly exhibit, themed gardens, interactive exhibits, kid-friendly programs.
14. Cantigny Park (Wheaton):
This park offers a mix of attractions, including a First Division Museum, beautiful gardens, and a playground. A great place for a family day combining history and outdoor fun.
Kid-Friendly Features: Playground, gardens, First Division Museum (engaging exhibits for older kids).
15. The Field Museum (Chicago):
Another Chicago institution, the Field Museum showcases natural history exhibits, including Sue, the largest, most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil ever discovered!
Kid-Friendly Features: Sue the T. Rex, Egyptian mummies, interactive exhibits.
Small Towns & Charming Villages
16. Geneva:
This charming town on the Fox River offers quaint shops, restaurants, and beautiful riverside walks. A perfect destination for a relaxing family day.
Kid-Friendly Features: Riverwalk, shops, restaurants, parks.
17. Galena:
This historic town boasts charming architecture, antique shops, and scenic views. A great place to explore on foot and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.
Kid-Friendly Features: Quaint shops, scenic views, historical architecture.
18. Long Grove:
Known for its picturesque setting and unique shops, Long Grove is a great place for a leisurely day trip. The covered bridge and charming village atmosphere create a memorable experience.
Kid-Friendly Features: Charming village atmosphere, covered bridge, unique shops, restaurants.
19. Holland, Michigan (slightly longer trip):
If you're up for a longer drive, Holland, Michigan is a delightful town known for its Dutch heritage. During Tulip Time Festival (typically in May), it becomes even more magical.
Kid-Friendly Features: Windmills, Dutch architecture, parks, Tulip Time Festival (seasonal).
Remember to plan your day trip according to your children's ages and interests. Pack snacks and drinks, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Have a fantastic time exploring the many kid-friendly day trips available from Chicago!
