Chicago: Family Fun
Written on October 23, 2020
Chicago beckons visitors with its lake views, delectable dining, and array of activities that families can enjoy together. Plan your long weekend getaway and explore some of the greatest parks, museums, and attractions The Windy City has to offer for Chicago family fun!
Here are five recommendations for families to experience while visiting The Windy City:
Museum of Science and Industry
The largest science center in the Western Hemisphere, the Museum of Science and Industry invites visitors to explore its 14 acres of exhibits. As the only remaining building from the 1893 World’s Fair, the MSI features a swirling 40-foot tornado, a coal mine visitors can tour, an eco-friendly home, and an aircraft to explore. A minimum of three hours is recommended, and guests of all ages will find exhibits to spark their curiosity.
Millennium Park
Chicago’s Millennium Park offers year-round fun, but it particularly shines during the summer months when guests can take advantage of the beach and splash pad. Snap a selfie in front of The Bean (real name: Cloud Gate), breathe in the smell of Lurie Garden’s flowers, rock climb, grab lunch at The Plaza at Park Grill, and catch an evening concert or film.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier, stretching six city blocks and into Lake Michigan, comes alive with concerts, fireworks, and lake cruises during the summer months. A quintessential Chicago experience, families can enjoy nostalgic amusement park rides, a 4,000 sq. ft. sensory funhouse maze, and a visit to the Chicago Children’s Museum.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Each year, millions of animal-lovers flock to the free Lincoln Park Zoo, the second most-visited park in the country (behind Central Park!) Enjoy acquainting yourself with over 200 species of plants and wildlife while wandering the zoo’s walkways. Beyond touring the park, guests can view special encounters such as seal training, polar bear enrichment, and monkey cognition and care. The youngest visitors will be particularly excited by a ride on the Lionel Train Adventure.
Shedd Aquarium
Whether you leisurely explore the aquarium or enjoy a complimentary audio tour to guide you through its many exhibits, Shedd Aquarium engages amateur marine biologists of all ages. From the Caribbean to the Great Lakes, the aquarium features animals of many varieties, including otters, Beluga whales, penguins, turtles, and more.
However you choose to spend your time in Chicago, your family is sure to make special memories together!
