Family Travel: Vacation in Chicago with Kids

There is no limit to the amount of exciting activities for your next family vacation in Chicago, IL. We spent a long weekend there in Fall 2019 to celebrate my birthday. I had never been to Chicago, and it was on my bucket list. Since we only had a few days there, I wanted to be sure my family experienced the best of Chicago, so I researched the hot spots and must-see activities beforehand. Here are the top 5 family activities I recommend when you plan your family vacation in Chicago.

1. The Architecture River Cruise and Navy Pier

There are several river cruises to choose from when visiting Chicago, however I found the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture cruise to be the best informational and sightseeing cruise. It’s about 1½ – 2 hours aboard a large vessel that takes your family down the Chicago river with fascinating stories behind the 50+ buildings along Chicago’s beautiful skyline. You learn about the history of Chicago’s growth into one of the largest cities in America. The kids loved sitting up front on the boat, although there is no bad seat. You get 360 degree views from all seats. The hosts are incredibly knowledgeable, humorous, and welcoming. Either before or after your cruise, be sure to check out Navy Pier. It’s a 3,300 foot long pier on the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Your children will love the ferris wheel, carousel, and children’s museum there. Or, just grab a bite to eat, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy the lakefront view. 

2. Shedd Aquarium and Buckingham Fountain

We took an Uber to the Shedd Aquarium along Lake Shore Drive. It’s a must-see activity for families. The children will be amazed at the animal exhibits and encounters including a Stingray, Sea Star, and Sturgeon touch area. There are belugas and sea otters, sea lions and penguins, sharks and more thriving aquatic life to explore. You can purchase more in-depth tours behind the scenes for a special experience, We spent a few hours there and thoroughly enjoyed the shows and performances! As you exit the Aquarium, I recommend taking a walk through Grant Park to the Buckingham Fountain. It’s an easy walk with playgrounds, sculptures and monuments along the way. Among the world’s largest, Buckingham Fountain is a 3-level rococo fountain landmark from 1927 that offers light and water shows with gardens surrounding it. It’s a gorgeous area offering views of the city and one you and your kids will love. 

3. “The Bean” and Millennium Park

Another great area of Chicago is Millennium Park located in the Loop community area of Chicago. You can stroll through the park or rent a bike at McDonald’s Cycle Center. While there, be sure to check out the Crown Fountain, a “live” piece of art; Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”); art and sculpture exhibitions displayed throughout the park; special Musical events held at Jay Pritzker Pavilion; Lurie Garden (a 3.5 acre urban sanctuary); or any of the children’s play areas. Make sure you look up the Events Calendar on www.chicago.gov before your visit so you don’t miss out on an exciting show or performance in Millennium Park. 

4. Broadway in Chicago

One of the best and most memorable experiences we had in Chicago was seeing the hit Broadway show Hamilton live on stage! My children still sing and perform the acts of this fantastic musical. “Broadway in Chicago is the source for terrific seats to the most exciting shows in Chicago’s bustling Downtown Theater District. You will discover theater productions direct from Broadway and world premieres of productions destined for Broadway,” according to www.broadwayinchicago.com. There are several options from comedies, dramas, musicals, and more! I highly recommend researching what shows will be available during your visit and making it a special evening for your family.

5. Game Time

Chicago is home to many sports teams including baseball’s White Sox and Cubs, football’s Bears, basketball’s Bulls, hockey’s Blackhawks, and soccer’s Fire and Red Stars. In fact, Chicago is one of ten U.S. cities to have teams from the five major American professional sports. And, Chicago has been named the “Best Sports City” by Sporting News three times! There is sure to be a game of some kind playing while you’re in Chicago. I recommend purchasing tickets before your visit and planning a day at the field with hot dogs, popcorn, and excitement! We enjoyed an evening cheering on the White Sox with great seats behind third base. The kids had so much fun trying to catch foul balls, dancing and singing to “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” and yelling for a home run!

As you can see, Chicago has numerous activities for families to enjoy – and it brings out the kids in parents, as well. We hope you use some of our suggestions for making a memorable vacation with your family to Chicago and let us know how it goes by sharing your tips, photos and videos with us. Please connect with us on Instagram @MapsCookingKids or on Twitter @MapsCookingKids. Until next time, Agape, be kind, and happy parenting.