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Chicago is one of the most family-friendly cities in the U.S., with world-class museums, colorful immersive exhibits, and fun just waiting around every corner. And yes, it’s totally doable with kids.
Whether you’re coming from Milwaukee for the day or flying in for a weekend, here’s a roundup of our favorite kid-friendly attractions in the city and suburbs, based on real family visits and honest reviews.
Colorful & Interactive Museums
These spots turn traditional museums on their head with hands-on exhibits, colorful art, and a big dose of fun.
Museum of Ice Cream Chicago
➡️ Museum of Ice Cream in Chicago: A Scoopful of Fun For Kids (2025)
Slide into a pool of sprinkles, sip pink drinks, and explore candy-colored rooms designed for play and photos. (Planning a downtown getaway? The Museum of Ice Cream is just steps from The Gwen, where we stayed for a girls’ weekend — the perfect home base for exploring Chicago with kids.)
Sloomoo Institute Chicago
➡️ Sloomoo Institute: A Slime-Tastic Adventure in Chicago
A sensory-friendly, interactive slime experience that’s fun for all ages. Bonus: You can make your own slime to take home.
Color Factory Chicago
➡️ Color Factory Chicago: A World of Color For Your Kids
Step into immersive, color-splashed rooms filled with interactive art, music, and surprises around every corner. (The Color Factory entrance is right next to Skydeck Chicago, making it easy to visit both in one day. See our 360 Chicago vs Skydeck comparison to decide which view your family will love most.)
Chicago’s endless attractions make it a top choice for families, and you’ll find it featured prominently in our collection of amazing family vacation destinations alongside other kid-friendly cities.
Imagination & Play
Let their creativity take the lead at these attraction-style destinations:
5 Quirky Museums Your Kids Will Love
➡️ 5 Quirky Chicago Museums Your Kids Will Love Exploring
From puppets to money to oversized trains, this roundup features offbeat museums with big kid-appeal.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Schaumburg
➡️ Exploring LEGOLAND in Schaumburg: A Parent’s Guide
Build, climb, ride, and play — all in one indoor destination made just for LEGO fans under age 10.
Turn your Midwest getaway into a two-state adventure by adding Wisconsin’s top family destinations and seasonal festivals to your Chicago trip.
Best-of Lists for Planning Your Trip
These mega-guides are your go-to if you’re building an itinerary or just want a quick list of ideas.
100 Best Family Attractions Around Chicago
➡️ 100 Best Family Attractions Around Chicago
A curated roundup of the most popular and worthwhile attractions for families — perfect for first-time visitors.
100 Fun Things To Do With Kids in Chicagoland
➡️ 100 Fun Things To Do With Kids in Chicagoland
Includes playgrounds, arcades, museums, restaurants, and more — organized for easy browsing.
Family Fun in the Suburbs
The fun doesn’t stop downtown. These suburban spots are worth the extra drive and often a little less crowded.
35 Best Things To Do With Kids in the Chicago Suburbs
➡️ Best Things To Do With Kids in the Chicago Suburbs
Think farms, zoos, nature centers, play cafes, and hidden gems your GPS might not even know about.
Related Content You Might Love
- Travel Tips for Families With Kids
- Top Family Travel Ideas From Real Families
- Family Trips With Direct Flights from Milwaukee
- Wisconsin Day Trips and Family Adventures
Final Thoughts
Chicago is packed with family-friendly fun, and the best part is, there’s something for every kind of kid. Whether you’re sliding into a sprinkle pool or exploring a quiet museum tucked away in the suburbs, you’re sure to make some core memories here.
We’ll keep this post updated with new spots and hidden gems as we find them, so be sure to bookmark it before your next trip!
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
