Exploring Downtown Chicago with Kids: A Family Adventure in the Heart of the City
Chicago, a vibrant urban playground, welcomes families with open arms to its bustling downtown. Uncover the secrets of the city as you navigate the skyscrapers, marvel at iconic attractions, and savor culinary delights—perfect for both young and young-at-heart explorers. Get ready to create cherished memories as we embark on a comprehensive guide to downtown Chicago with your kids.
This guide is all about the tourist hot spots and downtown experiences. If you’d rather do Chicago like a local, I’ve got you covered!
Please note: I do not earn commission off any of the links in this blog post. All opinions are my own based off of personal experiences.
Where to Stay Downtown with Kids
When it comes to staying in downtown Chicago with kids, convenience is key for family travel. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly amenities, breathtaking city views, spacious suites, or even an indoor pool, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you! Here are our handpicked favorites:
Hotel Monaco
Indulge in the charm of this boutique hotel. Opt for a one-bedroom suite with panoramic city windows. Its unbeatable location is a cherry on top!
InterContinental Michigan Avenue
Indoor pool, check! Prime Michigan Avenue location, check! Reasonably priced one-bedroom suites, check!
Marriott Residence Inn Downtown/Loop
While lacking in charm, the full kitchen and ample space make up for it. It’s a bit further from the action, but still pretty walkable.
If a full kitchen is a must for you, and you’re willing to stay out of the downtown area, our very favorite Chicago hotel is the apartment-style Guesthouse Hotel in Andersonville.
The Langham
Experience luxury and family-friendly amenities like a pool, a kid’s suite, and even a cinema!
Family Friendly Downtown Restaurants
Chicago is a foodie city and when you’re downtown you can experience a range of kid-centric options to top-chef dining experiences. Let’s wade through the options together and uncover some family favorites:
Giordano‘s
The quintessential Chicago experience, deep-dish (Chicago-style) pizza—a delight for the whole family.
There’s an infamous debate over which Chicago-style pizza is the best. While my family prefers Giordano’s, be sure to try the other option, too – Lou Malnati’s.
Sugar Factory
Indulge your sweet tooth at this spot that lives up to its name.
Garrett’s Popcorn
Don’t miss this Chicago staple for delicious popcorn to snack on as you explore the city. Try the cheese and caramel blend, you won’t be sorry!
The Doughnut Vault
Line up early for a taste of this celebrity hotspot, because they sell out, but the donuts that are worth the wait!
Donut fans aren’t going to want to miss Do-Rite Donuts and Chicken, either!
Eataly
Dive into an Italian culinary paradise with restaurants, counters, and cafes offering fresh pasta, gelato, pizza, and more.
Lil’ Ba Ba Reeba
Enjoy shared plates and tapas and in the summer, their crown jewel is the patio!
Kid-Friendly Downtown Itinerary
Now that we’ve covered where to stay and what to eat, it’s time for an itinerary that’ll keep your kids fully entertained. From iconic parks to awe-inspiring museums, our kid-friendly downtown Chicago activity recommendations promise to create lasting memories for the whole family. Get ready to uncover the city’s treasures hand in hand with your little explorers as we embark on a journey through the heart of Chicago. Let’s dive in!
Millennium Park
No trip to Chicago is complete without visiting The Bean (Cloud Gate) in Millennium Park. But that’s not all you’ll find there:
- The Crown Fountain is fun in any season, but especially during summer when the giant faces delight with water play (bring swimsuits!).
- Ice Skating in the winter months is an iconic Chicago staple.
- After Millennium Park, walk over the BP Pedestrian Bridge to Maggie Daley Park
Maggie Daley Park
One of the best playgrounds in the world, you can explore imaginative playgrounds, climbing walls, and gardens that cater to kids of all ages. Don’t forget the ice skating ribbon in winter!
Museum Campus
This lakefront campus is home to the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum. All are worth exploring, but for the sake of time, here are favorites in order of priority:
- Shedd Aquarium – this is an absolute MUST in Chicago. Buy your tickets in advance and get there when the doors open to beat the crowds. Head straight to the Polar Play Zone and the hourly animal shows are a highlight!
- Field Museum – Perfect for dinosaur enthusiasts, though better suited for older kids.
- Adler Planetarium – A future-astronaut’s paradise. Otherwise, prioritize other activities.
Other Chicago Museums
Museum of Ice Cream: All-you-can-eat ice cream and a sprinkle pool make this a hit with kids of all ages.
The Museum of Science & Industry – Let your child’s interests guide your exploration of this beautiful museum.
The Art Institute – Rated among the world’s best galleries, it is located right by Millennium Park.
The Chicago Children’s Museum – A great option for young kids at Navy Pier, but remember to check its hours in advance.
Navy Pier Centennial Wheel (Ferris Wheel)
Soar above Lake Michigan on the Ferris Wheel for breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
If you’re in Navy Pier there’s a lot to do. But my personal favorite is to take a water taxi on the lake to Museum Campus or on the river to the Willis Tower.
Chicago River Boat Tour
Cruise along the Chicago River, uncovering the city’s history and architecture while taking in stunning views. (Note: if your kids won’t be able to sit still for the whole boat tour, here’s another vote for the water taxi mentioned above!)
SkyDeck Chicago
For the bold at heart, check out the glass ledges at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)—a thrilling experience above the city.
See a Show
Be sure to check out Broadway in Chicago to see what may be playing when you’re in town!
Check out Iconic Chicago Sights
- The Chicago Theater: Here’s where the famous CHICAGO sign proudly calls home. This iconic landmark deserves a spot on your instagram grid.
- Tribune Tower: Discover a piece of history embedded in this tower’s walls. Fragments of bricks and stones from around the world, including the Great Wall of China, the Great Pyramid of Cheops, and the Berlin Wall, make this tower a remarkable testament to global heritage.
- Chicago River Walk: Venture along this mile-long stretch of pedestrian paths along the famous river brimming with shops, restaurants, bars, and more.
- Chicago Lakefront Trail: Experience the this bustling 18-mile walking, running, and biking path hugging the lakeshore. Not only will you stay active, but you’ll also be treated to some of the most stunning vistas the city has to offer.
American Girl Place
You know I couldn’t make this list and not include the American Girl Store, right? We are actually doing this for the first time on an upcoming trip to Chicago – so stay tuned for more advice.
As you soak in the wonders of Museum Campus and share smiles at the American Girl Store, you’ll discover countless treasures awaiting families in downtown Chicago. Whether you’re soaring high on the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel or creating cherished moments in Millennium Park, the Windy City promises an adventure that your family will treasure forever. Get ready for an unforgettable family escape!
PS – there’s so much more to Chicago! Check out the local guide, too!
