Introduction:
Planning a family getaway from Chicago doesn't have to be stressful! This comprehensive guide showcases 19 fantastic kid-friendly day trips, catering to various interests and ages. From exploring nature's wonders to delving into exciting attractions, we've got you covered. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in the countryside or an action-packed adventure, these day trips offer something for everyone. These are some of the best kid-friendly day trips from Chicago you can take!
Nature & Outdoor Adventures:
1. Indiana Dunes National Park:
Sand dunes, beaches, and beautiful trails await! Indiana Dunes offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and diverse ecosystems. Kids will love exploring the dunes, building sandcastles, and searching for wildlife. Pack a picnic for a memorable day outdoors. Don't forget your sunscreen and hats!
Kid-friendly Activities: Dune climbing, beachcombing, nature walks on easy trails, exploring the visitor center.
2. Morton Arboretum:
Immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature at the Morton Arboretum. Explore diverse plant collections, walk through enchanting gardens, and discover interactive exhibits. The Children's Garden is a particular highlight, offering hands-on experiences for young children.
Kid-friendly Activities: Exploring the Children's Garden, taking a tram tour, picnicking on the grounds, participating in family programs.
3. Starved Rock State Park:
Discover stunning canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails. While some trails may be challenging for younger children, there are easier options available. The park offers breathtaking views and opportunities for nature photography.
Kid-friendly Activities: Hiking on easier trails, exploring the visitor center, having a picnic by the river, spotting wildlife (look for birds!).
Animal Encounters & Zoos:
4. Brookfield Zoo:
Home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, Brookfield Zoo offers engaging exhibits and educational programs. The Hamill Family Play Zoo is perfect for younger children, allowing for close encounters with gentle animals.
Kid-friendly Activities: Visiting the Hamill Family Play Zoo, seeing the dolphins and penguins, riding the carousel, attending a zookeeper talk.
5. Lincoln Park Zoo:
A free zoo located in the heart of Chicago, Lincoln Park Zoo offers a diverse collection of animals, including gorillas, lions, and polar bears. The zoo also features a petting zoo and a farm-in-the-zoo, making it ideal for families with young children.
Kid-friendly Activities: Petting zoo, farm-in-the-zoo, watching animal feedings, exploring the various animal habitats.
History & Culture:
6. Volo Auto Museum:
A unique museum filled with classic cars, antique fire engines, and other historical vehicles. Kids will be fascinated by the variety of vehicles on display and the stories behind them.
Kid-friendly Activities: Exploring the car collection, riding in some of the vehicles (check for special events), taking photos.
7. Chicago History Museum:
Delve into Chicago's rich history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. The museum offers programs specifically designed for families, making learning about the city's past enjoyable for children of all ages.
Kid-friendly Activities: Interactive exhibits, family programs, exploring the museum's play area.
Amusement & Theme Parks:
8. Six Flags Great America (Gurnee):
While technically a bit further than a "day trip," Six Flags offers thrilling roller coasters and exciting rides for older children and adults. Younger children can enjoy gentler rides in the dedicated section of the park.
Kid-friendly Activities: Rides for all ages (check height restrictions), shows, entertainment, and the waterpark (seasonal).
9. Santa's Village Azoosment Park (East Dundee):
A charming family-friendly amusement park with gentle rides, games, and attractions perfect for younger children. This park provides a more relaxed atmosphere compared to larger parks.
Kid-friendly Activities: Gentle rides, seasonal events, character meet-and-greets, miniature golf.
Unique & Quirky Destinations:
10. The Field Museum:
Explore Sue, the largest, most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil ever discovered! The Field Museum also houses diverse exhibits on ancient civilizations, cultures, and natural history.
Kid-friendly Activities: Seeing Sue the T-Rex, exploring the ancient Egypt exhibit, participating in family programs.
11. Museum of Science and Industry:
Dive into the world of science and technology through interactive exhibits. Kids will love exploring the U-505 submarine, the coal mine exhibit, and the many hands-on activities.
Kid-friendly Activities: Exploring the U-505 submarine, the coal mine exhibit, the hands-on science exhibits.
Water Fun & Beaches:
12. Illinois Beach State Park:
Enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan at Illinois Beach State Park. The park offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities for birdwatching.
Kid-friendly Activities: Beachcombing, swimming (check water conditions), exploring the nature trails.
13. Waukegan Harbor:
Enjoy a relaxing day by the lake. Waukegan Harbor offers a nice beach, a playground, and often hosts events and festivals.
Kid-friendly Activities: Beach time, playground, exploring the harbor.
Towns & Villages:
14. Geneva:
A charming town on the Fox River, Geneva offers unique shops, restaurants, and scenic views. Take a stroll along the riverwalk and enjoy the picturesque atmosphere.
Kid-friendly Activities: Walking along the riverwalk, visiting local shops, having a picnic.
15. Galena:
A historic town in northern Illinois, Galena boasts charming architecture, unique shops, and beautiful scenery. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride and explore the historic downtown.
Kid-friendly Activities: Exploring Main Street, taking a horse-drawn carriage ride, visiting local candy shops.
Other Options:
16. Chicago Botanic Garden:
This beautiful garden offers a vast collection of plants from around the world, stunning landscapes, and educational programs.
Kid-friendly Activities: Exploring the gardens, visiting the children's garden, attending family programs.
17. Navy Pier:
While technically in Chicago, Navy Pier offers a variety of attractions and entertainment options suitable for families, including a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and various shops and restaurants.
Kid-friendly Activities: Carousel, Ferris wheel, watching street performers, exploring the shops.
18. Shedd Aquarium:
Discover diverse marine life from around the world at the Shedd Aquarium. Kids will love seeing beluga whales, dolphins, and thousands of other fascinating sea creatures.
Kid-friendly Activities: Watching the dolphin show, exploring the various exhibits, attending a sea lion feeding.
19. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum:
Explore the wonders of nature at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. This museum focuses on Chicago's natural history and features a butterfly haven and hands-on exhibits.
Kid-friendly Activities: Butterfly haven, interactive exhibits, exploring nature trails.
Conclusion:
These 19 kid-friendly day trips from Chicago offer a diverse range of options for families to enjoy quality time together. Remember to check websites for hours of operation, admission fees, and any special events before your visit. Pack snacks and drinks, and most importantly, have fun creating lasting memories with your loved ones! Plan your perfect kid-friendly Chicago day trip today!
