Photograph: Chris Strong
Keep the little ones busy all year long with the best kid-friendly things to do in Chicago.
When kids are restless, they get antsy, irritated and, if we’re being honest, pretty overwhelming. Why not avoid boredom altogether by taking them on an adventure in Chicago? The city is packed with plenty of kid-friendly things to do, like swimming in a public pool or visiting a children’s museum, and many can be experienced for free. Some of the most notable Chicago attractions are perfect for the little ones, too. So here are our favorite things to do with kids throughout the city as well as the nearby suburbs—we’re willing to bet you’ll have as much fun as the kiddos.
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Top things to do in Chicago with kids
What is it? One of the country’s last free zoos, situated on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Why go? The 35-acre attraction connects visitors with animals from all over the world—from aardvarks and African penguins to trumpeter swans and Western lowland gorillas—and a variety of seasonal events and special programming keep families coming back again and again.
What is it? Located in the heart of the Loop, this 20-acre public park houses one of the most epic playgrounds we’ve ever seen.
Why go? When the sun is shining, set the kids loose at the Play Garden or let them put their skills to the test on the Climbing Wall, with supervision from the park staff. The fun doesn’t stop when winter rolls around; return for a lap or two around the Skating Ribbon as the snow starts to fall.
What is it? One of the world’s largest indoor aquariums, home to thousands of scaled, finned and feathered animals.
Why go? For a chance to get up close and personal with schools of colorful fish, playful otters, beautiful stingrays, not-so-scary sharks and hard-shelled turtles. There are nine year-round exhibits to explore and additional experiences you can tack on during your visit, like 4-D shows, Animal Chats with Shedd experts and Animal Encounters where you and your little one can come face-to-face with beluga whales,
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