If you’re looking for fun things do with kids in Chicagoland, you’ve come to the right place. We’re putting all our local lists onto one big map! This is a great article to bookmark for a day when you’re out and about, looking for new things to explore on a day trip, or searching for new favorites near home.
Below the map, you’ll find handy links to the included categories. These pages have more information on each location. Happy exploring!
Map of Things to Do
Are we missing a place you think should be on the map? Email annie@mykidlist.com and let us know!
Active Adventures and Fitness
Kids who love to climb, leap, fly, and stay active will be thrilled at these locales:
Check out our guide to active adventures in Chicagoland for more ideas for kids who can’t get enough chances to explore.
Art, History, and Culture
- Children’s Theater and Live Performances
- Paint Pottery
- Art Festivals
- You also might enjoy these:
Games & Amusement
Looking for a little friendly competition? These spots are great for a family day out, or for older kids to take on with their friends:
- Outdoor Amusement Parks
- Arcades, Laser Tag, and Go-Karts
- Mini Golf
- Bowling Alleys with Kid-Friendly Amenities
- Escape Rooms
- Paintball
- Some other places you might like:
Indoor Play
Whether you want to beat the heat or get out of the rain, these indoor play spots have you covered:
- Indoor Playgrounds
- Inflatables and Trampoline Parks
- Open Gyms
- Children’s Museums
- Best Libraries with Kids Areas
Museums and Zoos
Hands-on learning and fun is the name of the game at these local museums, including incredible children’s museums. Find more info on museums and zoos here:
Nature and Animals
Looking to spend a day exploring together? These spots will help you get in touch with nature:
- Farms Open to the Public
- Nature Centers
- Waterfalls
- Kayaking, Canoeing, and Paddleboarding
- Best Forest Preserve Trails
- Fishing
- Tulip Fields and Sunflower Fields
- Pony Rides
- Popular nature-based attractions:
Find the lists of options and all of the details for each of these in our guide to nature places.
You can also find options for snow tubing, skiing, sledding, ice skating, and cross country skiing during the colder weather months in our Winter Guide.
Parks and Playgrounds
You can’t beat the playground for a day of outdoor play! Our Guide to Parks and Playgrounds will help you find a fun spot nearby, or an extra-cool destination playground that’s worth the drive:
- Best Playgrounds
- Parks with Sand
- Toddler Parks
- Ninja Parks
- New Playgrounds
- Fenced-In Parks
- Inclusive Playgrounds
- Skateboard Parks
- Mulch-Free Parks
- Coffee Shops + Park combo trips
- Parks with Nice Walking Paths
Water and Swimming
Splash and swim at these spots year round:
Check out our year-round swimming guide to see the latest updates for where to swim during the current time of year.
We also have a Summer Guide with all of the warm weather opportunities for water fun:
Want even more ideas for things to do together with kids in Chicagoland? These aren’t on the map, but you’ll find plenty of places to go in these articles:
2 Comments. Leave new
This is amazing!! I’ve been looking for something like this!
Valuable to know these places are out there….for post-corona virus days ahead!