Active Adventures

Beat Cabin Fever at the Chicago Boat Show: A Family-Friendly Winter Outing

The Discover Boating Chicago Boat Show is in Rosemont this week through Sunday! Running January 29–February 1, 2026 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, the Chicago Boat Show is best known for…

47 Indoor Rock Climbing Gyms, Climbing Walls + Aqua Rock Walls Where Kids Can Reach New Heights

My kids love a trip to a local rock climbing gym! These gyms offer so many great challenges for kids. Not only do they develop their strength and spatial awareness,…

Where to Play Indoor Pickleball in Chicagoland

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the US, combining tennis, badminton, and ping-pong into a game that’s easy for almost anyone to learn. Played on a smaller court…

A Magical Stay in the Treehouses at Starved Rock

If you’re looking for a getaway that feels equal parts cozy, adventurous, and indulgent, the Treehouses at Starved Rock deliver on all fronts. Tucked away in the woods near Illinois…

A boy all geared up to play paintball near Chicago

Where to Play Paintball Near Chicago

In the world of adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures, few experiences match the heart-pounding intensity of paintball. By now I’m sure you’ve had your teen or pre-teen ask about paintball adventures. Whether…

70 Local 5K Races and Kids’ Fun Runs to Support Amazing Causes and Get Your Family Moving

What better way to build community, support local and national charities, and encourage active lifestyles for your family than participating in upcoming fun runs or 5Ks? There are several opportunities…

12 Chicagoland Roller Skating Rinks to Let the Good Times Roll

My kids absolutely love going to the roller skating rink! There is nothing better than finding a physically active outing that everyone in the family can be involved in. From…

New Activities and Insider Tips for The Forge: Lemont Quarries

What is The Forge in Lemont? The Forge: Lemont Quarries is an outdoor adventure park with a variety of challenging activities for all ages and abilities. Their mission is to…

Insider Tips for the Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon

The Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon offers a unique ice skating experience in the heart of downtown Chicago! It’s pretty special to skate with the skyline as a backdrop.…

The Kidlist Guide to Family Bike Rides: Bike Trails, Shops, and More!

Summertime is the perfect time to be active outdoors via a bike ride with your family! Whether it’s a ride around the neighborhood, a trip to a nearby wooded trail,…

Multiple colorful climbing structures in Funtopia's Naperville location.

Funtopia Naperville Now Open!

The grand opening for Funtopia Naperville will be this June, but did you know that you can be some of the first people to experience the fun right now?! They…

Everything You Need to Know About Go Ape Chicago

Go Ape is a unique experience to enjoy with your kids, spouse, co-workers, friends… really anyone! We went right when the Go Ape Chicago course opened in Western Springs and…