4 Ways To Have Family Fun in Chicago
Chicago is a dynamic city full of vivacity and has a wonderful nightlife for adults. However, if you have to entertain little ones, there are several enriching activities to keep them busy, growing, and learning all year round. The below attractions are great options to develop strong family relationships and build lasting memories. Explore the city, learn about one another, and enjoy the precious moments while they’re still small. Read on to learn about our list of ways to have family fun in Chicago that will keep adults and kids entertained.
Lincoln Park Zoo
When in the Windy City, stop in at one of the best attractions around. The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the last free zoos in the country. It is situated along the shores of Lake Michigan and is a prime spot to visit, gawk at cute creatures, and learn about some of our world’s most fascinating animals. The 35-acre zoo aims to help the community reconnect with nature by instilling a love for wildlife in children and exposing adults to the wonders of nature. It’s convenient for an impromptu adventure as it is open daily and does not require reservations.
During your visit you’ll find animals from all over the world. Ostriches saunter back and forth in their exhibit while bears peek at you from behind bushes. Founded in 1868, it is one of the oldest zoos in the country and features a collection of endangered and critically endangered species. Marvel at the majestic eastern black rhinoceroses and use your visit as the perfect opportunity to learn about the Jamaican iguanas, who were thought to be extincted. During your visit, remember to appreciate the over 2,000 plants that create a home for the animals.
Visitors can attend various special presentations throughout the year. The zoo hosts Craft Brews at Lincoln Park, where guests can sample over 150 craft beers. With stations set up throughout the zoo, it is a one-of-a-kind experience. Treat your kids to Breakfast With the Animals, where the family can learn about some popular species while enjoying a spread of pancakes, fruit, coffee, juices, and more. These special events are a great opportunity to support the zoo and help keep their services and general admission free. Check their special events calendar for specific dates and prices for each event.
Shedd Aquarium
For your future marine biologist, or curious kid, the aquarium provides a fantastic learning experience that will be remembered for years ahead. Take the family out of the Chicago skyscrapers and head to the Shedd to “look nature in the eye.” Spend the day at Shedd Aquarium with belugas, stingrays, and the Giant Pacific octopus. As one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums, Shedd is home to a slew of animals from aquatic environments throughout the world.
Their 13 exhibits include the Wild Reef, where guests can see sharks of all sizes glide by as though dancing in the water. Learn about current efforts to save coral reefs and the extents to which one Philippine village went to save their own reef.
Plan your trip so you can participate in one of their interactive and immersive experiences. Their Penguin Encounter is a 30-minute experience where participants meet a penguin! The Stingray Feeding gives you the chance to feed these strong creatures. Or register your family for the Touch Experience where tactile learners of all ages can pet and experience the different textures of aquatic animals such as sturgeon and starfish.
Shedd Aquarium is at 1200 South Lake Shore Drive. Their hours of operation are from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. General admission for adults ranges from $19.95 for Chicago residents to $39.95 for all other visitors. Children 3-11 years old who reside in Chicago can enter for $14.95, while out-of-towners pay $29.95. There is a 4D Experience upgrade available for $4.95. Check their website for information on Discount and Free Days.
Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry is perfect for any young mind with an active imagination. A visit here will inspire children to strive for the best and to persevere, no matter the obstacles. Take them to see the Michael Jordan to the Max documentary. It is a revealing look at an elite athlete’s determination. Visit the exhibit Science Storms to learn about the science and chemistry behind some of nature’s most powerful phenomena like avalanches and tornadoes. Then, let the kids play at YOU! The Experience exhibit. It explores the connection between the mind, body, and spirit.
Because they are operating on reduced capacity, it is best you buy your tickets online before you go. This will ensure you have your spot for the day and aren’t stuck in a long ticket line. General admission for adults is $21.95 and children ages 3-11 are $12.95. Check their website for additional fees for experiences such at the Giant Dome Theater Films and Learning Labs. If you have a Marvel fan, spring for the Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes exhibit. They’ll be so happy!
Chicago Children’s Museum
For little ones under 10 years old, the Chicago Children’s Museum inspires learning through play. Current exhibits include the Zoom Room, a hands-on experience of hundreds of race cars and over 40 tracks where kids can experiment, play, and learn about speed, force, distance, elevation, acceleration, and drag. There’s also a Tinkering Lab, Art Studio, and Dinosaur Expedition where little hands can get down and dirty while exploring and practicing their fine motor skills.
The Chicago Children’s Museum is open Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and general admission starts at $19. They offer senior citizen and military discounts. Consider buying your tickets online in advance to expedite your entrance once you arrive.
So there you have it. Americash Jewelry & Coin Buyer has shared our list of the top four ways to have family fun in Chicago. What do you think of our suggestions? Contact us to let us know if we missed your favorite destination to visit with the kids. We’ll be happy to include your suggestions on our list.
Tags: Attractions, Chicago
