Chicago · Cook County, IL
Family things to do in Chicago
Scout analyzed 162 Chicago places and surfaced the ones that actually fit family.
Places analyzed
162
Matches
27
Typical spend
$15
Typical visit
1.6 hr
Complete outings
Family Fun Day at Navy Pier & Oz Park
Kick off a fun-filled family day at the Chicago Children's Museum, where interactive exhibits will captivate kids of all ages. After working up an appetite, grab a casual lunch at a donut shop that also serves chicken sandwiches. Conclude your day with some outdoor playtime at the whimsical Oz Park, meeting characters from the Wizard of Oz.
Family Day at Museum Campus
Embark on a full-day family adventure starting with hands-on learning at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Recharge with a casual, kid-friendly meal nearby, then enjoy some fresh air and city views exploring the sprawling Museum Campus grounds.
Family Afternoon at Shedd Aquarium & Park
Dive into the underwater world at the Shedd Aquarium, where kids and adults alike can marvel at diverse marine species. Recharge with a laid-back meal at a nearby eatery, then wind down with a pleasant stroll through Northerly Island Park, enjoying the lake and city views.
Best neighborhoods for family
Ranked by how many matching spots Scout found in each area.
Scout-verified spots
Lincoln Park
Beacon Doughnuts
Beacon Doughnuts is a quick stop for a sweet treat, perfect for a casual breakfast or afternoon snack, costing about $5-15 per person. It pairs well with a coffee shop visit or a walk through the neighborhood.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park Conservatory
Thousands of exotic plants in an 1890 glass structure, plus outdoor gardens & fountains.
Near North
The Richard H. Driehaus Museum
Restored 19th-century mansion with notable Gilded Age architectural features & antiques.
Streeterville
Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken
Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken is a good spot for a quick, casual breakfast or lunch, offering donuts, chicken sandwiches, and coffee. Expect to spend $10-25 per person for a visit lasting about 30 minutes, especially if grabbing a quick bite.
Chicago Loop
Stan's Donuts & Coffee
Stan's Donuts is a good stop for a quick, casual treat. Expect to spend 20 minutes and $5-15 per person for gourmet donuts and coffee, best for a breakfast or afternoon snack.
West Ridge
Robert A. Black Golf Club
This 9-hole golf course features a putting green, plus cart & GolfBoard rentals.
Sports & Recreation
Links At Carillon Golf Course
Sports & Recreation
Mistwood Golf Club
Scottish-inspired, 18-hole course with a stately, old-world-style tavern serving craft beers.
Sports & Recreation
The Glen Club
Straightforward lodging with an 18-hole golf course, plus free breakfast, Wi-Fi & parking.
O'Hare
Indian Boundary Golf Course
Popular golfing destination featuring 18 holes, cart rentals & other basic amenities.
Sports & Recreation
Cantigny Golf
South Deering
Harborside International Golf Center
Golf center featuring 2 18-hole courses & practice facilities, plus a clubhouse with a restaurant.
Sports & Recreation
Seven Bridges Golf Club
Public 18-hole golf course, practice area & clubhouse with a bar, grill, pro shop & veranda.
Sports & Recreation
Twin Lakes Golf Course & Recreation Area
Park with a 9-hole golf course, driving range & cafe, plus a small lake for kayaking & fishing.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park Zoo
Small, free zoo with lions, primates, reptiles, a children's area & an interactive farm exhibit.
Museum Campus
Shedd Aquarium
State-of-the-art indoor aquarium, famous for its variety of habitats & views of Lake Michigan.
Museum Campus
Field Museum
State-of-the-art museum of science & invention, with the world's largest Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Grand Boulevard
Gallery Guichard
Chicago Loop
The Chicago Theatre
French Baroque-style 3,600-seat auditorium showcasing national musical & comedy acts since 1921.
Streeterville
Milton Lee Olive Park
Secluded urban oasis on the water with city skyline views, serene paths & circular fountains.
Hollywood Park
North Park Village Nature Center
46-acre nature preserve with hiking trails, a birding area & a center with educational programs.
Sheridan Park
The Riviera Theatre
Concert venue built in 1917 in French Renaissance Revival style.
West Town
National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture
Grant Park
Grant Park
312-acre centerpiece of Downtown housing some of the city's busiest attractions.
Under $35
Cheap dates and low-spend afternoons.
No reservation needed
Walk in tonight.
What Scout found
- 60 of the 162 analyzed Chicago places fit family.
- 68% of matches are outdoor or partly outdoor.
- 0% have easy parking.
- Dominant moods: Relaxed, Playful.
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