Always free, this facility is an amazing oasis in the city, especially on cold winter days. Their seasonal displays are amazing and the fern room is a child's dream. The kids garden is underwhelming.
The most family-friendly beach. Lots of (paid) parking. Be sure to admire the amazing mosaic mural on Foster Avenue below Lake Shore Drive.
The zoo is always free. With kids, be sure to stop in the Children's Zoo and visit the Farm. Their holiday Zoo Lights display is a lot of fun!
If you don't want to splurge on entrance to the AI (where kids are always free) take the time to admire the Lions at the entrance, then head north to the free sculpture garden for a quiet respite.
Splash around in the fountain to cool off on hot summer days. They also have free activities during the day in the summer. Check the calendar for Wiggle Worms activities!
Lots of free music in the summer. Bring your picnic basket and a bottle of wine!
Excellent children's immigration museum. They charge by the family, making this a very affordable afternoon. Afterwards, wander up and down Clark Street in Andersonville for food and window shopping.
Wandering around Chinatown is a lot of fun! Be sure to stop by Ping Tom Memorial Park. The Chinese New Years Parade is wonderful.
Take a hike at this nature area. Explore the forest, grassland, or wetland. Spot deer, turtles, and hawks. Inside, borrow binoculars or hang in the kids room. They have excellent programs and events.
Your kids will love the Oz-themed sculptures in this park. You'll also find a playground, walking path, tennis courts, and a garden.
A less crowded ice rink than Millenium Park, although less scenic as well. Free if you bring your own skates. Skate rental is available.
Wandering around is free! The rides cost around $6 each. You can also find the Shakespeare Theater, the Children's Museum, and boat rides on the Pier.
Theater in Chicago is expensive. If you're on a budget, skip the big Broadway shows and take your kids to an affordable production performed by DePaul's talented theater department!
Home of the Chicago Kids Company Theater. Tickets for most shows are $10, are appropriate for all ages, and usually include a meet and greet with the characters after the show.
Farmer's market, Chicagoween, Christkindlmarket... there are often free, fun activities in the plaza!
$5 admission to this great water area. Lots of slides, zero-depth entry, and a tot area. Bring a blanket to lay in the shaded, grassy area. The perfect venue for hot summer days.
Cheapest seats in town. They run family movies, but not for as long as adult films so don't procrastinate! They also have a family movie festival in the summer: $1 movies on weekday mornings!
Very kid-friendly. Bummer pads and cosmic bowling. This alley also participates in the Kids Bowl Free summer program.
