Chicago is a wonderful city with kids and the family activities in “The Windy City” are as exciting as they are varied. Our day in Chicago with children brings them to a world class zoo as well as a bit of the unique midwestern flair of Navy Pier. Bring your little ones along and enjoy!

Founded in 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. This free zoo houses approximately 1,100 animals from over 200 species. Watch a troop of Japanese Macaques roam in a camouflaged forest habitat. The Regenstein African Journey exhibit simulates four distinct habitats from Africa. Children will be amazed by the giant giraffes and rhinoceroses at the main outdoor exhibit. The zoo’s most popular exhibit is the Kovler Sea Lion Pool which has three viewing areas where visitors can watch the seals glide through the water. The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo features many native eastern American wildlife and allows visitors of all ages to interact with the animals.

Chicago Family Sights Are Plentiful

Take a break from the city and visit this large urban park. Often called “Chicago’s front yard,” Grant Park is 319 acres in the central business district in “The Loop” Community Area.

Millennium Park features a variety of public art. Buckingham Fountain, one of the world’s largest fountains, is the centerpiece of Grant Park. From April through October, the fountain has water displays every 20 minutes and from 9:00pm to 10:00pm features light and water displays. The 57-acre Museum Campus is the site of three notable museums, all dedicated to natural sciences: Adler Planetarium, Field Museum of Natural History and Shedd Aquarium. The whole family will enjoy everything Grant Park has to offer.

Enjoy spectacular views of Lake Michigan on this 3,300-foot long pier. With sightseeing tours, fireworks, amusement rides and a children’s museum, Navy Pier is Chicago’s number one attraction. Pier Park is on the upper deck and has a minigolf course, remote control boats and several rides, including a 150-foot ferris wheel. Children will enjoy splashing, climbing, building and learning at the Chicago Children’s Museum. Navigate your way through a giant maze with interactive funhouse effects. Navy Park is guaranteed fun for the whole family.