- Home
- Kids Things To Do Near Me
- Illinois
Things to do in Illinois with kids
From world-famous cities to charming small towns, Illinois is packed with unforgettable experiences for families. Whether you’re climbing the Willis Tower in downtown Chicago, exploring a historic Route 66 town, riding a rollercoaster, or enjoying a lakeside picnic, there are countless things to do in Illinois with kids.
Most family adventures in Illinois begin in Chicago—a cultural and entertainment capital with world-class attractions. Families can explore hands-on learning at the Museum of Science and Industry, see sharks and dolphins at the Shedd Aquarium, or scale interactive climbing walls at places like Funtopia Glenview. Whether it’s indoor play centers, historic museums, or splash-worthy beaches like North Avenue Beach, the Windy City delivers year-round fun for all ages.
But there’s so much more to Illinois beyond Chicago! In Springfield, the state capital, families can explore Abraham Lincoln’s legacy at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, walk through his historic home, or take a guided ghost tour through downtown. Kids will love dressing up in 1800s clothing and stepping back in time through immersive exhibits.
Illinois is also a great state for outdoor family fun. The scenic trails and rocky bluffs of Starved Rock State Park are perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and waterfall spotting. In southern Illinois, Giant City State Park offers bouldering, nature programs, and family-friendly cabins. Many parks also have junior ranger programs, perfect for combining nature with education.
In Gurnee, thrill-seekers won’t want to miss Six Flags Great America, one of the Midwest’s most exciting theme parks. From hair-raising roller coasters to gentler rides for toddlers and an enormous attached water park, it’s a top destination for families in the region.
Want to cool off? Illinois is home to both indoor and outdoor water parks, like Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park and Rainbow Falls Waterpark. And if you’re visiting in summer, don’t forget the splash pads and public beaches scattered around the Chicago area and beyond.
Families with younger kids can enjoy charming spots like Kiddie Kingdom or storybook-inspired play centers across the suburbs. Many small towns have their own children’s museums and seasonal festivals designed just for kids.
In Peoria, visit the Peoria Riverfront Museum or explore the Peoria Zoo, where kids can meet giraffes and rhinos up close. In Rockford, enjoy hands-on exploration at the Discovery Center Museum or stroll through the beautiful Anderson Japanese Gardens.
Throughout the state, you’ll find historic attractions, charming diners, quirky roadside stops, and welcoming communities ready to help families make memories. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or planning a summer vacation, Illinois offers a rich variety of kid-friendly destinations—from the Great Lakes to rolling farmland.
Top Tips for Family Fun in Illinois
• Use public transit in cities like Chicago—CTA trains and buses make getting around simple.
• Visit in all seasons—indoor attractions like museums and water parks operate year-round.
• Check each museum or zoo for free days—many offer discounted admission to Illinois residents.
• Book theme parks early in summer—places like Six Flags sell out during holidays and weekends.
• Pack for variety—Illinois weather can change fast, so bring layers and comfortable shoes.
FAQs – Things to Do in Illinois with Kids
What’s the best city in Illinois for kids?
Chicago offers the most variety, but Springfield, Peoria, and Rockford also have excellent family attractions.
Are there free things to do with kids in Illinois?
Yes! Explore Lincoln Park Zoo, Crown Fountain, Starved Rock State Park, and dozens of free splash pads and community events.
Is Illinois good for outdoor family trips?
Absolutely! With over 300 state parks, hiking trails, waterfalls, lakes, and camping sites, it’s perfect for outdoor explorers.
Where can we go for indoor fun during winter?
Try Sky Zone, Funtopia, or any of the state’s incredible children’s museums. Illinois has tons of indoor play zones for cold weather days.
What’s a good day trip from Chicago with kids?
Gurnee for Six Flags, Naperville for its children’s museum, or Starved Rock for nature lovers. All are within 1–2 hours from the city.
Planning your Trip to Illinois
Illinois is often referred to as the Land of Lincoln and the Prairie State. The perfect vacation destination that’s bursting with so much to do with the kids.
From the gleaming lights of Chicago to the farmlands of Poplar Grove, there is so much to do in Illinois such as mountain climbing, kayaking, camping, and hiking.
For families that love the great outdoors, Illinois is a great vacation destination! Those that enjoy history will love the museums and landmarks associated with the Native Americans, Abraham Lincoln, and the Civil War Era.
Those that love to shop will also enjoy everything that Illinois has to offer. The malls are brimmed with fantastic shops and perfect gifts to buy the family. Culture enthusiasts will love the vineyards, galleries, botanical gardens, and dancing venues.
Illinois hosts many fun events throughout the year such as the world-famous Lollapalooza.
Listed below are some of the fun things to do in Illinois with kids.
Enchanted Castle Entertainment
Enjoy laser tag, miniature golf, singing dragons, and indoor go-karting, this is the perfect place to experience fun with the little ones. Plan your next family visit to the Enchanted Castle.
Brookfield Zoo
The Brookfield zoo is open daily and spans over 200 acres of land. With animals from all over the world. Enjoy the dolphin shows and feed the exotic animals. Get up close and personal with the beautiful animals. These experiences will make wonderful memories with the little ones.
DuPage Children’s Museum
The museum offers so much interactive fun for the little ones. Dived into two buildings both offering separate play experiences. Be sure to book up early as tickets sell fast.
The Forge Lemont Quarries
Here you will find 2 towers offering jungle gyms and a kid’s adventure zones. Let the kids explore everything the Forge has to offer such as the climbing nets, zipline, and games.
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Illinois with the kids? There are many wonderful places to stay that suit all kinds of budgets. Many of the hotels in Illinois have kid-friendly amenities within the complex as well as nearby famous attractions. There is so much to see and do in Illinois with Kids. Depending on the season you wish to visit our suggested hotels have lots of great deals throughout the year.
Listed below are our top 5 places to stay.
Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee, Illinois
If you’re a family that loves swimming then you need to stay at the Great Wilf Lodge in Gurnee. With over 80,000 square feet of indoor waterpark fun, the Great Wolf also offers lots of activities for kids such as mini golf, bowling, arcades and so much more.
Fox River Resort at Sheridan
The Fox River is part of the Holiday Inn Club Vacations and provides the very best in holidays. Enjoy the indoor water park, outdoor pool, water sports rentals, and horseback riding! All of this is available for the family to enjoy.
Embassy Suites Chicago
This wonderful hotel features an indoor pool, restaurant, and gym. Located perfectly Downtown, this hotel is a great place to stay for families wishing to do some site visiting.
Double Tree by Hilton Chicago
Located Downtown, this hotel is within walking distance of Michigan Avenue and has wonderful shops. Featuring an indoor swimming pool and poolside bar, this hotel provides the perfect relaxation for families looking for a chilled-out holiday.
Palmer House a Hilton Hotel
This downtown Chicago hotel is located within walking distance of Millennium Park. Featuring a full-service spa, gym, and restaurant, this hotel is perfect for families with children of all ages.
There are many amazing neighborhoods to visit in Illinois. The entire state of Illinois is rich in culture and history. You can find lots of things to do and see throughout the year with kids. Be sure to book up the right location that works for you and what you want to do and see whilst on vacation in Illinois with the kids. All of the suggestions below offer lots of fun things to do as well as kid-friendly attractions. Catering for families that love the great outdoors, culture and history seekers, and families that love relaxation whilst they’re on holiday.
Listed below are our top picks.
Springfield
Springfield is the capital of Illinois. Known for its history with President Lincoln. Be sure to visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and museum. Have fun checking out Route 66 which travels right through Springfield.
Chicago
Chicago is known for being the most famous city in Illinois. The Windy City offers so much entertainment for families with children. Miles of beaches and some of the world’s most famous museums including the Museum of Science and History and the Art Institute. Take the kids to Shedd Aquarium, and Field Museum. You also have the choice of Millennium Park and Wrigley Field which offer outdoor activities for the kids.
Peoria
The waterfront makes this neighborhood a famous and popular tourist attraction point. The riverfront has undergone a recent renovation to include food outlets and shops. Be sure to check out the Peoria Pier, Planetarium, and Museum of Arts. If you’re a family that loves Antiques then there is an abundance in Peoria.
Utica
Utica is a beautiful place to visit with the kids. Full of lush forests, walking trails, and waterfalls. After a day spent exploring be sure to visit the quaint Downtown area and stop by a winery.
Decatur
If you’re looking for family fun then be sure to head to Decatur. Enjoy the Scovill Zoo and the children's museum of Illinois. If you enjoy outdoor activities then you will love Lake Decatur which is the largest lake on the River Sangamon.
Tourism is busiest during the summer months; however, the summer months can be very hot and humid. Winters can be freezing and experience heavy snowfall. Since both seasons can be extreme you might want to visit sometime in between.
The best time to visit Illinois is between April and May then again from September to October. The weather is pleasant during this time as opposed to the scorching heat in the summer and freezing temperatures in the winter. Late Spring tends to be wet with moderate temperatures and late May and June are subject to thunderstorms.
Spring and fall are the best times to visit for less queuing for attractions, calmer weather conditions, and more budget-friendly offers for families.
The US is known for its choice of different cuisines. Illinois is specifically known for its local delicacies and some are more adventurous than others. Enjoy your visit to Illinois with the kids and eat your way through history with some of their iconic dishes.
Listed below are some of our top favourites that the little ones will enjoy.
Horseshoe Sandwich
This famous dish is unheard of outside of Illinois. This simple yet satisfying dish consists of a beef patty placed in the centre of a plate, surrounded by crispy French fries and smothered in delicious melted cheese. It’s basically a burger but with no bun.
Cosy Dog
The Cozy dog claims to be the world’s first corn dog. Dipped in a sweet batter and then fried until golden, this corn dog is served with either ketchup or mustard and can be eaten on its own. Illinois locals claim this is the best corn dog you will ever try (the kiddies will love it too)
Deep Dish Pizza
Illinois is famous for its deep-dish pizza. This hefty crust supports lots of delicious toppings making it twice the weight of a typical pizza and a challenge to eat on your own. After a long day of adventures, this deep-dish pizza will satisfy most children’s taste buds.
Rainbow Cone Ice Cream
This colourful creation is a delicious treat for children of all ages. Illinois is famous for creating one scoop to end all scoops. Towering scoops of chocolate, strawberry, vanilla, walnut, and cherries. This is the ultimate go-to after a warm day out in the sun with the little ones.
Chicago Style Popcorn
Who doesn’t love popcorn? This Chicago-style popcorn is unique in its own right. Served with two flavours, caramel, and cheese mixture to give the best sweet and salty combo.
Potato Dumpling
Specific to Eastern Europe, this potato-filled dumpling is served traditionally with sour cream, bacon, and caramelized onions. One bite and your mouth will be watering. Popular with the little ones too.
