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Summer in the City: The Best Things to Do with Kids (Ages 2–10) in Chicago
Summer in the City: The Best Things to Do with Kids (Ages 2–10) in Chicago
By Late Night Dreamers
Summer in Chicago is a season of magic, especially through the eyes of little ones. Whether you’re a lifelong local or planning a visit, there’s no shortage of family-friendly fun in the Windy City. From toddlers to tweens, here are some of our favorite things to do with kids ages 2 to 10 when the sun is shining and bedtime comes just a little later.
🌳 Explore Lincoln Park Zoo (Free!)
Perfect for all ages, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the country’s last free zoos — and it’s in the heart of the city. Visit the playful monkeys, majestic lions, and take a ride on the charming carousel or train. Pro tip: stop by the Farm-in-the-Zoo to let littles pet goats and learn about growing veggies.
🌊 Splash and Play at Maggie Daley Park
Right next to Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park is a kid’s paradise. The Play Garden is massive, with themed play areas like the Enchanted Forest, Slide Crater, and Watering Hole — ideal for ages 2 to 10. Pack a picnic and plan to spend a few hours.
🚢 Climb Aboard at the Chicago Children’s Museum (Navy Pier)
This hands-on museum is made for curious minds. With water play zones, a giant climbing schooner, a tinkering lab, and art studios, there’s something for every age. Afterward, ride the Centennial Wheel for skyline views and a little thrill!
🌭 Catch a Family-Friendly Baseball Game
Take them out to the ballgame! Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Field both offer kid-friendly days with giveaways and activities. Even if your crew doesn’t sit through all 9 innings, the excitement and stadium snacks are worth the trip.
🍦 Cool Off with a Sweet Treat
Summer = ice cream. Head to local gems like Margie’s Candies, Scooter’s Frozen Custard, or Original Rainbow Cone for a sweet memory and a sugar rush. For a fun twist, visit JoJo’s Shake Bar where the shakes are almost as tall as your toddler.
🌞 Beach Days on Lake Michigan
Chicago has miles of beaches, and many are great for kids. Montrose Beach has a more relaxed vibe with nearby grassy areas to run around, while 31st Street Beach offers splash pads and playgrounds. Don’t forget the sunscreen and sand toys!
🎶 Sing Along at Millennium Park Family Events
In the summer, Millennium Park hosts kid-friendly concerts and movie nights under the stars at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. It’s totally free — bring a blanket, some snacks, and your comfiest jammies for a cozy wind-down.
📚 Storytime and Crafts at Chicago Public Library
Local libraries offer regular summer programming like toddler storytime, LEGO clubs, craft hours, and scavenger hunts. It’s a great indoor option for quieter mornings or too-hot afternoons.
🚂 Take a Mini Road Trip to Brookfield Zoo
Just a short drive from the city, Brookfield Zoo offers an immersive animal experience with tram rides, dolphin shows, and an awesome Hamill Family Play Zoo designed just for kids. It’s worth the day trip!
Whether you're spending a day downtown or keeping things low-key in your neighborhood, summer in Chicago is full of magic, memories, and maybe a few melty popsicles. Wherever you roam, don’t forget to wind down in cozy pajamas from Late Night Dreamers — because every adventure ends with sweet dreams.
✨ Shop our summer PJ collection [www.latenightdreamers.com] and get bedtime-ready after a perfect day in the city.
