Best of 19 Things to do with kids in Chicago
"Explore Chicago's family-friendly attractions! From the innovative exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry to the beluga whales at Shedd Aquarium, there are countless 'things to do with kids in Chicago.' Stroll through the Lincoln Park Zoo, take a architecture boat tour, or indulge in treats at the famous Garrett Popcorn. Create lasting memories with your little ones in the Windy City!"
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- 1. Chicago Children's Museum
- 2. Shedd Aquarium
- 3. Navy Pier
- 4. Lincoln Park Zoo
- 5. Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
- 6. Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze
- 7. Pritzker Family Children's Zoo
- 8. Maggie Daley Park
- 9. Millennium Park
- 10. Field Museum
- 11. Skydeck Chicago
- 12. Bronzeville Children's Museum
- 13. Grant Park
- 14. Adler Planetarium
- 15. Color Factory Chicago
- 16. Chicago Sports Museum
- 17. Riverwalk
- 18. Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo
- 19. Funful
1. Chicago Children's Museum
Ideal destination for families with young children, providing endless learning opportunities and fun experiences.
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Children of ages 3 and 8 enjoyed their visit to the museum, where they particularly liked the exhibits featuring firefighters, water play, and camping. However, the museum was crowded due to it being a free day, and the indoor temperature was uncomfortable, being hotter than the 60 degrees outside.
The museum offered various interactive exhibits for children to enjoy, such as the Dinosaur Dig where they could excavate bones, a water play area to get wet and have fun, a Tinkering Lab to build and destroy structures, and Kids Town and Treehouse Trails exhibits. These hands-on activities made the museum experience enjoyable and educational for the young visitors.
Children of ages 3 and 8 enjoyed their visit to the museum, where they particularly liked the exhibits featuring firefighters, water play, and camping. However, the museum was crowded due to it being a free day, and the indoor temperature was uncomfortable, being hotter than the 60 degrees outside.
The museum offered various interactive exhibits for children to enjoy, such as the Dinosaur Dig where they could excavate bones, a water play area to get wet and have fun, a Tinkering Lab to build and destroy structures, and Kids Town and Treehouse Trails exhibits. These hands-on activities made the museum experience enjoyable and educational for the young visitors.
2. Shedd Aquarium
Home to over 32,000 creatures, including belugas, penguins, and sea otters
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The Shedd Aquarium offers a wide variety of marine life, from fish and sharks to dolphins, otters, amphibians, and birds, making it a great destination for families and children. Visitors can learn about geography and oceanography while being entertained. The aquarium is highly recommended for those traveling with children, and it is advised to set aside at least three hours to fully experience all that the Shedd Aquarium has to offer.
Former visitors rave about the Shedd Aquarium, highlighting its diverse collection of marine life and educational value. A day at the aquarium is often recommended, particularly for families with children. The aquarium's ability to combine entertainment and science in one location makes it a popular choice for those looking to make the most of their visit.
The Shedd Aquarium offers a wide variety of marine life, from fish and sharks to dolphins, otters, amphibians, and birds, making it a great destination for families and children. Visitors can learn about geography and oceanography while being entertained. The aquarium is highly recommended for those traveling with children, and it is advised to set aside at least three hours to fully experience all that the Shedd Aquarium has to offer.
Former visitors rave about the Shedd Aquarium, highlighting its diverse collection of marine life and educational value. A day at the aquarium is often recommended, particularly for families with children. The aquarium's ability to combine entertainment and science in one location makes it a popular choice for those looking to make the most of their visit.
3. Navy Pier
Iconic landmark with unique history and stunning architecture
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Pier Park is a popular destination that features the Centennial Wheel, a massive Ferris wheel that provides air-conditioned cabins in the summer and heating in the winter. Visitors can also enjoy other rides like the Tea Cups, Wave Swinger, and a Carousel. The Chicago Children's Museum is another attraction at the park, featuring exhibits such as Circusville.
The rides at Pier Park evoke a classic pier experience, complete with bright colors and carnival music. The park features rides like the Pepsi Wave Swinger, Navy Pier Carousel, and Light Tower, all designed to provide a fun and nostalgic experience for visitors. The atmosphere of the park is lively and entertaining, making it a great destination for both kids and adults.
Pier Park is a popular destination that features the Centennial Wheel, a massive Ferris wheel that provides air-conditioned cabins in the summer and heating in the winter. Visitors can also enjoy other rides like the Tea Cups, Wave Swinger, and a Carousel. The Chicago Children's Museum is another attraction at the park, featuring exhibits such as Circusville.
The rides at Pier Park evoke a classic pier experience, complete with bright colors and carnival music. The park features rides like the Pepsi Wave Swinger, Navy Pier Carousel, and Light Tower, all designed to provide a fun and nostalgic experience for visitors. The atmosphere of the park is lively and entertaining, making it a great destination for both kids and adults.
4. Lincoln Park Zoo
Rich history since 1868, Over 1,100 animals of 200 species, Modern and updated facilities
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The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is a popular destination for families with young children due to its expert animal care and interactive learning opportunities. The zoo is home to a variety of North American animals, including red wolves, black bears, North American river otters, and American beavers. Visitors can get up close and personal with these animals, providing a unique and educational experience.
One aspect of the zoo that kids particularly enjoy is the opportunity to eat cheesy fries at the restaurant. While the food and drink prices at the restaurant may be somewhat high, many visitors feel that they are worth it given that there is no admission fee for the zoo. The delicious cheesy fries are a favorite treat among the younger visitors, making the zoo a well-loved destination for families looking for a fun and educational outing.
The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is a popular destination for families with young children due to its expert animal care and interactive learning opportunities. The zoo is home to a variety of North American animals, including red wolves, black bears, North American river otters, and American beavers. Visitors can get up close and personal with these animals, providing a unique and educational experience.
One aspect of the zoo that kids particularly enjoy is the opportunity to eat cheesy fries at the restaurant. While the food and drink prices at the restaurant may be somewhat high, many visitors feel that they are worth it given that there is no admission fee for the zoo. The delicious cheesy fries are a favorite treat among the younger visitors, making the zoo a well-loved destination for families looking for a fun and educational outing.
5. Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago
Home to the first babyccino machine and a 40-foot tall indoor tornado
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The Chicago Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world, offering a wealth of exhibits that cater to all ages. Here, visitors can explore 14 acres of hands-on exhibits that bring learning to life. From getting up close and personal with a 40-foot tornado to climbing aboard a World War II German submarine, there's no shortage of exciting experiences to be had.
The museum also offers the opportunity to step inside a human-sized hamster wheel, descend into an Illinois coal mine, and tour a fully functional eco-friendly home. Visitors can even board a 727 hanging from the ceiling and transmit their pulse to a 13-foot, 3-D beating heart. With so many interactive and educational exhibits to choose from, it's easy to see why the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry is a must-visit destination for families and school groups.
The Chicago Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world, offering a wealth of exhibits that cater to all ages. Here, visitors can explore 14 acres of hands-on exhibits that bring learning to life. From getting up close and personal with a 40-foot tornado to climbing aboard a World War II German submarine, there's no shortage of exciting experiences to be had.
The museum also offers the opportunity to step inside a human-sized hamster wheel, descend into an Illinois coal mine, and tour a fully functional eco-friendly home. Visitors can even board a 727 hanging from the ceiling and transmit their pulse to a 13-foot, 3-D beating heart. With so many interactive and educational exhibits to choose from, it's easy to see why the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry is a must-visit destination for families and school groups.
6. Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze
Chicago-themed maze with interactive components and challenges
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My children and I had concerns about the numerous warnings that the maze was scary for those aged 5 and under. However, I reassured them based on positive reviews and allowed my 4-year-old to enter with my husband. To our surprise, they both enjoyed the experience despite the loud noises, which usually scare my children. The dizzy tunnel was a particular hit for them.
Our family, consisting of two adults and two children aged 9 and 11, decided to visit the maze at Navy Pier as a way to escape the heat. We purchased a family combo pack for $40, which included the maze and two additional games. Although the adults found the maze amusing and my 11-year-old thought it was fun, my 9-year-old found it scary. Our time in the maze was relatively short, lasting no more than 20 minutes.
My children and I had concerns about the numerous warnings that the maze was scary for those aged 5 and under. However, I reassured them based on positive reviews and allowed my 4-year-old to enter with my husband. To our surprise, they both enjoyed the experience despite the loud noises, which usually scare my children. The dizzy tunnel was a particular hit for them.
Our family, consisting of two adults and two children aged 9 and 11, decided to visit the maze at Navy Pier as a way to escape the heat. We purchased a family combo pack for $40, which included the maze and two additional games. Although the adults found the maze amusing and my 11-year-old thought it was fun, my 9-year-old found it scary. Our time in the maze was relatively short, lasting no more than 20 minutes.
7. Pritzker Family Children's Zoo
Ideal destination for families with young children
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Lincoln Park Zoo is an ideal destination for families with children. The zoo is home to an old-fashioned carousel and a locomotive ride that children enjoy. Nearby, the Pritzker Family Children's Zoo offers interactive experiences, including the Farm-in-the-Zoo, where children can get up close and personal with animals such as goats, cows, and ponies.
Navy Pier is another must-visit location for families with children. The Centennial Ferris Wheel, offering stunning views of the city, is a standout attraction. Summer fireworks and the Chicago Children's Museum are also popular draws for families visiting the pier.
Lincoln Park Zoo is an ideal destination for families with children. The zoo is home to an old-fashioned carousel and a locomotive ride that children enjoy. Nearby, the Pritzker Family Children's Zoo offers interactive experiences, including the Farm-in-the-Zoo, where children can get up close and personal with animals such as goats, cows, and ponies.
Navy Pier is another must-visit location for families with children. The Centennial Ferris Wheel, offering stunning views of the city, is a standout attraction. Summer fireworks and the Chicago Children's Museum are also popular draws for families visiting the pier.
8. Maggie Daley Park
Named after the late former First Lady of Chicago, Maggie Daley
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The park, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a stunning view of the city skyline and offers a magical experience, particularly with the presence of the skating ribbon. It is a destination that caters to all, regardless of age.
The Play Garden is a significant attraction, particularly for children. It consists of six play areas that are appropriate for children aged two and above: The Wave Lawn, The Harbor, The Watering Hole, The Slide Crater, The Enchanted Forest, and The Sea. Each area offers unique and engaging play experiences, making it essential to explore each one.
The park, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a stunning view of the city skyline and offers a magical experience, particularly with the presence of the skating ribbon. It is a destination that caters to all, regardless of age.
The Play Garden is a significant attraction, particularly for children. It consists of six play areas that are appropriate for children aged two and above: The Wave Lawn, The Harbor, The Watering Hole, The Slide Crater, The Enchanted Forest, and The Sea. Each area offers unique and engaging play experiences, making it essential to explore each one.
9. Millennium Park
Free admission to a world-class park in the heart of Chicago
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Millennium Park in Chicago is a popular summer destination for families, offering the Crown Fountain where children can play in the shallow pool and run through the water spouting from video-projected local faces. Springtime is ideal for a self-guided scavenger hunt through the Lurie Garden. In winter, ice-skating with the city skyline as a backdrop at the magical McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is a must-try.
Exploring Millennium Park can be even more enriching with a guided walk led by a knowledgeable Millennium Park Greeter, available for free at the Chicago Cultural Center’s Visitor’s Information Center. The park features a harmonious blend of design, architecture, art, and green spaces, making it an ideal spot for visitors seeking an insightful experience.
Millennium Park in Chicago is a popular summer destination for families, offering the Crown Fountain where children can play in the shallow pool and run through the water spouting from video-projected local faces. Springtime is ideal for a self-guided scavenger hunt through the Lurie Garden. In winter, ice-skating with the city skyline as a backdrop at the magical McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is a must-try.
Exploring Millennium Park can be even more enriching with a guided walk led by a knowledgeable Millennium Park Greeter, available for free at the Chicago Cultural Center’s Visitor’s Information Center. The park features a harmonious blend of design, architecture, art, and green spaces, making it an ideal spot for visitors seeking an insightful experience.
10. Field Museum
Home to the largest T.Rex skeleton
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The Field Museum in Chicago is a must-visit for families, especially those with an interest in dinosaurs. The museum features some of the country's most complete dinosaur skeletons, which are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. One exhibit that stood out to me and my kids was a replica of Jane Goodall's tent, which included interactive elements such as touching the cots and watching videos of real chimpanzees. Another activity even tested our ability to replicate chimp noises.
To help other families make the most of their visit to the Field Museum, I have compiled some tips to make it more manageable. When I was a child, I visited the museum several times with my relatives who lived nearby. My fond memories of those visits have inspired me to share some advice on how to navigate this vast museum, so that more families can enjoy all it has to offer.
The Field Museum in Chicago is a must-visit for families, especially those with an interest in dinosaurs. The museum features some of the country's most complete dinosaur skeletons, which are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. One exhibit that stood out to me and my kids was a replica of Jane Goodall's tent, which included interactive elements such as touching the cots and watching videos of real chimpanzees. Another activity even tested our ability to replicate chimp noises.
To help other families make the most of their visit to the Field Museum, I have compiled some tips to make it more manageable. When I was a child, I visited the museum several times with my relatives who lived nearby. My fond memories of those visits have inspired me to share some advice on how to navigate this vast museum, so that more families can enjoy all it has to offer.
11. Skydeck Chicago
Skydeck Chicago's The Ledge: step out onto a glass balcony extending 4.3 feet outside the building!
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Skydeck Chicago, located on the 103rd story of the Willis Tower, offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its stunning bird's eye views of the city. The observatory, a popular tourist attraction, has recently been updated to include a museum-like interactive experience on its lower level. This new addition celebrates the unique personality, history, neighborhoods, and landmarks of Chicago, making it an educational and enjoyable stop for families with children.
The main draw of Skydeck Chicago is the opportunity to step out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony that extends 4.3 feet beyond the building's exterior. This thrilling feature allows visitors to gaze down at the streets below from a height of 1,353 feet, providing an unmatched adrenaline rush for both kids and adults. With its combination of education and excitement, Skydeck Chicago is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Windy City.
Skydeck Chicago, located on the 103rd story of the Willis Tower, offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its stunning bird's eye views of the city. The observatory, a popular tourist attraction, has recently been updated to include a museum-like interactive experience on its lower level. This new addition celebrates the unique personality, history, neighborhoods, and landmarks of Chicago, making it an educational and enjoyable stop for families with children.
The main draw of Skydeck Chicago is the opportunity to step out onto The Ledge, a glass balcony that extends 4.3 feet beyond the building's exterior. This thrilling feature allows visitors to gaze down at the streets below from a height of 1,353 feet, providing an unmatched adrenaline rush for both kids and adults. With its combination of education and excitement, Skydeck Chicago is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Windy City.
12. Bronzeville Children's Museum
Dedicated to African American history and culture
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The museum curator initially came across as unfriendly, but she managed to turn things around by the end of the visit. It is a small museum, but it offers a variety of hands-on activities that are sure to delight young children. The museum is also available for parties, but it caters only to children aged between 3 to 9 years old. Parking is free, and the entry fee is only five dollars per person.
During a family vacation in Chicago, I had the opportunity to visit this museum. It was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip. The tours are conducted by former educators, who engage the children in a range of activities such as hands-on science experiments, career exploration, historical crafts, and financial education, all in a single visit. The enthusiasm and expertise of the tour guides made for an enjoyable and enriching experience.
The museum curator initially came across as unfriendly, but she managed to turn things around by the end of the visit. It is a small museum, but it offers a variety of hands-on activities that are sure to delight young children. The museum is also available for parties, but it caters only to children aged between 3 to 9 years old. Parking is free, and the entry fee is only five dollars per person.
During a family vacation in Chicago, I had the opportunity to visit this museum. It was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip. The tours are conducted by former educators, who engage the children in a range of activities such as hands-on science experiments, career exploration, historical crafts, and financial education, all in a single visit. The enthusiasm and expertise of the tour guides made for an enjoyable and enriching experience.
13. Grant Park
Houses the iconic Buckingham Fountain, a beautiful backdrop for family photos
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Grant Park is an ideal location for families to enjoy a day out. It features playgrounds and open spaces that are perfect for children to play and run around in. One popular attraction is the Buckingham Fountain, which is a hit with kids and adults alike.
The park is home to many whimsical play spaces inspired by classic children's books, such as an enchanted forest and a full-size ship. There are plenty of activities to keep families engaged, including the Skating Ribbon for summer scootering and winter ice skating, rock climbing, mini golf, and tennis. The park offers something for everyone, making it a great destination for families.
Grant Park is an ideal location for families to enjoy a day out. It features playgrounds and open spaces that are perfect for children to play and run around in. One popular attraction is the Buckingham Fountain, which is a hit with kids and adults alike.
The park is home to many whimsical play spaces inspired by classic children's books, such as an enchanted forest and a full-size ship. There are plenty of activities to keep families engaged, including the Skating Ribbon for summer scootering and winter ice skating, rock climbing, mini golf, and tennis. The park offers something for everyone, making it a great destination for families.
14. Adler Planetarium
First planetarium in the western hemisphere
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The interactive exhibit of "The Little Astronauts" is designed to educate children about the journey from Earth to another planet in a fun and engaging way. It is filled with manipulatives that demonstrate how the things on Earth are powered by energy from the sun and how other planets can be seen in the night sky. My five-year-old was particularly delighted with this exhibit.
Planet Explorers is an immersive and interactive exhibit that takes families on a modern space adventure. With a focus on children between the ages of 3-8, the exhibit encourages children to climb, crawl, and play while learning about the requirements of being an astronaut. The exhibit also features award-winning sky shows that provide families with a virtual tour of the solar system. These shows take visitors on a quick trip through the solar system, making for an engaging and educational experience.
The interactive exhibit of "The Little Astronauts" is designed to educate children about the journey from Earth to another planet in a fun and engaging way. It is filled with manipulatives that demonstrate how the things on Earth are powered by energy from the sun and how other planets can be seen in the night sky. My five-year-old was particularly delighted with this exhibit.
Planet Explorers is an immersive and interactive exhibit that takes families on a modern space adventure. With a focus on children between the ages of 3-8, the exhibit encourages children to climb, crawl, and play while learning about the requirements of being an astronaut. The exhibit also features award-winning sky shows that provide families with a virtual tour of the solar system. These shows take visitors on a quick trip through the solar system, making for an engaging and educational experience.
15. Color Factory Chicago
A unique factory-themed destination that promotes color exploration and creativity
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The Color Factory is a unique and enjoyable activity to do in downtown Chicago. I recently visited with my daughter for my birthday and had a wonderful time. The experience is a great way to explore and learn about colors, and it features various rooms that showcase the impact of color on other senses.
Additionally, the Color Factory offers Chicago-themed treats, a ball pit, and an opportunity to take pictures that can be downloaded afterwards. It is located in the Willis Tower, allowing visitors to combine their visit with a trip to the Sky Deck. Overall, the Color Factory is a fun and educational hour-hour activity that is perfect for families or groups of friends.
The Color Factory is a unique and enjoyable activity to do in downtown Chicago. I recently visited with my daughter for my birthday and had a wonderful time. The experience is a great way to explore and learn about colors, and it features various rooms that showcase the impact of color on other senses.
Additionally, the Color Factory offers Chicago-themed treats, a ball pit, and an opportunity to take pictures that can be downloaded afterwards. It is located in the Willis Tower, allowing visitors to combine their visit with a trip to the Sky Deck. Overall, the Color Factory is a fun and educational hour-hour activity that is perfect for families or groups of friends.
16. Chicago Sports Museum
Houses memorabilia from various Chicago sports teams
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The museum we visited with our teenagers turned out to be the highlight of our trip to the city. For sports fans, this museum is a must-visit attraction. The affordable admission price offers access to a variety of interactive and fun activities.
The sports museum is not too large, so it doesn't take much time to explore, but it is still pretty cool. Here, visitors can test their skills and see if they can jump like MJ or have Scottie's reach. There is also a chance to find out if one can hit a moving WR target before getting sacked. The entrance located on the seventh floor, accessible through the mall, is recommended. It is advised to use the Michigan Ave entrance.
The museum we visited with our teenagers turned out to be the highlight of our trip to the city. For sports fans, this museum is a must-visit attraction. The affordable admission price offers access to a variety of interactive and fun activities.
The sports museum is not too large, so it doesn't take much time to explore, but it is still pretty cool. Here, visitors can test their skills and see if they can jump like MJ or have Scottie's reach. There is also a chance to find out if one can hit a moving WR target before getting sacked. The entrance located on the seventh floor, accessible through the mall, is recommended. It is advised to use the Michigan Ave entrance.
17. Riverwalk
Combines urban sophistication with natural beauty
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The Chicago Riverwalk is a stroller-friendly attraction offering plenty of public art, restaurants, and family-friendly activities, all for free. It's a great place to cool off during hot weather, with The Water Plaza offering a fenced, fountain-style splash pad for children to play in, while adults can relax and watch. Another kid-friendly spot is Extraordinary Playscapes, a free outdoor space along the river that encourages free play.
Visitors can also learn about the Riverwalk's history at the McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum, where they can observe the gears of the city's moveable bridges and gain insight into how Chicago's waterways helped shape the city. The museum is a great educational resource for both adults and children who want to understand the historical significance of the Chicago Riverwalk.
The Chicago Riverwalk is a stroller-friendly attraction offering plenty of public art, restaurants, and family-friendly activities, all for free. It's a great place to cool off during hot weather, with The Water Plaza offering a fenced, fountain-style splash pad for children to play in, while adults can relax and watch. Another kid-friendly spot is Extraordinary Playscapes, a free outdoor space along the river that encourages free play.
Visitors can also learn about the Riverwalk's history at the McCormick Bridgehouse and Chicago River Museum, where they can observe the gears of the city's moveable bridges and gain insight into how Chicago's waterways helped shape the city. The museum is a great educational resource for both adults and children who want to understand the historical significance of the Chicago Riverwalk.
18. Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo
Free admission to the Nature Boardwalk
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The Nature Boardwalk at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is a delightful 1/2 mile walking trail around a pond, offering a peaceful spot for walking or jogging. It begins near Cafe Brauer and is never overly crowded, providing a serene experience.
The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is an engaging destination that combines expert animal care with interactive learning. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with a variety of creatures, including red wolves, black bears, North American river otters, and American beavers. The Houston Family Play Treehouse is a must-visit for kids, offering a nature-themed indoor play space for hours of fun and exploration.
The Nature Boardwalk at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is a delightful 1/2 mile walking trail around a pond, offering a peaceful spot for walking or jogging. It begins near Cafe Brauer and is never overly crowded, providing a serene experience.
The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is an engaging destination that combines expert animal care with interactive learning. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with a variety of creatures, including red wolves, black bears, North American river otters, and American beavers. The Houston Family Play Treehouse is a must-visit for kids, offering a nature-themed indoor play space for hours of fun and exploration.
19. Funful
