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Chicago with kids aged 3 to 6

Lakefront parks and hands-on museums

Chicago has some of the best family museums in the country, a beautiful lakefront, and a free zoo. It is very walkable along the lake.

Best time to go

Late spring through early fall. Winter is cold and windy but the museums are cozy.

Getting around

The L trains are useful, but some stations lack elevators. Buses and rideshare fill the gaps. The lakefront path is great for walking.

Stroller notes

Downtown and the lakefront are very stroller friendly. Museum Campus has wide paths.

Toilets and changing

Museums, Navy Pier, and Millennium Park have restrooms.

Nap tips

Stroller naps along the lakefront are easy.

3 day itinerary

  1. Day 1: Millennium Park and Maggie Daley

    Morning
    See Cloud Gate, nicknamed The Bean, then splash at Crown Fountain in warm months.
    Nap window
    Hotel nap.
    Afternoon
    Maggie Daley Park for one of the best playgrounds in the city.
    Evening
    Deep dish pizza dinner.
    Playground stop
    Maggie Daley Park has huge play areas for different ages.

  2. Day 2: Lincoln Park Zoo

    Morning
    Lincoln Park Zoo, which is free. Visit the farm area for little kids.
    Nap window
    Stroller nap in the park.
    Afternoon
    Beach time at North Avenue Beach in summer.
    Evening
    Early night.
    Playground stop
    The zoo has play areas, and the park has more.

  3. Day 3: Museum Campus

    Morning
    Shedd Aquarium or the Field Museum to see SUE the T. rex.
    Nap window
    Nap break.
    Afternoon
    Navy Pier and the Chicago Children's Museum.
    Evening
    Pack up.
    Playground stop
    Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier is made for ages up to 10.

Opening hours, prices, and access change often. Always check official websites before you go.

Rainy-day backup

  • Chicago Children's Museum.
  • Shedd Aquarium.
  • Museum of Science and Industry.

Packing tips

  • Layers, since lake winds are cool
  • Swimsuits for splash fountains
  • Winter gear if visiting from November to March

Plan and book

Family hotels on Booking.comTours on GetYourGuideActivities on KlookTravel gear on Amazon

Some links are affiliate links. Learn more.

FAQ

Is Lincoln Park Zoo free?

Yes, Lincoln Park Zoo is free to enter, though parking is not.

Which museum is best for preschoolers?

The Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier is designed for young kids. Shedd Aquarium is another favorite.

Is Chicago walkable with a stroller?

Yes, downtown and the lakefront path are very stroller friendly.

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