The Perfect Day in Chicago with Your Kids
Here's 7 ways to spend a day with your kids in the city of Chicago
Back-to-school is looming which means its time to make the most of your summer with your kiddos. If you’re running out of ideas to keep them occupied, this Chicago city guide is for you. Check out some of these family itinerary ideas for a day including the Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, Shedd Aquarium and so much more in the Windy City!
Shedd Aquarium or the Adler Planetarium + Breakfast with a View at Miru
Start your day at Miru, located on the 11th floor of the St. Regis Chicago, for breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch for great food and great views of the city! From there, take a short drive to the Shedd Aquarium or the Adler Planetarium, which should be at the top of your list, especially for families with younger kids.
Architectural Boat Tour + Pizza Riverside at Pizzeria Portofino
You booked the Architectural Boat Tour that picks up downtown, now what? In order to avoid a mid boat ride meltdown, grab lunch at Pizzeria Portofino before heading over the the pick-up-point. Depending on which boat cruise you book, you may be able to take a nice walk along the Chicago River.
Make a reservation at Pizzeria Portofino
Lincoln Park Zoo + R.J. Grunts
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a totally free, and totally fun activity, great for families with kiddos of all ages. This iconic Zoo, located in Lincoln Park, is FREE, yes FREE! Once you’ve said hello to all the animals, stop into R.J. Grunts, located just two blocks from the Zoo, for burgers, wraps and of course, a milkshake.
Make a reservation at RJ Grunts
For more family-friendly fun in Lincoln Park, check out Sunday brunch at Mon Ami Gabi and then walk over to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum or get all your energy out at Oz Park before heading to Halsted Street and choosing between at Sushi-san, Summer House, Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! or Ramen-san.
American Girl on Michigan Avenue + Beatrix – Streeterville + The Cookie Bar by Summer House
If you’re looking to build a day around a visit to the American Girl Store on Michigan Avenue in Water Tower Place, we’ve got you covered with brunch at Beatrix – Streeterville to fuel you up for shopping! Once the doll has been secured, head over to The Cookie Bar by Summer House, for a sweet treat, including a selection of cookies, coffee and soft serve.
Navy Pier + Big City Chicken of Frankie’s Pizza by the Slice
The calendar of events at Navy Pier seems to be endless over the summer months, from rides and games to the weekly fireworks. No need to leave the grounds for lunch, rather grab a quick bite at Big City Chicken and enjoy the signature fried chicken strips, sandwiches and more or Frankie’s by the Slice for Neopolitan-style pizza, Italian beef and fresh lemonade.
WNDR Museum of Chicago Children’s Theater + Brunch at The Oakville Grill & Cellar
The WNDR Museum, located in Chicago’s West Loop, is a really cool spot for families with school aged kids and even teens. The Insta-worthy photo-opps are non stop once inside. For families looking to spend the day in the West Loop with younger kids, the Chicago Children’s Theater has limited run shows in its intimate theater, where the audience feels like they are part of the production! A short walk away is The Oakville Grill & Cellar, a California-inspired restaurant with delicious brunch and lunch food for kids, and an even more impressive California wine list for parents.
Make a reservation at The Oakville Grill & Cellar
Museum of Ice Cream + Bagels at Decker’s Sourdough Bagels
Spending the day in River North or Gold Coast? Head over to Wildfire – River North on Saturday mornings, and check out the buzzy Decker’s Sourdough Bagels pop-up, complete with a variety of fresh-baked sourdough bagels, bagel sandwiches and pastries. Once you get the goods, you can walk around downtown to shop, or check out the Museum of Ice Cream located on Michigan Avenue.
To check out all of the kids menus at Lettuce restaurants near you, click here
