The kids are out of school for two weeks for winter break and then have long weekends in January and February! It’s cold and everyone is restless. I’ve got some great winter ideas for you! I’ve divided up these ideas into two categories: Budget-Friendly and Splurge (meaning more than about $30 per person.) I hope this helps you plan out some time to get all their energy out 🙂

Budget-Friendly Activities in Chicago for Kids

• FORTS! At Filament Theatre  (5 to 12 years old) We did this last year, and the kids loved it! This small theatre in Portage Park turns its stage into a living room. Kids use their imagination to build a fort of their dreams! You can see my reel here. Add to the fun by stopping for a snack or a meal in the neighborhood at Junebug Cafe, City News Cafe, or Community Tavern!
• Chicago History Museum – They have a kids’ exhibit about the Great Fire for those under age 12, and it’s super interactive. Illinois residents under the age of 18 are always free. You could also pair this with the zoo since it’s across the street! Or grab a pizza from Ranalli’s on Clark.
• Cuddle Bunny – book an appointment at this cute Lincoln Park studio and literally cuddle bunnies for an hour. Head down the street to 2D Restaurant afterward for lunch or Stan’s Donuts for a snack.
• Exploritorium – This indoor play space in Skokie has activity stations like a big water table area, pretend play, a multi-level soft play structure, and a sectioned-off area for crawlers and toddlers. Bonus points for the big parking lot, too! Best for kids ten years and under.
• Fit City Kids – Another great indoor play space with a huge soft play structure. Check out their camps and classes, too! They are actually running winter break camps, too!
• Budding Botanists at Garfield Park Conservatory – If you have a flower loving kiddo, this free (reservation required) event at the Garfield Park Conservatory is always so beautiful and fun!
• Ice Skating – There are a bunch of different options! We have a full list of spots here.
• Spend a day in Pilsen – visit the National Museum of Mexican Art, play at Harrison Park, have dinner at 5 Rabanitos or Rubi’s, shop on 18th St, and then see a drive-in holiday movie at ChiTown Movies.

More Fun Ideas for Chicago Kid’s Activities (Worth the Splurge!)

• Cooking Class (age depends on the class) – Whatever your kid is into, I bet there is a class in Chicago to help them explore it! We love Schoolhouse Cooking Class in Wicker Park, Portage Park or River Forest.
• Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier – This kid’s museum is HUGE and amazing. Prepare to be there all day or to make promises to come back! Be sure to check their winter hours.
• Flyover Chicago – this was SO fun at Navy Pier. I recommend ages 5 and up! Use code CHICAGOGOODLIFE10 for 10% off.
• Color Factory – my kids LOVE Color Factory! It has interactive displays, surprises, and an epic ball pit. It’s at the bottom of the Willis Tower and there’s plenty of dining in the building and nearby.
• DuPage Children’s Museum – This Naperville institution has tons of activities that focus on science, math, and art.
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center – For your newest LEGO lover or your oldest, LEGOLAND is the ultimate brick destination. I love the displays and the kids love all the building opportunities, rides, and 4D movies.
• Puttshack in Oakbrook Center – We spent the day here last year and had so much fun! Everything is automated from your golf ball, all the various courses are tech-infused, they have kid-size clubs, and yummy food and drinks. Reservations are necessary.

Did this give you some ideas to fill those chilly days this winter? I’m actually feeling more excited now that I have a plan. 🙂 Let me know what you decide to do! If you want to get out of town, check out my favorite Winter Midwest Getaways here!

Cheers!

Christine