Top Tips for Planning a Family Trip to Chicago
I’m always on the hunt for a new destination for a fun family vacation. You can only visit Disney World so many times, after all. Now, the hustle and bustle of a big city may not seem like the ideal place for a family getaway, but with so many fun things to do and experience, some cities are the perfect vacation destination. Not all cities lend themselves to family travel, but with its Midwest charm, picturesque views, and exciting events around every corner, Chicago is absolutely a great destination for family travel. Last summer we took the kids on a trip to the Windy City and they loved every minute of it, and we started planning a return trip almost immediately after arriving back home. These tips for planning a family trip to Chicago will help you organize a family vacation that’s fun for everyone and will leave the kids with memories to last a lifetime.
Choose Family-Friendly Attractions
One of the best tips for planning a family trip to Chicago is to choose attractions that will appeal to everyone in the family. Luckily, there’s so much to see and do in the city that finding kid-friendly attractions couldn’t be any easier. There are various attractions specifically geared toward kids that encourage them to play and explore to their heart’s content, including Maggie Daley Park and the Chicago Children’s Museum.
Chicago is home to many different museums that will appeal to family members of all ages. My kids particularly loved visiting the Shedd Aquarium during our family trip to the city. Not only does the Shedd Aquarium house an impressive collection of aquatic acquaintances, but it also has an abundance of educational and interactive exhibits that encourage kids to get up close and personal with their favorite fishy friends.
Check Out Local Events
Whether it’s your first or millionth time visiting Chicago, you can always find a new experience. This is thanks to the many events that are constantly taking place all over the city. Prior to your family trip to the Windy City, check local listings to see if any special events are going on. Chances are you’ll find some festival or celebration to partake in. Summer is a particularly busy season for festivals and events in Chicago. The Taste of Chicago takes place every July and offers a wide selection of delicious Chicago dishes, including deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. Many festivals are even free to the public, so your family can come and go as you please.
Get Outdoors
Y’all, when I tell you my kids are a rambunctious crew, I truly mean it. After staying cooped up in the car on the way to the city, my kids were ready to bust out and run wild almost immediately after we arrived. Luckily, Chicago has plenty of outdoor attractions where my kids could let loose and get out all their energy. Being the animal-loving family that we are, my kids loved running around the Lincoln Park Zoo and seeing their favorite animals. I love that the zoo is entirely free to the public. You can also visit Navy Pier, stroll along the Lakefront Trail, or stop by one of the city’s many beautiful beaches.
