Illinois is a fantastic state for anyone who is looking for fun things to do with kids. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Illinois has a variety of child-friendly activities worth exploring. From museums and zoos to recreational parks and waterparks, the state has something for everyone.
Museums
Illinois is home to several world-class museums, many of which cater primarily to children. Some of the best children’s museums in the state include:
1. The Children’s Museum of Illinois
Located in Decatur, the Children’s Museum of Illinois offers imaginative, interactive exhibits designed to stimulate the imagination, creativity, and curiosity of young children. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including a mini grocery store, a water area, and an art studio.
2. DuPage Children’s Museum
The DuPage Children’s Museum is an interactive museum for children located in Naperville. It provides visitors with over 17 interactive exhibit areas that stimulate the senses, creativity, and imagination. They have a wide range of programs for children, such as dance classes, and science shows.
3. Kohl Children’s Museum
Kohl Children’s Museum located in Glenview, IL, is another fantastic children’s museum. It is an ideal destination for kids aged 10 and under and offers a variety of interactive exhibits that enable children to explore the world around them. With interactive outdoor exhibits, they have a perfect blend of educational and fun activities.
Zoos and Aquariums
Visiting Illinois zoos and aquariums with your children is an excellent way to introduce them to the wonders of the animal kingdom. Here are some of the state’s best zoos and aquariums:
1. Brookfield Zoo
The Brookfield Zoo is located just outside Chicago in Brookfield, Illinois. It is home to more than 3,000 animals from around the world, making it one of the largest zoos in the country. The zoo specializes in many world-famous animal habitats, and visitors can see exhibits such as the Wild Encounters animal show, the Fragile Kingdom exhibit, and the Children’s Zoo.
2. Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is a world-renowned aquarium situated in downtown Chicago. It features 32,000 animals and over 1,500 species of fish, marine mammals, birds, and turtles, making it one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world. Shedd Aquarium has several exhibits to keep children engaged including the Oceanarium, Wild Reef, and Amazon Rising.
Recreational Parks
Illinois parks are among the best in the country, providing an abundance of recreational opportunities for children. Whether your kids enjoy biking, hiking, fishing, or picnicking, there’s something for everyone at these Illinois parks:
1. Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum is an expansive outdoor park located in Lisle that spans over 1,700 acres with a vast collection of trees. There are several engaging activities like guided tours on golf carts, self-led tours, and nature trails for walking, hiking or biking.
2. Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo, located within the Lincoln Park community area of Chicago, is home to a wide variety of animals, along with open air concert events. Apart from animal exhibits, the zoo offers a range of activities for children including a farm-in zoo, pond & garden exploration, and animal encounters.
Waterparks
Waterparks offer an excellent way to cool off during hot Illinois summers. The state is home to many different waterparks, but here are two that stand out:
1. Hurricane Harbor
Located in Gurnee, Hurricane Harbor is a part of the Six Flags Great America amusement park in Illinois. It is a great place for family fun on hot summer days, with several water rides, slides, and attractions to choose from.
2. Raging Waves
Raging Waves, located in Aurora, features 20 water rides and attractions, including the 40-foot-tall Boomerang ride and the two-acre wave pool. It is the largest waterpark in the state and ideal for family trips or day trips for some fun in the sun.
Conclusion
Illinois has a variety of options for families looking to make memories with their children. From engaging children’s museums and outdoor parks to world-famous zoos and waterparks – there is no shortage of fun and engaging activities in this great Midwestern state.