65+ Free & Fun Things To Do with Kids This Summer in Chicago

Free Summer Fun in Chicago with Kids - Make your bucket list!

We've put together the ultimate guide on free things to do in Chicago with kids this summer that are fun for the whole family! These free summer activities for kids in Chicago will keep boredom at bay and won't break the bank. From splashing in the city's amazing free water parks and exploring Chicago's best free parks and playgrounds to discovering free museum days and enjoying free summer events for families, get ready for an unforgettable, budget-friendly summer!

We've organized our guide by location, including free summer fun in the city, in the nearby suburbs, and in surrounding locations.

For more summer fun ideas, check out our new Staycation Guide!

The 606
Around 1800 North
The 606 (Along the Bloomingdale Trail): This repurposed 2.7-mile elevated trail offers a unique urban experience for families. Enjoy walking, biking, and taking in city views along this accessible green space. It provides a safe and scenic route for recreation.

Lurie Garden
Daily 8am - 9pm
Southeastern end of Millennium Park, Chicago
Within Millennium Park, Lurie Garden offers a tranquil environment to explore nature. This thoughtfully designed space showcases beautiful plants and supports local wildlife, providing an opportunity to observe ecological principles in an urban setting.

Adams Water Playground
1919 N. Seminary Avenue, Chicago
During warmer months, Adams Water Playground in Lincoln Park provides a refreshing and engaging space for children of all ages. With fountains, sprinklers, and shaded areas, it's an ideal spot to cool down and enjoy outdoor play.

Art on the Mart
Merchandise Mart, 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago
Experience large-scale public art in a unique way with the nightly projections on the facade of the Merchandise Mart. This free visual display along the Riverwalk offers an engaging cultural experience for families. Visit the web site to see the current schedule.

Garfield Park Conservatory
300 North Central Park Avenue, Chicago
Discover a diverse collection of plant life from around the world at the Garfield Park Conservatory. Explore indoor tropical and desert environments, as well as outdoor gardens. The conservatory also offers family-friendly areas and a variety of events.

Notebaert Nature Museum - Sugested Donation Thursdays
2430 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago
On Thursdays, Illinois residents can visit the Notebaert Nature Museum with a suggested donation. The museum offers engaging exhibits and educational opportunities focused on science and nature for the whole family.

Nature Boardwalk/Lincoln Park South Lagoon
South of Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago
The area around the South Lagoon in Lincoln Park near the Lincoln Park Zoo provides a gentle and picturesque setting for a family hike. Paved paths meander alongside the water, offering opportunities to spot ducks, geese, and other urban wildlife. End your hike with a visit to the animals at the zoo!

Humboldt Park
1400 N. Sacramento, Chicago
This vibrant West Side park offers a mix of paved paths and grassy areas ideal for family explorations. Stroll around the lagoon, admire the historic fieldhouse, and discover the park's beautiful gardens. The open spaces provide room for kids to run and play, while the cultural landmarks offer interesting sights along your leisurely walk.

Lincoln Park Zoo
2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago
A long-standing favorite, Lincoln Park Zoo offers free admission to see a wide variety of animals. On Wednesdays, the Farm-in-the-Zoo features special activities like story time, art, and sensory play for younger children.

Maggie Daley Park
337 E Randolph St, Chicago
Designed with imaginative play in mind, Maggie Daley Park offers a wide range of engaging activities. Families can enjoy climbing structures, a maze, a lagoon, and unique slides, providing hours of active fun for various ages.

Lincoln Park Conservatory
2391 N. Stockton Drive, Chicago
Adjacent to the conservatory building, these outdoor gardens offer a peaceful place to stroll among themed flower beds and enjoy the natural beauty. Bring a blanket and treats and enjoy a picnic, then head to the zoo afterwards for a special day.

Ukrainian National Museum
2249 W. Superior St., Chicago
Explore Ukrainian heritage and culture at the Ukrainian National Museum. The museum features a collection of artifacts, including folk art and historical tools. Admission is free for children under 12.

Indian Boundary Park
2500 W Lunt Ave., Chicago
The Nature Play Center at Indian Boundary Park provides a creative outdoor space for children to explore and engage with natural elements. Visitors can discover a beautifully restored nature area and duck-filled lagoon. The park also includes a nature area, a lagoon with ducks, and a water spray feature.

Ping Tom Memorial Park
1700 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago
Ping Tom Memorial Park's 17.44-acre site was originally a Chicago and Western Indiana Railroad yard located along the edge of the South Branch of the Chicago River in the Armour Square Community. Today, Ping Tom Memorial Park holds a children's playground, community gathering areas and Chinese landscape design elements. Outdoor features include an athletic field, walking paths by the river, and a boat house with kayak rentals.

Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum Free Wednesdays
1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
The Adler is excited to announce free general admission for Illinois residents (with proof of residency) every Wednesday evening from 4-10 pm all summer. Stop by after work or school, or for date night and enjoy everything the Adler has to offer day or night.

National Museum of Mexican Art
1852 W 19th Street, Chicago
The museum displays a significant permanent collection of Mexican art, rich visual and performing arts programs, high quality arts education programs and resources and professional development of Mexican artists. The Museum welcomes all people and strives to foster a world where all are included. Admission is always free. Closed Mondays.

Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
220 E Chicago Ave., Chicago
Experience thought-provoking contemporary art at the MCA, one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to contemporary art. Admission is free for individuals 18 and under. The museum also hosts free family days on the second Saturday of each month with special activities for children.

Palmisano Park (formerly Stearns Quarry)
2700 S. Halsted St., Chicago
This former quarry offers a fishing pond, interpretive wetlands, preserved quarry walls, trails, an athletic field, a running track, and a hill with spectacular city views. Over 1.7 miles of paths, including recycled timber boardwalks, concrete walks, a crushed stone running path, and metal grating walkways traverse the park.

Chicago Riverwalk
Chicago River along Wacker Drive
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the 1.25-mile Chicago Riverwalk. With distinct sections, it offers varied sights and opportunities to enjoy the cityscape. Family-friendly dining options are also available.

Green City Market Lincoln Park
1817 N. Clark St., Chicago
Green City Market Lincoln Park (Chicago, May - October): Discover a variety of sustainably grown and produced goods from local farmers and food producers at the Green City Market in Lincoln Park.

North Park Village Nature Center
5801 North Pulaski Road, Chicago
This 46-acre nature preserve and educational facility offers trails that wind through woodland, wetland, prairie and savanna. Kids can get hands-on with nature in the discovery room, handling natural objects and learning with interactive displays.

Old Town Aquarium
4018 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago
This local aquarium store offers a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world for children. View a variety of colorful fish and marine creatures up close, providing an educational and engaging experience.

Chicago Women's Park & Gardens Indoor Play Space
1802 S. Indiana Ave., Chicago
Chicago Women's Park and Gardens honors the contributions women have made to the city throughout its history and provides a quiet respite for the community. Outside, the park offers a beautiful garden, and indoors a playground offers a space for active play regardless of the weather.

Major Taylor Bike Trail
105th St. to 129th St., Chicago
This 6+ mile path was named after legendary African American cyclist Marshall "Major" Taylor, and stretches through several sections of the city and through the neighborhoods of Brainerd, Gresham, Beverly, Morgan Park, Roseland and West Pullman, as well as the Village of Riverdale.

Chicago Cultural Center
78 E. Washington St.. Chicago
This landmark building is an architectural gem that hosts a wide array of free events, including ree music, dance and theater events, films, lectures, art exhibitions and family events. The stunning stained-glass domes are a notable feature.

Clark Playlot Park
3400 N. Rockwell St., Chicago
Richard Clark Park comprises nearly 19 acres of greenspace along the east bank of the Chicago River in the North Center neighborhood. The park offers a variety of recreational facilities, including a soccer field, a boat house, and the Kerry Wood Cubs Field. The Garden area features dirt jumps suitable for different biking skill levels.

Montrose Beach
4400 N. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
Pack your blankets, picnic and frisbees - and bring your dog, too! This is a great family friendly beach where you can enjoy free parking, restroom and grills. An ADA accessible beach walk is available. A dog friendly beach is located at north end of Montrose Beach, and south of the recreational beach is a natural area that attracts migratory birds during the fall and spring seasons.

31st Street Beach (Burroughs Beach Park)
3100 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
The 31st Street Beach offers plenty of features to keep kids busy, including a playground with rope structures, a climbing wall and a water spray area, plus slides, swings and more.

Millennium Park
201 E. Randolph St., Chicago
Beyond its iconic sculptures, Millennium Park provides open spaces for play, the interactive Crown Fountain (seasonal), free concerts and events, making it a central hub for family activities.

Harold Washington Library Center
400 S State St., Chicago
This impressive library offers more than just books, with free exhibits and numerous children's programs, including story times and craft workshops. Exploring its architecture is also an experience in itself.

Grant Park
331 E. Randolph St., Chicago
Chicago's expansive "front yard," Grant Park, offers large green spaces perfect for picnics, kite flying, and outdoor games. The Buckingham Fountain's water shows (seasonal) and gardens are popular attractions.

Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
While some attractions have fees, strolling along Navy Pier and enjoying the lake views is free. Enjoy street performers and free fireworks shows on select summer nights.

Chicago Lakefront Trail
Along Lake Michigan, Chicago
This scenic multi-use trail extends for miles along Lake Michigan, offering beautiful views of the city skyline and the lake. Numerous free playgrounds are located along the path.

Oz Park
2021 N. Burling St., Chicago
Inspired by the Wizard of Oz, this whimsical park features statues of the beloved characters, sparking imagination and providing a unique play environment.

63rd Street Beach Playground Park
6300 S. Jean-Baptiste Pointe DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
This beachside playground features a vibrant and engaging play structure right on the sand, offering a fun play experience with the lake as a backdrop.

Beverly Art Center
2407 W 111th St., Chicago
The Beverly Art Center often hosts free art exhibitions in its galleries, providing an opportunity to introduce children to different art forms. They occasionally offer free family workshops as well.

Independence Park
3945 N. Springfield Ave., Chicago
This neighborhood park offers a range of amenities for families, including a playground, a splash pad for summer fun, and beautiful gardens to explore.

Lincoln Square Farmers Market
4513 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
Support local farmers and enjoy fresh produce and artisan goods at the Lincoln Square Farmers Market. Tuesdays 7am - noon and Thursdays 3-7pm.

In the Nearby Suburbs of Chicago

Skokie Lagoons
Bordered by Lake-Cook, Willow, Edens, and Forest Road
The Skokie Lagoons are a prime destination for water exploration in northern Cook County. This network of pools, channels and islands winds between Winnetka, Northfield and Glencoe. Bring the family for boat access, fishing, biking, picnic areas, hiking, kayaking, birdwatching and more.

Dave's Rock Shop
711 Main St., Evanston
Dave's Rock Shop has something for everyone, with more than just rocks. The shop is filled with all kinds of stones and gems, fossils, crystals, shells, jewelry and Native American finds. Kids can visit the fossil museum in the basement, and entertain themselves at the rock table while you shop for unique jewelry (that part is NOT free!) More than just a shop, Dave's Rock Shop offers a fascinating collection of rocks, fossils, crystals, and minerals. A basement fossil museum provides an educational experience for children.

Emily Oaks Nature Center
4650 Brummel, Skokie
Explore this natural oasis full of native wildflowers, grasses, oak trees, a 3-acre pond and trails, and try to spot native animals like great Great Blue Herons, Coyotes, Flying Squirrels, Northern Water Snakes, Red Foxes and Cooper's Hawks. The nature center offers a variety of free programs for kids.

Kline Creek Farm
1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago
Step back in time to experience life on a working farm in the 1890s at Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago. Stroll through restored farmstead structures and meet the historically costumed interpreters operating this living history farm using the tools and techniques of the past.

River Trail Nature Center
3120 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook
Discover the local environment at River Trail Nature Center. Learn about maple syrup production, see live animals, and join guided hikes. Indoor and outdoor play areas are available for children.

Des Plaines History Center
781 Pearson Street, Des Plaines
The Des Plaines History Center offers tours of the restored 1906-07 Kinder House. Kids can learn what a stereo viewer is, how to work a boot jack, and why 1907 light fixtures used both gas and electricity.

Wildwood Nature Center
529 Forestview Avenue, Park Ridge
Visit Wildwood Nature Center and take a self-guided walk through the five acre nature haven and enjoy the two ponds and butterfly garden. Stop by the Nature Nook that offers interactive exhibits. The Animal Exhibit Room is home to over 35 animals, including Ball Python Snakes, Rabbit, Guinea Pig, Prairie Dogs, Soft Shelled Turtles and other small animals.

Storybook Trail
Little Bear Garden at Gallery Park, 2001 Patriot Boulevard, Glenview
Daily at the Storybook Trail, kids can walk, skip, jog, or, better yet, bike along the path, and read a seasonal story presented by the park district and library.

Busse Woods
N Arlington Heights Rd, Elk Grove Village
The paved trails of Busse Woods offer miles of easy walking and biking through diverse habitats. Enjoy the shade of mature trees and keep an eye out for deer, herons, and other wildlife that thrive in the summer months. The flat terrain makes it accessible for families with young children and those using strollers.

Wagner Farm
1510 Wagner Road, Glenview
Visit Wagner Farm, one of the last working dairy farms in Cook County, to learn about agricultural heritage. The Heritage Center features exhibits, and visitors may have the chance to participate in farm activities.

Baha’i House of Worship
100 Linden Ave., Wilmette
Explore the Baha'i Temple's lovely gardens and architectural beauty. During your visit, you may also explore the Baha’i Faith’s unifying teachings, including the oneness of humanity, the common threads among all major religions, and the connection between the human spirit and the betterment of the world.

Heller Nature Center
2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park
Explore the natural landscapes of Heller Nature Center, including forests, prairies, and wetlands. Enjoy over 3 miles of trails and look for local wildlife. Trails are open from 7:30am to Dusk.

Downers Grove Museum
831 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove
Take a step back in time at the Downers Grove Museum and see how families lived in the past. The museum features a collection of historical artifacts and gadgets. Kids can view the museum collections that include everything from buttonhooks to butter paddles, washboards to wedding dresses.

Spring Valley Nature Sanctuary
1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg
Spring Valley is an outdoor living museum, where visitors can learn about nature and local history amid 135 acres of fields, forests, marshes and streams. Spring Valley also features over three miles of handicapped-accessible hiking trails, a nature center with natural history displays and information, and an 1880s living history farm.

Volkening Heritage Farm
201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg
Step back into the 1880s for a look at when Schaumburg was a rural German farm community. Help with seasonal farm chores, participate in family activities and games of the 1880s, and visit the livestock. Authentically dressed interpreters welcome and guide visitors through the site.

Oak Park Conservatory
615 Garfield St, Oak Park
Step into the lush indoor showrooms of the Oak Park Conservatory. Free to the public, The Oak Park Conservatory offers a rich atmosphere of flora and fauna throughout three indoor Conservatory showrooms including a Mediterranean room, Tropical room and Desert room.

Busse Woods
E Higgins Rd/Rte 72, east of I-290/Hwy 53, near Elk Grove Village
Busse Woods is one of the largest and most diverse locations in the Forest Preserves. The site includes ancient upland forests, one of the largest fishing and boating waters in Cook County, nearly 13 miles of paved trail, an elk pasture and much more, making it one of the best-used natural areas in Illinois.

In the Further Suburbs of Chicago and Beyond

Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center
9800 Willow Springs Rd., Willow Springs
Explore the Little Red Schoolhouse grounds on three unpaved walking trails or the paved accessible garden trail, and from there you can connect to the Palos Trail System which winds through rolling hills and deep ravines, providing beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. Closed on Fridays.

Indiana Dunes
1215 SR-49, Chesterton IN
Indiana Dunes National Park runs along 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan, and offers 15,000 acres of beautiful scenery and 50 miles of trails that pass over and through rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

Buffalo Creek
18163 West Checker Road, Long Grove
This expansive 408-acre preserve offers 5.5 miles of gravel trails for walking and biking. Trails run through open areas within the preserve, crossing several creeks, skirting the reservoir and traversing restored prairie. Fishing is allowed in the reservoir.

Glacial Park
6705 Route 31, Ringwood
Glacial Park is characterized by its rolling prairie, delta kames, oak savanna and the tranquil presence of the meandering Nippersink Creek. Encompassing 3,439 acres, Glacial Park contains over 490 acres of dedicated nature preserve that harbors 40 state endangered and threatened plant and animal species. It is listed as one of the top five areas to view migratory wetland birds in the region.

Old School Forest Preserve
28285 St. Mary's Road, Mettawa
Old School offers miles of trails, great bass fishing and secluded picnic spots in the heart of Lake County. A 2.7-mile gravel loop trail explores woods and prairies and is open for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The 1-mile lake loop trail encircles the lake and is open to for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. Explore all of the paths with your family!

Lake Katherine
7402 W Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights
Bring your family and stroll around the gardens, and explore the trails around the lake and along the Cal-Sag channel. Don't miss the man-made waterfall, and the buzz n' bloom prairie where you can find species such as compass plant, bee balm and Indian grass. Explore features gardens, lakeside trails, a prairie, an organic garden, and a children's forest with unique features.

Crabtree Nature Center
3 Stover Road, Barrington
Over a thousand acres of rolling, glacier formed landscape in northwest Cook County has been set aside as Crabtree Nature Center. Teach your kids about "Birding," with more than 260 possible bird species to spot. Take in the self-guided hiking trails and spot ducks, geese and wildflowers. The Nature Center offers a variety of free family-friendly summer events.

Thorn Creek Nature Center & Preserve
247 Monee Road, Park Forest
Explore over 3 1/2 miles of trails that take you through an oak-hickory woodland, floodplain and scenic ravines and pine plantations. Trails are open daily, the nature center is open Fridays only.

Hidden Oaks Nature Center
419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook
Hunt for animal homes, learn the history of the land, and discover items found on the site. Hidden Lakes features three secluded fishing ponds within the 80-acre conservation site that also houses Hidden Oaks Nature Center. The site also connects to the Will County Forest Preserves Whalon Lakes making it a great location to ride bikes, walk the trails or fish.

Plum Creek Nature Center
27064 S. Dutton Road, Beecher
The Plum Creek Nature Center offers visitors a place to explore the natural world, with hands-on exhibits in addition to a natural playscape for outdoor educational experiences, featuring a pollinator garden, rain garden, and interactive play elements. Kids can touch feathers and rocks, see animal skulls, and watch the birds. Closed on Mondays.

Illinois Beach State Park
1 Lake Front Dr, Zion
Illinois Beach State Park stretches 6.5 miles along the sandy shore of Lake Michigan and offers dunes and swales, sprawling marshes, forests of oak and vast arrays of animal life and vegetation. Explore a wide range of recreational activities, including swimming, boating, hiking, fishing, and camping.