lincoln park chicago

Best Things to Do with Kids in Lincoln Park, Chicago: A Family-Friendly Guide

Looing for some fun things to do with kids in Lincoln Park Chicago? Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most popular neighborhoods, and for good reason. It’s home to a variety of kid-friendly attractions, from the free Lincoln Park Zoo to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Whether your kids are interested in animals, nature, history, or simply playing outdoors, Lincoln Park has something to offer everyone.

lincoln park chicago

10 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Lincoln Park Chicago

Welcome, adventurous families, to a vibrant haven of entertainment and discovery – Lincoln Park, Chicago!

If you’re on the hunt for unforgettable moments with your little ones, look no further. Our guide is your golden ticket to the ultimate family-friendly escapades in the heart of the city.

From wild encounters at the Lincoln Park Zoo to whimsical adventures in Oz Park, we’ve handpicked the top 10 attractions that will keep your kids giggling, exploring, and asking for more. Get ready to embark on a journey through captivating museums, lush green spaces, and interactive wonders that make every day an adventure.

Whether you’re local or visiting, prepare to dive into a world of laughter, learning, and boundless joy. Join us as we unveil the best of Lincoln Park – where memories are made, and family bonds grow stronger, all while having a blast. Let’s dive in!

lincoln park zoo

Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo
2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

If you’re ready to dive into a wild world of excitement right in the heart of Chicago, the Lincoln Park Zoo is calling your name!

Get ready to embark on an animal-packed journey that will leave both you AND the kids wide-eyed and grinning from ear to earImagine coming face to face with playful primates who swing through the trees, or catching a glimpse of majestic lions ruling over their kingdom.

The Lincoln Park Zoo is not just a zoo – it’s a place where learning feels like a thrilling safari, where every step brings you closer to creatures from across the globe. From roaring tigers to towering giraffes, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a treasure trove of nature’s most incredible creations. Be sure to stop by the cheerful Farm in the Zoo, where the kid can pet friendly sheep, bunnies and more: you’re going to want to have your camera ready for this one.

Step outside the zoo and into a beautiful park and gardens, where you can explore wildlife as you walk along the South Pond Boardwalk in Lincoln Park. You’ll leave with a heart full of unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the animal kingdom. Psst, parents, you’ll love it too!

The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo with over 200 species of animals, including lions, tigers, gorillas, and penguins. Children will love seeing the animals up close and personal, be sure to top by the Seal House first!

butterflies at the peggy notebaert musuem

Discover Nature at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
2430 N Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

One of my favorite sprots to bring ths kids is the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. This may be one of the most underrated museums in the city, and both you and the kids are in for a treat.

You’ll all step away from the city into nature here. The museum is a portal to the incredible world of plants, animals, and ecosystems that make our planet so amazing. Imagine getting up close and personal with fluttering butterflies in a lush indoor habitat, or learning about the fascinating creatures that call the Midwest home.

With interactive exhibits that make learning an adventure, the kids will uncover the secrets of the natural world while having a blast. Whether you’re into insects, birds, or just love to explore/

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an excellent place to learn about nature and the environment. Children will love the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

lincoln park conservatory

Unwind at the Lincoln Park Conservatory

Lincoln Park Conservatory
2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

This is the perfect spot to slow down and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Lush greenery and captivating beauty at the Lincoln Park Conservatory, a true oasis nestled in the heart of Chicago. This botanical paradise filled with exotic plants from around the world creates a breathtaking symphony of colors and scents.

Wander through rooms filled with tropical wonders, towering palms, and delicate blooms that transport you all to far-off lands.

From learning about the incredible diversity of plant life to experiencing the calming effect of nature, the Lincoln Park Conservatory is a sanctuary of serenity waiting to be explored. Whether you’re fascinated by flora, enjoy the tranquility of gardens, or simply seek a moment of zen, the Conservatory is a haven of natural wonder you won’t want to miss.

The Lincoln Park Conservatory is a beautiful greenhouse filled with exotic plants and flowers. Children will love exploring the various rooms and learning about different plant species.

Green city market in lincoln park chicago

Savor the Flavor at the Green City Market

Explore the Green City Market
1817 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

The kids’ taste buds are in for a treat at The Green City Market. This is a flavorsome adventure with the kids that will help them become interested in the way their fuel their bodies with healthy, fresh foods that taste good, too!

From vibrant fruits to artisanal cheeses, this market is a paradise of farm-fresh delights that will tickle their taste buds and expand their culinary horizons (and yours, too). Imagine wandering through stalls brimming with colorful veggies, meeting the farmers who grew them, and maybe even trying a sample or two (or three!).

It’s not just a market – it’s a place where food comes to life, where you can teach the kids about the journey from farm to table and discover the magic of sustainable eating. Whether you have a budding chef or just love trying new things, The Green City Market is a feast for the senses you won’t want to miss.

The Green City Market is an outdoor farmers’ market where families can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. Children will love trying new foods and learning about where their food comes from. This is one of my favorite things to with kids in Lincoln Park.

kids playing at Oz Park in Chicago's lincoln park

Frolic with the Tin Man in Oz Park

Oz Park
2021 N Burling St, Chicago, IL 60614

The magic of your favorite storybook comes to life right here in Chicago.

The kids will love this leafy green oassis in the city, a fantastical playground where you can follow the yellow brick road, hang out with bronze statues of Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion. Get ready to let their imagination run wild as they explore the whimsical sculptures, skip down the brick path, and maybe even have a picnic in the company of Oz’s beloved characters.

From playground fun to open green spaces, Oz Park is a place where dreams take flight and where every visit feels like a journey over the rainbow. Get ready to click your heels with joy!

Oz Park is a fun and whimsical park with statues of characters from The Wizard of Oz. Children will love playing on the playground and exploring the park’s many features.

chicago history museum
Photo via the Chicago History Museum

Uncover the Past at the Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum
1601 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614.


Step back in time and uncover the incredible stories that have shaped Chicago at the Chicago History Museum.

This incredible time machine that will transport you and the kids to the past with its captivating exhibits and interactive experiences. From the Great Chicago Fire to the vibrant cultures that have woven the city’s tapestry, you and the kids can walk in the footsteps of those who came before. Imagine touching artifacts from days gone by, or even dressing up in historical costumes for a taste of life in a different era.

Whether your kids are fascinated by pioneers, intrigued by the Roaring Twenties, or simply eager to learn about your city’s roots, the Chicago History Museum is a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be explored.

The Chicago History Museum is an excellent place to learn about the city’s rich history. Children will love the interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

boy playing with clay at the lincoln park cultural center

Lincoln Park Cultural Center

Lincoln Park Cultural Center
2045 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614

Imagination knows no bounds at the Lincoln Park Cutural Center. For your young artists, performers, and creative minds, their talents can shine bright here.

A hub of artistic inspiration and community connection right here in Chicago, the kids can choose from a variety of activities to help their creativity flourish.

Picture them taking center stage in a theater production, learning to paint like a pro, or dancing to your heart’s content in a vibrant studio. From pottery to poetry, this is where their passions can come alive. Whether you have an aspiring actor, a budding musician, or just eager to try something new, the Lincoln Park Cultural Center is a playground of artistic possibilities waiting to be explored.

The Lincoln Park Cultural Center offers a variety of classes and activities for children, including art, dance, and music classes.

kids at a live theater performance in lincoln park chicago

Discover Live Theater at the Apollo Theater

Apollo Theater
2540 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614

Get the kids ready to be dazzled and amazed at the Apollo Theater, a true gem and a great place to introduce the kids to live theater.

This isn’t just a theater – it’s a stage where dreams come to life, where laughter echoes and applause fills the air. The Apollo presents a wide variety of productions throughout the year, from Broadway hits to original productions, and they also incude some family-friendly shows for the kids.

Whether you’re a fan of musicals, stand-up comedy, or simply love to be entertained, the Apollo Theater is a great spot for the kids to discover the magic of live perfomances.

The Apollo Theater hosts family-friendly performances, including plays, musicals, and other shows. Children will love seeing live performances.

The Second City

The Second City
1616 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614

Young comedians and laughter-seekers will love stepping inside the legendary hub of hilarity nestled in the heart of Chicago.

More than just a comedy club –Second City is a stage where funny takes on a life of its own, and where giggles and guffaws are part of the show. Imagine sitting in a room filled with laughter as quick-witted comedians weave their comedic magic through sketches, improvisation, and stand-up routines. From satirical social commentary to side-splitting sketches.

The best part? Your kids and teens can take writing and improv classes, and even attend camp where they can earn how it all happens. Whether you have a budding comedian, a lover of all things funny, or just in need of a good laugh, The Second City is a an amazng spots to learn while having fun.

Second City is a comedy club that offers family-friendly shows on weekends. Children will love seeing live comedy and learning about improvisation.

Emerald City Theater

Emerald City Theatre – Now Closed
2936 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Gather your young actors and theater enthusiasts and bring them immediately to the Emerald City Theatre, a magical place where imagination takes center stage.

This isn’t just a theatre – it’s a realm of creativity where stories come alive, and where their own journey as a performer can begin. Your kids can picture themselves stepping into the spotlight, whether it’s in a classic fairy tale adaptation or an original production crafted just for young talents.

From rehearsing lines to mastering choreography, the Emerald City Theatre is a space where kids can hone their skills and explore the wonderful world of acting. Whether they dream of becoming a star or just love the thrill of the stage, the Emerald City Theatre is a stage of endless possibilities.

The Emerald City Theatre offers a variety of performances and classes for children, including plays, musicals, and theater camps. Children will love learning about the performing arts and participating in hands-on activities.

More to Explore in Chicago

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