How to Plan the Ultimate Family-Friendly Spring Break Trip to Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city that offers plenty of exciting activities and attractions for families to enjoy. From museums to parks and everything in between, there's something for everyone in the Windy City. If you're planning a family-friendly trip to Chicago this spring break, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your time in the city.

Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations

When planning your trip to Chicago, it's important to choose family-friendly accommodations. Look for hotels that offer amenities like pools, free breakfast, and spacious rooms that can accommodate everyone in your group. Some great options include the Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile and the Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown/N Loop/Michigan Ave - Hilton.

Embassy Suites is a great choice for families because each suite includes a separate living area with a sofa bed, as well as a microwave and mini-fridge. The hotel also offers a free cooked-to-order breakfast each morning and a nightly reception with drinks and snacks.

Meanwhile, the Hampton Inn is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, making it easy to walk to many of the city's top attractions. The hotel offers free breakfast, as well as a fitness center and indoor pool.

Visit Kid-Friendly Museums

Chicago is home to a number of museums that are perfect for families with children. The Museum of Science and Industry is a must-visit, with interactive exhibits that teach kids about science, technology, engineering, and math. Kids can explore a replica coal mine, ride in a flight simulator, and see a real-life U-505 submarine.

The Field Museum is another popular choice, with exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and natural history. Kids can see Sue, the world's largest and most complete T. rex skeleton, as well as the Ancient Americas exhibit, which explores the history and culture of indigenous peoples in North, Central, and South America.

Finally, the Shedd Aquarium is a great option for families who love marine life. Kids can see beluga whales, sea otters, penguins, and more. The aquarium also offers a 4-D experience that takes visitors on an underwater journey through the Great Barrier Reef.

Explore Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a 24.5-acre park in downtown Chicago that's home to a number of iconic attractions. The park is famous for its Cloud Gate sculpture, which is affectionately known as "The Bean." Kids will love taking photos in front of the sculpture, as well as running through the interactive Crown Fountain. In the summer, the park also hosts free concerts and movies.

In addition to The Bean and Crown Fountain, Millennium Park also features the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an outdoor concert venue that hosts performances by the Grant Park Orchestra and other musical acts. The Lurie Garden is a 2.5-acre garden that features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a boardwalk and seating areas. Finally, the park also includes the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, which showcases a variety of performances throughout the year.

Take a Riverboat Tour

One of the best ways to see Chicago is from the water. A riverboat tour is a fun and unique way for families to explore the city. There are a number of different tour companies to choose from, including Wendella and Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise.

Wendella's Classic Lake Tour is a great option for families, as it takes visitors on a 90-minute journey down the Chicago River and out onto Lake Michigan. Kids can learn about the city's history and architecture while enjoying the views from the water. The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise is another great option, with expert guides who provide in-depth information on Chicago's famous buildings and landmarks. The tour also includes a glimpse into the city's history, as well as some fun facts and stories that will keep kids engaged and entertained.

Visit Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago's top attractions, and for a good reason. The pier is home to a number of family-friendly activities and attractions, including an amusement park, an IMAX theater, and the Chicago Children's Museum. Kids can ride the Ferris wheel, play mini-golf, and explore interactive exhibits that teach them about art, music, and science.

In addition to the attractions, Navy Pier also features a number of restaurants and shops. Families can grab a bite to eat at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. or Harry Caray's Tavern or shop for souvenirs and gifts at one of the many stores on the pier. And with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, Navy Pier is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening with the family.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

Spring is a great time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, and Chicago has plenty of outdoor activities for families to enjoy. The city is home to a number of parks and green spaces, including Lincoln Park and Grant Park, which offer miles of walking and biking trails, as well as playgrounds and picnic areas.

Another fun outdoor activity is renting bikes and riding along the Lakefront Trail, which stretches for 18 miles along Lake Michigan. Families can also rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore the Chicago River or take a stroll through the Garfield Park Conservatory, which features a variety of plants and flowers from around the world.

In conclusion, Chicago is a great destination for families looking to plan a fun and memorable spring break trip. With kid-friendly museums, iconic attractions like Millennium Park and Navy Pier, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, there's something for everyone in the Windy City. So pack your bags, book our Chicago car service, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in Chicago!

Posted on Feb 28 2023