Top 10 Places In Chicago For Family Fun and Photo Ops

DID YOU KNOW? Chicago is the home to the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Company! This building has 10 stories and rose to a height of 138 ft (42 m). Construction of the building was completed in 1885.

Chicago is filled with activities for kids and adults alike, all with their own unique photo ops. We decided to break down some of the best spots for families which also have amazing photo potential. Visit one of these spots to have fun and snap a few pics for your children’s grandparents, and relatives who are dying to see the next cute photo of their grandchildren.

1.  The Field Museum

Among Chicago’s finest museums, the Field Museum has over 20 million objects on display and in their archives. The museum has one of the largest collections of Ancient Egyptian objects and tombs and also the world’s mos perfect T Rex skeleton named Sue. Though these are the most notable artifacts in the museum, there are many more to explore.

2. Maggie Daley Park

Located in the Loop Community of Chicago, Maggie Daley offers activities all year round. From the loop shaped skating rink to the outdoor climbing park, Maggie Daley Park has something for everyone no matter the weather outside.

3.  Shedd Aquarium

Over 32,000 animals call Shedd Aquarium home, and they don’t just have fish. Unlike most aquariums, Shedd Aquarium also has an Amazon exhibit which features monkeys, iguanas, and frogs. The Aquarium also features traditional animals such as sting rays, sharks, and dolphins and opportunities to watch live divers in the tanks. There is plenty to see and learn at the Shedd Aquarium so hope to “sea” you there.

4. Garfield Park and Conservatory

As one of the largest conservatories in the country, the Garfield Park Conservatory has over two acres of indoor greenhouses and twelve acres of public gardens in the summer. They also host children’s programming regularly and have a full time children’s garden. This conservatory is a great place to bring a nature lover of any age!

5. Chicago Children’s Museum

Right at the Navy Pier, you will find the most kid oriented museum in all of Chicago. The Children’s Museum aims to teach children through play and every exhibit demonstrates that. From learning how water can power things to tinkering with technology to make it work, the museum teaches through fun hands on opportunities.

6. Lincoln Park

Named after former President Abraham Lincoln, Lincoln Park aims to a peaceful area in the midst of the Lincoln Park neighborhood. The park has a variety of activities to offer including a zoo, conservatory, and several museums.

7. Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum was created to tell the story of Chicago. Though the building has been destroyed twice due to fire, the importance of Chicago’s history has kept them running. The museum tells the story of the city with several exhibits, including collections of work from Chicago authors and artifacts from the Great Chicago Fire.

8. Millenium Park

Home to the Bean, Millenium Park has lots to offer. It offers one of the biggest green roofs in the world as well as the famous Crown Fountain. As Chicago’s second most visited tourist attraction, it is definitely one place you can’t miss.

9. Thomas Hughes Children’s Library

The Thomas Hughes’ Children’s Library encompasses the entire second floor of the library, making it the perfect place to find new books to read and learn new things. The library hosts family programming regularly and also caters to specific age groups. This place has also recently been remodelled and it looks great!

10. Chicago Botanic Garden

For 40 years, the Chicago Botanic Garden has wowed the Chicago community with its beauty. There are over 25 gardens to look at including a Bonsai collection, indoor greenhouses, and model railroad garden.