Chicago is the perfect destination for families seeking a city break packed with adventure, culture and unforgettable experiences. Whether travelling with young children, teenagers or multiple generations, visitors can enjoy everything from interactive museums and outdoor attractions to iconic landmarks, lakefront activities and spectacular skyline views. Combining world-class entertainment with rich history and hands-on learning, Chicago offers something for every age group, and below, Choose Chicago has rounded up a selection of summer favourites.
F1 Arcade Chicago *Opening this Summer*
The world’s first official Formula 1® experiential hospitality brand will arrive in River North this summer. Featuring 70 full-motion racing simulators, an elevated food and cocktail programme for the whole family, and the brand’s first-ever rooftop terrace concept, F1® Arcade blends social gaming, nightlife energy, and immersive sports entertainment in a one-of-a-kind downtown venue.
HOW: For more information on F1 Arcade, please visit f1arcade.com
Pokemon Fossil Museum at the Field Museum *New This Spring*
The Pokémon Fossil Museum opened with its North American debut at the Field Museum in Chicago. Running from 22 May 2026 to 11 April 2027, this unique exhibition brings together the worlds of Pokémon and palaeontology, inviting families to compare Fossil Pokémon such as Tyrantrum and Archeops with real prehistoric fossils, including the museum’s world-famous SUE the T. rex. Combining hands-on learning with interactive displays and beloved Pokémon characters, it’s an exciting experience that will inspire curious minds of all ages.
HOW: The Field Museum offers tickets to the Pokemon Fossil Museum priced from £13 per person. For information and to book, please visit www.fieldmuseum.org
Lincoln Park Zoo *free admission*
Set across 35 acres in Lincoln Park, Lincoln Park Zoo is the fourth oldest zoo in the United States and one of the few that remains completely free to visit. Here, visitors can come face-to-face with gorillas and chimpanzees, hear lions roar, and watch black bears from their den as they explore the grounds. Located just minutes from Downtown, the zoo also offers striking views of Chicago’s skyline rising behind the park providing visitors with wildlife, green space, and city scenery all in one place.
HOW: Admission to Lincoln Park Zoo is free, For more information on Lincoln Park Zoo, please visit www.lpzoo.org
Flyover Chicago
Experience the city of Chicago from a soaring birds eye view with Flyover Chicago, the city’s latest family-friendly attraction. The signature Flyover experience, Believe Chicago, highlights the vibrant tapestry of the city by combining state-of-the-art technology, a giant 65″ spherical screen, and realistic flight motion for a unique virtual reality experience that soars over the city. Located at Navy Pier, visitors can also see the city from another angle along one of its most famous tourist landmarks.
HOW: Flyover Chicago offers tickets priced from £23 per adult and £15 per child aged under 13. For more information and to book, please visit experienceflyover.com
Chicago’s Beaches
With miles of stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, Chicago is home to over 20 public beaches, offering families the perfect opportunity to enjoy a beach day in the heart of the city. Hire bikes or hop on a Divvy cycle and cruise the scenic Lakefront Trail, which links many of Chicago’s most popular beaches, parks and attractions, all while taking in spectacular skyline views. After a day by the water, cool off with a stop at the iconic Rainbow Cone, a Chicago institution famous for its five-flavour stacked ice treat that’s been delighting families for almost a century.
WNDR Museum
Swap the traditional museum experience for one that’s made to be explored at WNDR Museum. Packed with immersive art installations, interactive exhibits and playful experiences, WNDR Museum is a hidden gem in the city. From mind-bending optical illusions to digital displays and the iconic Infinity Mirror Room by renowned artist Yayoi Kusama, it’s a place where creativity comes to life and every room offers a new photo worthy surprise.
HOW: WNDR Museum offers tickets priced from £21 per person. For more information and to book, please visit www.wndrmuseum.com
For more information on Chicago, please visit choosechicago.com
