- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Chicago Guide (PDF)
Expats relocating to Chicago with their kids in tow will be pleased to know that the city is family-friendly. There are plenty of attractions and activities for the little ones to enjoy.
Entertainment for kids in Chicago
Chicago Children's Museum
Parents looking for a fun but educational day out should head to the Chicago Children’s Museum. It's the perfect place for inquisitive young minds. The museum includes three floors of interactive exhibits, including a tinkering lab, play space, water and climbing exhibits, and an art studio.
Chicago Children's Theatre
For a dose of arts and culture, catch a show at the Chicago Children's Theatre. The theatre aims to inspire children to lead lives of adventure, courage and curiosity. Parents will also be able to sign their little ones up for the theatre's acting classes and themed drama camps.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Children will love a trip to Lincoln Park to meet the gorillas, polar bears and much else at the Lincoln Park Zoo. With one of the largest zoo-based conservation and science programmes in the country, Lincoln Park Zoo is also dedicated to using science to conserve wildlife and provide better care. Families will be able to learn about a huge range of animals while viewing them up close in safe and protected spaces.
Shedd Aquarium
First opened in 1930, the Shedd Aquarium has a rich history dating back close to a century. The aquarium is committed to conservation, and the protection of the aquatic animal world is a core part of their mission. It comes highly recommended and is a great activity for the whole family. Visitors can walk among exhibits and learn about the 32,000 marine animals housed there, as well as about how to take action to protect them.
Six Flags Great America
Six Flags Great America amusement park makes for a great day out for the family. Although the park originally opened in 1976, Six Flags, the biggest regional theme park company in the world, has owned and operated it since 1984. Newcomers are guaranteed endless hours of entertainment enjoying the thrilling rides throughout the park.
Beaches of Michigan Lake
The beaches of Michigan Lake offer plenty of opportunity for outdoor activities for the entire family. Whether it's building sandcastles, swimming or having a lakeside picnic, there is plenty of fun in the sun to be had along the riverside.
Further reading
►Find out about schooling options in the city by taking a look at our Education and Schools in Chicago page
►See and Do in Chicago includes a list of some of the top attractions on offer in the city
Expat Interviews
"What I enjoy the most (especially in the summer) is the lakefront, Lincoln Park and the numerous playgrounds and parks that are scattered all around the city."
Read more about Veronique's expat experience in Chicago.
Are you an expat living in Chicago?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Chicago. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.