10+ things to do in Chicago with teens

It's never easy planning a vacation that keeps everyone happy, but we think Chicago has got you covered. Read on for our top tips and crowd-pleasers for teenagers.

UPDATED DECEMBER 2024
By Katie Sagal
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Searching for a fantastic city to take your teenagers to? Look no further than Chicago! There's amazing art and architecture, intriguing museums, dazzling sky-high views and so much more for teens to get stuck into. Plus, we think the grown-ups will have a fabulous time too...

If you’re looking for things to do in Chicago with teens, check out our list of the top attractions and activities, including...

  •  
  • Shedd Aquarium
  • Skydeck Chicago
  • 360 CHICAGO
  • Navy Pier Centennial Wheel
  • The Field Museum
  • Adler Planetarium
  • Brookfield Zoo
  • Ride a Bike around Millennium Park
  • and more...

Head to the Shedd Aquarium

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Trust us, the Shedd Aquarium is the mother of all aquariums. This is one of the most popular things to do in Chicago for a reason. Your teens will be able to enjoy seeing animals that hail from waterways and ecosystems all across the globe, from the nearby Great Lakes to the vast rivers of Asia.

One of our favorite nifty things about Shedd is the Caribbean Reef exhibit, where visitors can actually take a 360-degree tour of an underwater reef community – it’s a stunning up-close sight and is almost as good as snorkeling in Hawaii.

Bonus for everyone: you can skip the line with our Chicago pass, which is a huge benefit during busy tourist seasons. It will keep you and your teens from driving each other crazy during a long wait!

Get a bird’s eye view of the city

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Your whole family will love the stunning, panoramic views of one of the country’s most beautiful cities. So visit Skydeck Chicago today! Even the most skeptical teenagers will be amazed at 'The Ledge', an all-glass balcony that puts visitors four feet out from the edge of the building into space!

Looking for another perspective, and maybe a little more interactivity with your amazing views? Try 360 CHICAGO for another vantage point that’s equally as cool. 360 CHICAGO is also conveniently located near a good deal of shopping hotspots. What's not to love?

Stroll Navy Pier and ride the Centennial Wheel

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There's nothing like a good old-fashioned boardwalk stroll. And you don't need to hit up the Jersey Shore to find one! You and the teens will love spending some time at Navy Pier. There is a slew of activities to choose from, including the Centennial Wheel and a bunch of fun rides.

There are also plenty of places to eat and pick up fun souvenirs to remember your trip to Chicago. Want some more ideas? Check out our post on things to do at Navy Pier and nearby spots.

Snap photos on the architecture river cruise

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Chicago is an amazing city for architecture. With a diversity of influences and an eclectic building history, the skyline of Chicago is quite remarkable. One of our favorite ways to survey this beautiful scenery is on an Architecture River Cruise that highlights the city's architectural history.

Teens will relish the chance to get that awesome photo, and it's fun for everyone to be able to identify famous Chicago buildings.

Explore the famous museums

Field museum

Teens into natural history and science will find much to love in Chicago's museum scene. The Field Museum is one of the world's most prestigious natural history museums, featuring tons of fascinating stuff, from gemstones to fossils (like the largest intact T-Rex skeleton - above).

For astronomy buffs, the Adler Planetarium is amazingly fun. Or, for fans of general-interest scientific subjects, the Museum of Science and Industry is filled with interactive exhibits like a 40-foot indoor tornado.

Get inspired by art

Artsy teens (and their parents!) won't want to miss out on the chance to visit Chicago's top-rated museum. The Art Institute of Chicago is an international favorite and draws in so many people to its amazing collections of art and artifacts that span the entire globe and all across history.

Be especially sure to check out the Modern Wing. Designed by famed architect Renzo Piano and filled with only the most exciting modern and contemporary art, it's the place to be.

Insider Tip: Download their innovative mobile guide to help navigate the museum.

Chill with animals at the Brookfield Zoo

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For fans of animals, Chicago is a delightful destination. The Brookfield Zoo features a diversity of animal exhibits, a massive nature park, and a fun animal-themed carousel. Teens will especially appreciate majestic creatures like big cats. Or, if you prefer to stay closer to the city, Lincoln Park offers a fun, small-scale zoo with an equally entertaining selection of animals. If you're really feeling like letting loose and acting like a little kid again, there are also some fun rides.

Ride a bike around Millennium Park

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Encourage the kids to enjoy the great outdoors during the warmer months with a refreshing bike ride around the city. Pedal leisurely along the waterfront, throughout Millennium Park, or along the 26 miles of gorgeous trails that wind around the lakefront. It’s also a great activity that teens can pursue independently, giving them some “alone time” amidst a family vacation.

Shop ‘til they drop

Chicago is also a shopper’s paradise. Whether they’re on a tight budget or have some cash to spend, teens will love the chance to explore Chicago’s amazing shopping districts. Even window shopping alone can be a real treat! From the Magnificent Mile and its unique mix of high-end couture and fast fashion to the more traditional offerings of the Water Tower Place Mall, there’s a store to suit every taste.

Save on admission to Chicago attractions teens will love

Many of these teen-friendly Chicago attractions are included on Go City® Chicago passes. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Discover our full line-up of Chicago attractions from 360 CHICAGO to the Architecture River Cruise.

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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TILT at 360 CHICAGO
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Adventurous things to do in Chicago

Worried any trip to Chicago could end up being a succession of museum galleries? However brilliant they may be – and they are – touring the windy city’s museums alone would be a hollow victory. That’s because there is a great pick of more adventurous things to do in Chicago too. Whether you’re an old hand or eager to try something new, the city’s adrenaline-inducing activities range from rock climbing in the heart of downtown to zipping across the waters of Lake Michigan on a jet ski. Wondering where to begin? We’ve got the perfect introduction right here! Adventurous things to do in Chicago’s Loop Thrill-seeking activities in Chicago don’t require you to even leave the comforts of downtown if you don’t want to. Just a block away from the Art Institute of Chicago, Maggie Daley Park offers far more than a place to take a stroll or enjoy a picnic. Rising to a height equivalent to a four story building, the park has two climbing walls together forming an area of 19,000 square feet. With one set up for beginners and another for advanced climbers, and three different ways of scaling to the heights to opt between, there’s really no excuse for not giving it a go if you’re heading to Chicago during the warmer months of the year. Head there from around November to March, and you can swap the ropes for ice skates and do your very own routines inspired by I, Tonya. If the park’s climbing wall has given you a newfound head for heights, the obvious next stop is TILT at 360 CHICAGO. Doing exactly as its name suggests, TILT leans out of the John Hancock Center over 1000 feet up – giving you unique views down to street level. However, if you’d rather keep your feet firmly planted on solid ground from now on but still keen to get the blood pumping, renting a cycle from Bike and Roll Chicago might be the answer. All geared up, you’re free to explore the city’s series of cycle tracks, taking you everywhere from the trendy northern suburbs to the shores of Lake Michigan, where plenty of other adventurous things to do in Chicago await.... Lake Michigan adventures Breaking the serenity of the lakefront are the engines of Seadog Cruises, whose bright colored livery also makes their speedboats easy to spot against the backdrop of 22,500 square miles of freshwater. Sharp turns and plenty of wake are the order of the day here, so bring a waterproof jacket if you don’t fancy getting wet. There’s no real option of staying dry if you climb onto a jet ski, available at 31st Street Beach and North Avenue Beach, but at least you’ll have a wet suit for your rental period or jet ski tour. Take the pace a little slower whilst still feeling your heart jump to your mouth with Windy, the city’s official tall ship. Put at anchor a short distance from Centennial Wheel and the rides of Navy Pier, the ship is the first of its kind constructed in the US since the 1920s and sailings not only give you a very special vantagepoint, but also the chance to hoist the sails of this four mast gaff topsail schooner. Swap Lake Michigan for the Chicago River and it’s possible to explore by kayak, paddling beneath the bridges that have connected up the city for decades and past some of the city’s best-known buildings. Chicago outdoor activities from above The ultimate in adventurous things to do in Chicago has to be voluntarily jumping out of a light aircraft – and hoping your parachute opens successfully above you a few seconds later. With a base on the Illinois River at Ottawa, about 1.5 hours from downtown Chicago, skydivers are able to take advantage of high-end ground facilities before taking in the city skyline from 10,000 feet up, ten times the height of the Willis Tower. For the same experience without the need for inflight entertainment systems look no further than iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Chicago’s Rosemont neighborhood – beside O’Hare International Airport. Their giant skyward facing fans allow you to experience the feel of freefall but in the safety of a controlled environment suitable for anyone from the age of three. If it’s the aerial views you’re after, an alternative way to get the blood flowing is with a private helicopter sightseeing tour. Taking a loop right around the Loop, these flights may only be 20-30 minutes long, but the memories will last a lifetime. Thrills for mind, body and soul Running 13 or 26 miles may not be everyone’s idea of a thrill-seeking adventure, but we’d have to disagree. September’s half-marathon along Lakeshore Drive is really well supported, giving that spring in your step you may well need to cross the finish line. The following month it’s time for the big one – the Chicago Marathon. One of the most high-profile races out there, it’s a great opportunity to see world running records be challenged even if you don’t pull on your own running shoes since it has some of the fastest finishing times out there. If it hits that time in your trip to Chicago that you want to give your mind a bit of a workout, the windy city has you covered. The Loop isn’t short of escape room adventures, so get ready to pit your wits against some fiendish riddles. Finally, an honorable mention must go to Six Flags Great America at Gurnee around 50 minutes north of central Chicago. This theme park has been thrilling visitors since 1972 with its four themed zones and fifteen roller coasters including Superman: Ultimate Flight, which hits speeds of 60 mph. Exploring the very best of Chicago Is there any other destination which can compete with all the adventurous things to do in Chicago? We’re not sure there is. From helicopter tours to escape room visits, Chicago is a city on a mission to thrill. Whatever type of vacation you’re planning to Chicago, do it with Go City! Carry one of our passes and you’ll get significant savings on admission to many of the top attractions in Chicago. And you shouldn’t need the mind of an escape room victor to see that’s a good idea!
Ian Packham
Three friends enjoy a walk in Chicago
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Best walks in Chicago

Think of Chicago and your thoughts either go to the racier parts of the musical and movie that share the city’s name, or major downtown landmarks. After all, there’s the views from the Skydeck of Willis Tower to look forward to, alongside the photographic opportunities around the Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park. However, Chicago also has a wilder side. And it’s one that’s easily enjoyed on foot. From strolls of just a couple of hours to full-day hikes, we’ve brought together the very best walks in Chicago just for you! North Shore Channel Trail A multi-use trail – meaning you’ll more than likely encounter cyclists, joggers and skaters too – the North Shore Channel Trail picks up in the Lincoln Square area of Chicago’s North Side and follows a canal-like channel dug in the early 1900s towards its outlet at Wilmette. Passing through Stokie, its easy 13 mile total length takes in the 60 artworks of Stokie Northshore Sculpture Park and Evaston Ecology Center within the Ladd Arboretum as well as the beauty of the city’s north. The 606 Providing new opportunities for hiking around Chicago, the 606 was created out of an unused rail line cutting west-east through the Humboldt Park and West Loop neighborhoods for a little under three miles. Its former life as a railroad track means the gradient is almost undetectable, making it a great pick for families with young children in pushchairs and strollers. It’s also very readily accessible thanks to several entry and exit points. Also known as the Bloomingdale Trail after the name of the former rail line, this elevated greenway and linear park may remind some of New York’s Highline, though the 606 is almost twice as long. It takes its new name from the area’s zip code numbers. Lakeshore Trail With walking boots in hand – or on foot – you won’t want to miss perhaps the most scenic walking trail in Chicago, the 18 mile Lakeshore Trail. Taking in a mix of urban splendor, parkland, beaches and lagoons, it’s a highly-rated way of exploring the shores of Lake Michigan however much you decide to walk of it. And let’s face it, with the wealth of attractions on the trail’s doorstep, from North Avenue Beach to Centennial Wheel and the Shedd Aquarium, it could easily take you two or three days to tackle its entire length, recently split between designated walking and cycling trails. Deer Grove Situated on Chicago’s northern outskirts, Deer Grove’s two adjoining segments, Deer Grove East and Forest Preserve, form a winding system of footpaths. Those closest to the main entrances are paved, and total around four miles, whilst unsurfaced trails lead about the trees, prairies and ponds for a further ten miles across 2000 acres. The birdlife here is some of the best in the region, with other species of wildlife to look out for including the white-tailed deer after which the preserve is named. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve A thirty minute drive outside of the city, which may not sit comfortably with everyone’s idea of walking trips, Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve has around 11 miles of mapped trails to choose between once you’ve arrived. Although it contains a small (artificial) cascade tumbling over some low rocks, it actually takes its name from a district board of commissioners’ president. One for nature lovers, its woodlands contain three quarters of all the plant species found in the region, alongside a long list of birds, fish, amphibians and mammals. Deep within its 2500 acres you’ll also find St Patrick Cemetery, which few others visit even on the busiest of days. The Magnificent Mile For urban exploration in its truest sense right at the heart of downtown Chicago there’s the Magnificent Mile. The honorary title given to the upper section of North Michigan Avenue, it runs from the Chicago River to Oak Street. Lined with mid-range and luxury stores, hotels and restaurants, it has some of the highest real estate figures in the US. It also boasts some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the John Hancock Center – home to the 360 CHICAGO viewing platform. On the face of it, walking its length shouldn’t take you more than 30 minutes, but with so many store windows to check out and buildings to take in, it can take much longer than that. Save your stroll along the Magnificent Mile for later in the day, and if your feet are feeling tired, you can always make use of the Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing buses which ply the route instead. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Follow Route 55 southwest with the help of a motor engine and in around an hour you’ll reach Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. Covering 19,000 acres of federally protected land, the prairie has over 20 miles of mixed use trails in addition to 12 miles of paths saved for hikers alone. Created out of an old army ammunition store with the aim of maintaining the region’s traditional prairie lands, since 2015 it has also been the home of one of the only wild-roaming bison herds in the country, totaling around 50 animals. They are allowed to move across roughly 10% of the prairie’s total area and are docile unless threatened. Morton Arboretum Walks If you’re a little nervous about heading into the wilds, Morton Arboretum makes for a great alternative. Forty-five minutes from the downtown neighborhoods, it has its own restored tallgrass prairie (minus the bison) as well as 16 miles of surfaced paths through burr reed marsh, woodland and landscapes of marginal lakes. Summer and fall see the arboretum host Theater-Hikes, where visitors walk between outdoor performances, whilst the Christmas period is given over to annual illuminations. Don’t miss anything with Go City The best walks in Chicago combine aspects of all the city has to offer to tourists young and old. Varying in length, difficulty and setting, they provide a different and often unique way of exploring the windy city. Travel with Go City and there’s also the chance to save when you stroll and stride. Many of the best walking trails in Chicago pass by the city’s bucket list attractions, so why not take a breather, skip the lines and save big on admission all at the same time?
Ian Packham
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Things To Do in Chicago When it's Hot Out

Looking for ways to beat the heat in the Windy City? Even though Chicago's nickname implies that the breeze is always flowing, on a sweltering day that may not be the case. And while there are plenty of things to do in Chicago, when it gets this hot you might start to plan your day around where you'll find the most AC exposure. Luckily, Chicago is full of diverse attractions that will keep you busy on the hottest of days. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Chicago when it's hot out, including... Shedd Aquarium SkyDeck Chicago or 360 Chicago Shoreline Architecture River Cruise Art Institute of Chicago Adler Planetarium The Field Museum Chicago's Children Museum LEGOLAND Discovery Center The Escape Game Chicago Museum of Science and Industry Chicago Children's Museum This is the perfect place to bring the kids when they've had enough of the heat. Located right on Navy Pier, the Chicago Children's Museum will keep everyone busy for hours. Each exhibit at the museum is aimed to teach children a different learning experience through interactive and fun displays. At Play it Safe, kids can explore a realistic firehouse. In the Tinkering Lab, they'll have the freedom to innovate and create with various different DIY projects. The kids will be entertained all day long and parents can sit back and enjoy the learning process. Getting in: Chicago Children's Museum tickets are included on Go Chicago Card. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Another great place to go with the family is the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. This massive indoor space is filled with LEGO®-themed exhibits, construction demonstrations, interactive areas, and exciting attractions. Kids of all ages can enjoy the different activities and demonstrations that take place throughout the day. They'll learn the best LEGO® building secrets from Master Model Builders, become part of the LEGO® story at the 4D Cinema, and can save the princess on the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride. LEGO® lovers will cherish their time spent here as they learn and build firsthand. Getting in: LEGOLAND® Discovery Center tickets are included on Go Chicago Card. The Escape Game Chicago Can you escape? Test your skills, grit, smarts, and ability and see if you have what it takes at The Escape Game Chicago. An escape room is the perfect place to go on a day when the heat is just unbearable. At Escape Game Chicago, you'll have your choice between four different themed escape scenarios. Choose from Mission Mars, Gold Rush, Prison Break or The Heist. You'll race against the clock during each of them to escape! While children are allowed to participate in The Escape Game Chicago, it is recommended for players age 13 and up as some of the content may be too difficult for younger children to understand. Getting in: The Escape Game Chicago tickets are included on Go Chicago Card. More Chicago Attractions There’s no shortage of things to do in Chicago when it’s hot out, and the suggestions above are just some of our favorite indoor activities. We hope you'll add a few to your Chicago to-do list. Check out a Go Chicago Card to see all 28 Chicago attractions, and see what you can do this summer in Chicago!
Nicole Muto

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