Family-Friendly
DuPage
1. Brookfield Zoo
Open daily with over 200 acres of animals from around the world and rotating exhibits that capture the mind. Witness the entertaining dolphin show, feed exotic animals (from a distance, of course), be amazed by the world’s largest animals, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Reserved timed tickets are highly recommended.
2. Enchanted Castle Entertainment Complex and Haunted Trails Entertainment Center
Experience fun at two locations! These entertainment complexes provides countless memorable moments for kids and adults alike: indoor go-karts, laser tag, bumper cars, mini golf, over 200 old-school arcade games, and more.
3. DuPage Children’s Museum
For 30 years, DCM has been inspiring children and adults with experiences that encourage curiosity, discovery, and collaboration. Through exhibits, programs, and special events, every experience is designed to help children develop a strong foundation of creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence.
DCM is also dedicated to being an accessible and inclusive environment for children to thrive through extraordinary learning experiences. Adaptive Play Time provides a modified environment for play and learning for children and their caregivers.
4. Naper Settlement
If you want to be transported back in time, Naper Settlement is the place to go. This interactive outdoor history museum is home to 30 historic structures, including a one-room schoolhouse and working blacksmith and print shops. There are special events and various educational programs throughout the year, both on- and off-site, so you can always find something to do with kids at this well-renowned establishment.
5. Play at a Park
DuPage is home to several award-winning park districts with plentiful indoor and outdoor options. From swimming and learning, to playing and family fun, create memories with loved ones in your local community. Our park districts aren't just known for their wide open spaces; many of them have water parks that people can visit to beat the heat. Want to engage your senses? Visit a sensory garden in DuPage.
6. Kid’s Adventure Zone at The Forge: Lemont Quarries
The Forge: Lemont Quarries presents the Two Towers Kids Adventure: a jungle gym in the sky just for kids. Whether it be testing out the climbing nets, hopping on a zipline, testing their skills on the balance line, or anything else, it’s all about fun at The Forge. Don’t forget to ask about birthday parties, which include a specially designed Forge scavenger hunt and more activities to keep kids playing all day long. Book your time now.
7. Exploring Art in Elmhurst
Fortunately, the city of Elmhurst has two art exhibits that are a short walk from each other. Stroll through Wilder Park to see Monsters in Wilder Park, an exhibit that was powered by the children in the community. Over 300 children submitted drawings of monsters they created from their imagination, and Elmhurst-based illustrator Dave Pryor brought the unique monsters to life.
Then, head over to the Elmhurst Art Museum and step into the world of children's television. Designing Donkey Hodie: From Make-Believe to Someplace Else is the current exhibit that introduces the origins of Donkey Hodie, a character that debuted on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood in the 1960s and has been reimagined for the puppet series today. Attendees experience the visual development of the series through storyboards, drawings, models, puppets, set pieces, and other props from the show.
8. Holes and Knolls
Holes & Knolls features two 18-hole mini golf courses that provide fun for the whole family, with one course fully wheelchair accessible. Visitors can pick up clubs and pay the daily admission fee inside the Maryknoll Clubhouse, which also includes a concession stand.
9. Ice Cream for Everyone
As the saying goes, "we all scream for ice cream"! On a hot day this summer, make sure you and your kids try The Original Rainbow Cone at least once. The Rainbow Cones has been a Chicago tradition for over 95 years and is still stacking the same five flavors today: Orange Sherbet, Pistachio, Palmer House, Strawberry, and Chocolate.
Sweet Street Candies and Goodies is another place you can take the family out to for a sweet treat. Step inside the old school candy store and you'll not only find ice cream; you'll also find past and present day candies. It's the best of both worlds!
10. The Morton Arboretum
Looking for something just for kids? The Children's Garden at The Morton Arboretum has so much to offer. Splash through secret streams, climb colossal acorns, and slide down giant tree roots all day long. Give your child open-access to connect with nature in a safe and kid-friendly environment designed with them in mind.
Another fun thing to do this summer with the kids at The Morton Arboretum is Wonder Woods Mini Golf. You’ll enjoy an imaginative, tree-themed adventure with friends and family on this one-of-a-kind mini golf course specially designed for the Arboretum with the help of their research scientists.
Want to check out more family-friendly events? Check out our Calendar of Events, as new events are added weekly.