Top 10 Chicago Activities for 2-4 Year Olds

Planning activities with toddlers and preschoolers is one of the trickier aspects of childcare. You'll need to consider whether the location has stroller access and suitable restroom facilities, and decide if the entertainment on offer will keep boredom at bay. While the museums and parks of Chicago offer some great activities for older children, can the same be said for younger age groups? Let's find out!

1: Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium's aquatic displays will enthrall younger children, and the Polar Play Zone is a safe and fun space to let off excess energy.

2: Chicago Children’s Museum

The Chicago Children’s Museum features areas designed especially for babies and toddlers. Make sure to check out the Treehouse Trails and Kids Town for some great imaginative play opportunities.

3: Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo feels like something from a children's storybook, with some amazing wild animals to discover in a beautiful park setting.

4: Maggie DalEy Park

Maggie Daley Park is the ultimate park for toddlers and preschoolers. Highlights include the lifelike animal figures at the Watering Hole and the nautically-themed Harbor play area.

5: Field Museum

Although much of the Field Museum is aimed at older visitors, the Crown Family Play Lab is a special area of interactive displays and activities for children aged 2 to 6.

6: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago

Who doesn't love never-ending LEGO fun? Younger children will be mesmerized by themed play areas such as Jungle Expedition, Pirate Adventure Island, and Miniland Chicago.

7: Chicago Children’s Theatre

The Chicago Children's Theatre regularly puts on performances aimed at younger audience members, or sign your little ones up for weekly classes to bring out their dramatic flair.

8: Museum of Science and Industry

If you find navigating museums with a stroller a nightmare, check out the 'Mini-Member Strolls' on selected dates. Delights like The Idea Factory and the Great Train Story will enthrall your younger children.

9: Visit The Beach

Lake Michigan is home to 24 beaches, all open to the public and free to visit. Many include child-friendly facilities such as showers, restrooms, shaded areas, and ramp access for strollers.

10: Adler Planetarium

Let your child's imagination run wild at the Adler Planetarium. Younger visitors will particularly enjoy exploring the wonders of Planet Explorers, a magical space adventure!

If you’re looking for more inspiration, here’s a great video that shows more of what this brilliant city looks like.