Fun Indoor Activities for Kids in Chicago Year-Round

Living in Chicago, we moms know the weather doesn’t always cooperate with outdoor plans. But guess what? That’s no excuse for cabin fever! Chicago is packed with exciting indoor activities for kids Chicago moms will love. Let’s make your kids’ downtime anything but boring, no screens necessary (well, maybe just for selfies).

In this post, we’ll share some rainy day activities in Chicago that will keep your kiddos entertained, learning, and having a blast, no matter what’s happening outside.

Importance of Indoor Activities for Kids in Chicago

We’re no strangers to Chicago’s unpredictable weather. Snow in April? Check. Sunny one moment, pouring rain the next? Also, check. But here’s the thing, we’re lucky to have a city bursting with indoor options that are just as thrilling as any park or beach day. From creative arts to climbing adventures, there’s something for every age and interest.

Here’s why indoor fun is essential:

• No weather worries: Rain, snow, or 90-degree heatwaves? Indoor activities don’t care.
• Perfect for year-round birthdays: Chicago’s best indoor spots make planning parties a breeze.
• Keeps the family engaged: Because the phrase “I’m bored” deserves a permanent ban.

Indoor activities ensure your family can keep the fun going, no matter what Chicago’s weather throws your way.

Consider These Indoor Activities for Kids in Chicago

Chicago’s unpredictable weather doesn’t have to put a damper on your plans. With so many fun and engaging indoor options, you can keep your kids entertained, active, and happy no matter the season!

1. Artsy Escapes

When it’s time to channel your kids’ creativity, Chicago offers plenty of inspiring indoor options for artistic fun.

• Chicago Children's Museum: Located at Navy Pier, this spot is a win for kids of all ages. They’ll love the interactive exhibits, from the Tinkering Lab (perfect for your little builders) to the Art Studio, where they can let their imaginations run wild. If your kiddos enjoy hands-on learning, this place is gold.
• Crafting at Home: Not in the mood to go out? Create your own crafting corner at home with some trendy supplies. Our favorites are the DIY Beads Kit Activity Set from Lola and the Boys. This great for a rainy day, helping your kids build their own accessories while you enjoy a well-deserved coffee break.

2. Burn That Energy

When kids have the energy to burn (and trust us, they always do), it’s time to think active. Lucky for us, Chicago has a ton of places that keep kids moving, no matter the season.

• Funtopia in Glenview: This indoor climbing and adventure center is fantastic for kids who love to climb, crawl, and conquer. With walls designed like castles and rocket ships, even your reluctant adventurers will want to give it a try.
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Because jumping around like crazy is every kid’s favorite activity. Sky Zone offers trampoline dodgeball, foam pits, and freestyle jumping. It’s fun, it’s physical, and it’ll wear them out just in time for dinner.

3. Sweet Treat Breaks

No outing is complete without a little treat, and Chicago’s sweet spots are sure to satisfy kids and moms alike.

• Eataly’s Gelato Counter: Yes, it’s primarily for you, momma, but the kids will love it too. After a fun outing, a gelato break keeps everyone happy—and it’s perfectly indoor-weather proof.
• Brown Sugar Bakery: Located on the South Side, this bakery is famous for its decadent cupcakes and gooey caramel cake. Grab a treat to-go or sit and savor it while the kids enjoy their sugar-fueled smiles.

4. Learn While They Play

We all love a good outing that’s both fun and sneaky-smart. Chicago has plenty of indoor options to keep your kids entertained while adding a splash of education (without them realizing it).

• Museum of Science and Industry: This is a Chicago gem for curious minds. Exploring a real submarine to experimenting with physics in the Science Storms exhibit, your kids will be amazed. The weather-controlled indoor tornado? That’s a crowd-pleaser every single time.
• Adler Planetarium’s Space Explorers: Adler’s “Space Explorers” programs are perfect for mini astronauts. The interactive exhibits, like the “Planet Explorers” play area, allow kids to climb, crawl, and imagine they’re on a space mission. Pro tip: pair this trip with space-themed goodies from Lola and the Boys, like the Galaxy Star Bomber Jacket to really get them in the mood.

5. Encouraging Little Bookworms

When you want a quieter activity, nothing beats a cozy reading session. Chicago’s indoor libraries and bookstores are perfect for fostering a love of reading.

• Harold Washington Library Center: With its children’s library, this downtown spot is a treasure. Storytime sessions, reading corners, and hands-on activities like puppet shows make it a haven for little ones.
• DIY Home Library Magic: Create your own magical reading corner at home. Soft blankets, twinkling fairy lights, and a stack of colorful books are all you need.

6. A World of Excitement

When the kids want something a bit more thrilling, Chicago’s indoor adventure parks are unbeatable.

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Got a LEGO lover? They’ll flip for this Schaumburg attraction. It’s all indoors and packed with opportunities to build, explore, and even ride. The 4D cinema experience is a hit for families looking to combine play with entertainment.
• Pirate’s Cove Indoor Adventure Park: Perfect for younger kids, this themed indoor playground lets them unleash their inner pirates. Think climbing ships, treasure hunts, and lots of swashbuckling fun—all indoors.

7. Cooking Classes

If your kids are budding foodies, or just love playing with ingredients, indoor cooking classes in Chicago are a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

• DIY Cooking at Home: Not heading out? Turn your kitchen into a culinary classroom. Pick up a “Kitchen Boss Apron” from Lola and the Boys (available here) so your little ones can look the part while they mix, roll, and stir to their hearts' content.
• Sur La Table Junior Chef Classes: Sur La Table occasionally hosts kid-friendly workshops where young chefs can learn to make everything from pizzas to desserts in a professional kitchen setting. It’s hands-on, fun, and your kids will love the chance to master a new skill!

8. Science, Tech, and Everything Cool

If you’re raising a little tech whiz or science enthusiast, Chicago has plenty of spots where they can geek out indoors.

• Code Ninjas: For older kids, Code Ninjas centers are popping up all over Chicagoland. Here, they can learn coding, game design, and robotics in a kid-friendly environment. It’s the perfect activity to combine creativity with a little screen time that actually counts.
• Chicago Public Libraries Maker Labs: Many branches, including Harold Washington Library, feature Maker Labs where kids can experiment with 3D printing, crafting, and other STEM-based projects. These free programs are perfect for hands-on learners.

9. Family-Friendly Theaters

Indoor entertainment doesn’t always have to involve running around. Sometimes, a relaxing outing to a kid-friendly theater is just what your family needs.

• Chicago Children’s Theatre: With its lineup of performances made specifically for young audiences, the Chicago Children’s Theatre is an amazing spot to introduce your little ones to the magic of live shows. The productions are engaging, interactive, and tailored to kids’ attention spans (thank goodness!).
• The Music Box Theatre: While it’s primarily known for indie films, The Music Box occasionally hosts family-friendly movie mornings. Grab some popcorn and settle in for a cozy afternoon watching classics or animated favorites.

10. Indoor Sports Arenas

If your kids love running, jumping, and all things sporty, Chicago has plenty of indoor sports arenas where they can burn off energy while having a blast.

• Windy City Ninjas: This indoor obstacle course in Chicago and Elmhurst is a hit for active kids. Inspired by American Ninja Warrior, it features climbing walls, rope swings, and balance beams that challenge their agility and strength. Perfect for kids of all ages, and yes, they even have adult classes if you’re feeling brave!

Plan Your Next Adventure with Indoor activities for kids in Chicago

If you’re searching for Indoor activities for kids in Chicago, Chicago is a treasure trove of indoor fun, and no matter the weather, your family can always find something exciting to do. From arts and crafts to active adventures, your options are endless.

Before you head out, make sure your kids are dressed for the occasion. Check out Lola and the Boys for trendy, playful, and practical outfits that make every outing feel extra special. Browse the collection and add a sprinkle of magic to their everyday adventures.