Top Places to Take Your Grandchildren in Chicago

Ready to have fun with your grandkids in Chicago? Whether it’s petting animals at the zoo, learning about outer space at the planetarium, or discovering one of Chicago’s biggest backyards, kids will be thoroughly entertained by all the amazing activities in the Windy City.

Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo has been delighting visitors since 1868, making it the fourth oldest zoo in North America. It's a 35-acre wonderland of animal species from around the world, including endangered black rhinos and Jamaican iguanas thought to be lost forever. Plus, you’ll find a lush landscape with over 2,000 plants. Best of all, entry is free! It’s no surprise why this classic Chicago attraction continues to amaze visitors after more than 150 years.

Museum Campus: Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum

An excellent way to explore the city of Chicago is by visiting three iconic museums in one day. Located near Lake Michigan, Museum Campus is a stunning backdrop for discovering the exciting field of natural sciences at the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum.

Begin your journey at the Shedd Aquarium, where the wonders of the aquatic world await. This indoor aquarium is home to 32,000 animals, including an impressive saltwater fish collection.

Then, travel into space at the Adler, America’s first planetarium, established in 1930 by Max Adler. Honored as a National Historic Landmark since 1987, the Adler offers out-of-this-world fun for everyone.

Inside the Adler, you’ll find three full-size theaters, extensive space exhibitions, the Gemini 12 space capsule, plus fascinating antique scientific instruments and print materials. This fun attraction also houses an observatory actively used for research that’s also open to the public, the Doane Observatory.

Wrap up your visit to Chicago's incredible Museum Campus with a trip to the Field Museum of Natural History. This world-famous institution is full of an impressive collection of artifacts, fossils, and cultural exhibits from around the globe. You'll also experience interactive programming that gives you insight into how important it is to preserve our natural resources today. 

Grant Park

Grant Park is known as the city’s “front yard” in Chicago. At 319 acres, this public park is the very definition of entertainment within the Loop. Visitors find plenty to do and see, from taking a selfie at Millennium Park or Buckingham Fountain to being inspired by masterpieces at the Art Institute. There’s something for everyone here. Museum Campus sits nearby too, so turning an afternoon into a day-long adventure full of culture and fun is easy.

At Grant Park, you can be entertained by performances and art or participate in your favorite sports activities. Find out what's happening ahead of time by checking the calendar. There could be some awesome kids' events coming up. 

American Girl

For fans of American Girl dolls, turn a trip to Chicago’s American Girl store into a special occasion. Join in on their popular tea party, pamper your doll with a salon visit, or sit in on a class — all while making lasting memories. Childhood dreams come true here, and it's guaranteed to make any kiddo smile from ear to ear. 

Your grandkids will never forget the extraordinary tour you gave them of the top Chicago attractions. And finding an over-55 community that puts all of Chicagoland right at your fingertips is easier than ever.

Retirement Communities in Chicago

For those aged 55 and over looking to experience all that vibrant Chicago has to offer, consider these amenity-rich Chicago retirement communities: Lincoln Prairie by Del Webb in Aurora, Briargate – an active adult community by Pulte – in Lindenhurst, and Trillium Farm (another active adult community by Pulte) in Winfield. Not only do these amazing communities have great amenities and ways to stay active, but they’re also close to some of Chicago's best golf courses and shopping and dining options — and they’re all ready for you to explore. Explore Del Webb and discover the retirement community for you today.