The Gardner School is committed to supporting parents to ensure every child’s learning journey continues beyond the classroom. To help, we’ve created an exclusive guide to Downtown Chicago’s free attractions, events, and activities that are tailored to meet the needs of preschoolers and their families! Our guide highlights unique opportunities for fun and learning so you can discover new and exciting adventures in our beautiful city.
Festivals and Special Events
Chicago is not short on family-friendly festivals and special events! All year, the city plays host to a variety of activities, many of which are completely free to attend. A few of our favorites include the annual city-wide World Music Festival, the Chicago Air and Water Show, SummerDance, and the Blues Festival. The city’s official website also provides a long list of upcoming events for families to check out.
Farmer’s Markets
Whether you’re looking for fresh produce or just want to enjoy some live entertainment, farmer’s markets are a wonderful gathering place for families with little ones. Lincoln Park, West Loop, and Avondale have markets staggered throughout the year that you can check out. From May through October. One of our favorites is the Maxwell Street Market. It features an eclectic mix of small businesses, including farmers, artists, makers, and restaurateurs. The Sunday-only market has been a Chicago tradition since 1912.
Harold Washington Library Center
This downtown library is great, but head to the second floor, and you’ll find the Thomas Hughes Children’s Library! The library caters to children of all ages and is divided into three different “neighborhoods” based on age. The Early Learner Neighborhood is for children five years and younger, filled with toys and books tailored to their growth and milestones. The library also hosts events and storytimes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Smart Museum of Art
The Smart Museum of Art, a fine arts museum located at the University of Chicago, offers free admission every day of the year. Our favorite time to visit is Family Day, which offers families a way to create together and connect while being instructed by staff or guest artists. The monthly program is always a unique and engaging experience for the whole family!
Lincoln Park Zoo
One of the only free zoos in the country, the Lincoln Park Zoo will transport your child all over the world, showing them how animals from near and far live and adapt to their environments. The zoo is home to over 230 species, including primates, reptiles, mammals, birds, and more! Visit the zoo’s website to learn about the animals you’ll find and details for upcoming family-friendly events.
A Partner For Parents
The Gardner School offers an engaging curriculum for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Our caring teachers encourage children’s curiosity while supporting a strong educational foundation.
Interested in enrolling your child at one of The Gardner School locations in downtown Chicago? Find a location near you and reach out to schedule a tour! We’re always here to answer your questions.