When the weather outside isn’t ideal, parents can take time to plan indoor activities for family fun. For ideas about what to do indoors, we polled parents at The Gardner School of River North to find out their favorite indoor family activities. They came up with six can’t-miss destinations that Chicago children will love.
Museum of Science and Industry
Whether your child is a budding artist or engineer, there’s something to pique every interest at the Museum of Science and Industry. Museum exhibits feature everything from planes, trains, tractors, ships, submarines, and satellites to ancient architecture, lego art, a mathematical mirror maze, and even a fairy castle. This destination is perfect for a rainy or chilly day, but you may not want to wait till then to check it out.
West Loop Library
For days when children need quiet inspiration, the West Loop library is a perfect spot to research new interests and recharge. Newly designed in 2019, this branch features designated areas for different needs, whether your child prefers to cozy up in a rocking chair, collaborate with a friend or sibling at one of their long tables, or focus on a school project in a study room. For younger children, come by on Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. to listen to their beloved Little Learners’ Storytime.
Altitude Chicago
If the weather outside isn’t the best, this is a great option for indoor fun. Altitude Chicago goes beyond the offerings of a simple bounce house. There’s a ninja course with foam blocks that are a blast to dive into and a recreation wall where your children can start to practice their wall-climbing skills. Extreme Dodgeball takes a favorite game to the next level when kids can bounce and twist out of the way of incoming missiles. If you’re looking to host a party, it’s a great place to take a group of energetic children who need a place to run. And, if your child can’t get enough bouncing time, there’s an unlimited summer pass for $99.
Shedd Aquarium & Museum
Programming for children at Shedd Aquarium ranges from “Sleeping with the Fishes,” an overnight aquarium experience, to Camp Shedd, an all-day adventure in aquatics. Children can experience all sorts of water-themed play at Shedd. With many free admission days every month, your marine biologist can make a visit to see their favorite species again and again.
Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier
Chicago kids are looking forward to the opening of the towering Cloud Buster exhibit, which features a 37-foot steel structure. Children can climb all the way into the sky and feel like they’re touching the clouds. Other popular exhibits include the Art Studio, where children can express their artistic imaginations, and the Dinosaur Exhibition, where mini-archeologists dig up ancient relics. Daily classes and events help your child learn new concepts and practice new skills. Sure, it’s called the Chicago Children’s Museum, but we know a few adults who are pretty fond of it as well.
Lil Kickers
Children love to run, jump, play, and explore, and Lil Kickers is a wonderful introduction to communal physical activity. Classes are available based on age, so kids have the chance to play with their peers while you watch them learn. They can start to hone their team-building and soccer skills early. Who knows? Maybe they’ll help the U.S. win the next World Cup!
An Exceptional Chicago Preschool Experience
The Gardner School loves being a place for children to play every day. Our interactive curriculum, academic focus, and highly-trained teachers can keep children engaged no matter the weather. To learn more about how we bring an exceptional preschool experience to River North parents, set up a virtual tour.