If you’re planning outdoor activities for children, you need tried-and-true favorites that will be a hit with your family. Our parents at the Gardner School of River North shared their favorite outdoor activities near Chicago for hours of family fun. Check them out!
Adams Park
River North children know Adams Park is the place to go when the family needs to get outdoors without traveling far. This petite neighborhood park packs a lot of variety into a smaller space, featuring a modern playground, sandpit, and spray feature for hot summer days. Rent out their multi-purpose room for your child’s next birthday party, or check out their schedule of outdoor evening concerts during warmer months.
Mary Bartelme Park
Modern, eco-conscious design meets family fun at this 2.7-acre city park. The park’s iconic stainless steel gateway doubles as a spray feature during the summer months, and intersecting paths outline the park’s different features: a playground for children, a sunken dog park, and an elevated viewing hill where kids can look out over the rest of the park with Chicago’s skyline in the background.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Home to nearly 200 different animal species, there is something to inspire every member of the family at the Lincoln Park Zoo! Keep your eye out for outstanding flora, too: over 1,200 plant species form the landscape of animal habitats and gardens throughout the park. Beyond day trips, the zoo also offers seasonal camps for grades Pre-K through 8, and year-round featured events for the whole family.
Montgomery Ward Park
Another prime example of Chicago’s creative city planning, this park incorporates stunning riverside views and monumental sculpture alongside traditional park features. Take a leisurely stroll with the family along the park’s Chicago River promenade, lined with benches and shade trees. You can also enjoy beautiful skyline views while children explore the playground.
Lake Katherine
This lively nature center and botanic garden is a family favorite for day trips, classes, and special events. Pop in for a leisurely stroll around the gardens to see their stunning man-made waterfall, turtle bay, and beaver lodge. For the dedicated nature lover, children from 18 months to 12 years can attend youth program classes for $10 per child. Check out the center’s calendar of seasonal events for more family fun, or contact the nature center to rent a space for your own event!
Millennium Park
Last but not least, the iconic Millennium Park hardly needs an introduction. From the serene 5-acre Lurie garden to outdoor art exhibits and special events, there’s something exciting happening here every season. Kids know that one of the best ways to explore everything the park has to offer is on two wheels. Check out the park’s mobility center at HUB312 for bike rentals, or grab an electric scooter to take in all the sites with the wind in your hair.
An Exceptional Chicago Preschool Experience
Our Gardner School preschool locations in Chicago are trusted by parents all over the greater metro area. We love being a place where children can play and learn every day. Our interactive curriculum and trained teachers keep children engaged. To learn more about how we fulfill our mission to Chicago families, set up a virtual visit.