5 Great Places to Take Toddlers in Chicago, IL

Chicago is one of the best cities in the country for families with toddlers — largely because so much of it is free or close to it. Between the lakefront, a free zoo, a strong children's museum, and one of the most toddler-loved splash pads in the Midwest, you can put together a full week of outings without repeating yourself.

Lincoln Park Zoo

2001 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60614

One of only a handful of free-admission zoos in the country, open 365 days a year. Over 1,100 animals across 35 acres. The Farm-in-the-Zoo section has a Main Barn with toddler-specific play stations, a Dairy Barn with goats and cows, and seasonal animal demonstrations. The Pritzker Family Children's Zoo has a dedicated splash area with ground jets in summer. No tickets required — just show up. Parking is $20–40; the zoo is also accessible via multiple CTA routes.

Chicago Children's Museum

700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Three floors of hands-on exhibits at Navy Pier, including a three-story schooner to climb, a water playground with raincoats provided, a firefighter truck and fire station, a Tinkering Lab with real tools, and Treehouse Trails and Kids Town specifically popular with toddlers. Admission for kids under 1 is free. Open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 10am–2pm; Friday–Sunday 10am–5pm; closed Tuesday. Illinois EBT/WIC cardholders get $5 admission per person through the Museums for All program.

Maggie Daley Park

337 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601

A large public park on the lakefront with a climbing wall, mini golf (seasonal, small fee), a winter skating ribbon, and the Watering Hole — a 1,200-square-foot animal-themed splash pad with benches and shade. Free to access. The splash pad is open seasonally in summer. Steps from Millennium Park and the lakefront trail. One of the best free family destinations in downtown Chicago.

Millennium Park – Crown Fountain

201 E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601

The Crown Fountain's two 50-foot glass towers bookend a shallow reflecting pool that becomes one of the most popular toddler wading spots in the city each summer. Ankle-deep water, no entry fee, and views of Cloud Gate (the Bean) around the corner. Completely free. The fountain typically runs from late May through mid-October. Bring a change of clothes.

Shedd Aquarium

1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605

One of the world's largest indoor aquariums with beluga whales, dolphins, sharks, sea otters, and a 90,000-gallon Caribbean reef tank you can walk around. The Polar Play Zone is a dedicated area for young children. Admission is around $38–40 for children; kids under 3 are free. Illinois residents get discounted admission on select days — check their website. Open daily. The Shedd is a serious day investment for toddlers who respond to animals and water at any scale.