Top 5 Family Fun Activities in Chicago

Top 5 Family Fun Activities in Chicago

Chicago is a city filled with energy, creativity, and endless opportunities for family fun. Whether you're a local or visiting, the Windy City has something for everyone—from exciting attractions to hands-on museums and cultural experiences. If you're looking for ideas to make your family outing memorable, here are the top 5 family fun activities in Chicago that will keep both kids and adults entertained!

Fun Attractions: Discovering Coolness in Chicago

Chicago is home to some of the most iconic attractions that are perfect for family adventures. Take a trip to Navy Pier, where you can enjoy beautiful lake views, ride the Ferris wheel, explore interactive exhibits, or take a boat tour along Lake Michigan. Don't forget to stop by the Chicago Children's Museum located on the pier, filled with engaging activities that encourage hands-on learning and exploration.

For animal lovers, a visit to the Lincoln Park Zoo is a must. It's one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. and offers free admission, making it an affordable and fun family outing. Kids can see lions, penguins, and even farm animals up close while learning about wildlife conservation.

Another great family spot is Millennium Park. Here, you can snap a family photo in front of the famous Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”), enjoy outdoor music and theater performances, or simply let the kids run around the Crown Fountain, which spouts water from digital faces.

Interactive Museums: Engaging Young Minds in Learning

Chicago boasts some of the best interactive museums that will engage your child’s imagination and curiosity. The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the most popular, offering hands-on exhibits like a real U-505 submarine, a coal mine simulation, and an amazing space exploration exhibit. It's a great place to ignite your child’s love for science and technology.

The Chicago Children's Museum on Navy Pier is another fantastic option. It’s packed with interactive exhibits where kids can climb, create, and explore in a safe and fun environment. Whether they’re building bridges in the Tinkering Lab or learning about the human body in the Health & Fitness exhibit, this museum offers plenty of opportunities for discovery.

Lastly, don’t miss the Field Museum of Natural History. With impressive dinosaur exhibits and world-class collections, it’s a place where families can dive deep into the mysteries of the natural world.

Cultural Experiences: Family Fun with a Historical Twist

Chicago is a city rich in history, and there are plenty of cultural experiences that families can enjoy together. Head to the Chicago History Museum for a fun and educational experience that brings the city's past to life. The museum’s exhibits on the Great Chicago Fire, Chicago’s role in the Civil War, and the city's growth are both informative and engaging for visitors of all ages.

For a unique cultural experience, consider visiting Pilsen, a neighborhood famous for its vibrant murals, Mexican cuisine, and rich Latinx culture. Take a mural tour, visit local galleries, or enjoy a family meal at one of Pilsen’s authentic restaurants. It’s a wonderful way to expose kids to different cultures while having fun.

If you’re into art, the Art Institute of Chicago is another must-see, especially with its stunning collection of Impressionist paintings, modern art, and kid-friendly family programs. The museum offers engaging activities that let children explore art in hands-on ways, making it a fun stop for the whole family.

Creating Art from Everyday Objects: A Science Experience Families Love

Want to spark your child’s creativity while having a blast? Head over to Kids Science Labs, where families can create art from everyday objects through science-inspired activities. At this hands-on learning center, kids have the chance to experiment with materials, explore scientific principles, and discover how everyday items can be transformed into exciting art projects.

From building simple machines to creating sculptures with natural materials, Kids Science Labs encourages families to get messy, experiment, and work together. It’s a unique experience that combines creativity with learning, allowing kids to see the connection between art and science in a fun and approachable way.

Kids Science Labs offers a variety of workshops that make learning fun for kids of all ages. Parents can get involved, too, making it a perfect activity for families looking for something both educational and entertaining.

Experience Best Summer Camp in Chicago for Kids 4-12 at Kids Science Labs

Looking for a memorable summer camp experience for your child? Kids Science Labs offers the best summer camp in Chicago for kids ages 4-12, with a fun and educational twist. The camp focuses on science and creativity, offering hands-on activities like building robots, conducting experiments, and exploring the wonders of STEM.

At Kids Science Labs, kids get to be part of exciting themed camps, such as Our World According to Physics and Design Time Live, where they’ll work on projects that challenge their problem-solving skills and encourage teamwork. It’s an ideal way for kids to learn in a fun, engaging environment while making new friends and creating unforgettable memories.

With locations throughout Chicago, this camp is perfect for families looking to combine fun, learning, and adventure in one amazing experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to give your child the best summer ever!

Chicago offers a treasure trove of family fun activities that cater to all interests—whether you’re looking to discover cool attractions, dive into interactive learning, or create something artistic with a scientific twist. And for families looking for the ultimate summer camp experience, Kids Science Labs in Chicago is the place to be! So, gather your family, plan your next outing, and get ready for some unforgettable moments in the heart of the Windy City!

Counselor In Training Program @ KSL is next best Science Summer Camp Experience

Counselor In Training Program is a Hit with Middle and High Schoolers

Are you a middle or high schooler, ages 12-15 looking for a fun and rewarding way to spend your summer? The Counselor In Training (CIT) program at Kids Science Labs is the perfect opportunity to step up, gain leadership experience, and make lasting memories. Not only will you get to enjoy all the excitement of camp, but you’ll also be building essential skills that will help you throughout life. If you're ready to take on more responsibility and have a blast while doing it, keep reading!

Experience Camp and Develop Leadership Skills

As a CIT at Kids Science Labs, you’ll dive into a one-of-a-kind summer experience. Instead of just being a camper, you’ll have the chance to help plan and lead activities, support campers, and work alongside experienced counselors. This hands-on role allows you to develop important leadership skills, like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork—all while having fun!

Through activities like organizing science experiments, guiding group games, and mentoring younger campers, you’ll gain confidence in your ability to lead and support others. Plus, you’ll learn valuable time management and organizational skills that will benefit you both at camp and in your personal life.

Why Being a CIT at Kids Science Labs is Cool

Let’s face it—being a CIT at Kids Science Labs is cool. Why? Because not only do you get to be part of a fun, high-energy camp, but you also get to contribute to the camp’s success in a meaningful way. You’ll collaborate with other CITs and staff members to create a dynamic camp environment where kids get to explore the wonders of science in a hands-on, creative way.

As a CIT, you’ll experience the joy of watching younger campers discover new things, tackle exciting challenges, and grow in confidence. Whether you’re helping with a chemistry experiment or leading a group on an outdoor adventure, every day at camp offers new opportunities for you to shine and have an impact.

Team Building

One of the best parts of being a CIT is the chance to work closely with a team of like-minded peers and experienced counselors. At Kids Science Labs, teamwork is key! You’ll develop strong bonds with fellow CITs as you all work together to provide a fun, safe, and supportive environment for younger campers. These friendships often last long after the summer ends, and you’ll walk away with a network of people who share your passion for science and helping others.

Additionally, team-building activities at camp will help you strengthen your communication skills, learn how to collaborate under pressure, and develop a sense of responsibility as you work alongside other team members to accomplish shared goals.

Giving Something Back to Younger Students

Being a CIT isn’t just about personal growth—it’s also about giving back. You’ll have the opportunity to be a role model and mentor for younger students, guiding them through activities, supporting them when they need help, and providing encouragement as they learn new things. Your leadership and guidance will make a real difference in their camp experience.

By giving back to younger campers, you’ll be fostering a sense of community and connection, making camp an even more rewarding experience for everyone involved. Plus, there’s something incredibly fulfilling about knowing you’ve helped someone else grow and succeed.

Creating Unforgettable Summer Camp Experiences in Chicago and Seattle for Rising 7th - 10th Graders

The CIT program at Kids Science Labs is designed specifically for rising 7th-10th graders who are eager to take on new challenges, make new friends, and develop essential life skills. With locations in both Chicago and Seattle, Kids Science Labs offers an exciting, educational, and fun summer camp experience that your teen will never forget.

Whether you’re based in the Windy City or the Pacific Northwest, the CIT program provides Seattle Summer Camp and Chicago Summer Camp kids an ideal environment for personal growth, skill-building, and a whole lot of summer fun. From experimenting with science to making lifelong memories with fellow CITs and campers, this program is truly one-of-a-kind.

If you’re ready to become a part of something bigger than yourself this summer, sign up for the CIT program at Kids Science Labs and embark on an unforgettable adventure that will help shape your future. What are you waiting for? Get ready to lead, learn, and make lasting memories this summer!

CIT prices vary from location to location, but are typically only 50% of the cost of summer camp and most importantly, our CIT’s at Kids Science Labs earn up to 50% of their summer camp fees back as college scholarships.

Best Science Summer Camps in Chicago for Accelerating STEM Education for Elementary Students

Summer Camp Chicago has never been better than at Kids Science labs

Kids Science Labs has offered the best summer camp Chicago has ever seen for elementary students in for 15 years. With half-day, full-day, and extended day science camp and over 60 unique summer camp experiences, each day is an adventure in real science, with real teachers.

A Science Camp that Kid’s Love and Parents Appreciate

At Kids Science Labs, we serve over 75,000 students a year in Chicago, and with over 1,000 five-star reviews, we are proud to continue to be the #1 Ranked STEM Program for Kids, offering amazing science camp for kids everywhere from the NorthShore to the South Suburbs. In our Science Camp, we focus on students aged 2-12 and differentiate our learning into four primary groups

• Explorers (PreK/K)

• Investigators (1st/2nd)

• Innovators (3rd/4th)

• NexGen Designers (5th/6th)

How Does Kids Science Labs create an Amazing Summer Camp in Chicago

Our founders set out to ensure three critical factors exist in every one of our science camp experiences:

1. Outstanding Teachers who build real relationships to empower kids learning

2. Engaging Experiments that Immerse kids in Real Science with Real Problem Solving

3. Maintaining an open and creative learning environment at the Beautiful Kids Science Labs locations in Chicagoland areas.

Parents have tons of opportunities for science camp, but none are quite like our Summer Camp in Chicago. Each classroom has a different set of experiments that are age appropriate and full of challenge to inspire kids to design, build, and create real solutions to the engineering problems that we provide. Of course its fun, and we always start class with a motivating question that is not easily answerable without critical thinking.

Top 10 Summer Camp Snacks for Kids

Top 10 Summer Camp Snacks for Kids

Summer camp is all about fun, adventure, and trying new activities—but keeping kids fueled with the right snacks is key to their energy levels and overall enjoyment. Healthy, easy-to-pack snacks are essential to ensure they stay happy and energized throughout the day. Here are our top 10 summer camp snacks that are perfect for little campers on the go!

Fruit Yogurt

Fruit yogurt is a delicious and nutritious option that can be made ahead of time and packed for camp. It’s packed with protein and probiotics, which are great for digestion. You can even add fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for extra vitamins and natural sweetness. For a fun twist, freeze yogurt cups with fruit chunks for a cool, refreshing treat on hot summer days.

Smoothies

Smoothies are not only tasty but also a sneaky way to pack in a ton of nutrition. A simple smoothie made with spinach, berries, banana, and a bit of almond milk is easy to make and can be packed into a spill-proof container. For added protein, blend in some Greek yogurt or protein powder. You can also freeze the smoothie into ice cube trays the night before and pop them into a thermos to keep them cold during the day.

Frozen Fruit Popsicles

What’s better than a frozen treat on a warm summer day? Homemade fruit popsicles made from pureed fruit and a bit of natural sweetener (like honey or maple syrup) are a great way to cool off and enjoy some healthy sugars. Mix up the fruits your kids love—berries, mango, or even watermelon—and freeze them into fun shapes for an extra touch of excitement.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a crunchy and tasty snack that is much healthier than traditional fries. Slice up sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss them in olive oil, and bake them until crispy. You can even pack a little dipping sauce, like ketchup or hummus, for extra flavor. These fries are rich in vitamin A, making them both nutritious and satisfying!

Ants on a Log is a Top 10 Summer Camp Snack because its healthy and just sounds fun

A classic camp snack, "ants on a log" is a simple and fun treat made with celery, peanut butter (or sunflower butter for nut-free options), and raisins. The celery provides a nice crunch, the peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein, and the raisins are a sweet topping. It’s a fun snack that is easy to make and can be packed in a lunchbox or served on the go.

Bento Box

Bento boxes aren’t just for lunch—they’re perfect for creating a balanced snack selection for summer camp. You can pack a little bit of everything: sliced veggies, cheese, crackers, fruit, and a small sweet treat. A colorful, bite-sized variety makes it easy for kids to grab and enjoy multiple mini snacks throughout the day. Plus, it’s fun for them to open and discover new surprises!

Hummus and Pita Bread

Hummus and pita bread is a fantastic snack that’s both filling and full of protein. Hummus is also rich in healthy fats and fiber, which can keep your kids full for longer. You can pair it with pita chips or pita bread slices for dipping, and even add veggies like cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers for an extra crunch. This snack is easy to pack and a great way to boost your kid's energy!

Nut-Free Trail Mix

Trail mix is a snack that kids can munch on all day long, and it’s easily customizable. For a nut-free version, combine sunflower seeds, dried fruit, pretzels, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips or cereal. It’s a snack that’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars, giving your camper the energy they need to stay active. Be sure to check for any allergies before making the mix!

Apples & Pears

Apples and pears are not only healthy but also easy to pack without much mess. Their natural sweetness and crunch make them a favorite among kids. Slice them up and sprinkle a little cinnamon for added flavor, or send them whole for a snack that’s ready to eat. Both fruits are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a perfect, refreshing snack.

Popcorn is a Top 10 Summer Camp Snack because its simple

Popcorn is a that kids love, and it’s a whole grain that provides fiber and antioxidants. Skip the butter and go for air-popped popcorn tossed with a bit of olive oil, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or even a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist. It’s light but satisfying and easy to pack in individual bags for a snack that’s great on-the-go.

Treat Your Kiddo to a Memorable Summer Camp at Kids Science Labs in Chicago and Seattle

If you’re looking for an exciting and educational summer camp experience for your child, why not consider Kids Science Labs? With locations in both Chicago and Seattle, Kids Science Labs offers a hands-on science adventure where kids can learn, play, and explore the world of STEM. The camps are designed to unlock kids’ curiosity and foster creativity, while also providing a fun and memorable experience for your little camper. While they’re at camp learning about science, they’ll need plenty of snacks to keep them energized—so make sure to pack some of these tasty options!

With these 10 summer camp snacks that are delicious and nutritious, you’ll have your child’s taste buds covered for all their adventures! From sweet treats like fruit popsicles to savory bites like sweet potato fries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during summer camp.