Best Birthday Party Ideas for Kids in Chicago

Best Birthday Party Ideas for Kids in Chicago

Planning a memorable birthday party for your child in Chicago is an exciting endeavor, especially with the variety of kids birthday party venues available. Here's a comprehensive guide to four popular options: Dave & Buster's, WhirlyBall, Chuck E. Cheese, and Kids Science Labs. Each offers unique amenities, party packages, and themes to ensure an unforgettable celebration.

Dave & Busters is a great birthday party idea

Dave & Buster's combines dining with a vast arcade, making it a fun birthday party for kids who love games and interactive entertainment. One of the most popular birthday party venues for sports kids, its a good choice for tweens and teens in Chicago looking for a fun birthday party idea.

• ●  Location: 1030 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60610

• ●  Party Packages:

  • Ranging from $28.99 - $38.99 for food packages, this birthday party venue definitely knows how to provide both food and interactive entertainment

• ●  Amenities:

  • ○  Over 200 arcade games.

  • ○  Multiple TV screens for sports and entertainment.

  • ○  Various room types to accommodate different group sizes.

• ●  Add-Ons:

  • ○  Dessert options.

  • ○  Appetizer upgrades.
    

2. Kids Science Labs has been on every best kids birthday party venue list since 2011

For a hands-on, educational experience, Kids Science Labs offers science-themed birthday parties that inspire creativity and curiosity. Known for having the best private birthday party venue in Chicago, where you and your guests have full access to the facility for the duration of your party.

Unlike other kid’s birthday party venues, Kids Science Labs parties are hands-on and fully customizable by parents in their beautiful locations near Lakeview, South Loop and for Northshore Families looking to arrange a special kid’s birthday party experience.

Kids Science Labs is one of the few birthday party venues in Chicago that offers 100% private birthday parties from start to finish.

• Convenient Birthday Party Locations in Roscoe Village, South Loop, and Northbrook

• ●  Party Packages:

• ○ Standard Package: Full Private Venue for starts at $575. Includes a 90-minute private party with interactive science experiments led by experienced instructors.

○ Additional Children: $30 per child for extra kids allows parents flexibility if siblings, cousins, or extra fiends show up that were unplanned.

● Birthday Party Amenities:

○  3,000 sq ft private lab space.

○  Customized science experiments tailored to the birthday child's interests.

○  All necessary materials and safety equipment provided.

● Kids Birthday Party Add-Ons:

○  Customized slime kits including safety googles

○  Additional time or specialized experiments upon request

3. WhirlyBall is a Chicago Favorite Birthday Destination

WhirlyBall offers a unique blend of lacrosse, basketball, and bumper cars, providing an active and engaging experience for older children and teenagers.

●  Location: 1825 W. Webster Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614

●  Party Packages:

Customized based on group size and activities.

○  Options include WhirlyBall, laser tag, and bowling.

○  Contact the venue for specific pricing and package details.

● Amenities:

○  Multiple activity options (WhirlyBall, laser tag, bowling).

○  Private event spaces

○  On-site dining with customizable menus.

● Add-Ons:

○  Event planning assistance.

○  Themed decorations upon request.

4. Chuck E Cheese is still a fun arcade themed birthday party for kids

A super classic choice for younger children, Chuck E. Cheese offers a fun-filled environment with games, pizza, and live entertainment. For decades, parents and kids have appreciated the open arcade and animatronics, integrated with live entertainment and food.

• ●  Location: 1770 W. Fullerton Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614

• ●  Party Packages:

  • ○  Fun Package: $99.99 for 6 kids. Includes 2 hours of unlimited gameplay, unlimited soft drinks, decorated table, and the Chuck E. Cheese birthday show. Additional kids can be added for $19.99 each.

  • ○  Mega Fun Package: Per child pricing varies. Offers 2 slices of pizza per child, a dedicated party host, collectible cups, and upgraded prizes (250 bonus E-Tickets).

  • ○  Ultimate Fun Package: Per child pricing varies. Includes additional large pizzas, Dippin’ Dots ice cream, and the highest prize upgrades (500 bonus E-Tickets).

  ●  Amenities:

  • ○  Live Chuck E. Cheese birthday show.

    ○  Exclusive Birthday Ticket Blaster experience.

    ○  Variety of arcade games suitable for all ages.

  ●  Add-Ons:

  • ○  Dippin’ Dots ice cream.

    ○  Collectible cups with free lifetime refills.

    ○  Themed decorations and party favors.

If you are interested in some other kids birthday party ideas, you can find additional birthday party ideas here:

Best Summer Camps for each Age Group PreK to Middle School

Best Types of Summer Camps for Children Ages 4-14

Summer camps are more than just a way to keep kids entertained during school breaks. They’re opportunities for children to learn, grow, and build lifelong memories. In a city as vibrant and diverse as Chicago, there are summer camps to suit every child’s interests and needs. From outdoor adventures to STEM exploration, here are the best types of summer camps for children ages 4-14 and why Kids Science Labs is a top choice for all age groups.

Best Camps by Age Group

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 4-Year-Olds

Young children thrive in environments that encourage creativity and play. Camps designed for this age group often focus on:

• Art and Music: Introducing young kids to painting, drawing, and simple musical instruments. Examples for Chicago Summer Camps for 4 year olds include Old Town School of Folk Music

• Outdoor Exploration: Nature-themed camps that include scavenger hunts, gardening, and animal observation. Check out Chicago Park District Nature Camp Adventures

• STEM Discovery: Simple science experiments and hands-on activities to spark curiosity. In Chicago and Seattle Summer Camps, Kids Science Labs is the #1 summer camp destination for kids ages 4-10 because their program focuses on skill development and real experiments that kids love. www.kidssciencelabs.com

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 5-Year-Olds

Five-year-olds are full of energy and curiosity, making them ideal participants for camps that combine learning and fun. Great options include:

• Creative Play Camps: Activities like arts and crafts, storytelling, and music exploration.

• Outdoor Adventures: Nature walks, water play, and introductory gardening projects.

• Beginner STEM: Camps that offer simple experiments and building projects to inspire young minds.

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 6-Year-Olds

Camps for six-year-olds can build on their growing curiosity and developing motor skills. Consider:

• Art and Music: Projects that let kids explore their creativity through painting and playing instruments.

• Sports and Movement: Camps introducing multi-sport skill development, such as baskeball, soccer, swimming, or dance are best for this age group.

• Science Camps: We recommend starting science experiments, and hands-on engineering challenges.

Kids Science Labs dominates Chicago Summer Camps for six-year olds and is rated the #1 STEM Program for Kids

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 7-Year-Olds

Children in this age range are ready for more structured activities that challenge their growing minds and bodies. Popular options include:

• Sports Camps: Soccer, basketball, or swimming camps that teach teamwork and improve physical skills. Hi-Five Sports is an example of a good Chicago Sports Summer Camp for Kids

• STEM Camps: Parents should be seeking programs that offer hands-on science that focus on conceptual understanding of basic science, including physical science and engineering at this age. Once again, Kids Science Labs and the Museum of Science and Industry lead the pack, but coding is also an option at this age.

• Theatre Camps: Theatre or dance camps where children can explore performing arts and build confidence. Try Chicago Children’s Theatre or Porchlight Theatre as a start.

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 8-Year-Olds

Eight-year-olds often enjoy camps that allow them to explore their passions and try new things. Top options are:

• Overnight Camps: At this age, students benefit from the agency and confidence that can be gained form a few nights away from home. If parents are looking for overnight camps, Chicago and Seattle have many Overnight Summer Camps to ofer.

• Outdoor Exploration: Camping, hiking, and nature observation as a family unit or with a camp structure are in abundance for upper elementary students.

• Performance Arts: Theatre and music camps that let kids showcase their talents.

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 9-Year-Olds

Nine-year-olds are eager to develop new skills and deepen their understanding. Great camps for this age include:

• Advanced STEM Programs: Opportunities to do engineering, pre-medicine experiments or learn coding at IdTech or Code Ninjas are a great compliment to students conducting advanced hands-on science experiments.

• Sports Intensives: Specialized training in sports like basketball, soccer, or tennis.

• Creative Writing or Journalism: Programs that let kids develop their storytelling skills and explore writing. As kids get older, writing is critical part of communication and a camp is a wonderful way to build it. Consider Near North Montessori for some great summer camp experiences that offer both creative arts and indoor and outdoor sports.

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 10-Year-Olds

Preteens enjoy diving deeper into specific interests. Camps tailored for this age group include:

• Science and Technology Camps: Hands-on workshops focusing on exciting STEM projects.

• Outdoor Adventure: Hiking, camping, and environmental conservation activities.

• Creative Arts: Advanced art, music, or theatre workshops.

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 11-Year-Olds

Eleven-year-olds benefit from camps that encourage independence and creativity. Options include:

• Sports Leadership: Camps that combine athletic training with leadership development.

• Environmental Science: Camps that promote ecological awareness and hands-on conservation projects.

• Counselor-In-Training / Junior Counselor Program Camps - Kids are old enough to build confidence and communication skills as junior counselors, so parents should begin researching Middle School CIT Programs or Jr. counselor Programs like the one at Kids Science Labs. Some of these CIT Programs offer upper classroom opportunities to gain knowledge, give something back and earn scholarships for high school and college.

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 12-Year-Olds

Camps for twelve-year-olds should inspire curiosity and build foundational skills. Great options are:

• Advanced STEM Camps: Opportunities to design and test experiments, code apps, or explore renewable energy.

• Adventure Camps: Programs including zip-lining, rock climbing, or kayaking.

• Media and Film: Camps focusing on photography, filmmaking, or animation.

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 13-Year-Olds

Teens benefit from camps that prepare them for future academic and social success. Ideal camps include:

• Leadership Camps: Activities that build skills like public speaking, teamwork, and problem-solving.

• Career Exploration: Camps that provide insights into potential future careers, from medicine to engineering.

• JR. Counselor Programs (CIT Program) - Build and develop confidence as your child works to support and lead younger students in these leadership experiences like the one at Kids Science Labs.

Best Chicago Summer Camps for 14-Year-Olds

For 14-year-olds, camps that focus on preparing for high school and beyond are ideal. Consider:

• Internship-Inspired Camps: Programs that simulate real-world career experiences.

• Entrepreneurship Camps: Camps where teens can develop business ideas and learn practical skills.

• Community Service: Programs focused on giving back through volunteering and activism.

Why Kids Science Labs Is a Top Choice for All Ages

Kids Science Labs stands out as one of the best summer camp providers for children ages 4-14 in Chicago. Here’s why:

• Age-Appropriate Programs: Our camps are carefully designed to match the developmental stages of each age group, ensuring engaging and meaningful experiences for every child.

• Hands-On Learning: We specialize in interactive STEM activities that allow kids to experiment, create, and problem-solve. In all the category above Kids Science Labs fits perfectly in the STEM section for every age 4 and up.

• Expert Educators: Our passionate instructors are skilled at making science accessible and fun for kids of all ages.

• Inspiring Facilities: Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and materials that encourage exploration and innovation.

• Flexible Options: With week-long sessions and diverse themes, parents can choose the perfect camp for their child’s interests and schedule.

From building volcanoes to coding robots, Kids Science Labs summer camps provide unforgettable experiences that inspire a lifelong love of learning.

Plan Your Child’s Best Summer

Ready to give your child a summer filled with discovery and excitement? Let’s make summer camp this yer one to remember for kids across Chicago and its suburbs! We recommend consulting other top summer cap guides for chicago summer camp ideas and plan ahead before summer camps are closed.

Children Science Parties in Chicago, IL

Chicago Summer Camps are for every child, regardless of their socioeconomic status

Children Science Parties in Chicago, IL

Planning a fun and educational birthday party for your child? Chicago is brimming with options that combine excitement and learning through science. Whether you’re looking for hands-on experiments, interactive exhibits, or immersive activities, these venues provide everything you need for a unique celebration. Let’s explore the best places for a Children’s Science Party in Chicago: Mad Science Chicago, The Field Museum, and Kids Science Labs Chicago.

Kids Science Labs Birthday Party Packages & Pricing

Kids Science Labs Chicago offers hands-on science parties where children can explore and create. Packages start at $475 for this 100% private party celebration and includes activities such as slime-making, color changing chemical reactions, glow-in-the-dark science experiments, and other STEAM activities that kids love.

When parents are looking for a special birthday party experience, that is not just an open arcade, or jump house, Kids Science Labs is a preferred destination for families on the north, near west, downtown, and south side of Chicago at their beautiful locations. Kids Science Labs also offers cool summer camps, and STEM programs for kids.

Add-ons

Add-ons include extended activity time, themed party decorations, and hand crafted slime kits, as well as tak-home science kits for guests to take home.

Location & Getting in Touch

Kids Science Labs has multiple locations throughout Chicago to serve families conveniently:

South Loop

Address: 1801 Indiana Ave, Chicago, IL Website: kidssciencelabs.com
Phone: (773) 798-2012

Roscoe Village

Address: 3324 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL Website: kidssciencelabs.com
Phone: (773) 798-2012

Northbrook

Address: 840 A Willow Rd, Northbrook, IL, Website: kidssciencelabs.com

Phone: (773) 798-2012

What Else They Offer

Kids Science Labs also provides Summer Camps, Spring Break Camp, Winter Break Camp, Day Off Camp, year-round STEM workshops, after-school program as they are the #1 STEM Program for Kids in Chicago.

Birthday Party Scientist For My Kids Birthday Party in Chicago with Mad Science

If you are looking to send a birthday scientists to your home, and don’t want to manage your own DIY Birthday Party Ideas, consider Mad Science Chicago offers science kids birthday party experiences that come to you! Their packages start at $250 and include a trained "Mad Scientist" who leads the children through exciting experiments such as making slime, launching rockets, or creating bubbling potions. They also offer premium party themes like Chemical Reactions and Space Explorers for an additional fee.

Add-ons

Enhance your party with fun add-ons like take-home lab gear, party favors, or additional experiment time. Prices vary based on the selected activities and materials.

Location & Getting in Touch

Mad Science will visit your home in Chicago and its suburbs, bringing all the necessary equipment and materials for the event.

Address: 2041 W Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL 60612 Website: https://chicago.madscience.org

Field Museum Birthday Party Venue in Chicago

Birthday Party Packages & Pricing

The Field Museum provides an unforgettable experience for young science enthusiasts. Party packages include private access to kid-friendly exhibits, guided scavenger hunts, and interactive activities. Packages start at $500 and can be customized to include behind-the-scenes tours or dinosaur-themed adventures.

Add-ons

Add-ons include themed decorations, catered lunches, and goody bags filled with museum-related souvenirs. Premium add-ons, like a special appearance by a paleontologist, are also available for an additional fee.

Location & Getting in Touch

The Field Museum is located in the heart of Chicago’s Museum Campus:

Address: 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL Website: fieldmuseum.org

With these amazing venues, hosting a Children’s Science Party in Chicago is both fun and educational. Each location offers unique experiences tailored to inspire curiosity and creativity, ensuring your child’s birthday is an unforgettable five-star experience. If you are looking for other DIY Birthday Party Ideas, you can find our other blogs here: https://kidssciencelabs.com/blog/top-10-kids-birthday-party-places-in-chicago

5 Great Places to Throw a Kids Birthday Party in Seattle

The Top 5 Seattle Birthday Parties

Seattle Kids Birthday Parties have always been plentiful, due to both the beautiful indoor birthday party venues and gorgeous outdoor spaces. The city is full of exciting venues that guarantee a memorable celebration for kids of all ages. Here are the top five birthday party destinations, with Kids Science Labs leading the way for the sixth year in a row.

Kids Science Labs is one of the best Seattle Kids Birthday Party Places

At Kids Science Labs, their beautiful location in Seattle for classes and Seattle Summer Camps, is transformed into one of the best birthday party venues with hands-on, science-filled experiences.

Kids can experiment, build, and explore in a fun and engaging environment. We specialize in creating unforgettable birthday experiences with personalized slimes, fizzing reactions, and hands-on STEM fun. Your child's birthday party in Seattle will feature top-notch science programs in a stunning location at 405 NE 71st St in Seattle Washingron. The primary Seattle birthday location, opened in 2016 in Greenlake, offers creative spaces and engaging science labs where kids can explore hands-on science together as a group and celebrate your child’s birthday party in style in a 100% private birthday party venue.

Perfect for kids aged 4 and up, our parties are both educational and entertaining, accsess to expert staff and a variety of activities to ensure an amazing celebration.

PlayDate SEA is a Great BParty Place in Seattle

PlayDate SEA offers an indoor playground packed with climbing structures, slides, and interactive games. It’s perfect for kids to burn off energy while parents enjoy a stress-free event. Party packages include private rooms, food options, and plenty of playtime in a safe and exciting environment.

Ninja Quest Adventures

For adventurous kids, Ninja Quest Adventures delivers a high-energy experience. With obstacle courses inspired by ninja training, kids can climb, jump, and swing their way to an action-packed celebration. Trained staff ensure everyone has fun while staying safe, making it a hit for kids who love to move.

Animal Encounters is a Fun Science Party for Kids

Animal Encounters brings the zoo experience to your party. Kids get up-close interactions with exotic animals like reptiles, birds, and small mammals. Knowledgeable handlers provide entertaining and educational presentations, making it a unique and unforgettable birthday experience.

Game Truck is a mobile Entertainment Adventure as a Birthday party

For gamers, the Game Truck is a mobile video gaming party that comes to your location. Featuring the latest consoles and popular games, the truck is equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and a host to keep the kids entertained. It’s a great option for older kids who love gaming.

Other Birthday Party Ideas in Seattle

Seattle offers countless other fun venues for birthday parties, including:

• Museums: Host a party at the Pacific Science Center or Seattle Children’s Museum for interactive learning and fun.

• Parks: Take advantage of Seattle’s beautiful outdoor spaces like Gas Works Park or Discovery Park for a picnic-style celebration.

• Bowling Alleys: Classic and always entertaining, bowling parties at spots like West Seattle Bowl are a hit for kids of all ages.

Why You Should Host Your Birthday Party at Kids Science Labs

Kids Science Labs is the perfect destination for birthday parties because it combines fun with education. Here’s why families love celebrating with us:

• Hands-On Activities: Every party is filled with exciting experiments and projects that captivate kids’ imaginations.

• Customized Themes: Choose from a variety of science themes tailored to your child’s interests from our party  packages. See More Here.

• Hassle-Free Planning: From set up to clean up, Kids Science Labs takes care of the details so you can relax and enjoy the celebration.

• Memorable Experiences: Kids leave with new knowledge, unforgettable memories, and our gift bags that include experiments kids can preform at home with parent supervison .

Whether thinking of the best science birthday party experience for kids, or an outdoor DIY nature picnic party, Seattle Birthday Parties are an opportunity to offer children a chance to feel special, while sharing the experience with friends, family and guests at your desired location for your Kids Birthday Party.