Chicago Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Chicago
This itinerary focuses on maximizing free and low-cost experiences while incorporating key Chicago attractions kids love. Expect a mix of cultural exploration, animal encounters, interactive play, and outdoor fun. All pricing estimates are for a family of two adults and two children (ages 3-12) who are Chicago residents, where applicable.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Tropical Conservatory Escape
Step into a lush, warm oasis away from Chicago's winter chill.
The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest conservatories in the United States, spanning approximately two acres indoors, showcasing thousands of plant species across eight magnificent rooms. Explore diverse plant collections, including the Fern Room and Desert House, offering a unique sensory experience.
Great for all ages, especially good for escaping the cold. Wheelchair accessible. Reservations are required and should be made in advance. The Children's Garden is currently closed, but other exhibits are engaging.
Free parking is available in the Visitor's Parking Lot just south of the Conservatory entrance. Accessible via CTA Green Line to Conservatory Stop.
Library Story Time
Enjoy a relaxed evening with a family story time at a local Chicago Public Library branch.
These events typically feature songs, rhymes, and books, fostering early literacy skills and social-emotional development in a welcoming environment.
Ideal for children ages 0-6 and their caregivers, providing a calm activity before bedtime. Check the Chicago Public Library website closer to the date for specific event schedules and locations, as offerings vary by branch.
Easily accessible via CTA trains (Brown, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, Blue lines) and numerous bus routes. Street parking may be limited.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Aquatic Wonders
Dive into the aquatic world at Shedd Aquarium, home to a vast array of marine life from oceans, lakes, and rivers.
Discover playful penguins, colorful coral, and majestic belugas through engaging exhibits. Advanced reservations are highly recommended due to high demand.
Excellent for all ages, with many interactive displays to captivate children. Consider focusing on major exhibits like the Caribbean Reef or Polar Play Zone. Strollers are permitted.
Public parking is available in the Soldier Field parking garage. Accessible via CTA buses 146 and 130.
Quick Bites Lunch
Grab a quick, budget-friendly lunch at a family-friendly eatery near the museum campus or en route to the next activity.
Options like casual cafes, pizza places, or a packed lunch can help keep costs down.
Choose a spot with kid-friendly menus and facilities. Packing snacks and drinks for the day can also help save money.
Walk, public transit, or drive depending on chosen location.
Lunar New Year Parade
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with a vibrant parade in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood.
Experience a colorful procession of community groups, cultural institutions, dancers, and performers, welcoming the Year of the Horse. This festive event often includes family-friendly activities.
An exciting cultural experience for all ages. Dress warmly as this is an outdoor event in February. Arrive early for a good viewing spot.
Accessible via CTA Red Line to Argyle station. Public street parking may be very limited due to the event.
Free Zoo Adventure
Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, a free oasis in the city, where you can see lions, gorillas, chimpanzees, and more.
Explore various indoor animal houses to stay warm while observing hundreds of species.
Open daily, 10 AM to 5 PM. Ideal for all ages. Focus on the indoor exhibits during colder weather. Stroller-friendly with restrooms and dining options available on-site.
Paid parking is available at the zoo's lot on Cannon Drive (2400 N. Cannon Drive). Accessible via CTA buses 151 and 156.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Children's Museum Fun
Spend the morning at the Chicago Children's Museum, an interactive wonderland designed to spark curiosity and creativity.
This day is a 'Kids Free Day,' offering free admission for children of all ages. Explore engaging exhibits like the Dinosaur Expedition, Tinkering Lab, and Water City.
Specifically targeted for children aged 1-12. The 'I AM WILD: A Charley Harper Exhibit' is also running. Be aware that adult admission still applies. Stroller accessible.
Paid parking is available at Navy Pier. Accessible via various CTA buses.
Playground Adventure
Let the kids burn off energy at the Maggie Daley Park Play Garden.
This expansive, award-winning playground features towering slides, suspension bridges, and ship-themed structures, encouraging imagination and movement.
Designed for a wide range of ages, with different zones for younger and older children. Dress warmly for outdoor play in February. Restrooms are available.
Public parking garages are nearby (Millennium Park Garage, Grant Park North Garage). Easily accessible by CTA trains (various lines to Millennium Park/Randolph St) and buses.
Cozy Cafe Treat
Conclude your weekend with a cozy treat at a family-friendly cafe.
Enjoy warm drinks, pastries, or light snacks in a relaxed setting before heading home. This offers a comfortable winding-down activity.
Choose a cafe with ample seating and kid-friendly snack options. A nice way to recap the weekend's adventures.
Varies by cafe location; many are accessible via public transit or have nearby street parking.
This weekend itinerary for Chicago can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.