Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Illinois' best

Interesting playgrounds

Made for those who find standard slides and swings uninspiring and seek out unconventional structures that challenge their children’s imagination.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
First Division Museum at Cantigny image 1
First Division Museum at Cantigny image 2
First Division Museum at Cantigny image 3
View all

Military history unfolds through immersive exhibits with authentic sounds and realistic lighting. Surrounding beautiful gardens and tree-lined courtyards create a calm atmosphere with well-marked trails and peaceful views. Outdoor tanks invite climbing, adding an interactive element for visitors of all ages.

A farm-themed playground offers fun for kids over 5 with swings and open play areas. The playground sits near a garden, making it a nice spot for families.

Dim lighting sets a reflective mood for the walk through the exhibits. The museum offers educational displays that keep the experience interesting throughout.

People are saying

"This historical site is a wonderful place full of history."

"The farm-themed playground was awesome for kids."

"I found the exhibits really interesting and educational."

Good to know

1

The museum is free to enter for all visitors.

2

Parking is free for military personnel with CAC cards.

3

There is a parking fee for general visitors.

02
Cantigny Park image 1

Expansive grounds showcase beautiful gardens and historic mansion with elegant charm. Visitors find a peaceful atmosphere filled with pleasant scents and twinkling lights illuminating pathways. Family-friendly features include playgrounds, climbable tanks, and interactive musical swings.

Huge playground offers plenty of space and saucer swings spread throughout. Large picnic area and musical swings add to the fun for kids.

Military history comes alive with detailed exhibits on the Big Red One's role in WWI and WWII. The museum's tanks and outdoor displays add depth to the informative experience.

People are saying

"The Christmas lights at this park create a magical winter wonderland."

"It's a beautiful place with wide open spaces perfect for relaxing."

"The grounds are beautiful and perfectly maintained."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $5 per car, but free on Veterans Day.

2

Dogs are not allowed in the park except on designated days.

3

The park hosts various events, including concerts and reenactments throughout the year.

03
Westfield Old Orchard image 1

Outdoor mall features beautiful landscaping and well-designed seating areas that create a relaxing atmosphere with a community feel. Families benefit from playgrounds that keep children entertained while adults shop or dine. Renovations keep the space updated, enhancing its clean and bright vibe year-round.

Built-in playgrounds offer an outdoor play area where kids can move freely and get tired out. These spaces make it easy to shop while spending time with little ones.

Titanic exhibit offers a lot to take in and stands out as very interesting. Unique shops and an art installation made of recycled garbage add to the mix, making it a place with diverse and intriguing sights.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful outdoor mall with nice landscaped areas."

"The playground is great for little kids to play."

"The Titanic exhibit was very interesting and exciting."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

The Titanic exhibit features around 300 cars and runs for a limited time.

3

The Downton Abbey experience is popular and may require advance tickets.

04
The Morton Arboretum image 1

Outdoor space offers beautiful grounds with art sculptures and feature gardens including a labyrinth. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, inviting exploration and quiet enjoyment. Family-friendly zones include a fenced children's play area designed for nature interaction and skill development.

Adventure Woods offers streams, small slides, wooden homes, and digging areas for kids to explore. The children's garden includes swings, picnic tables, and ponds where kids can look for fish and frogs.

Large grounds offer many visually interesting focal points and scenic spots. The hedge maze combines education and play with plant introductions.

People are saying

"It's so kid-friendly, with outdoor areas and fun creatures to find."

"I found the arboretum beautiful with its abundant greenery and flowers."

"I saw many interesting things and art installations here."

Good to know

1

The entry fee is $26 per car for access to the park.

2

The Morton Arboretum hosts seasonal events like a holiday light show in December.

3

Check the website for the latest events and exhibitions before visiting.

05
Settlers' Park image 1

Paved paths wind through open spaces featuring a bridge, statues, and displays that share local history. Calm and serene atmosphere invites walking, jogging, and picnicking with family. Playground, picnic areas, and a stocked pond add to the family-friendly and nature-rich setting.

Half of the park features a walking storybook starting near the playground. The playground itself is good sized and sits next to a picnic area.

Half the park features a walking storybook starting near the playground. The other loop shares local history about the town and area along the sidewalk.

People are saying

"It's a great place for walking and cycling."

"It's great for a picnic with covered areas at each end."

"The park has a playground area."

Good to know

1

The park hosts family-friendly movie nights on Fridays during summer.

2

Free music concerts take place on Sunday afternoons in summer.

3

There is a public restroom available at the park.

06
Brookfield Zoo image 1

Spacious, immersive animal exhibits combine with interactive experiences like giraffe feeding and a Ferris wheel offering great views. The atmosphere feels lively and family-friendly, with many young people and children enjoying playgrounds and shaded rest areas. Well-designed enclosures and vibrant lighting create a beautiful, engaging environment throughout.

A really nice playground serves as the main spot for kids to play. Indoor areas near the koala house offer accessible play spaces, plus a merry-go-round and ferris wheel add extra fun.

Many interactive exhibits rotate regularly, keeping the experience fresh. The new primate area has metal tunnels for animals to move inside or outside. Random peacocks roam freely, adding to the unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Zoo has so many animals and fun shows for kids."

"The zoo had a really nice playground with rides and a carousel."

"The exhibits here are really interesting and interactive."

Good to know

1

Admission is $30 per person, with parking costing an additional $17.

2

Parking can fill up quickly, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Several major exhibits, including the elephant and primate houses, are currently closed.

07
Color Factory Chicago image 1

Bright, interactive rooms invite touch, play, and photography with free digital photo stations in each area. The space offers a vibrant, colorful atmosphere that engages the senses and encourages fun. Small size and unique, themed installations create an immersive experience centered on color.

Green ball pools with slides and a ball pit create a playful space for toddlers. An ice cream treat adds a sweet finish to the fun.

Lots of fun exhibits fill the space with vibrant colors and unique setups. Each room offers an interesting new experience and plenty of photo opportunities.

People are saying

"It's a fun experience for all ages."

"It's a fun and interesting place with vibrant exhibits."

"The playground has a ball pit with slides."

Good to know

1

Tickets cost $72, which includes treats and digital photos.

2

The entrance is located next to the Willis Tower Deck entrance.

3

Free items like ice cream and souvenirs are included with admission.

Discover more

Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...