Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Chicago

Kid-friendly museums

Made for those who want to foster a sense of curiosity in their children through regular visits to educational exhibits.

Based on 628 Opinions
+625
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
The Messi Experience Chicago image 1
The Messi Experience Chicago image 2
The Messi Experience Chicago image 3
View all

Exhibition offers immersive rooms and interactive soccer-themed games that engage visitors of all ages. Atmosphere balances family-friendly fun with an inspiring look at a sports icon's life. Visitors often enjoy delicious empanadas as part of the experience.

Kids find the exhibit highly interactive and engaging, with a standout feature being a recreation of Messi's childhood bedroom. The experience excites children and keeps them entertained throughout.

Exhibits feature immersive rooms and interactive games that engage visitors of all ages. The story of Messi unfolds with emotional depth and offers detailed insights into his journey from childhood to global icon.

People are saying

"The interactive games here are so much fun for everyone."

"The museum's exhibit on Messi's journey is truly inspiring."

"My kids had a blast with all the interactive games."

Good to know

1

Tickets are more expensive than average, so budget accordingly.

2

Free parking is available on-site for visitors.

3

The experience is great for families and kids of all ages.

02
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir Chicago image 1

Eighteen linked rooms showcase balloon-style art installations with unique lighting and music in each space. Interactive features like a ball pit, swings, and bubbles create a joyful, immersive atmosphere that appeals to all ages. The design balances colorful, emotional vibes with spaces for relaxation and creative engagement.

Ball pit room, swing, and bubbles provide stimulating play for kids of various ages. Activities combine fun and education, engaging toddlers through young adults alike.

Bright colors and interactive exhibits create a highly engaging experience. The museum offers spacious galleries that never feel crowded, making it easy to enjoy the art and sensory presentations.

People are saying

"It's a fun, interactive experience that kids absolutely loved."

"The galleries here are immersive and full of sensory stimulation."

"The ball pit exhibit at this museum was the most exciting part."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on site for $10.

2

Booking tickets in advance is recommended to avoid long waits.

3

The museum offers many interactive displays suitable for both adults and children.

03
Chicago Fed Money Museum image 1

Small, modern museum offers an intimate and quiet atmosphere with interactive games and photo spots. Visitors pass through security and show ID for entry, reflecting its location within a federal bank. Admission is free, making it accessible for family fun and educational visits.

Kids interact with one million dollars in different denominations and learn to approve loans and adjust interest rates. They also get a free souvenir of shredded money to take home.

Free entry makes the museum accessible to everyone. Exhibits focus on the history of money and the Federal Reserve, with interactive displays that explain how money works in America.

People are saying

"It's a cool historical site to learn about US currency."

"It's a fun, free, and interactive experience with lots of games."

"It's really Kid Friendly with lots of interactive games and activities."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free, but an ID is required for entry.

2

You must pass through security to enter the museum.

3

The museum opens at 10am.

04
Play Street Museum - South Loop image 1

Bright, clean, and thoughtfully designed space offers interactive play areas like a mini village, vet office, and recycling truck. Energy stays comfortable and inviting, ideal for toddlers through school-age kids to explore and socialize. Layout suits young children with age-appropriate activities and organized stations that encourage imagination and learning.

Creative play spaces include a recycling truck, fire station slide, and spaceship corner that engage kids deeply. Staff help with activities like slime making, supporting creativity and social engagement during birthday parties and visits.

Numerous hands-on exhibits and interactive displays engage children of various ages. Creative activities and a calm environment make it enjoyable for both kids and parents.

People are saying

"This place is great for kid-friendly birthday parties; the hosts were so helpful!"

"This children's museum is a fantastic, vibrant play space for kids."

"I loved the arts and crafts activities, especially making slime."

Good to know

1

Parking is free with validation when visiting the museum.

2

The museum is suitable for children ages 1 to 10.

3

The facility is very clean and well-organized for children's play.

05
Swedish American Museum image 1

Heritage museum offers interactive children's play areas with a Viking boat and Swedish house, creating a kid-friendly atmosphere. Exhibits focus on Swedish immigration history with thoughtful displays and accessible content. A cozy cafe and small gift shop add to the welcoming environment.

The third floor features a Children's museum that is fun and interactive. A dedicated children's play area offers a great space for young kids to explore comfortably.

Exhibits focus on Swedish immigration history and Swedish culture with very informative displays. The museum offers a free entry day and a welcoming atmosphere with helpful staff and volunteers.

People are saying

"I found the exhibits on Swedish immigration to Chicago really interesting."

"You have to try the cardamom buns at this cafe; they're amazing."

"The admission price for the Museums was reasonable."

Good to know

1

The museum is free on the second Tuesday of every month.

2

Tickets cost only $4-6 and are well worth the price.

3

There is a designated free parking lot nearby.

06
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.

Bright, interactive exhibits keep toddlers and young kids engaged. Families with children as young as 7 months find it a fun way to enjoy time together and unplug from devices.

Each room features a unique, interactive exhibit celebrating color in many forms. Activities and exhibits engage the senses with themed, colorful rooms that invite hands-on participation.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun experience that kids and adults enjoyed."

"This museum's interactive exhibits are bright, playful, and stimulating."

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.

07
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center image 1

Museum occupies a beautiful building with well-curated exhibits that highlight Black history, art, and stories of progress. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and inspiring to lively with music, food, and dancing during events. Features include a play area for kids, free entry, and unique gift shop offerings.

Many exhibits focus on kids learning history and diversity. The kids section encourages drawing and thinking about what makes people different and the same.

Exhibits focus deeply on African history with educational displays like a moving map of the slave trade. Staff create a welcoming atmosphere and the museum offers free entry on Wednesdays.

People are saying

"The exhibits here are thoughtful, emotive, and informative."

"I learned so much about Black history and its integral part in American history."

"The kids' area here is amazing and a must-see."

Good to know

1

Entry to the museum is free, making it accessible for all visitors.

2

The museum hosts special events like jazz performances and Juneteenth celebrations.

3

Evening events are common, providing a vibrant atmosphere for visitors.

08
Museum Of Science Industry: Coal Mine image 1

Huge museum with a perfectly recreated coal mine exhibit featuring original machines and artifacts offers an impressive experience for all ages. Crowds swell during free days, creating a lively but sometimes messy atmosphere. Facilities include a kids' water play area and directly connected parking, enhancing convenience for families.

Exhibits like the Coal Mine, weather display, and model trains engage kids well. The kids' area with water features adds extra fun for toddlers and older children alike.

Exhibits include a coal mine tour, a U-505 German submarine, and a model railroad with a Boeing 727. The museum offers engaging displays for all ages and plenty of space for kids to explore.

People are saying

"It's really kid friendly; my children loved the exhibits."

"This museum is spectacular for all ages, especially kids."

"I found the coal mine tour really interesting and felt like I was stepping back in time."

Good to know

1

The coal mine exhibition costs extra beyond general admission.

2

Parking is directly connected to the museum for easy access.

3

Expect crowds during weekends; arrive early to avoid long lines.

09
National Museum of Mexican Art image 1

Art museum offers beautifully curated galleries with colorful murals and Day of the Dead displays that create a calm, immersive atmosphere. Spacious, well-organized rooms invite quiet exploration and contemplation. Free entry and a charming gift shop add to the welcoming experience.

A variety of craft activities and programs keep kids engaged and interested. Kids can join groups to draw or participate in Saturday events designed just for them.

Multiple visits reveal new exhibits and fresh learning opportunities each time. The museum offers free admission and consistently delivers an amazing experience with a unique cultural focus.

People are saying

"I learned so much about Mexican culture and history at these museums."

"The Mexican art here is so colorful and stunning."

"It's a great place with activities that really engage kids."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

The museum hosts a special outdoor annual Day of the Dead festival.

3

Community events and makers' markets support local artists throughout the year.

10
Bronzeville Children's Museum image 1

Small, structured children's museum focuses on African American history and STEM education for ages 4-9. Tours run on a timed schedule with guided discussions, crafts, and hands-on activities. Space is clean and organized, emphasizing confidence and pride in children.

The museum offers a unique African American focus that builds confidence and pride in children. Tours stay relevant and engaging, with staff like Miss Margaret keeping kids interested throughout.

Focuses on African American history and contributions through interactive exhibits. Combines science education and fun learning for children of various ages.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; the children had a great time and learned a lot."

"The children's museum is so informative and full of fun."

"The historical sites here are so intricate and the guides are very knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Tours start at 10, 11, 12, and 1.

2

The museum is cash only, so visitors should get cash ahead of time.

3

Families with children who have special needs should be aware of how unfairly they might be treated at this museum.

11
Hyde Park Art Center image 1

Art center feels like a living art studio with intimate cozy corners and quirky nooks. Galleries showcase a rotating mix of community-inspired and emerging artists' works. Activities and classes engage both kids and adults, complemented by a connected cafe accessible from the street.

Classes and open studios bring a creative energy that attracts kids and adults alike. Lots of activities for kids include art and dance classes designed for all ages.

Galleries showcase a rotating mix of community-inspired installations and multimedia works. Exhibits include emerging artists and teen showcases, all free to browse at your own pace.

People are saying

"It's great for kids with lots of activities and classes."

"The staff at the Galleries are so kind and knowledgeable."

"The museum staff were so kind and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Hyde Park Art Center offers free parking and admission for all visitors.

2

Cocktails & Clay is a fun, interactive event perfect for date nights.

3

Classes and open studios cater to both kids and adults, fostering creativity.

12
The Exhibit House of Chicago image 1

Rooms feature distinct themes with vibrant colors and detailed decor designed for an immersive experience. The atmosphere is calm and spacious, with music enhancing the mood and interactive areas like a secret garden and disco room offering playful engagement. The space attracts families and content creators seeking unique photo opportunities and a relaxed vibe.

Kids enjoy the Winter Wonderland and the secret garden with interactive activities. Spaces offer fun photo opportunities and are suitable for toddlers and young children.

Interactive exhibits create a vibrant and family friendly atmosphere with rooms like the disco space standing out. Staff are helpful and responsive, enhancing the overall experience.

People are saying

"This museum is perfect for taking pictures and creating content."

"The fun activities here are so interactive and engaging."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my son loved the secret garden and interactive activities."

Good to know

1

Tickets are $30 per person, but Groupon offers them for $22.

2

Reservations are not needed to visit the museum.

3

The space is available for rent for special events.

Discover more

Chicago, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...