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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in the Loop

Fun activities with parking

You want to spend your time on an activity rather than searching for a place to park.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated April 2026
01
Play Street Museum - South Loop image 1
Play Street Museum - South Loop image 2
Play Street Museum - South Loop image 3
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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.

Parking comes with validation, making it easy to access and often free or reasonably priced.

Many areas offer imaginative play with hands-on activities for different ages. The guided slime experience stands out as fun and engaging for kids.

People are saying

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

"It's a super fun play space with lots of imaginative activities."

"Parking is available and easy with validation."

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.

02
Studebaker Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater offers an intimate setting with beautiful architecture and comfortable seating. The space features tremendous acoustics that enhance performances, creating a cozy and engaging atmosphere.

Parking sits right next door with the exit less than 60 feet from the entrance. Plenty of options exist nearby, some with validation available.

Live performances offer a fun and engaging experience with musical shows and dancers that captivate the audience. The acts are well done and provide an entertaining evening.

People are saying

"The theater's atmosphere is gorgeous and comfortable."

"The show was a ton of fun and incredibly well done."

"Parking is available nearby and it's easy to find."

Good to know

1

The Studebaker Theater is wheelchair accessible for all guests.

2

Garage parking at Grant Park South is available across the street.

3

The theater does not accept cash for purchases; credit cards only.

03
James M. Nederlander Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater showcases 1920s art deco decor and gorgeous interior with comfortable seating and great stage views. Atmosphere feels breathtaking and grand, creating an unforgettable experience with incredible sound. Exclusive suite service offers private lounge with drinks and snacks, enhancing the overall visit.

A parking garage sits very close to the theater, making access easy and convenient. Buying parking ahead offers discounted rates and smooth entry with helpful staff support.

Stage effects and magic illusions create an entertaining and fun atmosphere. Photo opportunities and casual dress add a playful touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The theater is gorgeous and beautifully ornate."

"The seats here are really comfortable."

"The theater is beautiful, with intricate details inside."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a garage just around the corner from the theater.

2

Expect long lines for the restrooms during intermission; plan accordingly.

3

The balcony seats provide great views and are less expensive than front-row seats.

04
Chicago Symphony Orchestra image 1

Symphony Hall offers exceptional acoustics and an intimate setting with beautiful historic architecture. Performances feature world-class musicians delivering clear, balanced sound throughout the venue. The atmosphere is classy and professional, creating a refined experience for classical music lovers.

Parking options include the Millennium Park garage and Grant Park south underground lot. Buying parking online beforehand cuts costs but exiting the underground lot can take over an hour.

Interactive performances combine nostalgia and musicianship, creating a lively atmosphere. Additional fun activities after shows keep the energy going.

People are saying

"The Symphony's performance was truly wonderful and amazing."

"The fun activities here are a memorable, interactive experience."

"Parking was easy to find and simple."

Good to know

1

Children's concerts are interactive and educational, perfect for family outings.

2

Arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure seating for performances.

3

The venue hosts movie concerts, enhancing the experience with live orchestral music.

05
Auditorium Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Auditorium Theatre offers historic architecture with ornate design and classic ambiance that transports visitors back in time. The space fills with rich acoustics that enhance live performances, creating a magical atmosphere. Comfortable seating and a mix of old charm with modern touches define the experience.

Lots of parking sits within walking distance, including a surface lot around the corner. Parking spots appear directly across the street from the doors, making access super convenient and easy to get to.

Fascinating tours highlight the theatre's beauty and add to the fun. Shared boxes seat four with friendly guests enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, historic venue for performing arts."

"It's a beautiful and historic venue with a stunning interior."

"Parking was easy and available within walking distance."

Good to know

1

Parking is a pay lot right across the street from the theatre.

2

Expect seating issues due to pillars blocking views in some areas.

3

The show starts at 7pm; arrive early for best seating.

06
Block 37 image 1
Shopping mall

Vertical mall with an AMC movie theater at the top offers comfy seating and plenty of tables for relaxing. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet, making it easy to shop or enjoy a drink. Amenities include a climbing wall, simulated golf, and interactive games that add variety beyond typical shopping.

Parking offers easy access with a garage connected to transit and underground walkways. Validation is available but not always consistent, and fees support the mall's operations.

Clue walking games offer a fun and unique way to explore the building and surrounding areas. Families enjoy solving intricate puzzles together, making the experience both challenging and engaging.

People are saying

"It's a fun walking game, great for seeing new places."

"The cinema at this mall has the most comfortable seats and you can order food."

"I found the parking here to be great and easily accessible."

Good to know

1

Validated parking is available, making it easier to visit.

2

Restrooms close 15 minutes before the mall's closing time.

3

Block 37 connects to the blue and red subway lines for easy access.

07
Grant Park image 1
City park

Urban park offers panoramic city skyline views and a huge central fountain surrounded by spacious green lawns and walking paths. Atmosphere balances peaceful lakeshore relaxation with lively areas like a skatepark and playground. Frequent events and live entertainment bring diverse crowds together in a vibrant yet calm setting.

Parking includes a clean, well maintained lot inside the park with easy access. Paying is simple using an app, and affordable garages can be found nearby through SpotHero.

Lots of walking and sights keep things interesting. Festivals add extra layers of Summertime fun and the space offers a calming spot to relax with family.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, spacious park with great walking trails."

"I loved the nice view of the skyline and lake."

"Parking was difficult to find and tricky in this area."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $30 per day near Grant Park.

2

Public restrooms are not available in Grant Park.

3

Consider using Uber or bus transportation when visiting Grant Park.

08
Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon image 1

Ice skating ribbon features a unique track shape with varying elevations that create a more fun experience than typical oval rinks. Skating offers amazing city skyline views and a vibe that feels like skating on a river in the woods. The atmosphere is lively with music and crowds, especially during evening sessions when city lights enhance the scenery.

Parking is available in local garages and a nearby lot, but it tends to be expensive and fills up quickly. Construction blocks some paid spots, making parking a bit difficult overall.

Skating on the ribbon-shaped ice rink offers a unique experience with its varying elevations and more space than typical rinks. Both beginners and seasoned skaters find it a fun and engaging activity.

People are saying

"The ice skating ribbon offers a fun, unique experience with slopes."

"The ice skating ribbon at these parks feels like skating on a river in the woods."

"Parking is available but it's expensive and fills up quickly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required in advance as time slots fill up quickly.

2

Ice skating is available from mid-November through mid-March.

3

The park has two entrances, one with lockers and restrooms.

09
theWit Chicago, a Hilton Hotel image 1

Hotel offers lively rooftop bar with great city views and vibrant atmosphere. Rooms and common areas feature funky artwork and a comfy, eclectic design. Nighttime brings street noise and energetic crowds, especially near the club and light rail.

Valet parking offers easy and efficient service with professional staff handling vehicles. It provides convenient access compared to distant parking garages, especially when carrying bags.

A rooftop bar offers a lively spot with a large dance floor and friendly staff. Events include themed celebrations and fundraisers with activities like roof repelling, adding to the fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"The hotel's five-star service made my day better."

"The valet parking here is easy and efficient."

"The rooftop bar was really fun with a great city view."

Good to know

1

The rooftop bar hosts a brunch buffet on weekends.

2

Private events frequently close the rooftop bar, limiting access.

3

Valet service is recommended as there is no parking available.

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