Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the Loop

Kid-friendly spots

Made for those who refuse to leave their children behind and require dining environments that accommodate a family-oriented pace.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Play Street Museum - South Loop image 1
Play Street Museum - South Loop image 2
Play Street Museum - South Loop image 3
View all

Bright, clean space features interactive play areas like a mini village and recycling truck that spark imagination. Staff guide kids in creative activities such as slime making, boosting social skills. Comfortable layout suits toddlers and school-age kids for fun 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.

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.

02
Fox In A Box Escape Room Chicago image 1

Escape rooms deliver high production value with themes like prison breaks and Zodiac mysteries. Kids enjoy child-friendly guides and tailored puzzles, making it great for birthday parties. The immersive atmosphere and personalized souvenirs create a memorable experience for all ages.

Escape rooms offer child-friendly versions and guides who are skilled at engaging kids. They accommodate children under 15 and work well for birthday parties and first-time experiences.

People are saying

"The game master Alex was so fun and helpful with hints!"

"The staff are so kind and patient, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"The escape rooms offer a unique experience with engaging gameplay."

Good to know

1

The escape room offers private rooms, so you won't play with strangers.

2

Prices are better for larger groups splitting the cost.

3

The zodiac killer escape room features unique technology and trap doors.

03
Sandmeyer's Bookstore image 1

Small bookstore in a historical building offers a cozy atmosphere with creaky wooden floors and an industrial vibe. Quiet space invites slow browsing through a well-curated selection of books. Kids enjoy a large children's section with a comfy bench for reading.

A large selection of children's books fills the kids' section, which includes a bench for reading. Both classic and lesser-known titles offer variety for kids and adults alike.

People are saying

"The staff recommendations at this bookstore are fantastic."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a large selection of children's books."

"I loved the old charm of this historical building."

Good to know

1

Sandmeyer's Bookstore hosts a monthly book club discussion on the first Saturday of each month.

2

The bookstore features a special event called 'Bike the Crawl' during Independent Bookstore Day.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during the Printerโ€™s Row Lit Fest, which attracts many visitors.

04
EXACT Sports image 1
Sports school

Sports school offers one-on-one coaching and detailed skill reviews, helping kids build elevator pitches to boost confidence. Coaches provide real feedback and guide families through college recruitment with clear sessions.

Kids build an elevator pitch to introduce themselves to coaches, boosting confidence and communication skills. Coaches give real feedback and detailed written reviews, helping kids understand strengths and areas to improve.

People are saying

"It's a great experience for kids to learn and compete."

Good to know

1

The event offers athletes a chance to be evaluated by college coaches.

2

Coaches from D2, D3, and Community Colleges attend the camp.

3

Athletes receive detailed written reviews of their performance after the camp.

05
Maggie Daley Park Play Garden image 1

Large creative space features huge slides and a mirror forest for kids to explore. Bright and inviting, it offers shaded spots for rest and feels safe and secure. Kids of all ages stay active and engaged here.

A large creative play garden offers a variety of equipment and activities for kids of all ages. Unique features like the mirror forest provide intriguing spots for exploration and fun.

People are saying

"The playground has so many fun things to do for all ages."

"This place has so many fun activities, you'll wish you were a kid again."

"This place is so fun and Kid Friendly with tons of things to do."

Good to know

1

The park is totally free to enter.

2

Bring water as it can get hot during the day.

3

Expect mosquitoes in the afternoon; bug spray is recommended.

06
Embers + Apothecary Co. image 1

Bright, spacious space offers hands-on candle making with many scents and luxury vessels. Kids enjoy interactive fun through scent choosing and candle pouring. Warm, colorful atmosphere with games and treats makes it perfect for groups and celebrations.

Kids get a hands-on experience with scent choosing and candle pouring. Birthday parties and classes like Flames & Games offer interactive fun for children and teens.

People are saying

"Making candles here is so fun and relaxing."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the staff is patient with candle making."

"It's a perfect, romantic spot for date night."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for candle-making classes, especially on weekends.

2

Street parking is available and generally easy to find in the area.

3

Classes are suitable for all ages, making it a great family activity.

07
Simply Sweet Caroline's image 1

Custom cookies feature exquisite decoration and vibrant colors, perfect for kids with smaller sizes and fun decorating kits. Friendly staff ensure a smooth order and reliable service, while individually sealed cookies make great personalized treats for birthdays and travel.

Smaller cookies suit kids well, letting them enjoy a few each. Cookie decorating kits add a fun, interactive element for parties. Birthdays for all ages get special attention with personalized treats.

People are saying

"The cookies here are beautiful and delicious."

"These cookies are adorable and delicious, a real hit for kids."

"I had cookie cakes made for our wedding weekend."

Good to know

1

The ordering process is easy and smooth for custom cookies.

2

Caroline offers cookie designs that can match your event theme.

3

Cookies are individually sealed for convenient transport.

08
KPOP NARA image 1
Music store

Spacious music store offers a wide selection of affordable K-pop albums and rare merchandise. Kids love the unboxing station, making it a fun hangout spot. Sleek, cozy interior with Instagram-ready spots and vibrant themed walls create a welcoming vibe.

Kids enjoy the unboxing station and find it a favorite hangout spot. Both younger and older kids express strong liking for the place.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly; my daughter loved it here."

"The album unpacking station is a really fun activity."

"The Stray Kids wall is really cool."

Good to know

1

KPOP NARA offers a wide variety of K-Pop merchandise, including albums and lightsticks.

2

Prices at KPOP NARA are generally lower than many other local shops.

3

Street parking options are available within a two-block radius of KPOP NARA.

09
Chicago Symphony Orchestra image 1

Symphony Hall shines with exceptional acoustics and historic architecture. Kids enjoy interactive concerts and an Instrument Petting Zoo. World-class musicians create a refined experience for all ages.

Special shows for children include interactive concerts and an Instrument Petting Zoo. Programs like Once Upon A Symphony engage kids aged 3-7 with educational and fun music experiences.

People are saying

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

"The kids' programming with costumes and storytelling was fantastic."

"The view from the highest balcony was amazing."

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.

10
Ayayay - Mexican Eatery image 1
Mexican restaurant

Urban spot with Tulum-inspired decor offers a lively vibe and custom kid meals like mild tacos. Kids love the churros and charcoal chicken tacos. Seating suits groups or pairs, making it great for families.

Staff offer customized kid meals like tacos with no heat and accommodate special requests easily. Kids enjoy churros and charcoal chicken tacos, often finishing their plates and praising the food.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well-seasoned."

"I found the nachos here to be fresh, flavorful, and perfectly prepared."

"The food here is fantastic and my picky kids loved it."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2 to 6 pm.

2

$3 Taco Tuesdays offer great value for visitors.

3

Wednesday features a special margarita deal.

11
Five Iron Golf image 1
Indoor golf course

Indoor golf shines with top-notch simulators and a full bar for adults. Kids enjoy engaging golf games and friendly staff. Spacious, lively setting includes a putting green and social spots for all ages.

Great golf games keep kids engaged here. Staff are attentive and skilled at working with children. It's a solid spot to visit before a nearby show.

People are saying

"The golf staff here are genuinely fun and know how to treat you right."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The staff here is attentive and good with kids."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm with great food and drink deals.

2

Trivia night takes place every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

The all-you-can-eat wings cost $5 during happy hour.

12
7th29 Barbershop image 1
Barber shop

Elegant British barber shop offers vintage barber chairs and a peaceful atmosphere with dim lighting. Kids enjoy haircuts from Tomas and Brian, who provide outstanding service. Private booths ensure a distraction-free experience for all ages.

Kids get haircuts from Tomas and Brian, who both do outstanding jobs. The shop welcomes children alongside adults.

People are saying

"Tomas is a terrific barber who does a wonderful job."

"Tomas is a talented barber who does a fantastic shave."

"I got a great haircut for myself and my son."

Good to know

1

Appointments can be easily booked through their user-friendly website.

2

Pricing for a haircut starts at $49, excluding any wash services.

3

The barbershop is located on the 7th floor and requires signing in at the building entrance.

13
Uni Uni Boba image 1
Bubble tea store

Bright, clean space with a yellow exterior offers a fun, cozy vibe. Kid friendly with non-caffeinated teas and sweet croffles that kids love. Chalk wall and board games create a casual hangout perfect for families.

Offers a variety of teas including non-caffeinated options suitable for kids. The sweet croffle tastes mainly of sugar, making it appealing for children. The atmosphere feels kid friendly and welcoming.

People are saying

"The brown sugar milk tea is creamy with fresh, chewy pearls."

"They made our celebration memorable and were so helpful."

"I played fun board games with friends here."

Good to know

1

The menu lacks clear vegan labels, making it hard to identify options.

2

The drink costs just over $10 after upcharges and tip.

3

Uni Uni Boba offers a stamp card where your 10th drink is free.

14
Health Loft Nutrition image 1

Nutritionist office creates a relaxed atmosphere with a non-judgmental, all-foods-fit approach. Experts ask great questions and help kids with weight gain and food fears. Sessions focus on personalized guidance that builds sustainable habits and supports a healthy relationship with food.

Nutritionists ask great questions and offer recommendations beyond typical doctors. They help kids with weight gain, food fears, and prepare young athletes for sports.

People are saying

"I learned to build sustainable habits and a healthy relationship with food."

"I learned to eat without guilt and second-guessing my food."

"I learned so much from Jenny's thorough recommendations for my son."

Good to know

1

Virtual sessions are available, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

2

Personalized nutrition plans are tailored to individual goals and preferences.

3

Coaching focuses on building sustainable habits and a healthy relationship with food.

15
Studebaker Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater shines with beautiful architecture and tremendous acoustics. Perfect size suits kid friendly shows like Dog Man Musical, keeping children engaged. Comfortable seating adds to cozy, intimate experience for all ages.

Shows like the Dog Man Musical suit both kids and adults well. The theater's perfect size makes it easy to enjoy with children, and its old features catch kids' attention too.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a great spot for kids, especially for the Dog Man musical."

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.

16
Color Factory Chicago image 1

Bright, interactive rooms with free digital photo stations invite play and photography. Families enjoy kid-friendly exhibits that engage toddlers and young children. Vibrant, colorful spaces create an immersive experience centered on color and fun.

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.

People are saying

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

"The galleries here are an explosion of creativity and joy."

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

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.

17
Brown Bag Seafood Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with fresh, flavorful options and a build-your-own system that kids love, especially the fish and chips. Seating is comfy, and the vibe stays friendly and energetic even during busy lunch hours.

Kids enjoy fish and chips and kids salmon options that they finish completely. Vegetarian substitutions like tofu are available for dietary needs.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always filling."

"This Lunch Spot's staff saved my forgotten envelope and my day."

"The salmon and fish and chips were a hit with the kids."

Good to know

1

The happy hour runs from 3pm to 6pm daily with discounted prices.

2

Expect to pay around $18 for two pieces of fish with chips.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

18
Chicago Fed Money Museum image 1

Small, modern museum offers interactive games and a quiet atmosphere. Kids enjoy handling one million dollars and get a shredded money souvenir. Free admission and security checks make it safe and accessible for families.

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.

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.

Discover more

Chicago Loop, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...