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Local picks

Kid-friendly cool spots in River North

Made for those who want to include their children in their outings without sacrificing their own sense of style.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Dave’s Hot Chicken image 1
Dave’s Hot Chicken image 2
Dave’s Hot Chicken image 3
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Chicken restaurant

Outdoor and indoor spaces feature colorful artwork and a vibrant, lively atmosphere with loud 1980s rock music. Staff engage actively, often dancing, creating a welcoming and energetic vibe. Seating includes a spacious patio and walk-up counter service.

Staff show attentiveness by quickly handling kids' needs and offering treats like free desserts and early birthday surprises. The atmosphere feels welcoming and suits families well.

Artwork in the space stands out with sick designs and the decor adds a cool vibe throughout. The place stays super clean and keeps a consistently cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, delicious, and full of flavor."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot; my children really enjoyed it."

"The place felt super cool and clean."

Good to know

1

Dave’s Hot Chicken is halal, making it a great option for those who need it.

2

Parking next to the restaurant is limited, fitting maybe 7 or 8 cars.

3

The restaurant is very clean, including the bathrooms.

02
Chicago Chop House image 1

Restored brownstone with early 1900s decor and photos of local celebrities creates a traditional steakhouse atmosphere. Live piano music plays softly, adding to the luxurious and old-fashioned vibe. Comfortable seating and personalized touches enhance a refined dining experience.

Staff create a welcoming atmosphere for kids and make celebrations feel special with personalized attention. Meals include kid-friendly options like fettuccine Alfredo alongside adult entrees.

A very cool spot with an old school steakhouse vibe. Walls feature historic pictures and memorabilia that add to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the steak to be tender and flavorful."

"They made my son feel special and welcome for his birthday."

"The staff here are so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

During the 40th anniversary, all food ordered was 40% off.

2

Valentine’s Day celebrations offer special menu items.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays.

03
No Vacancy image 1
Restaurant

Dark academia decor creates a classy yet casual vibe with comfortable bar seating and large screen TVs for watching games. The atmosphere stays fun and welcoming, featuring DJs on weekends and a solid beer tap system. Food and drinks include amazing birria egg rolls and craft cocktails, making it a popular spot for game days.

Staff show kindness to kids and engage with their activities like drawings. Some tables have vaping and foul language, which could affect families with small children.

Cocktail list offers a cool selection with unique options like photos on a Guinness or espresso martini. The bar maintains a somewhat family friendly vibe while staying cool overall.

People are saying

"I found the birria egg rolls to be absolutely delicious."

"I loved their cool, awesome selection of drinks."

"The food here is extraordinary and the Brussels sprouts are a must."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 to 6:30 pm with half-price appetizers and drinks.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during NFL games on weekends.

3

The menu features unique dishes but is small enough to not be overwhelming.

04
Kitchen + Kocktails By Kevin Kelley - Chicago image 1

Elegant restaurant with stunning windows and Instagram-worthy décor creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with perfectly curated music. The vibe is lively and friendly, enhanced by attentive service and a beautiful city view. The space balances upscale soul food dining with a fun, electric energy.

Staff show great patience and friendliness with kids, making celebrations feel extra special. Managers and servers invite families back and ensure everyone is well taken care of during events like birthdays.

The spot has an interesting atmosphere with cool decor that stands out. The overall vibe feels cool and relaxed.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The shrimp deviled egg was cool, and the food was excellent."

"It's really Kid Friendly for birthday celebrations."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs until 7 pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is available for guests at the restaurant.

05
Hawksmoor Chicago image 1

Steakhouse offers a stylish and warm dining room with quiet sophistication and a relaxed but upmarket atmosphere. Cocktails are expertly crafted, complementing the coal-cooked steaks that define the menu. Private rooms and a dynamic space support both intimate and business gatherings.

Celebrations with kids get special attention from the entire team. Staff show great patience managing young children during events like birthdays.

An old Chicago-style building gives the place character and charm. The overall vibe feels really cool and the setting adds to that.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The food here is spectacular, especially the steak cooked to perfection."

"The food here is great and made with quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm-6pm with great deals on steak, burgers, and oysters.

2

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday roast, which is only available on Sundays.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options and is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions.

06
10pin Bowling Lounge image 1

Bowling alley features neon lights along lanes and large TV projections above pins, creating a lively atmosphere with music and screens. Space includes table tennis, pool, and foosball, attracting groups for casual play. Pricing is high, but the vibe stays fun and cool throughout visits.

Staff handle kids with friendly care. Kids enjoy the experience, though the bowling roller feels a bit bumpy.

Neon lights along the lanes create a cool vibe. Private booths feature cool couches and tables. Shoes are well-kept and not torn up.

People are saying

"I had a super fun time playing games here."

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with 90 minutes of bowling and pizza."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful, they really made the night fun."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $30 per person for an hour of bowling.

2

They close at midnight on Saturdays, despite Google indicating 1:00am.

3

Validated parking costs $9.50 for two hours nearby.

07
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

Staff handle food allergies carefully, preparing meals to suit specific needs. A great kids menu and thoughtful touches like a fun lampshade keep toddlers engaged.

A very cool atmosphere with soft music sets a hip vibe throughout the space.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"I found the food to be amazing and delicious."

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

08
Ralph's Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Museum-like interior with vintage-style decor creates an elegant, classy atmosphere. Space feels posh and comfortable but often overcrowded with limited seating. Souvenirs and stylish design add to a unique coffee shop experience.

Afternoon tea suits families with kids who need to eat. Drinks like coffee and hot chocolate appear on the menu for children and adults alike.

Espresso with tonic water offers a super cool and refreshing twist. The interior feels like a museum, creating a cool and interesting vibe tied to the Ralph Lauren store.

People are saying

"The coffee here is smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced."

"It's a cool place with a museum-like interior and nice aesthetic."

"The wait was worth it for the kids."

Good to know

1

They only accept card payments; cash is not accepted.

2

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

Expect a 10–20 minute wait to enter during busy hours.

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River North, Chicago

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