I know we are all sad to see summer come to an end but Fall in Chicago is just as fun! There are so many things to do in and around Chicago that will keep your family busy. I’ve made a list below of our favorite indoor and outdoor activities for Fall. If your family adds any of these to their plans, drop me a note and let me know what you thought!
Let’s start with some indoor fun because we know the weather in Chicago can be very moody at times. Here are some must-dos:
Blue Man Group – They are back! Blue Man Group just resumed their performances at Briar Street Theatre and we were lucky enough to attend the re-opening and it gave us all the feels. This is the 3rd time we have seen the show and it never disappoints. My boys loved it and got really involved with the show, they even got a photo op with the Blue Men after. Your kids will remember this experience forever!
Museum of Science & Industry Marvel Exhibit – We checked out this exhibit this summer and it was another win by the Museum of Science and Industry. See the evolution of all the Marvel characters and the people who bring them to life through the exhibit. Watch your kid’s eyes light up when they are able to see their favorite superhero costume in real life.
Museum of Illusions – Another big win. Not everything is as it seems and you’ll be reminded of that as you walk through this space. Plan to spend 1-2 hours as many of the exhibits are interactive and question what you think is reality. You also have the opportunity to take some fun pictures with the family! Also, from 9/23 through 10/31 the museum will transform into a Halloween destination with the whole space getting a Halloween makeover.
Highly recommend for the whole family or a fun date night.
Wnder Museum – Another favorite of ours. Wnder Museum changes its exhibits over time, so even if you’ve been before you’ll get an entirely new experience the second time through. Wnder Museum is an immersion experience from artists, collectives, and studios locally and globally. Your family will love this experience.
HideSeek HideSeek is a new Chicago pop-up that is all about making you feel like a kid again. Wonder through fifteen rooms that are sure to bring back childhood nostalgia. Timewarp back to the 80s and 90s for some memories and smiles.
Van Gogh Chicago. This is a very unique experience. My husband and I went and we headed back with the kids at a later date because we loved it so much. It’s really like nothing you’ve ever experienced before and very relaxing. A must-see for sure. The experience is about an hour-long then you can head to their store to pick out your favorite Van Gogh pieces via little souvenirs.
Chicago Sports Museum. Another great spot, especially if your kiddos love sports and sports history. A hidden gem and one your family will love.
Winters can be very long in Chicago so we definitely take advantage of being outside any chance we can get before the cold comes. Here are some of my outdoor recs for family fun.
The Forge at Lemont. The ultimate outdoor adventure park. Miles of hiking and biking trails, climbing structures, ziplining, kayaking, and more. If you want to make an evening out of it, check out their event schedule as they host small concerts. They also have a lovely restaurant along the lake with cocktails and firepits for the perfect night. Climbing structures and ziplining do have weight requirements so be sure to check the website for the rules.
Apple Hollar. Get into the fall vibes by heading up to Apple Hollar to pick apples, grab some fresh cider and homemade apple pies. Grab some ice cream and let the kids ride the ponies or play on the jump pad and peddle karts. Check their site for more info.
Enjoy these fall activities and I’ll be back soon with fun Halloween festivities to do with the family. I do love a good Pumpkin Patch!
