8 Fun and Affordable Summer Family Activities in Illinois
Summer: a time when the Chicago beaches are full, bikes run the city, and children are out of school. It’s the best time of year in Illinois, but finding something new, interesting, affordable, and fun for the whole family can be tough, especially in the popular summer months. MSV has compiled a list of things in the city and just outside of Chicago that you may never have heard of that are sure to be a hit with the whole family (and not a hit to your wallet). Check out our list to learn about some hidden gems for family fun in Illinois!
A family friendly science museum for children and adults with educational interactive events every day. The museum offers free admission for IL residents every Thursday and is always free for IL teachers!
A living history museum where pioneer life is re-created through demonstrations and hands-on activities. They offer free family fun days on certain Wednesdays. Regular admission is under $10.
3. Funway (Batavia, IL)
An indoor and outdoor amusement park and entertainment center with bowling, roller-skating, bumper boats, batting cages, mini golf, and more!
One of the largest botanical conservatories in the country with over 10 acres of indoor gardens. Admission is always free.
An indoor playground with play areas for children of all ages. They have separated toddler and baby areas, a Lego building section, video game area, and more!
Visit this pool location or any of your local public pools to stay cool this summer! Chicago residents swim for free. Open from mid-June to Labor Day. Find a location close to you!
Located on Navy Pier, with many educational and hands-on exhibits like Treehouse Trails and Dinosaur Expedition. Visit their website to find out about discount days.
A water park with an open swim area, lazy river, body flume slides, swimming classes, and more! Open June 1st – August 11th.
MSV knows that children need a place to go in the summer when school is out and you’re working. That’s why Marillac St. Vincent offers a Summer Camp program that runs Monday – Friday during the summer months. All children in our summer camp this year will go on field trips to each of the locations listed above in addition to the Shedd Aquarium, Museum of Science and Industry, Lincoln Park Zoo, Maggie Daley Park, Legoland, Adler Planetarium and more!
Learn about enrolling your child in MSV Summer Camp today!