Best Bad Weather Activities For Kids In Chicago
Chicago is well known for its adverse weather conditions, whether it's the scorching summers or the brutal winters. While there is no shortage of outdoor fun for families with children during the warmer months, it can be tricky to find a way to have the kids release some of their excitement and energy when the weather doesn't permit outside play. Take advantage of the many different indoor play areas that cater towards families with children of all ages. Whether you're looking for your child to exert energy or something to help stimulate their minds, the weather doesn't always have to be a factor in choosing your next outing with the little ones.
Chicago Children's Museum
700 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 527-1000
www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org
The Chicago's Children Museum offers $14 for admission with a discounted $13 for seniors and free admission for members and children under one year of age. Fun activities are planned throughout the year and there will be Thankful Cards activities in late November and early December. The Thankful Cards activity will allow your child to create a card to show appreciation for a special person in their lives. December will also hold a Sculpture Studio activity that is a 3D workshop for interactive large-scale sculptures. Check out the events calendar to see future activities to enjoy when the weather might not permit outside play.
Monkey Bizness
229 Rice Lake Square
Wheaton, IL 60187
(630) 384-2300
www.wheaton.monkeybizness.com
Monkey Bizness has two locations in Illinois. While other play zones might be better suited for older children, Monkey Bizness is great for those smaller in age. Instead of worrying that your child will be trampled by the older kids, take them to a place that caters to small toddlers. The indoor play park structures combined with the cushioned flooring gives your child freedom to play and jump, even during bad weather. Parents will love the structured play area while enjoying their own adult area, complete with flat-screen televisions and flavored coffee drinks.
Jump Zone
10140 Virginia Ave.
Chicago Ridge, IL 60415
(708) 572-0155
www.jumpzoneparty.com
Jump Zone is a favorite among parents of children of all ages. It offers a huge indoor playground that features giant inflatables. Whether it's the bouncy houses, giant slides or animated structures, the kids will get all of their energy out while staying nice and cozy indoors. Parents won't be bored watching their kids run around, due to the numerous televisions scattered throughout the space and comfortable leather couches.
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Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey: Built To Amaze
United Center
1901 W. Madison St.
Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 455-4500
www.unitedcenter.com
Taking the kids to the circus is a time-honored tradition that every child should go to at least once in their lifetime. Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey feature a number of different shows and has their Built To Amaze show coming to Chicago through December 1st. Admission includes free access to the pre-show and guests are invited to view the Asian elephants at the Animal Open House 90 minutes prior to the beginning of the show. Check out the differing ticket prices and show dates at ticketmaster.com.
Go Bananas
4516 N. Harlem Ave.
Norridge, IL 60706
(708) 669-7029
www.gobananasfun.com
Go Bananas offers all of the fun and excitement of a summertime carnival without having to worry about the weather. This indoor entertainment center features roller coasters, bumper cars, slides, inflatables and play games. Go Bananas offers free admission with the option to purchase play-to-ride tickets or an unlimited ride pass. Parents ride free with children and parking is always free. Check out the website for coupons on discounts and token specials.
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Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a Bachelor's in Communication and is currently working on her Master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
