From its iconic architecture to its vibrant culture and incredible food, Chicago offers endless adventures to experience with your preschooler. With so much to choose from, The Gardner School crafted this special itinerary with a blend of activities for a day downtown in Chicago that your whole family will enjoy!
Morning (9:00 am – 11:30 a.m.)
- Shedd Aquarium
With over 32,000 animals, Shedd Aquarium is home to a remarkable array of marine life from all over the world. The innovative and hands-on exhibits and educational programs provide animal encounters that are thrilling for preschoolers (and adults)! Be sure to visit Shedd’s website to see all of the current exhibits and tours being offered. - Chicago Children’s Museum
Head to Navy Pier to explore the interactive learning exhibits at the Chicago Children’s Museum. From water play areas to art studios, your preschoolers and younger children will be engaged in a world of discovery! Admission is always free for children under 12, and the museum is open seven days a week. Be sure to check their website for hours, as they can vary from day to day.
(This blog’s featured photo is courtesy of the Chicago Children’s Museum)
Lunch & Snack Time (Noon – 1:00 p.m.)
- Water Tower Place
Head to Water Tower Place to make a pit stop at The Lego Store before pausing for lunch inside this Chicago landmark. Located on the top floor, Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch has a “Little League” menu with a variety of options for children, ranging from personal pan pizzas and buttered noodles to quesadillas and grilled chicken bites. If you have time after lunch, you can head next door to the Chicago Sports Museum to check out athletic achievements and memorabilia!
Afternoon (1:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.)
- Maggie Daley Park
Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Maggie Daley Park is an urban oasis full of diverse opportunities for adventure, exploration, and learning for children of all ages. Check out the park’s three-acre play garden and climbing wall for outdoor fun. In the winter, a one-of-a-kind “skating ribbon” provides a safe introduction to ice skating for little ones. Tickets are released on a rolling basis at noon on specific dates, so mark a few on your calendar to score reservations for this quintessential Chicago experience. - Revival Food Hall
Swing by Revival Food Hall to grab a snack before heading home. The eclectic atmosphere and diverse food options make this a memorable pit stop for a quick bite or a great alternative for a lunch spot!
As you plan your day, keep in mind the individual needs of your child, including nap times and snack breaks. This itinerary is simply a guide that you can adjust to suit your family’s preferences and pace!
Keep the Adventure Going at The Gardner School
The Gardner School encourages hands-on, experiential learning for all ages, from infants to preschool-aged children. Our program nurtures each student’s emerging sense of self through a balanced curriculum, qualified and caring teachers, creative play with friends, and a supportive environment designed for exploration. Contact us today to learn more!