Top 10 Kid Friendly Things To Do and Attractions in Park Ridge

"In any case, there is something magical about having the Ferris wheel or the Pepsi Wave Swinger in the backdrop of a photo, even more so in the evening when the pier is fully lit up. As Chicago’s second-biggest tourist attraction it’s not just an iconic landmark but also full of photo opportunities."

"There is no admission fee to enter the Navy Pier, which offers free fireworks shows throughout the year and hosts a lineup of free entertainment and music each season. Head to the Navy Pier to see local arts and crafts vendors presenting their wares and to enjoy the scenic views of Lake Michigan."

"This iconic Chicago attraction is bursting with attractions. However, many of them charge a fee. Believe it or not, though, there are several free things to do in Chicago at Navy Pier."

"This fun nature museum is located in the heart of Lincoln Park just north of downtown Chicago. As you walk up to the museum, you will immediately be immersed in nature with their beautiful walking trails and paths. Once inside, you can visit an amazing butterfly sanctuary, explore the wetlands, learn how the Chicago River lock systems work, learn about local animal life and more."

"Located in Lincoln Park, the Peggy Notebaert Museum is dedicated to expanding knowledge of nature and environmental science. While this might sound advanced for a young child, the museum is actually very toddler-friendly with numerous hands-on exhibits. From an up close visit with critters to an obligatory “burn some energy” play space, the Peggy Notebaert is a gem in the city."

"As buildings continually go up, nature gets pinched, so a visit to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an ideal respite from the concrete landscape. Explore the region's only year-round butterfly sanctuary where as many as 40 species of native and exotic butterflies flutter. Get the news about the ooze at Mysteries of the Marsh."

"The Lincoln Park Conservatory is a conservatory and botanical garden in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. The conservatory is best known for its horticultural collections, community work, and educational programming. It is also housed in a glass house from the Victorian Era that is stunning to view on its own."

"Exit Millennium Park via the BP Bridge, a 925-foot-long winding bridge that provides incomparable views of the Chicago skyline, Grant Park and Lake Michigan. On the other side of the bridge sits Maggie Daley Park, a spectacular green space with massive rock climbing walls, mini golf, picnic groves, and an amazing play garden for children."

"Just north of Uptown there's a neighborhood that feels like a small town and still shows signs of the Swedish settlers who founded it."

"Il Culaccino – Chicago Italian Restaurant has a full-service restaurant, bar, outdoor patio, and offer carryout, private events, and catering. A part of Franco’s Restaurant Group, IL Culaccino’s idea includes a luxurious casual dining restaurant, full-service bar, outdoor patio, and a vast list of fine and award-winning wines. Il Culaccino offers catering and private events."

"When Chicago Cubs coach Joe Maddon and acclaimed chef Tony Mantuano pair up to open a restaurant, people pay attention. The resulting Maddon’s Post is family-friendly, with childhood classics showing both Polish and Italian influences, as well as plenty of the pasta that Mantuano is known for. Kids will love the paczkis in flavors like peanut butter-banana or strawberry jam."

"Chicago’s oldest Italian restaurant gives you the closest experience you can get to dining in Tuscany without leaving the Windy City. Grab a booth inside a recreated villa and enjoy the twinkle of “stars” and murals of the Italian countryside while you eat. Classic Northern Italian cuisine is served up here, including pizza, pasta and seafood as well as an impressive kids menu."

"Sop up the red sauce from your mussels marinara with crusty Italian bread, and slurp strands of pasta to the sounds of Dino.L & D daily. Child friendly, will seat past 11 p.m.$$"

"Italian Village offers guests an enjoyable home cooked Italian meal at home by calling the restaurant at 312-332-7005 or by ordering through Doordash, Caviar, and Postmates."

"You can probably already tell that we love our cupcakes here in Chicago. More Cupcakes is known for their upscale environment and minimalist display. Stop by for delicious cupcakes with unique toppings."

"A post shared by Insomnia Cookies (@insomniacookies) on Jul 17, 2019 at 12:04pm PDT. If even picking up cookies is low on your to-do list, Insomnia Cookies comes to the rescue. This chain specializes in late-night cookie delivery (yes, you read that right), including sugar cookies, double chocolate mint cookies and drool-worthy smores cookies."

"Insomnia cookies are next on this list of the best desserts in Chicago. Cookies are the perfect addition to any day, so why not stop by Insomnia Cookies for an ice cream sandwich fix?. Unlike some other joints that offer ice cream sandwiches, Insomnia Cookies lets you customize your treat every step of the way!"

"6 locations in and near the city; Online: insomniacookies.com. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Defloured Bakery (@deflouredbakery) on Aug 4, 2019 at 8:26am PDT"

"Great money wise and you get a huge variety of things to eat--not just Chinese food. Their Won Ton Soup is the bomb!"