Chicago Children's Museum

The Basics

Centrally situated in a popular tourist area, the Chicago Children’s museum isn’t far from the rides and games at Navy Pier, the Crystal Gardens, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and more. The museum is open daily from 10am-5pm, with extended hours till 8pm on Thursdays. There is a fee to enter, and while it’s not part of any city tours, the museum accepts Chicago Explorer Pass, Chicago City Pass, and the Chicago Go Card.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Make the most of your visit with extended hours every Thursday.

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes so you can easily explore all three floors.

• It’s packed with activities for kids ages 10 and under.

How to Get There

The museum is easily accessible by car or public transportation. For direct public transportation service to Navy Pier, take CTA bus #124 from Ogilvie Transportation Center or Union Station. City buses #29, #65, and #66 also stop close to the museum. During the summer months, select water taxis drop passengers off nearby.

When to Get There

Open daily from 10am–5pm with extended hours on Thursdays, this indoor museum is an ideal family stop year-round. Members of the Chicago Children’s Museum can enjoy special members-only hours from 9am–10am Friday-Sunday. Check the calendar on the website for an up-to-date schedule of workshops, demonstrations, new exhibits, and more.

Family Fun at Navy Pier

After visiting the museum, head to nearby Navy Pier for even more family fun. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, go for a ride on the Centennial Wheel, or play some of the amusement-park style games. For a more cultural experience, stop by the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and the Crystal Gardens.

Ways to explore

Situated amongst the rides and games of Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum is easy to fit into a full day out in the Windy City. Young visitors can spend hours here; the multi-story museum features a wide array of themed play areas and exhibits, from climbing areas to a story hub, and also hosts art programs and other activities.

The Chicago Children’s Museum is easy to visit independently, and tickets can be purchased online in advance. The museum is also included in several multi-attraction passes, including the Chicago Go Card.

Accessibility

The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers a broad variety of accommodations for visitors with disabilities, including accessible restrooms. Both adult and child wheelchairs are available for loan. Service animals are welcome.

Age limits

The Chicago Children’s Museum is open to all, although adults must visit with a child to access the museum.

What to pack

Snacks, refillable water bottles, stroller

What to wear

Kids should wear comfortable layers, suitable for active, hands-on play.

Not allowed

Consuming food and drinks outside of designated areas, pets, visiting when sick

Amenities

Water fountains, restrooms, adjacent restaurant, storage lockers, cloakroom

Address

The Chicago Children’s Museum is on Navy Pier, a popular downtown Chicago landmark right on the Lake Michigan waterfront. To get there, you can drive, take a taxi or rideshare service, use public transit, or opt for a tour that includes transportation.

Driving

Navy Pier is accessible via Du Sable Lake Shore Drive, as well as other major Chicago thoroughfares. Paid parking garages are located on-site.

Public transportation

The nearest Chicago L stop is Grand, served by the Red Line. Several bus routes and water taxis frequent the area.

Best times to visit

The Chicago Children’s Museum is open daily, from midmorning to early evening. Last admission is one hour before closing time, but it’s best to arrive early to make the most of your visit.

Best days to visit

As a general rule, the Chicago Children’s Museum—and Navy Pier, more generally—is likely to be busiest on weekends and public holidays.

Best months to visit

Summer is Chicago’s high season, and attractions like Navy Pier are likely to be especially busy. Aim for spring or autumn for a slightly calmer experience.

Special events

The Chicago Children’s Museum hosts a lively schedule of programs throughout the year; check its calendar for what’s on. Navy Pier also hosts special events, including twice-weekly summer fireworks displays.