Grant Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Grant Park?
What makes it 92% Kids-Friendly: Maggie Daley’s huge playground, splash-ready Crown Fountain, and open-air concerts keep kids active for hours on fenced, level ground near toilets and picnic spots.
Positives:
- Free Family Activities: Most attractions including splash pad, playground, and concerts are free.
- Stroller-Friendly Paths: All main lawns and walkways are paved and suitable for strollers or wagons.
Challenges:
- Weekend Crowds: The play area and fountain can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
- Limited Shade: Midday sun can be strong on open lawns; bring hats and sunscreen.
What is Grant Park?
- A 319-acre public park on Chicago’s lakefront, extending from Michigan Avenue to Lake Shore Drive
- Incorporates landscaped lawns, formal gardens, paved promenades and historic monuments
- Includes cultural landmarks such as Buckingham Fountain, Jay Pritzker Pavilion and Lurie Garden
What is so special about Grant Park for with kids?
- Multiple free attractions: playground, splash pad, and concerts
- Seasonal variety: splash in summer and ice skating in winter
- Family-friendly paths and picnic spots for all ages
- Easy bike rides link park highlights on the lakefront trail
- Optional paid features: climbing wall, mini golf, and rentals
Recommended visit duration: 3–5 hours
Why 3–5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives enough time for playground, splash pad, picnic, and a stroll without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Grant Park
Maggie Daley Play Garden:
Let kids climb suspension bridges, slides, rope tunnels and try the climbing wall.
Tip: Arrive early to beat crowds and reserve wristbands for the climbing wall.
Crown Fountain Splash Area:
Kids run through ground-level water jets under changing digital faces.
Tip: Bring swimwear and a towel; the splash runs daily from late morning until dusk.
Buckingham Fountain Light Show:
Watch the 20-minute water display with colored lights after sunset.
Tip: Find a spot on the east lawn 10 minutes before showtime for best views.
Picnic at Lurie Garden:
Unwind with snacks on wide boardwalks surrounded by prairie plants.
Tip: Use the north entrance for stroller access and look for butterflies with kids.
Jay Pritzker Pavilion Family Concerts:
Enjoy free early-evening movies and children’s performances on the Great Lawn.
Tip: Check the Pavilion calendar in advance and bring a blanket or low chairs.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Grant Park
- Early Arrival: Arrive when the park opens to secure picnic spots and avoid peak crowds.
- Use Divvy Bikes: Unlock a bike to move quickly between playgrounds and gardens with kids.
- Pack Snacks and Water: Picnic areas fill early; carrying snacks keeps kids energized between stops.
When is the best time to visit Grant Park (Chicago, United States)?
In summer, pack swimsuits for the splash area and enjoy free outdoor concerts. In winter, skate the ice ribbon at Maggie Daley Park (rentals on site). Early spring may have damp gardens, so wear waterproof shoes.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Divvy bike Day Pass (4) | USD 72 |
| Climbing wall & mini golf at Maggie Daley | USD 48 |
| Ice skate rental (4) | USD 48 |
| Total Estimated | USD 168 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Grant Park
Address: Grant Park, Chicago, IL, USA
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