Chicago Summer Fun Headquarters

From the best playgrounds to the best beaches to the most stroller-friendly strolls, we've got everything you need to know to make the most of Chicago's summer season.

101 summer ideas in Chicago for your family

Looking for some fun summer activities? Well, here are 101 ideas we think will help you enjoy the season.

10 short summer vacation ideas for Chicago families

Looking for a quick getaway from Chicago? Here are ten short summer vacations we recommend for your family to enjoy.

Gas tank getaways

Looking for a quick summer getaway? Stay close yet have a break just a few hours away from home. Here are a few of our suggestions for close yet fun and family-friendly destinations.

15 Can't-Miss Summertime Festivals

Ah, summer in Chicago. If it seems like there's a fair or festival every week somewhere in the city and suburbs, that's because there is. But you can't be everywhere, and little feet are good for only so many steps, so we've picked our ten not-to-miss summer fests.

The five best sprayparks in Chicago and the suburbs

Want to splash around without carrying the beach gear? Take the kids to one of Chicago's sprayparks for a quick cool down. Here are our picks for the five best water playgrounds in and around the city.

Chicago's Best Beaches

Twenty-six miles long with 31 beaches, the Chicago lakefront has a spot that should fit every family. Want to enjoy the beach but your toddler would rather splash in a fountain? Check out 63rd Street Beach. Looking for both sand and shade, with a place to light up a grill and spend the day? Visit Montrose Beach - a family hot spot. Is your beach day not complete without that daquiri? Head to North Ave. Here are our favorite beaches, just in time for the warm weather that must be just around the corner.

Chicago's best playgrounds

Sure, the playground you love and visit most will be the one closest to home, but isn't it nice to know wherever you travel with kids in the city, you'll be near a spiffy public playground to sweeten the outing? There are more than 500 playgrounds in Chicago. What's your favorite?