As Chicagoland begins to reopen, we are looking for safe and fun local activities for families to do. We’ve picked 15 events and attractions in Chicago not to miss this month. Check out our calendar to find more local and virtual events happening in September. Also, find the best things to do in the city, North/Northwest Suburbs and South Suburbs.
Note: We’re updating our website as quickly as we can, but changes may occur due to COVID-19. Please double check before heading out for the most updated information on safety precautions and any last-minute cancellations. Stay safe!
Events
The Morton Arboretum
Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru
When: Through Sept. 7, select days
Where: DuPage County Fair, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton
Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru takes families on an interactive tour with 80 life-sized dinosaurs. While exploring the path, little paleontologists can also listen to an audio tour to learn more about the prehistoric creatures.
Cori's Kids Triathlon
When: Sept. 12
Where: Oak Brook Park District, 1500 Forest Gate Road, Oak Brook
This friendly competition promotes exercise in a fun and energetic way. Kids will show off their skills and athleticism by participating in the three traditional triathlon events: swimming, biking and running. All events will be socially distant.
Autumn Fest
When: Sept. 19
Where: Oak Brook Park District, 1500 Forest Gate Road, Oak Brook
Due to COVID-19, families can practice social distance guidelines at this year's Autumn Fest event with social distance "circles" available for purchase at $30 per circle. This jam-packed kid’s event include Anna, Elsa & Kristof, a magician, a juggler, and a bubble show.
Dinos Everywhere!
When: Through Nov. 1
Where: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield
Explore Brookfield Zoo to see more than 40 animatronic dinosaurs. The zoo reopened in early July with new safety procedures and pre-registered tickets requirements.
Troll Hunt
When: Through early 2021
Where: Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL-53, Lisle
Yes, you can still hunt for trolls at Morton Arboretum! It’s a great hiking trail to try with kids, too. Find more kid-friendly hiking trails in our August Let’s Go Guide.
Attractions + Other Things to Do
Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve
Where: 5N753 State Route 31, St. Charles
There are so many great hiking trails in the Western Suburbs. Check out Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve, where you’ll find miles of trails, scenic bridges, boardwalks and areas for fishing and biking.
Kupier’s Family Farm
Where: 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park
We're so excited for apple picking season! Families can take a limited-capacity hayride to the grove and pick 1/4 peck apples from 25 acres of trees. The farm is open only Saturdays and Sundays through October.
Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
Where: 1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook
Guests can learn so much about gems and rocks at Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art. Reserve timed tickets in advance before visiting.
Island Park
Where: Geneva
Along the Fox River Trail, stop at Island Park in Geneva where you'll find a tree house playground, picnic spots and great views of the river.
The Brown Cow
Where: 7347 Madison St., Forest Park
We all scream for ice cream! This charming ice cream parlor serves up root beer floats from an old-fashioned soda fountain.
Putter’s Peak Miniature Golf
Where: 900 W. Lake St., Addison
There are plenty of outdoor mini golf courses open, including Putter's Peak. Go on an adventure through this 18-hole course.
Cosley Zoo
Where: 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton
Cosley Zoo is a great, low-key option for your littles who love animals. Timed entry tickets allow all visitors to access the zoo for one hour.
Cantigny Park
Where: 1 S. 151 Winfield Road, Wheaton
Families can explore up to 500 acres with gardens and playgrounds. Guests must wear a mask when inside the Visitors Center or park restrooms.
Elmhurst Art Museum
Where: 150 Cottage Hill Avenue, Elmhurst
All galleries are open at Elmhurst Art Museum with limited capacity to help enforce social distancing. Members can visit anytime, while the museum non-members to buy their tickets online before their visit.
Waterlemon
Where: 25 South La Grange Road Unit A, La Grange
Waterlemon's indoor play space has reopened with some new COVID-19 guidelines. Visitors ages 2 and older must wear a mask and must book time slots in advance. There will be a limited capacity for each time slot.
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This article is updated regularly.
