There’s no better time in Chicago than summer time! From June through August, let the kids enjoy the best the city has to offer, with some uniquely Chicago summer camps you can’t find anywhere else!
From taking stage at Second City to kayaking on the river, there are plenty of camps that will give children a summer to remember.
Looking for more summer camps? Check out our ultimate guide to find the best summer camps for Chicagoland kids.
Find more Chicago summer camps near you!
- Best summer camps for kids in Lincoln Park
- Best summer camps for kids in Hyde Park
- Best summer camps for kids in West Loop
Bennett Day Camp
June 23-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: 955 W. Grand Ave., Chicago
Phone: 312-236-6388
Cost: $535-$650 ages 4-10; $150-$725 rising 5th-9th graders
Best for ages: 4-14
Calling all happy campers! Bennett Day Camp offers an enriching summer experience for kids ages 4-14, fostering self-identity, leadership and adventure. Campers ages 4-10 start their day with enrichment classes led by Bennett faculty and local experts, featuring activities like Jewelry Making, Basketball Basics, Creative Writing and Slimy Science. The fun continues with music, crafts, games and outdoor play.
Rising 5th-9th graders can join their Counselor in Training (CIT) Program or explore sports and specialty camps, building leadership skills and learning from experienced mentors. Learn more in their Summer 2025 Camp Guide.
Camp Galileo
June 9-Aug. 1, 2025
Address: 14 locations in Arlington Heights, Beverly, Elgin, Evanston, Glenview, Hyde Park, La Grange, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, Oak Park/River Forest, West Loop, Wheaton, Wicker Park and Winnetka
Phone: 800-854-3684
Cost: Cost varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 5-13
Get ready for an unforgettable summer at Camp Galileo, full of new Grades K-8 STEAM projects, collaborative design challenges and classic camp fun, like silly skits, face painting and pie throwing. Every hands-on activity and outdoor game is designed by a team of educators, tailored by grade and calibrated for maximum fun and lasting learning.
Weekly sessions, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. camp day and AM & PM extended care options. Camp scholarship information and applications available on their website. Enrollments accepted through many top backup care providers. Use code CHICAGOPARENT25 to save $25/week! Valid on future purchases only.
Chicago Park District Day Camp
Late June–Early August 2025
Address: Various Chicago Park District parks throughout Chicago
Cost: Starting at $200
Best for ages: 6-12
Chicago Park District’s 6-week summer camp offers sports, arts, fitness and outdoor fun while exploring themes like teamwork, inclusion, civic engagement and environmental awareness.
CircEsteem Circus Camp
June 16-Aug. 22, 2025
Address: 4730 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago
Phone: 773-732-4564
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 6-16
CircEsteem Summer Circus Camp is a fun, supportive space where kids build confidence, teamwork and physical skills through the Circus Arts. Campers explore aerial silks, trapeze, tightwire, tumbling, clowning, juggling, stilts and more, with a unique theme each week.
Days include games, songs, arts and crafts and outdoor play (weather permitting). At week’s end, campers showcase their newfound talents in a Show Off performance for family and friends. No need to run away—join the circus for a summer of adventure, creativity and self-discovery at CircEsteem!
Debate Camp
July 21-25, 2025
Address: The Laboratory School at the University of Chicago, 1362 E. 59th St., Chicago
Phone: 888-512-8154
Cost: $645-$675
Best for ages: 10-16
Debate Camp offers a fun and enriching summer program for students in grades 5-10, focusing on public speaking, parliamentary debate and Model United Nations. Coming to The Laboratory School at The University of Chicago in 2025, the camp welcomes all skill levels with small-group instruction and team debates.
With a 1:8 instructor-to-student ratio, campers build confidence, critical thinking and collaboration skills. The program also includes interactive games, drama, impromptu speaking and Model UN simulations to keep learning engaging. Many students are amazed by their progress in just one week.
FACETS Film Camps
June–August 2025
Address: 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago
Phone: 773-281-9075
Cost: $275-$800, including 15% off for FACETS Members
Best for ages: 5-17
Get creative this summer with Film Camps for all ages and skill levels! Chicago’s legendary film forum and education center, FACETS, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, offers 5+ film camps. With Film Camps for all ages, FACETS has hands-on filmmaking opportunities for all ages and skill sets.
Start your journey with My First Film Camp (ages 5-7), build foundational skills with Film 101 (ages 8-10 and 11-13) and top it off with more advanced work in Film 102 (ages 11-13 and 14-17). FACETS also offers specialty camps in film editing, animation and acting. Sharpen your visual storytelling skills and media literacy at their unique Film Camps this summer.
First Ascent Summer Climbing Camp
June 16-Aug. 8, 2025
Address: 4718 N. Broadway Ave., Chicago; 3516 N. Spaulding Ave., Chicago
Phone: 773-564-9815
Cost: $440-$540
Best for ages: 6-14
Get ready for an adventure at First Ascent Summer Climbing Camp! Whether new or experienced, campers will build skills, make friends and gain confidence. Climb their 60-foot rope wall, tackle bouldering challenges and learn belaying.
The excitement continues with a zipline, giant swing, rope crafts and camp-wide challenges. Campers also explore outdoor skills like knot-tying and tent setup, enhancing problem-solving abilities. Beyond the fun, they’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment and a love for adventure.
Kids Science Labs STEAM Summer Camp
June 1-Sept. 1, 2025
Address: 3324 N. Western Ave., Chicago; 1801 S. Indiana Ave., Chicago; 840 Willow Rd A, Northbrook
Phone: 773-798-2012
Cost: $495-$595
Best for ages: 4-12
At Kids Science Labs’ summer camp, kids (ages 4-12) become scientists, engineers and inventors through hands-on STEM adventures! With exciting experiments, creative projects and outdoor fun, they’ll build confidence and curiosity. Voted #1 Science Camp since 2011, Kids Science Labs offers engaging learning in Seattle, Chicago and Northbrook.
This summer, Kids Science Labs’ Engineering University Camp features themes like Our World According to Physics, Gadgets and Inventions and ChemBusters! Full-day camps (M-F, 8:45 AM–5 PM, June–September) inspire problem-solving and a love for discovery.
MADE Chicago Summer Camps
June 16-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: 1980 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago
Phone: 312-758-3055
Cost: Weekly Half Day Camps – $270, Weekly Full Day Camps – $590
Best for ages: 6-8
MADE Chicago Kids’ summer camps in Bucktown offer a safe, clean space where kids get messy with hands-on pottery fun! Choose half-day or full-day options. All instructors are CPR-certified with background checks and camps are peanut-free with strict security.
Campers ages 5–8 explore hand-building techniques like coiling and slab work, while ages 9–12 dive into wheel-throwing to create bowls, cups and more. Kids also enjoy sketching, painting and multimedia projects. Each week brings a new theme—like Dragons & Castles, Cartoon Critters, Galaxy Quest or Chicago Style—so there’s always something fresh and creative to discover.
Merit School of Music Summer Camps
1-week and 2-week camps throughout June and July, see website for details
Address: 38 S. Peoria St., Chicago
Phone: 312-786-9428
Cost: Cost varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 6-18
Turn up the music this summer with Merit School of Music’s line-up of camps and classes! With options for all ages, instruments and experience levels (including absolute beginners!), summer at Merit is a great way for kids and teens to stay social and creative while school is out.
Your child will have the chance to study with some of the best music educators in the region while having fun and making friends with young music lovers from across Chicagoland. Merit’s Summer 2025 music camps include Music Discovery Camp (6-8 years, July 21-25) and Camp Merit (8-16 years, July 14-25), as well as one-week instrument-specific camps.
Merry Music Makers Summer Camps: EAC Swim Camp
June 16-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: Edgewater Athletic Club, 6218 N. Kenmore Ave., Chicago
Phone: 312-264-0569
Cost: $275 (multiple week, sibling and early bird discounts)
Best for ages: 4-5
Give your child the gift of water confidence at Merry Music Makers’ half-day swim camp for kids ages 4-5. Designed for all skill levels, EAC Swim Camp’s personalized approach helps beginners, swimmers needing aids and confident kids grow in the water.
Campers learn essential swimming skills, water safety and confidence-building techniques through fun, engaging activities. EAC Swim Camp’s experienced instructors provide a safe, supportive environment with small class sizes for individual attention. Through structured lessons and playful aquatic games, kids develop a love for swimming while gaining lifelong skills.
Merry Music Makers Summer Camps: It’s Showtime!
June 23-27, July 14-18, July 28-Aug. 1, Aug. 11-15, 2025
Address: LYRIQ Music School, 1909 W. Byron Ave., Chicago
Phone: 773-270-8284
Cost: $475
Best for ages: 10-14
Unleash your talent, learn from the pros and shine on the stage at It’s Showtime camp. This full-day camp, held at LYRIQ Music School’s 1909 W. Byron Ave. location, combines the best parts of theater and musicals into a week jam-packed with fun. Led by industry professionals, campers work on scenes, vocal technique and choreography, culminating in an end-of-camp performance for friends and family.
Merry Music Makers Summer Camps: Summer Jam & Swim
June 16-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: Edgewater Athletic Club, 6218 N. Kenmore Ave., Chicago
Phone: 312-264-0569
Cost: $475 (multiple week, sibling and early bird discounts)
Best for ages: 6-8
This Summer Jam & Swim Camp for rising first to third graders blends musical exploration with aquatic adventures. Each week, campers explore different musical themes, such as The World of Jazz, The Science of Sound or Percussion and Drumming. Mornings start with musical activities, followed by snacks and group adventures, including games, escape rooms and hands-on learning.
Move Your Feet Sports Tennis & Golf Summer Camp
June 16-Aug. 22, 2025
Address: 141 W. Diversey Parkway, Chicago
Phone: 773-791-5864
Cost: $435-$783
Best for ages: 6-13
Move Your Feet Sports (MYFS) offers high-energy, skill-focused summer camps for young athletes. Their camps blend expert instruction, fun competition and engaging drills in golf and tennis, ensuring steady skill development. Players are grouped by age and ability, with flexibility for friends and siblings.
Using creative games, ball machines and structured coaching, MYFS makes learning enjoyable while fostering a love for the sport. Hosted in top facilities, the staff provides a safe, supportive environment for all skill levels.
Nature Camp at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
June–August 2025
Address: 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago
Cost: Starts at $650/member; $715/non-member
Best for ages: 4-9
Nature Camp nurtures kids’ curiosity as they explore the museum, local habitats and wildlife, building observation and questioning skills through hands-on discovery and learning.
Ninja Camp at Windy City Ninjas
June–August 2025
Address: 2500 W. Bradley Place, Chicago
Cost: See website for details
Best for ages: 6-16
Ninja Camp features obstacle training, games and open gym time. Weekly themes keep challenges fresh, ensuring fun and skill-building for all ages all summer.
POW! Gym Summer Camps
June 16-Aug. 11, 2025
Address: 310 S. Racine Ave., Chicago
Cost: $425 per week
Best for ages: 6-12
POW! summer camps keep kids active and engaged with fitness games, art, outdoor fun and themed activities, fostering athletic skills and lasting memories.
Paris Saint-Germain Academy Camps
June 2-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: UIC Soccer Complex, 900 W. 14th Place, Chicago; North Avenue Fields, 1778 N. John C. N Cannon Drive, Chicago; Lycee Francais, 1929 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago (plus more locations in Chicagoland!)
Phone: 773-312-5054
Cost: $599 (includes the camp uniforms)
Best for ages: 5-18
Paris Saint-Germain Academy is one of the largest and most prestigious soccer networks in the world, providing unparalleled training to soccer players looking to improve their skills. Paris Saint-Germain Academy Chicago is the ultimate choice for players seeking top-notch training and development. The academy offers intensive camps throughout the season based on the fundamentals of European soccer.
At Paris Saint-Germain Academy camps, players receive an introduction to the official PSG training methodology and philosophy of play. These training sessions are designed in France for the best players in the world, such as Kylian Mbappé, Dembélé and Asensio. Coaching is conducted by highly experienced and licensed PSG coaches.
Porchlight Music Theatre
June 16-Aug. 8, 2025
Address: Holtschneider Performance Center at the DePaul University School of Music, 2330 N. Halsted St., Chicago
Phone: 773-777-9884
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 4-17
Chicago’s favorite musical theater camps are back! Foundation classes introduce theater skills in a fun, welcoming setting for ages 4-13. Porchlight Youth Presents: Seussical JR. (ages 7-13) lets young actors rehearse and perform a full show. Broadway Dance & Singing Intensives (ages 14-17) focus on advanced skills.
New this summer, PMTeens (ages 14-17) offers professional training and the chance to perform in the Broadway in Your Backyard concert series. Scholarships, financial aid and payment plans available. Aftercare offered (ages 4-13) from 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Right At School- Franklin Summer Camps
June 23-Aug. 8, 2025
Address: 225 W. Evergreen Ave., Chicago
Phone: 773-997-0238
Cost: View weekly prices on their website. Discounts and financial assistance also available.
Best for ages: 5-12
RAS Camps let families create a customized experience filled with fitness, creativity and hands-on learning. Kids enjoy Adventure Weeks featuring exciting themes, along with camp classics like STEM, Arts & Crafts, Sports and Water Games.
New this summer: Add a Specialty Camp to the mix! Choose from Brick Builders, Soccer MVPs or Masterpiece Makers for even more fun. Register by April 30, 2025 and use code SUMMER5 to get 5% off per week.
Right at School Camps at Murray Language Academy
June 23-Aug. 8, 2025
Address: 5335 S. Kenwood Ave., Chicago
Phone: 773-892-4985
Cost: View weekly prices on their website. Discounts and financial assistance also available.
Best for ages: 5-12
RAS Camps create summers packed with fun, learning and adventure—all customized to your child’s interests and your family’s schedule! Every week brings a new Adventure Week theme, plus classic camp activities like Water Games, STEM, Sports and Arts & Crafts.
New for 2025: Combine Summer Camp with Specialty Camps! Choose from Brick Builders, Soccer MVPs or Masterpiece Makers to create an unbeatable summer lineup. Register by April 30, 2025, using code SUMMER5 for 5% off per week.
Right at School Camps at Oscar Mayer Magnet
June 23-Aug. 8, 2025
Address: 2250 N. Clifton Ave., Chicago
Phone: 773-241-2468
Cost: View weekly prices on their website. Discounts and financial assistance also available.
Best for ages: 5-10
These flexible programs let you create the perfect experience for your child, combining adventure, creativity, fitness and hands-on fun. Adventure Weeks bring fresh, engaging themes while kids enjoy classic camp activities like Water Games, STEM, Sports and Arts & Crafts.
New this summer: Build your own experience with Specialty Camps—Brick Builders, Soccer MVPs and Masterpiece Makers. Register by April 30, 2025, with code SUMMER5 to save 5% per week.
Right at School Camps at South Loop Elementary
June 23-Aug. 1, 2025
Address: 1212 S. Plymouth Ct., Chicago
Phone: 224-808-1094
Cost: View weekly prices on their website. Discounts and financial assistance also available.
Best for ages: 5-12
RAS Camps let you create the ultimate summer for your child—tailored to their interests and your schedule! Kids enjoy fun, fitness, creativity and hands-on learning, making lifelong memories. Explore exciting Adventure Weeks with unique themes plus classic day camp fun: Water Games, STEM, Arts & Crafts, Sports and more.
New this summer: Combine Summer Camp with Specialty Camps—Brick Builders, Soccer MVPs and Masterpiece Makers! Register by April 30, 2025, with code SUMMER5 to save 5% per week.
Right at School Camps at Waters Elementary
June 16-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: 4540 N. Campbell Ave., Chicago
Phone: 773-318-8382
Cost: View weekly prices on their website. Discounts and financial assistance also available.
Best for ages: 5-12
Give your child an unforgettable summer with RAS Camps! Designed around their interests and your schedule, these camps blend fun, fitness, creativity and hands-on learning for a summer full of excitement. Kids will love the Adventure Weeks plus Water Games, STEM, Arts & Crafts and Sports.
New this year: Mix and match Specialty Camps—Brick Builders, Soccer MVPs and Masterpiece Makers! Register by April 30, 2025, with code SUMMER5 for 5% off per week.
Second City Comedy Camp
June–August 2025
Address: Second City Training Center, 1608 N. Wells St., Chicago
Cost: Starts at $700
Best for ages: 7-18
The Second City’s Comedy Camps teach kids improv fundamentals while building creativity, confidence, teamwork, empathy and communication—just like the pros at The Second City!
Snapology
June 9-Aug. 22, 2025
Address: 3701 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago; 2828 N. Clark St., Chicago; 1319 S. State St., Chicago
Phone: 773-570-7627
Cost: $498 Full Day; $239 Half Day
Best for ages: 4-14
Snapology is a leading S.T.E.A.M. enrichment franchise in Chicagoland, engaging kids ages 4-14 through LEGO® bricks, K’Nex and technology. They inspire learning through play, sparking creativity and a love for knowledge.
Snapology’s fun-filled camps feature exciting themes like Minecraft, Star Wars, Pokémon, robotics and movie-making. Kids stay entertained with hands-on activities, group play and outdoor fun. Plus, every full-day camper enjoys Pizza Friday! Limited-time Early Bird Special: use code SNAPCAMP2025 at checkout to save 20% off camps.
Soccer Stars Classes
Summer 2025
Address: Various locations in Chicago
Phone: 312-477-5877
Cost: Cost varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 1-12+
Kickstart your child’s soccer journey with Soccer Stars of Chicago, the nation’s leading soccer program for ages 1-12+. Use code PARENT25 to save $30 on enrollment in their weekly classes at a Chicago park near you.
Soccer Stars teaches the FUNdamentals of soccer in a non-competitive, educational and nurturing environment. Their age-specific curriculum is designed to develop skills, teach teamwork and build self-confidence.
For their youngest players, the Parent & Me program offers pre-soccer and movement classes—a perfect introduction to physical activity. Their Spring Season runs from Monday, March 31 to Sunday, June 22, and their Summer Season runs from Monday, July 7 through Sunday, August 24.
South Side YMCA Summer Camp
June 16-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: 6330 S. Stony Island Ave., Chicago
Cost: $260-$325 per week
Best for ages: 5-13
Campers enjoy educational and recreational activities that build social skills, confidence, sportsmanship and a healthy lifestyle, including arts, sports and group games.
Stages Chicago
June 16-Aug. 22, 2025
Address: The Drucker Center, 1535 N. Dayton St., Chicago; Soul City Church, 1150 W. Adams St., Chicago; Fame Center, 1319 S. State St., Chicago
Phone: 773-812-3039
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 2-15
What do you get when you combine the magic of Broadway with the fun and freedom of summer? Summer at Stages!
Whether your child has taken performing arts classes in the past or you’re simply looking for something new to try, Stages is for you. 2025 camp themes include Wicked, Frozen, Hamilton, Six, Descendants, Encanto, Moana, Legally Blonde, Eras Pop Star Camp, Disney Channel Throwback and more.
Steve and Kate’s Camp
Check out your preferred location for exact dates
Address: Various locations in Chicagoland
Phone: 415-389-5437
Cost: $124 day pass, $3,720 summer pass
Best for ages: 4-12
Since 1980, Steve & Kate’s Camp has let kids take the lead, choosing from activities like sewing, stop-motion animation, coding, sports, baking and more. By making their own choices, campers build confidence, creativity and resilience.
Families enjoy flexible enrollment—buy any number of days or a Summer Pass, with unused days automatically refunded. Lunch, snacks and full-day care are included. Open to ages 4-12, now in Bucktown, Hyde Park, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Gold Coast, North Center, West Loop, West Ridge, Evanston and Lake Forest.
Summer Arts Camp at Beverly Arts Center
June–August 2025
Address: 2407 111th St., Chicago
Cost: Call for pricing
Best for ages: 6-12
This full-day camp provides a unique, elevated arts experience as students work with arts professionals to create two productions while still enjoying traditional arts and crafts, playtime and teaching artist workshops.
Summer Lab at The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
June 23-Aug. 1, 2025 (Two-week sessions available)
Address: 1362 E. 59th St., Chicago
Cost: Cost varies, see website for details
Best for ages: Nursery through Grade 8
Summer Lab offers 100+ programs, from robotics and drone-building to outdoor adventures, arts and business. Kids learn, explore and grow while making lasting memories.
Summer@Latin
June 9-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: 59 W. North Boulevard, Chicago
Phone: 312-582-6080
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 4-16
Latin School of Chicago’s summer program gives children the chance to explore the city, embark on exciting adventures, engage in fun activities, tap into their creativity and make friends that will last a lifetime.
Program highlights include field trips across the Chicago area, sports and STEAM camps, on-site swim lessons for ages 4–11, academic classes and leadership development programs for rising 8th-10th graders. They also offer a low staff-to-camper ratio and an extended day program.
The XS Tennis and Education Foundation Summer Camps
June 16-Aug. 15, 2025
Address: 5336 S. State St., Chicago
Cost: Varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 5-13
XS Tennis Summer Camps offer youth and high-performance players daily tennis, fitness and enrichment activities at XS Tennis Village.
USTA Chicago Tennis 101
June 23-Aug. 1, 2025
Address: Various parks in Chicago
Phone: 847-803-2382
Cost: Cost varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 5-12
Tennis 101 with USTA Chicago is the perfect beginner program for kids ages 5-12. In this 6-session course, players enjoy fun games, build character and develop athletic skills. Designed for first-time players, Tennis 101 teaches fundamental skills to help kids feel confident on the court.
Classes are split into two groups: Red Ball (ages 5-8) and Orange Ball (ages 9-12), with equipment tailored to each level. Players should bring their own racket; all other equipment is provided.
Urban Kayaks Youth Class
June 9-Aug. 22, 2025
Address: 110 N. Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Phone: 312-965-0035
Cost: Cost varies, see website for details
Best for ages: 9-16
Urban Kayaks’ youth “Kayak Class” offers a comprehensive learn-to-paddle program for kids and teens aimed at fostering comfort on the water. Set against the serene backdrop of Monroe Harbor at their lakefront location, children can explore the basics of kayaking and paddleboarding in a secure environment while engaging in exciting activities.
Youth Adventure Camp at Bobby’s Bike Hike
June 3-Aug. 30, 2025
Address: 540 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Cost: $499/half day week; $599/full day week
Best for ages: 9-16
Children will have the opportunity to bike, hike, swim and kayak their way through learning about local history and legendary landmarks from expertly trained staff.
This article was recently updated on Feb. 8, 2025 by Chicago Parent’s writer, Sarah Knieff. The updates reflect the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to editor@chicagoparent.com.
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