Where to Find The Top Summer Camps for Kids in Chicago

Find the best Chicago summer camps for kids, from improv at Second City to outdoor adventures, with unique programs for all ages in our guide.

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!

Featured Summer Camps for Kids in Chicago

In this section, Chicago Parent’s advertising partners share their top summer camp offerings.

Bennett Day Camp

Children laughing and creating crafts with markers during Bennett Day Camp, fostering creativity and fun.
Photo credit: 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.

Kids Science Labs STEAM Summer Camp

Children engaged in a hands-on STEAM activity at Kids Science Labs Summer Camp, exploring engineering and science through creative problem-solving and teamwork.
Photo credit: Kids Science Labs

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 offer 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. Get ready for a summer of innovation, exploration and endless fun!

MADE Chicago Summer Camps

Made Chicago Summer Camp
Photo credit: Made Chicago Summer Camp

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 wheelthrowing 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.

Merry Music Makers Summer Camps: Summer Jam & Swim

Group of kids underwater at Summer Jam and Swim camp, smiling and waving while wearing colorful goggles in a swimming pool.
Photo credit: EAC Swim Camp

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

Dive into a summer filled with music, creativity, and splashes at our Summer Jam & Swim Camp! This exciting camp, designed for rising first to third graders, offers a unique blend of musical exploration and aquatic adventures.

Each week, campers will explore different musical themes, such as The World of Jazz, The Science of Sound, or Percussion and Drumming. Explore a different musical theme each week, from the Science of Sound, the World of Jazz, to Meeting the Instruments and more! Mornings start with musical activities, followed by snacks and group adventures, including games, escape rooms and hands-on learning.

Merry Music Makers Summer Camps: EAC Swim Camp

Child enjoying swim lessons at Merry Music Makers EAC Swim Camp, smiling in the pool with a blue pool noodle for support.
Photo credit: 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!

A group of children participating in a voice lesson led by an instructor at Merry Music Makers summer camp, fostering musical skills and creativity in a bright, brick-walled studio.
Photo credit: LYRIQ Music School

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, all at It’s Showtime camp. This full-day camp, held at LYRIQ Music School, 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.

Move Your Feet Sports Tennis & Golf Summer Camp

A young golfer receives instruction at Move Your Feet Sports Tennis & Golf Summer Camp, practicing putting on a green under the guidance of a coach.
Photo credit: Move Your Feet Sports

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 (ages 6-13). 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. Join them for an unforgettable summer of growth and fun—they appreciate your referrals and recommendations!

Paris Saint-Germain Academy Camps

A young female soccer player in a navy blue Paris Saint-Germain Academy Camps uniform executes a mid-air kick during a practice session on a sunny day, with teammates and a goalpost in the background.
Photo credit: Paris Saint-Germain Academy

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 that are based on the fundamentals of European soccer. These camps are designed to develop players’ skills, techniques, tactics, strength and endurance to take their game to the next level.

At Paris Saint-Germain Academy camps, players will receive an introduction to the official Paris Saint-Germain Academy 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. The coaching is conducted by highly experienced and licensed Paris Saint-Germain coaches, ensuring that players receive the best possible training.

Right at School Camps at South Loop Elementary

Smiling young girl enjoying a water balloon activity at RAS Camps, a fun-filled summer camp experience focused on adventure, creativity and active play.
Photo credit: Right at School

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, their camps blend fun, fitness, creativity and hands-on learning for a summer full of excitement. Kids will love the Adventure Weeks, featuring unique themes alongside classic camp favorites like 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.

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

Make this summer one to remember with RAS Camps! Their 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 also 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 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 to keep kids engaged.

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 Franklin Fine Arts

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

Looking for a fun and flexible summer camp? RAS Camps let families create a customized experience filled with fitness, creativity, and hands-on learning. Kids will 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.

Summer@Latin

Children participating in a vibrant outdoor art activity at Summer@Latin camp, creating a colorful splatter painting on a large canvas in a scenic park setting.
Photo credit: 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 of all ages 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.

Latin’s 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 (rising 8th-10th graders). They also have a low staff-to-camper ratio for more personalized attention and an extended day program that helps families navigate their busy summer schedules.

Merit School of Music Summer Camps

Two students playing the cello and enjoying their time at Merit School of Music Summer Camps, highlighting a creative and educational summer experience.
Photo credit: Merit School of Music

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.

Camp Galileo

Camp Galileo kids racing handmade go-karts outdoors with helmets and supportive staff cheering them on.
Photo credit: 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 our website. Enrollments accepted through many top backup care providers. Use code CHICAGOPARENT25 to save $25/week! Valid on future purchases only.

CircEsteem Circus Camp

Two smiling participants at CircEsteem Circus Camp, posing with aerial silks in a bright, indoor training space, highlighting the fun and skill-building experiences of summer camp.
Photo credit: CircEsteem

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

Debate Camp
Photo credit: 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. Join Debate Camp in 2025 for a transformative experience!

FACETS Film Camps

A young girl wearing headphones directs a film scene at FACETS Film Camps, collaborating with peers and an instructor using professional filmmaking equipment.
Photo credit: FACETS

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+ films 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 our unique Film Camps this summer.

First Ascent Summer Climbing Camp

Child climbing a rock wall at First Ascent Summer Climbing Camp, showcasing adventure and skill-building.
Photo credit: First Ascent

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. 

Porchlight Music Theatre

Children performing on stage during a Porchlight Music Theatre summer camp production, entertaining an audience with creative choreography and a vibrant set design in a professional theater setting.
Photo credit: 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. 

Snapology

Children participating in a Snapology STEM camp in Chicago, engaging with LEGO® bricks and hands-on activities, fostering creativity and fun learning.
Photo credit: 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, Pokemon, robotics and movie-making. Kids stay entertained with hands-on activities, group play and outdoor fun. Plus, every full-day camper enjoys Pizza Friday! Now for a limited time you may save 20% OFF all your Snapology camps registered on our site with our Early Bird Special. Use code SNAPCAMP2025 at check out to enjoy the savings.

Soccer Stars Classes

A group of young athletes at Soccer Stars Camps posing together on the field, building teamwork and skills.
Photo credit: Soccer Stars

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! Don’t miss out on 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 in every child.

For their youngest players, their Parent & Me program offers pre-soccer and movement classes—a perfect introduction to physical activity for your toddler. 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. They can’t wait to see your child on the field!

Steve and Kate’s Camp

Two smiling campers showcasing their colorful knitting projects at Steve and Kate's Camp, highlighting creative and hands-on activities in a fun and engaging environment.
Photo credit: 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. 

Stages Chicago

Two young actors performing a heartfelt scene during a Stages Chicago summer camp theater production, showcasing their talents on stage with vibrant green set pieces in the background.
Photo credit: 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 this summer, 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. 

Urban Kayaks Youth Class

Teens enjoying paddleboarding during Urban Kayaks Youth Classes in Chicago, with a stunning city skyline backdrop.
Photo credit: Urban Kayaks

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 aged 9-16, 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 and tranquil environment, while engaging in exciting activities and cherished lessons. 

At Urban Kayaks, their mission is to deliver a tailored class for middle schoolers, instilling kayaking fundamentals within an enjoyable and secure learning setting, with the goal of cultivating confidence and proficiency in young individuals, creating memorable experiences for friends and families to share.

USTA Chicago Tennis 101

USTA Chicago
Photo credit: USTA Chicago

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 will 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. Give your child a fun, inclusive start in tennis with USTA Chicago’s Tennis 101!

More Summer Camps for Kids in Chicago

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.

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.

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!

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.

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 the traditional arts and crafts, playtime, and teaching artist workshops.

Summer Lab at The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

June 23-August 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.

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.

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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Lori Orlinsky
Lori Orlinsky
Lori Orlinsky is an award-winning journalist and bestselling children's book author. She is the mom of three little ladies who keep her on her toes.

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