Elmhurst is a charming suburban gem perfect for families, offering a blend of cultural attractions, leisure activities and community-focused amenities that cater to all ages. This DuPage County suburb boasts top-rated schools and robust parks making it one of the best suburbs to raise a family.
During the year, you’ll find plenty of family events such as Art in the Park, Park Palooza and the Memorial Day Parade. Learn more about Elmhurst’s welcoming and vibrant community in our family guide.
Quick stats about Elmhurst
- Population: 45,648
- County: DuPage
- Median house value: $516,900
- Median rent: $1,843
- School district: Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205
- Top schools: York Community High School (A-plus), Hawthorne Elementary School (A), Field Elementary School (A)
- Transportation: Walk Score 48/100 (Car Dependent), Transit Score 25/100 (Minimal Transit), Bike Score 52/100 (Bikeable)
- Random fact: In Niche’s 2024 Best Places rankings, Elmhurst was ranked No. 4 in Best Suburbs to Raise a Family in DuPage County.
*Information provided by Redfin and Niche.
Fun things to do with kids in Elmhurst
Elmhurst has so many great activities for families! Whether you live there or want to visit the town for the day, check out these stories:
- Best Indoor Play Places Near Elmhurst
- Best Playgrounds in Elmhurst
- Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Elmhurst
- Best Desserts in Elmhurst
And here are our top picks for things to do with kids in Elmhurst.
Berens Park
- Address: 493 N. Oaklawn Ave., Elmhurst
Berens Park features two exciting playgrounds for kids to enjoy, one of which includes a sandbox and digger. The adventure continues at The Hub, which offers seasonal activities such as batting cages, a mini-golf course and a sprayground.
Butterfield Park
- Address: 385 E. Van Buren St., Elmhurst
The playground at Butterfield Park was the first fully-inclusive playground in Elmhurst. It’s equipped with a variety of activities suitable for children of all abilities, including an accessible zipline, a wheelchair-friendly sway boat and two accessible swings.
Elmhurst Art Museum
- Address: 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst
This art museum features plenty of kid-friendly exhibits and activities to grow their creativity. Currently on display is Designing Donkey Hodie – From Make-Believe to Someplace Else, based on the PBS Kids show.
Elmhurst History Museum
- Address: 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst
The history museum offers free admission to the general public. This summer, check out their Museum Maker Mondays where families can enjoy a day of games and crafts.
Elmhurst Public Library
- Address: 125 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst
The Kids’ Library here is worth the visit thanks to the welcoming environment for kids of all ages. Younger kids can spend time in The Learning Garden with toys, puppets, puzzles, books and activities.
Kimmer’s Ice Cream
- Address: 110 W. Park Ave., Suite B, Elmhurst
This ice cream shop is famous for its Sparkle Cone, which adds a fun twist to traditional cones with a sprinkle design. We love that!
Krafted Burger Bar + Tap
- Address: 111 E. 1st St., Elmhurst
Elmhurst boasts a fantastic selection of breweries, and it’s even better when they cater to families. Krafted stands out by offering a delightful kid’s menu complete with mocktails for the little ones to enjoy.
Marshmallow Play
- Address: 572 N. Michigan St., Elmhurst
Littles ones (ages 6 and under) can climb and slide, imagine royal adventures in a princess castle and roam a dino play area among other exciting activities. Meanwhile, parents can relax in a comfortable sitting area, enjoying drinks and snacks available for purchase.
Safety Town
- Address: 511 S. York St., Elmhurst
Vroom vroom! This adorable little park features a mini town where toddlers can bike through. Nearby is the Illinois Prairie Path if you want to go on a family bike ride.
Southtown Hot Dogs
- Address: 103 E. Vallette St., Elmhurst
Kids will jump at the chance to grab a hot dog at this fast food spot. Make sure to leave some space for dessert with shakes, cones, flizzards and more.
Sweet Circle
- Address: 116 N. York St., Elmhurst
Formerly Hello Donut, Sweet Circle is here to brighten your day with their array of donuts like Traditional Glazed, Apple Fritter and Tropical Mango.
Umbrella Sky
The Umbrella Sky Project has brightened downtown Elmhurst for its second year with three colorful canopy installations that transform pedestrian pathways and green spaces into vibrant art displays.
Wilder Park
- Address: 175 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst
Wilder Park’s playground is ideal for families who appreciate having nearby seating to keep an eye on their children. Plus, you can fill the day by visiting kid-friendly attractions nearby, including the delightful Wilder Park Conservatory.
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