Tween and teens are awesome, and it’s often easier to recognize that when you have some one-on-one time with them outside of a group. Taking the time to connect with and enjoy your adolescents is not only good for both of you, but it can strengthen your bond and make the not-so-fun times a bit easier, too.
The good news is that there are many wonderful places around Chicagoland to have fun together. Here are some of our favorite places to have a great day with tweens and teens.
If you’re a family of foodies, take your taste buds to Eataly
While going for ice cream is fun at any age, up the cool factor for your tweens and teens with a visit to the gelato bar at Eataly. Definitely take time to wander around to find different foods from Italy. While you’re in Downtown Chicago, visit the Chicago French Market to sample a few different types of food like FIlipino, soul food, or Vietnamese.
If you have a gamer, check out Enterrium in Schaumburg
Level up your parenting with a trip to Enterrium. Don’t tell your kids, but it appeals to both generations and adults will love the craft cocktails and nods to their younger days. Let the fun continue with a game of bowling. Can’t get enough gaming time? Try Underground Retrocade in West Dundee where you play all the games your heart desires for as long as you want for just a $15 admission fee.
If your kid loves the outdoors, go kayaking on the Chicago River
This adventure “ticks all the boxes,” as they say on House Hunters. You get a unique view of the city, as well as a good workout, fresh air and unplugged time. There are numerous options for renting kayaks and many companies offer guided tours, too. Check out Kayak Chicago, Urban Kayaks, and Chicago River Canoe and Kayak.
If your adolescent has a huge sweet tooth, check out Sugar Factory
This spot, with locations in both River North and Rosemont, is a huge hit with tweens and teens. It’s a restaurant, a candy shop and an Instagram haven all in one spot. Candy-themed mocktails are particularly popular and feature treats like gummy bears, lollipops and pop rocks. Find more unique desserts that the whole family will enjoy.
If they love animals, feed the sharks at Shedd Aquarium.
Many tweens and teens love doing something that’s different from their normal routine, and it seems safe to say that they aren’t feeding sharks on a regular basis, so this experience at the Shedd should capture their attention. An added benefit is that you’ll feel a little better about your grocery bill after seeing how much sharks eat. Tours are offered on weekend mornings and kids must be age 10 or older.
If your kids love to create, take a class at Lillstreet Art Center
Lillstreet Art Center, on the city’s North Side, offers all kinds of classes, and many of the adult classes permit teens, although the age permitted varies depending on the class. Trying something new together can be a fun bonding experience, so give making your own blown glass ornament a shot, or try 3D printing your own cookie cutters. Also, remember that the Art Institute of Chicago is free for kids under 14.
If defying gravity is on their wish list, hang out at iFly Chicago
Have aspirations to fly high…but not too high? Try iFly Chicago as a stepping stone to skydiving. For one exhilarating minute, they can feel the rush of being suspended in the air.
If your kids love technology and mini golf, score a hole in one at Puttshack
The indoor mini golf facility in Oak Brook combines tech where tech meets putt putt puts other mini golf spots to shame. Choose from a couple different courses with challenges at each hole (trivia, anyone?). No worries about taking score – everything is scored electronically!
If heights aren’t a problem, check out The Forge: Lemont Quarries
The largest adventure park in the nation, The Forge, is the place for adventure-lovin’ kids. Conquer the high ropes elements and miles of zipline. Keep the fun going with laser tag, adventure games, mountain biking and even ice skating in the winter.
If your kids like questioning the impossible, try Museum of Illusions Chicago
With more than 80 visual and educational exhibits like optical illusions, holograms and immersive rooms, the Museum of Illusions Chicago will sure to baffle your tween or teens. Plus, how fun is it to play a trick on your mind?
If your kids are always in front of the camera, strike a pose at Selfie WRLD Schaumburg
For a fun experience, grab your cameras and selfie-lovin’ child to Selfie WRLD. Snap pics in front of 15 unique stations with a variety of props. Even parents will have fun with the endless photo opportunities.
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