Located on the South side of Chicago near the shore of Lake Michigan, Hyde Park is a culturally diverse area known for its world-class institutions, rich history (it was the site of the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893) and breathtaking architecture.
It’s also home to the prestigious University of Chicago and the future home of the Barack Obama Presidential Center. An eclectic and vibrant area, Hyde Park is both the perfect place to raise a family and spend the day exploring.
Here are our top picks for things to do with kids in Hyde Park.
Quick details about Hyde Park
- Population: 29,559
- County: Cook
- Median house value: $332,284
- Median rent: $1,518
- School district: Chicago Public Schools
- Transportation: Walk Score 87/100 (Very Walkable), Transit Score 64/100 (Good Transit), Bike Score 91/100 (Biker’s Paradise)
- Random fact: In Niche’s 2024 Best Places rankings, Hyde Park was ranked No. 5 in Most Diverse Neighborhoods in Chicago.
*Information provided by Redfin and Niche.
Fun things to do with kids in Hyde Park
Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park
- Best Playgrounds Near Hyde Park
- Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants Near Hyde Park
- Best Desserts Near Hyde Park
And here are our top picks for things to do with kids in Hyde Park.
Museum of Science and Industry
- Address: 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
The largest science museum in the Western hemisphere, MSI is a world classroom hands-on science center where curious kids can explore permanent and temporary exhibits centered around STEM. Don’t miss Science Storms, Numbers in Nature: A Mirror Maze and the historic Coal Mine.
Midway Plaisance Park
- Address: 1130 Midway Plaisance, Chicago
Locally known as the Midway, this public park, which stretches for a mile between Jackson Park and Washington Park. Once the site of amusements during the World’s Fair, the Midway offers stunning views of the area. Outdoor features include gardens, the historic Fountain of Time sculpture, while an indoor skating rink keeps visitors coming year-round.
Valois Restaurant
- Address: 1518 E. 53rd St., Chicago
A longtime staple on 53rd street, a favorite of the Obamas, and one of the oldest cafeteria style restaurants in the U.S, Valois is known for its motto “see your food,” which describes how customers can watch their food prepared right before their eyes.
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
- Address: 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center is the first and oldest independent Black History Museum in the country. Through temporary and permanent exhibitions, the DuSable celebrates, preserves and amplifies the historical experiences and achievements of African Americans.
Jackson Bark Dog Park
- Address: 6000 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Jackson Bark is a dog park located in Jackson Park, just south of MSI. The fenced park features agility equipment and toys for furry friends to run around in and enjoy.
Sweet Drip
- Address: 1658 E. 53rd St., Chicago
The perfect place for kids to refuel after a day of exploring, this charming dessert cafe serves up funnel cakes, milkshakes, gelato, cheesecake and more, including their famous waffle bites.
Hyde Park Farmer’s Market
- Address: 1511 E. 53rd St., Chicago
From June through September, shoppers will find fresh produce from local Illinois farms, freshly baked breads and desserts, beautiful plants, packaged foods, personal beauty supplies, and traditional farmers market fare.
Medici on 57th
- Address: 1327 E. 57th St., Chicago
Located within walking distance from the Museum of Science and Industry, Medici is a combination restaurant, delicatessen and bakery housed in two buildings on 57th Street. This casual spot offers a wide-ranging menu with something for everyone (soup, salads, sandwiches, etc.).
Garden of the Phoenix
- Address: 5900 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Located south of MSI, families can enjoy a quick respite taking in this authentic Japanese garden, complete with a pavilion, moon bridge, Shinto gate and traditional Japanese horticulture. This garden was a gift to Chicago from Japan for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.
57th Street Beach
- Address: 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Located within Jackson Park, 57th Street Beach provides an opportunity to enjoy the lakefront. This historic beach offers modern conveniences including an ADA accessible beach walk, restrooms and WiFi as well as a quick bite eatery serving up a Mexican menu.
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