In the South Suburbs, Tinley Park shines as a charming destination. Families can enjoy a variety of parks, playgrounds and other kid-friendly attractions for all ages.
The town comes alive throughout the year with big events such as their free Tinley Park Music in the Plaza series or the beloved Benches on the Avenue art display. For special holidays, you can also attend their Boo Bash and Irish Parade.
Including great schools and real estate opportunities, Tinley Park can easily be a spot any Chicagoland family can call home.
This article was recently updated on May 8, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her creating an interactive map to make it easier to find the best things to do near you. Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.
Quick stats about Tinley Park
- Population: 55,571
- County: Cook
- Median house value: $278,300
- Median rent: $1,399
- School districts: Community Consolidated School District 146, Kirby School District 140, Arbor Park School District 145, Mokena School District 159, Summit Hill School District 161
- Top schools: Prairie Elementary School (A), Virgil I. Grissom Middle School (A-minus), Lincoln-Way East High School (A-plus)
- Transportation: Walk Score 35/100 (Car Dependent), Bike Score 42/100 (Somewhat Bikeable)
- Random fact: In Niche’s 2024 Best Places rankings, Tinley Park was ranked No. 32 in Best Suburbs to Buy a House in Cook County.
*Information provided by Redfin and Niche.
Fun things to do with kids in Tinley Park
No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, Tinley Park has it down to a “T.” Check out these great family activities:
- Best Indoor Play Places in Tinley Park
- Best Playgrounds in Tinley Park
- Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Tinley Park
- Best Over-The-Top Desserts in Tinley Park
And here are our top picks for things to do with kids in Tinley Park.
Forest View Farms
- Address: 16717 Lockwood Ave., Tinley Park
For more than 70 years, Forest View Farms has been a cherished spot for horse enthusiasts of all skill levels. Kids can participate in pony rides (all ages) starting at $10 and private horse rides (ages 9-plus) starting at $33. While you’re there, visit their petting farm featuring pigs, chickens, sheep, llamas, ducks and more.
Tinley Park Public Library
- Address: 7851 Timber Drive, Tinley Park
This South Suburbs library stands out for many reasons — its stunning boardwalk lets families explore through preserved wetland and prairie. Inside, you can explore the children’s area on the second floor filled with books, Legos, puzzles and more. The library also participates in the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten reading challenge.
Tinley Park Roller Rink
- Address: 17658 Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park
Step back into time in this classic roller rink — including a disco ball! Your family can take a spin around the rink owned by the Quitters, a famous pairs skating couple. Tinley Park Roller Rink offers family-friendly events and open skates.
Odyssey Fun World
- Address: 19111 Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park
Odyssey Fun World offers a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions including batting cages, mini golf, inflatable race courses, laser tag and arcade games, making it a year-round destination for entertainment.
White Water Canyon Water Park
- Address: 8125 W 171st St., Tinley Park
This recreational park features two large pools with side-by-side slides and a 600-foot-long lazy river. Your little ones can spend time in the toddler-friendly sprayground and a sandy play area equipped with toys. The main pool caters to older children with diving boards, set against a backdrop of nature and expansive lounge areas. Entry fees are $10 for residents and $20 for nonresidents.
Volunteer Park
- Address: 8180 175th St., Tinley Park
Big kids can climb and fly at Tinley Park’s only playground zipline with a large play structure. For younger children, they can use the swings, a mini playset with a slide, and pretend play stations shaped like a house and car.
Freedom Park
- Address: 7835 Timber Drive, Tinley Park
Kids of all ages will be at playground paradise at Freedom Park! There are plenty of play structures to climb, slide and explore. Not to mention, your young thrill seekers can try out their mini rock climbing walls.
Michael J. Sutter Playground
- Address: 8125 171st St., Tinley Park
This sensory-friendly playground offers great amenities such as astroturf, textured surfaces, musical stations and more. The whole family will love to play on the playground’s giant tic-tac-toe board.
The Magical Plush Horse Ice Cream Shoppe
- Address: 7903 W. 171st St., Tinley Park
You can’t go wrong with Tinley Park’s beloved ice cream spot. Kids will go crazy over their Monster Sundaes, complete with edible eyes and a mouth. And plenty of sprinkles, too, of course!
Tokyo Steakhouse
- Address: 9436 179th St., Tinley Park
Get ready for a traditional Hibachi show at Tokyo Steakhouse! Kids will love to see the entertaining chefs create onion volcanoes and toss eggs into hats. Don’t worry about your picky eaters, the restaurant is prepared for special kid-friendly dishes upon request.
Eiffel Waffle
- Address: 15921 S. Harlem Ave., Tinley Park
Eiffel Waffle is known for their over-the-top waffle desserts and you can enjoy them right here at Tinley Park. Their bubble waffles are topped with ice cream and delicious toppings like brownie bites and Fruity Pebbles.
Ed & Joe’s Restaurant & Pizzeria
- Address: 17332 Oak Park Avenue, Tinley Park
Families are welcomed to dine any time at Ed & Joe’s. You’ll love their gourmet pizzas with unique options like taco pizza and cheeseburger pizza.
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