Winter may be in full swing, but that doesnโt mean your family has to stay cooped up in the cold. If you’re looking for fun ways to escape the winter chill, weโve rounded up fantastic destinations where families can warm up, unwind and enjoy some much-needed adventure.
With a little creativity, you and your kids can beat the winter blues and make the most of the seasonโno matter how cold it gets outside!
Indoor kid-friendly activities where you can pretend it’s summer
Make a splash at the Water Works Indoor Water Park
- Address:ย 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg
Nothing says summer like an afternoon splashing in the waves! Jump right in at The Water Works Indoor Water Park (inside Schaumburg Park Districtโs Community Recreation Center) and enjoy three water slides, a sprayground and the parkโs zero-depth entry pool. Your kids will appreciate a break from the cold and youโll appreciate the family changing rooms. Admission: $8-$10, free for kids 2 and under. Find more indoor water parks in Chicagoland!
Dive into an underwater adventure at Old Town Aquarium
- Address:ย 4018 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago
Ripples of excitement will follow you to Old Town Aquarium, a retail fish store known for its mesmerizing tanks of fresh and saltwater fish and knowledgeable staff members. Learn about fishkeeping and check out the gorgeous live plants and coral while youโre there. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday only from 12-6 p.m. You can also a fun family day out at the Shedd Aquarium.ย
Wander through a warm jungle at Oak Park Conservatory
- Address:ย 615 Garfield St., Oak Park
Prefer to stay on dry land? A visit to the Oak Park Conservatory, a hidden gem just west of the city, is sure to cure your wintertime blues. The kids will thaw out quickly in its three showrooms, which include a Mediterranean room, tropical room and desert room, and youโll feel miles away from the chill as you chat with the conservatoryโs resident Amazon parrots and fill your lungs with warm air. Lincoln Park Conservatory and Garfield Park Conservatory are worth the visit, too!
Sip and snack at Botanical Cafe
- Address: 3740 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
If your conservatory visit inspires your childโs indoor green thumb, stop by Botanical Cafe for breakfast or lunch and pick out a plant to take home as you sip one of the seasonal drinks and chow down on delicious pastries and sandwiches. The cafe is Chicagoโs first combined plant shop and cafe! Pop in on the weekend to taste the amazing soups.ย
Escape to the islands at Tiki Terrace
- Address: 1591 Lee St., Des Plaines
The snow and slush can leave you dreaming of a tropical vacation. A visit to Tiki Terrace will transport your family to the islands for one special night. Experience aloha as you take in dinner and a luau show, complete with hula dancers and a great selection of Hawaiian dishes. Fear not: the kids menu includes chicken nuggets and burgers. Luau shows are held each Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and phone reservations are strongly recommended.
Surround yourself with butterflies Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
- Address: 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago
Step into a tropical paradise at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museumโs Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, where temperatures are warm year-round and more than 1,000 butterflies flutter freely. Donโt miss the daily First Flight Butterfly Release, where newly-emerged butterflies take their first flight into the haven.
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