Looking for the best kid-friendly patios in Chicagoland where the whole family can dine, unwind and soak up the sunshine? Whether you’re craving a casual lunch outdoors or sipping a patio cocktail while the kids play nearby, these family-friendly restaurants across Chicago and the suburbs make outdoor dining a breeze.
Not all patios are created with little ones in mind—but these spots go the extra mile. From children’s menus with crowd-pleasing favorites to games, open spaces and fun extras like extra space and beachside vibes, these restaurants make dining al fresco with kids actually enjoyable. Check out our picks of kid-friendly outdoor restaurants in Chicagoland below.
Read more: Best Kid-Friendly Themed Restaurants in Chicagoland for Memorable Family Meals
Best kid-friendly patios in Chicagoland
Big Star
- Address: 1531 N. Damen Ave., Chicago; 551 N. Ogden Ave., Chicago; 3640 N. Clark St., Chicago
This popular taco spot has three Chicago locations, all with hip outdoor patios. Tacos and quesadillas are sold individually, making it easy to order kid-sized portions. Grown ups can mix and match yummy tacos and enjoy the popular margaritas, palomas, daiquiris and other refreshing patio beverages.
Caffe Oliva
- Address: 550 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
Caffe Oliva, on Ohio Street Beach in Chicago, is like a mini vacation without leaving the Midwest. Pack up the beach gear and get there early so the kids can play in the sand while adults soak in the sunshine and indulge in beachy cocktails. Lunch and dinner menus include Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches, burgers, salads and flatbread pizzas. The standard kids fare is offered, plus a special kids dessert. Don’t forget your wallet, as cash is not accepted here.
Kaiser Tiger
- Address: 1415 W. Randolph St., Chicago
This West Loop sausage, bacon and beer restaurant boasts a huge beer garden with ping-pong, bocce, giant Jenga and bags. The picnic-style seating, decor and vibes make it an ideal location to relax and hang out all day long. Did we mention there are 20+ rotating beers on tap?
Open Outcry Brewing Company
- Address: 10934 S. Western Ave., Chicago
This South Side rooftop restaurant has board games for the kids, a Chicago-centric brewpub menu with sandwiches, salads and pizzas named after the surrounding streets and plenty of specialty brews for parents. The communal seating gives the entire place a family-style feel. After your meal, stay awhile and play a board game with your crew while enjoying the open air vibes at Open Outcry.
Park & Field
- Address: 3509 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago
Logan Square’s Park & Field is perfect for a day of fun in the sun. This vintage sports club and eatery includes a 6,000-square-foot patio with bocce courts and board games, plus chalk and bubbles for the kids. Not only is there a kid-friendly menu, but there’s also a dog-friendly menu with treats and dinner options for your pups. End the night by purchasing a s’mores kit and roasting marshmallows over the fire pits.
Cortland’s Garage
- Address: 1 N. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights
Dine on a large brick patio with the fam while enjoying pub grub and standard kids fare. The patio features TVs, seasonal decor and string lights, making it the perfect place to catch a game over a family meal.
Girl in the Park
- Address: 11265 W. 159th St., Orland Park
The expansive patio at Girl in the Park is both kid friendly and dog friendly, so bring the whole fam out for your next outdoor meal. The “Lil Humans” menu includes classic kids options like chicken tenders and butter noodles, and adults have some seriously delicious options to choose from, like seared salmon, chicken ‘n’ biscuits, ribs and much more.
302 Wheaton
- Address: 302 W. Front St., Wheaton
This hotspot is known for its burgers, great draft beer selection, milkshakes (including boozy ones for grown ups!) and family-friendly outdoor patio. The restaurant hosts kid-friendly movies nights and events, as well as summer specials like Dole Whip Wednesdays.
Elmhurst Brewing Company
- Address: 171 N. Addison Ave., Elmhurst
Elmhurst Brewing Company prides itself on being a family-friendly brewery. Kids have their own menu to order from, and a children’s play area inside will keep them busy and having fun while parents enjoy their beverages, which include a wide-selection of craft beers to pair with pub food.
Empire Burgers & Brew
- Address: 48 W. Chicago Ave., Naperville
This downtown Naperville hot spot is known for its massive burgers (and kid-sized patties, too!), like the namesake Empire burger — a 50/50 bacon patty with egg, spring mix, cream cheese, green onion and maple-bourbon syrup — but the real appeal is the outdoor rooftop that overlooks the Naperville Riverwalk.
This article was updated on April 4, 2025 by Chicago Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina. The update included fact-checking and adding more kid-friendly patios and rooftops to our list. Questions? Please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.
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