Rainy days tend to sneak up on us, don’t they? In Chicagoland, it can be sunny and beautiful one day and on the next, it’s all gloomy. What we know is that a rainy day can put a damper on our plans for the day, too.
But don’t worry, if you’re stuck on what to do when rain hits, we’ve got indoor attractions and kid-friendly places to help save the day. Check out these rainy day solutions that guarantee lots of family fun.
This article was recently updated on March 12, 2024 by Chicago Parent’s Assistant Editor, Nikki Roberts. The update included fact-checking to provide the most up to date information, aligning with Chicago Parent’s mission to provide the top parenting resources for local families. Questions? Please reach out to nikki@chicagoparent.com.
Jump around at an indoor play place
Tired of the kids jumping on the bed? Our mega list includes the best indoor play places for kids and we promise that they’ll sleep soundly on the way home.
Find an indoor play place near you
- Best Indoor Play Places near Naperville
- Best Indoor Play Places near Schaumburg
- Best Indoor Play Places near Skokie
- Best Indoor Play Places near Tinley Park
Watch a movie
Splurge on some popcorn and see one of the latest family movies out in theaters. Don’t feel like leaving the house? We’ve got you covered with the newest movies and shows streaming for kids this month.
Eat at a new restaurant
If you’re a family of foodies, consider going out to eat. Here is a list of themed restaurants that will make your dining experience even more fun.
Find even more kid-friendly restaurants near you
- Best Family Restaurants near Naperville
- Best Family Restaurants near Schaumburg
- Best Family Restaurants near Skokie
- Best Family Restaurants near Tinley Park
Go to a museum
Chicagoland museums are made for rainy days. These are some great local museums families should visit at least once.
Visit your local library
A trip to the library is never a bad idea, especially on a rainy day. These are some of our favorite children’s libraries in Chicagoland. Also, did you know you can check out some one-of-a-kind items from your local library?
Climb your heart out
Your daredevils will love nothing more than to hit these indoor rock climbing gyms. Parents, you can join in on the fun, too!
Just keep swimming
Even if it’s pouring, that doesn’t stop us to enjoy some water fun at these indoor swimming pools. Be sure to check before visiting to make sure the pools are open for all swimmers!
Hang out at a coffee shop
On a rainy day, even parents deserve a cup of coffee. Your kids will even fun at these local coffee shops.
Enjoy nature in the rain
These nature centers will give your kiddos plenty of space to explore indoors. But if the rain’s not too bad, they can also have fun jumping into puddles.
Go shopping
Support some small businesses by visiting your favorite independent toy store. Your kids won’t get bored shopping either.
Treat yourself to a dessert
It’s rainy, it’s pouring. That shouldn’t stop you to go out and get something sweet! Here are some over-the-top desserts in Chicagoland.
Go mini golfing
Your game won’t get rained out when you play at one of these indoor courses. Choose from a variety of unique mini golf games, like glow-in-the-dark space golf or a high-tech version of mini golf.
Attend an art workshop
Getting creative at an art studio means you don’t need to prep, buy materials or worry about cleaning up — just show up and get artsy! Check out these workshops for rug tufting, ceramics, painting and more.
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