Inclusive Ways to Explore Chicago w/ Kids During the HolidayTraveling with kids? Discover the magic of Chicago with accessible stops! These family-friendly attractions feature wheelchair, and stroller-friendly pathways, inclusive exhibits, and sensory-friendly options, making it easy for all families to explore, learn, and enjoy the city together.Authorsbeth_and_coop
DestinationsChicagoItinerary

Trip Highlight

Trip Highlight
This was such a great trip. I enjoyed Chicago more than I expected and was pleasantly surprised. Everything felt accessible, the variety of activities kept our 6-year-old fully engaged, and even with the weather shifting between sunshine and snow, Chicago had its own charm. There was a fun magic around being there for the first real snowfall!
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Where We Went

Chicago Children's Museum
We started our trip here, and it couldn't have been a better call. My 6-year-old was in heaven building, climbing, and exploring every corner. The museum’s thoughtful accessible pathways and hands-on exhibits made it easy for Coop to explore and learn without constant listening.
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Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
This place blew us away. We celebrated the Christmas tree lighting, and after the Christmas Around the World event we headed into the museum. Trains, tornados, baby chicks, and so many immersive exhibits. The museum’s wide layouts and inclusive design made exploring simple and stress-free for both of us - Coop even took a break from his implants here.
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Field Museum of Natural History Admission Tickets
We met SUE the T. rex, wandered through ancient worlds, and soaked up every bit of history. Such a cool mix of fun and learning. We especially appreciated how easy it was to navigate the galleries, making it a comfortable experience for all abilities.
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Color Factory Chicago
Easily one of our favorite stops. Every room was a burst of color, creativity, and pure joy. It was so much fun for kids and adults alike, and the accessible, sensory-friendly spaces meant Beth and Coop could fully enjoy each installation together.
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Shedd Aquarium
It’s impossible not to be amazed here, and even better - Coop didn’t need to rely on sound to stay full engaged. Easily one of the best aquariums we’ve ever visited, and the belugas were especially neat. With clear pathways and helpful staff, it was simple for our family to move through the exhibits at our own pace.
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Adler Planetarium
We sat under the stars and learned about the world above us. Such a calm, beautiful break in the middle of a busy day - the perfect peaceful place to slow down and have less auditory input. The accessible seating and gentle flow of the experience made it inclusive and relaxing for everyone.
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Navy Pier
You can't beat the views here. The top of the Centennial Wheel features a breathtaking view, especially at sunset. The accessible gondolas made it easy for our whole family to take in the skyline together.
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Flyover
Honestly one of the coolest experiences of the trip. It felt like flying over the city. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take that into account, but the team was so accommodating and made sure we felt comfortable from start to finish.
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Harry Potter Shop Chicago
Stepping into the Harry Potter Shop felt like stepping back into my own childhood - pure magic, butterbeer vibes, and a little reminder that wonder never really fades. The spacious layout made browsing easy and enjoyable!
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Millennium Park
A quick stop to see “The Bean” and let our 6-year-old run around. The fresh snow made it feel straight out of a holiday movie. Wide walkways and accessible routes made exploring the park simple, even with the winter crowds.
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Sloomoo Institute - Chicago
The perfect way to end our trip. Slime, laughter, and sensory fun galore. It was our 6-year-old’s favorite stop, and the take-home slime kept him busy (and happy) all night back at the hotel. We loved how the space was designed to be engaging and inclusive for all sensory needs - with or without his devices.
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Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission
Check out the Skydeck and see the city from above. The Willis Tower is the third-largest building in the world. The accessible elevators and friendly staff made the journey up just as enjoyable as the view itself.
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Chicago CityPASS®
It covered a wide range of accessible activities we enjoyed, and Coop loved all the options included on the Go-City Pass. It made exploring the city easy, inclusive, and super cost-effective.
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Where we Stayed

Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
The Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago is thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind, offering comfortable, easy-to-navigate rooms. Coop especially loved the bathtub, making it a relaxing and enjoyable stay for everyone!
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Hotel Saint Clair - Magnificent Mile
Hotel Saint Clair offers a warm and accessible experience, featuring easy-to-navigate rooms and inclusive amenities that cater to all guests.
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Where We Ate

Labriola Ristorante - Chicago
Dinner at Labriola hit the spot—great chicken & pasta, cozy vibe, and exactly what we needed after a day of travel.
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Mendocino Farms
Mendocino Farms was an easy stop for lunch but ended up being such a standout. The toasted sandwiches and tomato soup combo was unbeatable.
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Giordano's
Deep dish is mandatory, right? We ordered way too much and didn’t regret a bite.
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Starbucks Reserve Roastery
Coffee heaven, especially with snow falling and holiday music. I could’ve stayed here all morning—so much to see, smell, and taste.
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Aba
Dinner at Aba was pure bliss. It was the kind of meal you don’t forget. Perfectly crispy potatoes, flavorful kabobs, and service that reminded us why dining out can feel like an experience, not just a meal.
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