17 Best Toddler Activities on Chicago's North Shore
When we lived in the city, I loved the abundance of free activities for kids. When we moved to the North Shore of Chicago, I was hopeful I'd find some fun & similar activities. If you’re thinking of moving to the northern suburbs of Chicago, I highly recommend checking out Laura Fitzpatrick’s guide.
I'm excited to show you the fun things you can do with toddlers on the North Shore of Chicago. There are gardens that are full of colors and play spaces where you can learn indoors.
My list has 15 fun things to do with your child that will make you happy and curious. If you live nearby or are visiting, there are enjoyable activities on the North Shore. These activities will enhance your time with your family and make it extra special.
Chicago North Shore Toddler Activities
There are so many parks in the area that you can easily bring some of your favorite activities from home and play with them outside. Some easy outdoor activities would be playing with a sensory bin, pipe cleaners or even making crafts with toilet paper rolls. All of them are easy to set up.
If you're in need of a sensory bin, Learning with Kelsey is my absolute favorite! She has lots of fun themes that toddlers love.
Best Indoor Toddler Activities
Although it's cold, the winter is still full of physical activity on the North Shore. Finding places for kids to run out of their energy is key! Plus, the weather can be pretty mild, so a mix of indoor and outdoor activities is nice. Here are a few of my favorites.
Kohl Children's Museum: Engage in hands-on exhibits and interactive activities designed for toddlers to learn and play.
Little Beans Cafe: Visit this indoor play space with areas for climbing, imaginative play, and even a mini café for kids. Pro tip: Go on Mondays! It's only $10.
Exploritorium: Visit this indoor play space with a variety of themed play areas, including a water room and creative stations.
Music Together Classes: Enroll in music and movement classes designed for toddlers and parents to enjoy together.
Jump Zone: Jump Zone is an indoor inflatable play center located in Niles, offering a vibrant and exciting environment for kids to bounce, jump, and play on a variety of inflatable structures, providing hours of active entertainment.
Wiggleworms in Evanston: Wiggleworms, located in Evanston, is a music and movement program designed for young children and toddlers, offering interactive classes where kids can sing, dance, and explore the joy of music in a creative and engaging way.
Kindermusik: Kindermusik is a nationwide program that offers music and movement classes for babies, toddlers, and young children. These classes provide a nurturing environment where children can develop their cognitive, social, and motor skills through musical activities and play.
Local Park Districts: The various Park Districts in the North Shore of Chicago offer a range of family-friendly activities and facilities, including playgrounds, sports fields, nature trails, and community centers. These park districts often host special events, classes, and programs tailored for toddlers and families, providing opportunities for outdoor fun and social interaction.
Best Outdoor Toddler Activities
The North Shore suburbs are home to the shore of Lake Michigan and it makes for some epic adventures. From exploring Fort Sheridan to the Chicago Botanic Garden to a daytime adventure in Lake Forest.
There are so many fun summer activities. Outdoor play is endless! Here are some of my favorites.
Historic Home Scavenger Hunt: Go on a scavenger hunt to find unique architecture, colors and shapes with historic homes
Chicago Botanic Garden: Explore the beautiful gardens, take a tram ride, and visit the Model Railroad Garden designed for kids.
Ravinia Festival: Have fun at summer concerts. Bring a picnic and listen to music with your child.
The Grove Nature Center: Take a nature walk, see animals, and learn about local wildlife at this interactive outdoor space.
Farmers Markets: Explore the market, try fresh produce, and enjoy live music in a family-friendly atmosphere. Katie Cassman has a great summary of farmer's markets all around the area.
Skokie Lagoons: Take a leisurely stroll along the trails or rent a paddleboat for a relaxing water experience.
Wagner Farm: Experience a working farm, see farm animals, and learn about traditional farming activities.
Northbrook Park District Splash Pad: Let your toddler cool off and play in the water at this splash pad.
Chalet Nursery: During the winter season, Chalet Nursery has live reindeer out!
As you go on adventures across the North Shore of Chicago with your toddler, you're starting a journey full of laughs, learning, and moments you'll always remember.
Whether you're checking out the pretty gardens, having a blast at indoor play spots, or joining music classes, each experience helps your child learn and brings you closer together.
The North Shore has tons of cool things for toddlers, like bouncing around at inflatable play areas or having fun with music. When you explore nature, pretend play, and connect with the community, remember these moments to help your child grow.
The years go by fast, but the days can feel super long. I hope this list helps you make a plan for the day to help you enjoy all of this magical time with your little one. The North Shore is full of awesome things to discover, and with every step you take, you're making a story about love, exploring, and having fun with your toddler.
If all else fails, there’s always Target!
When we remodeled our house, finding the perfect Valspar neutral paint colors for the whole house was one of our first challenges.