Think downtown Chicago with kids sounds overwhelming?
Public transportation is absolutely doable with kids. If you have older children, they’ll love the adventure of riding the train and bus. If you’re bringing a toddler, a lightweight foldable umbrella stroller makes getting around surprisingly easy.
Whether you take the Metra in from the suburbs or park once and rely on the CTA for the rest of the day, you’d be surprised how simple it is to explore downtown as a family.
Our Discovery Days Guide maps out the entire route, transportation, and family-friendly stops so you can spend less time planning and more time making memories.
TIP : you don’t need a centra card to ride the - you can just tap to pay from your phone or card!
Comment BUS and I’ll send it over. ✨
Mommy Poppins Chicago
Share
Find the best parties, preschools, classes, camps and the cool stuff to do locally at http://mommypoppins.com/chicago
The next time you see the Peoria exit on a road trip… here’s your sign to 🛑
To recreate our route, enter walking directions in your maps app between these locations:
1.
2. Glen Oak Park Playground
3.
4.
Everything is easily walkable, even with a stroller.
The PlayHouse and Zoo require paid admission, but the botanical garden and playground are free. If you plan to visit more than once a year, a family membership quickly pays for itself.
We packed a picnic lunch so we didn’t have to leave in the middle of the day.
Save this for your next road trip and send it to your travel buddies. 🚗✨
06/21/2026
Pittsburgh isn't just for college students....there's tons of fun things to explore with kids! https://bit.ly/4oxIBPb
06/20/2026
Looking for weekend plans?
Celebrate Dad, honor history, and make family memories at some of Chicago's biggest Father's Day and Juneteenth events happening all weekend long.https://bit.ly/4gf4fWr
We stopped by the West Branch of the and found this free STEM exhibit inspired by .questioneers books. My kids spent way longer here than I expected 😅. If you have a little engineer, builder, or curious kid at home, it’s worth checking out before it leaves on July 12.
📍 Aurora Public Library District Santori & West Branch
📅 Through July 12
💰 FREE
Save this one for your next library trip!
06/19/2026
This weekend is a double celebration in Chicago!
Treat Dad to classic cars, fishing, and outdoor fun, then honor Juneteenth with community festivals, live entertainment, and meaningful family events across the city. https://bit.ly/4gf4fWr
06/19/2026
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and celebrates freedom, culture, and history.
📚 Swipe through to learn more.
KidsBooks
06/19/2026
You don't need to know a thing about racing to enjoy the kid-friendly games and activities, driver meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, and unforgettable live action of NASCAR!
High-Octane Fun for $10: Why Your Family Should Pencil NASCAR Into Your Summer Plans Mommy Poppins
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, grandpas, stepdads, and father figures making memories with their favorite people. 💙
Check out the happenings in Chicago this weekend! As always the full list is in our bio!
x Father’s Day 🚲 Ride
at Loyola Beach
Taylor Swift for Kids Tribute
Take me Fishing 🎣
Symphony No. 3
Annual Juneteenth Celebration
Woodridge Jubillee
Juneteenth Celebrating Freedom
Stopping at a cafe while out and about can be the highlight of any trip. This featured eatery in our Discovery Days guide just ✨ gets it ✨ when it comes to summer traipsing around with kids in tow. Not only do they have a full menu of different treats & filling entree items, their drinks feature something delicious - Moon Milk - a sweet cream that makes every drink divine.
A beautiful atmosphere, the best service and music, and even plenty to keep the kids busy while mom can even carry on an adult conversation. This cafe is the perfect starting point for a day full of activities, or even as the main event while out and about. Come between stops to cool down, or fill up before heading back home. Either way - I planned it all for you in our Discovery Days guide.
Comment MOON and I’ll send it right over to you 😘
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.