30 Fun Kids Birthday Party Ideas in Chicago
Planning a memorable birthday party for your child can be both exciting and daunting.
With so many options available, it’s hard to know where to start. Luckily, Chicago is a city brimming with unique and entertaining venues that cater to all interests and age groups. From interactive museums and outdoor adventures to creative art studios and themed party spaces, the Windy City has it all. In this blog post, we’ve rounded up 30 fun kids birthday party ideas in Chicago that are sure to make your child’s special day unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience, an active outing, or a whimsical celebration, there’s something here for everyone.
So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to be inspired by these fantastic birthday party options that will leave your little one and their friends with smiles that last long after the party ends.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Host your child’s birthday party at one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the country. Lincoln Park Zoo offers party packages that include animal encounters, guided tours, and themed decorations. Kids can enjoy seeing their favorite animals up close and participate in interactive activities led by zoo educators.
The Painted Penguin
Perfect for budding artists, The Painted Penguin offers party packages where kids can paint their own ceramics, canvas, or wood pieces. The studio provides all the materials, and you can choose from a variety of themes to suit your child’s interests. The party also includes time for cake and presents.
Chicago Children’s Museum
Located at Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits and activities that are perfect for curious minds. Party packages include access to the museum, a private party room, and a dedicated party host to lead games and activities. The museum’s interactive exhibits ensure a fun and educational experience for all attendees.
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Kidz Kingdom
This indoor playground is designed for kids to run, jump, and play to their hearts’ content. Kidz Kingdom offers various party packages that include playtime in their massive indoor playground, a private party room, and customizable themes. It’s a great option for active kids who love to explore and burn off energy.
Brookfield Zoo
Another fantastic zoo option, Brookfield Zoo offers party packages that include zoo admission, a private party room, and animal encounters. Kids can learn about different animals and enjoy a day filled with exploration and fun. The zoo’s beautiful grounds provide a picturesque backdrop for memorable birthday photos.
Lillstreet Art Center
Details: Ideal for creative kids, Lillstreet Art Center offers art-themed birthday parties where children can participate in pottery, painting, or mixed media projects. Experienced instructors guide the activities, ensuring that every child leaves with a masterpiece. The center provides all materials and a private space for cake and presents.
Shedd Aquarium
Dive into a marine adventure with a birthday party at the Shedd Aquarium. Party packages include aquarium admission, a private party room, and special activities like touch tank experiences or behind-the-scenes tours. Kids will be fascinated by the diverse marine life and engaging exhibits.
Pump It Up
For a high-energy celebration, Pump It Up offers inflatable party zones where kids can bounce, slide, and climb. Party packages include access to the inflatable playgrounds, a private party room, and party supplies. It’s a great option for kids who love physical activity and non-stop fun.
American Girl Place Chicago
Perfect for fans of American Girl dolls, this venue offers themed birthday parties that include a meal in the café, a special birthday cake, and activities like doll styling or craft projects. The elegant setting and attention to detail make it a memorable experience for any doll-loving child.
Maggie Daley Park
For an outdoor adventure, consider hosting a party at Maggie Daley Park. The park features a unique playground with slides, climbing structures, and a skating ribbon. You can reserve picnic areas for your party and let the kids explore the exciting play spaces. It’s an ideal option for nature lovers and energetic kids. These options provide a diverse range of experiences, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect setting to make your child’s birthday celebration in Chicago truly special.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Located in Schaumburg, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a paradise for LEGO enthusiasts. Party packages include admission to the center, a private party room, and LEGO-building activities led by expert builders. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, ride attractions, and participate in LEGO-themed games.
Bubbles Academy
Bubbles Academy offers imaginative and creative birthday parties for younger children. Party packages include access to themed play areas, a private party room, and activities like music, art, and movement classes. The whimsical setting and engaging activities ensure a magical experience for little ones.
Fleetwood Roller Rink
Roll into a fun birthday party at Fleetwood Roller Rink. Party packages include roller skating admission, skate rentals, and a reserved party area. Kids can enjoy skating to their favorite music and participate in games and contests on the rink.
The Second City
For aspiring comedians, The Second City offers improv comedy birthday parties for kids. Party packages include a private improv workshop led by professional comedians, a performance for family and friends, and a party room. It’s a unique and entertaining option for kids who love to laugh and perform.
Little Beans Café
Little Beans Café is a family café and indoor play space that offers birthday party packages for young children. The packages include access to the play areas, a private party room, and themed activities like arts and crafts or music sessions. It’s a cozy and fun environment for a toddler or preschooler’s celebration.
Vertical Endeavors
For adventurous kids, Vertical Endeavors offers rock climbing birthday parties. Party packages include access to the climbing gym, all necessary gear, and instruction from certified climbing instructors. Kids can challenge themselves on the climbing walls and enjoy a thrilling and active party.
Emerald City Theatre
Host a theatrical birthday party at Emerald City Theatre. Party packages include a private theater workshop where kids can learn acting, singing, and dancing skills from professional instructors. The celebration culminates in a mini-performance for family and friends, making it a perfect choice for drama enthusiasts.
LegoLand Chicago in Schaumburg
Perfect for LEGO lovers, this attraction offers party packages that include a LEGO-building workshop, access to themed exhibits and rides, and a private party room. Kids can immerse themselves in a world of creativity and construction, building and exploring to their heart’s content.
Pinstripes
Combine bowling and bocce for a fun and sophisticated birthday party at Pinstripes. Party packages include access to bowling lanes or bocce courts, a private party area, and a selection of food and beverages. It’s a great option for kids who enjoy a mix of sports and socializing.
Windy City Fieldhouse
For sports enthusiasts, Windy City Fieldhouse offers a variety of sports-themed birthday party packages. Kids can choose from activities like soccer, basketball, dodgeball, and more. The packages include access to indoor sports facilities, professional coaching, and a private party room. These additional options provide even more diversity, ensuring that you can find the perfect setting to suit your child’s interests and make their birthday celebration in Chicago truly special.
Adler Planetarium
Take your child’s birthday party out of this world with a celebration at the Adler Planetarium. Party packages include admission to the planetarium, a private party room, and interactive activities like hands-on experiments or a special sky show. Kids will love exploring the wonders of space and learning about the stars and planets.
Chicago Firehouse Engine 18
For a unique and exciting experience, host a birthday party at a real firehouse. The Chicago Firehouse Engine 18 offers tours and party packages where kids can meet firefighters, explore fire trucks, and learn about fire safety. It’s an unforgettable experience for kids who are fascinated by firefighters and their heroic work.
Windy City Ninjas
Perfect for aspiring ninjas, Windy City Ninjas offers obstacle course-based birthday parties. Kids can test their agility and strength on a variety of ninja warrior-inspired obstacles. Party packages include access to the ninja gym, a private party room, and professional coaching to ensure everyone has a safe and fun time.
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
For a nature-themed celebration, consider the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Party packages include museum admission, a private party room, and nature-based activities led by museum educators. Kids can explore exhibits like the butterfly haven and engage in hands-on learning about the natural world.
Chicagoland Speedway
For racing enthusiasts, the Chicagoland Speedway offers a thrilling birthday party experience. Party packages include access to the speedway, a private party room, and activities like go-kart racing or ride-along experiences. It’s an adrenaline-pumping option for kids who love fast cars and racing.
Robot City Workshop
For tech-savvy kids, Robot City Workshop offers robot-building birthday parties. Party packages include a robot-building kit for each child, instruction from robotics experts, and a private party room. Kids can take home their robotic creations, making it a fun and educational experience.
Chicago Park District Pools
Celebrate with a splash by hosting a pool party at one of the Chicago Park District’s many pools. Party packages often include pool admission, a reserved party area, and lifeguard supervision. It’s a great way to beat the heat and let kids enjoy swimming and water games.
GameWorks Schaumburg
Located just outside Chicago, GameWorks Schaumburg offers an arcade-style birthday party experience. Party packages include access to a variety of arcade games, a private party room, and food options. It’s perfect for kids who love video games and interactive entertainment.
The Chopping Block
For young foodies, The Chopping Block offers cooking-themed birthday parties. Kids can participate in hands-on cooking classes, learning to make delicious dishes under the guidance of professional chefs. Party packages include all ingredients, cooking equipment, and a private party space.
WhirlyBall Chicago
Combine bumper cars, basketball, and lacrosse for a unique and fun-filled birthday party at WhirlyBall Chicago. Party packages include access to WhirlyBall courts, a private party room, and food options. It’s a great option for active kids who enjoy team-based games and friendly competition. These additional options offer even more variety, ensuring that you can find the perfect setting to match your child’s interests and create an unforgettable birthday celebration in Chicago.
