Family Fun in Chicago: A Meal With Something to Do

Let the kids have fun while the grown-ups enjoy the day too. Make it bowling, a zoo visit, hands-on play or lunch with the dolls.

Meerkats at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Meerkats at Lincoln Park Zoo. 2025-03-25 · צבוע לבנה · CC BY 4.0 Photo details

Bowling makes dinner move

Kings Dining & Entertainment ... Lincoln Park gives everyone something to do between bites. Choose a daytime family booking and read the current late-evening age rules. Chicago Food Magazine’s October 20 visit shows one way the meal and lanes fit together.

A zoo day with breaks built in

Lincoln Park Zoo offers free general admission. Special events and rides can cost extra. A meal or snack break can be part of the outing rather than another stop everyone has to rush through.

Hands-on play at Navy Pier

Chicago Children’s Museum puts the play first. Plan the meal before or after the visit because busy-day re-entry can be restricted. The museum publishes its accessibility programs and current hours.

The dolls get a seat too

American Girl Café ... Chicago turns lunch into part of a Water Tower Place visit. Book the café separately from shopping or a salon appointment. A doll’s day out and a museum day are different plans.

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