The Absolute Best Indoor Things to Do in Chicago [Updated 2024]

From fascinating museums to unique entertainment venues, there's something for everyone amidst the city's iconic architecture.

I've carefully reviewed twelve of my favorite indoor activities to help you beat the weather while embracing everything that makes Chicago special.

Whether you're looking to explore art, delve into history, or enjoy culinary delights, this city has an abundance of options.

So grab your coat and let's dive into the vibrant indoor adventures waiting for you in the Windy City!

Museum Campus

Highlights
Massive exhibits to explore
Must-see Sue the T-Rex
Kid-friendly facilities
Engaging Ancient Egypt exhibit
Affordable family fun

Museum Campus: A Hidden Gem of Indoor Wonders in Chicago

Last week, I had the pleasure of exploring Museum Campus, and let me tell you, it was a delightful adventure! Nestled along Lake Michigan, this vibrant area is home to some of Chicago's most revered museums, including the Field Museum and the Shedd Aquarium, making it a treasure trove of knowledge and excitement.

Walking through the massive exhibits at the Field Museum, I was captivated by the sight of Sue the T-Rex—a jaw-dropping encounter with history. Just imagine standing eye-to-eye with this magnificent dinosaur! The atmosphere was enthralling, especially as families gathered to learn and marvel at the wonders of the Ancient Egypt exhibit. I found the interactive installations particularly engaging, making it a joy for both kids and adults alike.

What truly impressed me was the affordable family fun all around. With child-friendly facilities and so much to discover, it’s the ideal spot for a day out without breaking the bank. If you're looking for a place that combines education, awe, and just plain fun, I highly recommend a trip to Museum Campus—it's a vibrant escape from the everyday hustle of city life!

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Field Museum

Highlights
Massive collection of exhibits
Incredible dinosaur fossils
Engaging family-friendly activities
Thoughtfully curated cultural displays
High-quality 3D movie experience

Field Museum in Chicago is truly a gem for anyone seeking a captivating indoor adventure. As I wandered through its vast halls, I was immediately struck by the massive collection of exhibits that narrate the intricate stories of our planet. One of the highlights was undoubtedly the awe-inspiring dinosaur fossils—who could resist standing in the shadow of a towering T. rex?

But what really makes the Field Museum special is how engaging and family-friendly it is! I watched children light up while participating in hands-on activities that spark curiosity and learning. It’s an excellent place to introduce younger visitors to the wonders of science and history in a playful manner.

The cultural displays were meticulously curated, offering a glimpse into various civilizations and their unique legacies. I found the experience enlightening and impactful. To top it all off, catching a high-quality 3D movie in the museum’s theater felt like an exhilarating journey through time and space, adding an extra layer of dynamism to my visit.

In sum, whether you're a local or just passing through, a day spent at the Field Museum promises adventure, knowledge, and a sprinkle of fun. Don't miss it!

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Lincoln Park Conservatory

Highlights
Free admission
Interesting plants
Warm and cozy in winter
Helpful staff
Beautiful foliage

First and foremost, it’s important to note that admission is completely free. Yes, you read that right! You don't need to pay a single cent to enjoy the beautiful foliage and interesting plants inside. As someone who loves saving money, this is definitely a big plus for me.

The conservatory is also a great option for those chilly Chicago winter days. The warmth inside makes it feel like you're in an oasis in the middle of the city. I can't think of a better way to escape from the cold weather than by surrounding myself with lush greenery.

The staff at Lincoln Park Conservatory were extremely helpful as well. They were happy to answer all my questions about the different plant species and give me some tips on how to take care of my own plants at home.

But let's get down to what really matters: the plants themselves. From ferns to orchids, there was such a variety of flora on display that I felt like I was transported to another world. The colors and textures were mesmerizing and left me in awe.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an indoor activity in Chicago that's not only warm and cozy but also educational and visually stunning, then Lincoln Park Conservatory is definitely worth checking out. With free admission, interesting plants, and helpful staff, it's hard not to love this hidden gem in the city.

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Present Place Chicago

Highlights
Ideal for birthday parties
Monthly memberships available
Safe environment for kids
Helpful and supportive staff

To start with, Present Place Chicago is an ideal spot for birthday parties or any other events for that matter. The place is spacious and can accommodate a large number of people. They have different rooms available including a theater room, gaming room and more which makes it perfect for hosting events.

One of the best things about this place is that they offer monthly memberships, which is perfect if you're looking to make a regular visit with your family or friends. The staff is extremely helpful and supportive in making sure that you get the most out of your experience.

Speaking of kids, the environment at Present Place Chicago is safe and secure. They have several activities and games available which will keep your kids entertained for hours on end. The staff are always around to ensure that everything runs smoothly giving parents peace of mind.

Overall, I had a great time at Present Place Chicago! It's an excellent option for indoor entertainment in Chicago, especially during those cold winter months when outdoor activities aren't an option. If you're looking for something fun to do with your family or friends, then definitely check out Present Place Chicago!

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Fox In A Box Escape Room Chicago

Highlights
Zodiac room
Well worth the money
Great game master
Perfect balance of hints

I have to say that this escape room was definitely one of the highlights of my indoor adventures in Chicago. The Zodiac room was a thrilling and challenging experience, but it was also incredibly fun! The puzzles were cleverly designed and kept us on our toes the entire time.

The best part? It was well worth the money! The escape room lasted for an hour, and we were completely immersed in the game the entire time. We had to use our critical thinking skills and work together as a team to solve each puzzle before time ran out.

The game master was also fantastic! They gave us just enough hints to keep us going without making it too easy. It was the perfect balance of hints that made it feel like we accomplished something when we finally escaped.

Overall, I highly recommend Fox In A Box Escape Room Chicago for anyone looking for an exciting indoor activity in Chicago. You won't regret it!

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Museum of Illusions Chicago

Highlights
Interactive
Great pictures
Fun for all ages
Short attraction
Laughter

First of all, I have to say that this museum is incredibly interactive, allowing visitors to engage with all kinds of illusions and tricks. From the moment you walk in, you'll be transported to a world where nothing is quite as it seems. You'll find yourself taking countless pictures because every corner of this museum offers great picture opportunities.

What I love about the Museum of Illusions Chicago is that it's fun for all ages. Whether you're a kid or an adult, there's something in here that will make you laugh and leave you scratching your head in amazement. It's also a great place to visit with friends or family.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the attraction itself is quite short. So if you're looking for an activity that will take up an entire day, this might not be it. But don't let that discourage you from going because trust me when I say that the amount of laughter and enjoyment you'll get out of this short visit will be well worth it.

Overall, if you're looking for a unique and entertaining indoor activity to do in Chicago, I highly recommend visiting the Museum of Illusions Chicago. With its interactive exhibits and endless photo opportunities, it's definitely one of the best indoor things to do in Chicago!

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Escape Artistry - The Railcar

Highlights
Fun escape room
Challenging puzzles
Family friendly
Intricate storyline
Amazing theme

Firstly, I have to say that this escape room is one of the most fun I've ever been to. The puzzles were challenging, but not too difficult that it took away from the enjoyment. Plus, it's perfect for all ages as it's family friendly!

What really stood out was the intricate storyline and how well thought-out it was. Every puzzle led to another, making sense in the grand scheme of things. And let me tell you, you'll be immersed in an amazing theme that will transport you back in time.

The attention to detail is incredible! From the decor to the sound effects, everything adds to the experience. You'll feel like you're actually in a train car from the 1940s.

Overall, Escape Artistry - The Railcar is a must-visit when looking for indoor activities in Chicago. It's a great way to spend time with friends or family while challenging yourself mentally. So what are you waiting for? Book your escape room now and see if you can crack the code!

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The Richard H. Driehaus Museum

Highlights
Guild era home
Jaw-dropping pieces inside
Guided tour with knowledgeable guide
True-to-period public bathroom
Discounts available to students

Walking up to the museum, I was already impressed by the grandeur of the Guild era home. The outside looked like something straight out of a fairy tale with its intricate details and brickwork. However, as soon as I stepped inside, my jaw literally dropped at the sight of the jaw-dropping pieces inside.

I had opted for a guided tour and my guide was extremely knowledgeable about the history behind each piece of art and furniture. As we walked through each room, I felt like I was transported back in time and could imagine myself living in that era.

One thing that caught me off guard (in a good way) was the true-to-period public bathroom. It might sound odd but it added to the overall experience and made me appreciate even more how much attention to detail went into creating this museum.

Oh, and did I mention that there are discounts available to students? As a college student myself, any discount is always appreciated!

All in all, The Richard H. Driehaus Museum is definitely worth visiting if you're looking for an indoor activity in Chicago. It's not just another boring museum - it's an experience that will leave you feeling cultured and impressed.

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WhirlyBall Chicago

Highlights
Fun for groups
Welcoming vibe
Multiple activities
Great staff

First and foremost, WhirlyBall Chicago is an absolute must-visit for groups looking for an enjoyable and memorable time. Believe me when I say that this place has a welcoming vibe that is hard to match!

The highlight of my visit was the WhirlyBall game - a combination of bumper cars, lacrosse, and basketball. It was hilarious watching my friends try to maneuver the car while holding a scoop and ball. The staff were incredibly helpful in teaching us how to play and made sure we had everything we needed to have fun.

But that's not all! WhirlyBall Chicago also offers a range of other activities including laser tag, bowling, and even escape rooms. So if you're looking for more than just one activity, this place has got you covered.

And let's not forget about the staff - they were great! They made sure everyone was having a good time and even took the time to chat with us about our experience.

Overall, my visit to WhirlyBall Chicago was unforgettable. With its fun atmosphere and multiple activities, there's no doubt it deserves a spot on any "best indoor things to do in Chicago" list.

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iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Chicago Lincoln Park

Highlights
Friendly staff
Worth the money
Clean facility
Great experience

First off, let me just say that the staff is incredibly friendly. They made me feel at ease even though I was about to jump into a giant wind tunnel. The experience itself was definitely worth the money - it's not every day you get to simulate skydiving without actually jumping out of a plane! The clean facility was also a major plus. I'm always hesitant to try new things like this because I don't know what kind of germs or bacteria might be lurking, but iFLY put my worries at ease with their attention to cleanliness. And last but certainly not least, the actual experience was a blast. The feeling of weightlessness as you soar through the air is indescribable - you really have to try it for yourself. Overall, it was a great experience and definitely one of the best indoor things to do in Chicago. So if you're looking for an adrenaline-packed activity that won't break the bank and is completely safe, head over to iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Chicago Lincoln Park and give it a try!

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Garfield Park Conservatory

Highlights
Exotic plants
Tranquil escape
Knowledgeable staff
Free admission
Great for photos

As soon as I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the stunning beauty of the exotic plants that filled the conservatory from floor to ceiling. It was like stepping into a tropical paradise right in the heart of the city. The colors and scents were so intoxicating that I felt like I was on a different planet altogether.

What impressed me even more was how this place offered a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Chicago's busy streets. It was so peaceful and quiet inside that I almost forgot where I was for a moment.

The staff at Garfield Park Conservatory were incredibly helpful and knowledgeable about all of the plants on display. They answered all of my questions with enthusiasm, which made my visit even more enjoyable.

And would you believe it? Admission is free! That's right, you can experience all of this natural beauty without spending a single penny.

Finally, if you're looking for a place to take some amazing photos, then look no further than Garfield Park Conservatory. Every corner seemed like it was made for Instagram-worthy pictures!

In summary, Garfield Park Conservatory is an absolute must-visit for anyone looking for an indoor escape in Chicago. With its exotic plants, tranquil atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, free admission, and great photo opportunities - what more could you ask for?

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Chicago Children's Museum

Highlights
Giant with tons of games
Safe and interactive games
Polite and helpful staff
Calming comfortable chairs

Firstly, let me tell you that this museum has a giant room filled with tons of interactive games for children. I was amazed at the variety of games and how safe they were for kids to play. The staff seemed to be very polite and helpful as well, which is always a plus when dealing with children.

One thing that stood out to me was how comfortable the chairs were in the museum. I could easily relax and watch my little cousins play without feeling too tired or uncomfortable. It's always great to have a calm place to sit down while enjoying activities with children.

Overall, I believe that Chicago Children's Museum is a wonderful place for families looking for indoor activities in Chicago. The variety of games available ensures that there is something for every child to enjoy, while also being safe and interactive. Plus, the staff is very helpful and friendly, making it easy for parents to navigate through the museum.

I highly recommend visiting this museum if you're looking for an exciting indoor activity in Chicago.

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