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Museums

Chicago Children's Museum

πŸ“ Streeterville, IL

β˜…4.6(6,952 Google reviews)

Chicago Children's Museum sits inside Navy Pier at 700 E Grand Ave with multiple hands-on exhibit floors. Timed entry windows manage crowds. One adult (18+) and one child are required for entry.

βœ“ Navy Pierβœ“ hands-on exhibitsβœ“ timed entryβœ“ military discountsβœ“ toddler friendlyβœ“ Chicago
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β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Gaston Panella

Excelente lugar si venis con chicos a Chicago, cerca de un pier con buenos lugares para Comer y pasear , hasta dar una vuelta en bote por los canales. El museo estΓ‘ bien entretenido para los mΓ‘s pequeΓ±os.

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

Best for children aged 1 through 10. The timed entry system keeps the floor from feeling overcrowded. Combine the museum visit with Navy Pier's outdoor areas and waterfront for a full-day outing. Families with EBT, WIC, or military ID should use the general admission line for same-day discounts β€” no reservation needed. Closed on Tuesdays.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘Buy tickets online in advance β€” timed entry windows are required and popular slots fill ahead of weekends
⏰Plan your meal break outside the museum before re-entering, as re-entry can be restricted during peak hours
🎟️Military families with active-duty ID receive free admission for up to three guests β€” use the general admission line
πŸš—Combine the museum with Navy Pier's outdoor waterfront and boat tours for a full-day itinerary

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.6
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6,952 Google reviews

Location and surroundings40%
Exhibit quality35%
Crowd management15%
Accessibility and discounts10%
G

Gaston Panella

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β€œExcelente lugar si venis con chicos a Chicago, cerca de un pier con buenos lugares para Comer y pasear , hasta dar una vuelta en bote por los canales. El museo estΓ‘ bien entretenido para los mΓ‘s pequeΓ±os.”

L

LS Washington

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β€œMy son, my sister, and I had such a wonderful time at the Chicago Children’s Museum, located within the iconic attraction of Navy Pier. Navy Pier itself adds to the experience, offering a beautiful waterfront setting and a vibrant atmosphere that makes a family outing feel even more special. Inside the museum, there are two full levels of engaging, hands-on exhibits that keep kids entertained and learningβ€”from creative art stations and water play areas to climbing structures and imaginative, exploratory play spaces. What makes it even more meaningful is that this beloved museum has been a family favorite for a few decades, continually evolving while keeping its timeless charm. It’s one of those rare places that truly grows with your child, making every visit feel new and memorable. The parking fees can be challenging, but I always look forward to bringing my son here, and it never disappoints.”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Chicago Children's Museum occupies a dedicated building within Navy Pier, combining exhibit-based learning with the broader Navy Pier experience β€” waterfront dining, boat tours, and open plazas are steps away. The museum uses timed entry windows to manage occupancy, with large entry blocks that accommodate families without rigid scheduling. Active military receive free admission for themselves and up to three guests daily.

πŸ• Opening Hours

Monday10:00 – 17:00
Tuesday10:00 – 14:00
WednesdayClosed
Thursday10:00 – 14:00
Friday10:00 – 14:00
Saturday10:00 – 17:00
Sunday10:00 – 17:00

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