Things to Do in the Chicago Wrigleyville Area
Updated 3/37/2024
In the last several years, Wrigleyville has become more and more family-friendly by offering kid’s activities, entertainment, and places to eat. Check out my list of kid-approved ideas below and you’ll see just what I mean!Taking my daughters to their first Chicago Cubs game several years ago is a memorable experience. They were at the ideal age to appreciate the game. I aimed to show them the family-friendly activities in Wrigleyville. We went on a Sunday afternoon, which, in my opinion, is the best family-friendly day to attend. Taking children to a Cubs game at Wrigley Field is manageable and enjoyable.
Over the years, Wrigleyville has transformed into a more family-friendly destination, offering activities, entertainment, and dining options tailored to children. Check out my list of kid-approved ideas below.
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Wrigley Field
Every Sunday is designated as “Kid Sunday” at Wrigley Field, where the first 1,000 children under 13 get the chance to run the bases after the game and participate in giveaways. The Cubs’ official kids’ club, known as Clark’s Club, offers various benefits to its members, including exclusive opportunities like a tour of Wrigley Field, ticket discounts, and merchandise. Joining Clark’s Club costs around $30, making it a worthwhile investment for young Cubs fans and their families.
PRO TIP: Arrive early for autographs! Some of the players will sign autographs for a few minutes during practice, about an hour before the game along the side of the outfield wall.
PRO TIP: If you visit the Fan Services Booth on the first level (behind home plate) before the National Anthem and first pitch, you can receive a “My 1st Cubs Game” certificate (from Mommy Nearest’s post, “10 Insider Tips for Your Family’s Visit to Wrigley Fields“)
Gallagher Way
Just outside the Wrigley Field, lies Gallagher Way – a free field and park. It offers various activities for visitors, featuring free events, park movies, live music, and interactive water fountains. These entertainment options are available on game and non-game days.
Before a game, ticket holders are granted early access to Gallagher Way two hours in advance. This provides a great opportunity for kids to have fun and parents to relax before the game begins. The Gallagher Way video board showcases live broadcasts of Chicago Cubs games. Gallagher Way also hosts family-friendly events throughout the year, including outdoor movie nights and festive holiday celebrations.
Old Town Aquarium
This extraordinary and internationally renowned fish store displays both fresh and saltwater fish, exotic aquatic plants, and vibrant corals – a true haven for marine life enthusiasts. A visit to this hidden gem will leave you wanting an aquarium of your own. The starfish, snails, and eels are sure to captivate children, making it a perfect family outing.
Margaret Donahue Park
Margaret Donahue Park is a kid’s paradise with its Kidscape and playground. It features Chicago-themed play structures like the Willis Tower, the Hancock Building, and the Water Tower, which are sure to captivate kids of all ages. Highlights include a challenging climbing web, a splash pad for cooling down on hot days, a spiraling climbing pole for adventurous climbers, and green turf for playing sports or having a picnic. While admission is free, visitors should note that there’s no parking lot, so they should plan their transportation accordingly.
Sluggers
Sluggers, situated a short stroll from Wrigley Field, provides a great kid-friendly environment during the afternoons on non-game days. There are batting cages, skeeball, and a variety of games suitable for both children and adults. Tickets must be purchased prior to playing.
Chicago Comics
Nestled on Clark Street, this comic shop in the Midwest stands as the ultimate destination for comic enthusiasts. With a vast collection of rare and vintage comics, including an impressive array of collectibles, this establishment occupies the historic Stage Left theater.
Places to Eat
Check out Wrigleyville Best Places to Eat for the family-friendly restaurant list!
Things to do nearby:
- The Zachary Hotel in Chicago’s Wrigleyville
- Wrigleyville Best Places to Eat
- Cubs Themed Hotel within Walking Distance of Wrigley Field
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