Family Entertainment Near Midway Airport

WINTRUST SPORTS COMPLEX

mother and son

Finding family fun locations near Midway Airport in Chicago is easier than you might think. From museums to ice skating rinks, the city has plenty of options that kids and adults will both enjoy. In this article, we’ll explore the best family entertainment near Midway Airport, breaking our list into outdoor locations for warm days as well as fun indoor spots for rainy ones. 

Indoor Family Fun Locations for a Rainy Day

Chicago averages about 120 rainy days per year, with May and June typically being the wettest months. Additionally, our cold, snowy winters mean many families need reliable family entertainment indoors. Here, we cover a few of our favorites near Midway Airport. 

Shedd Aquarium

Although downtown is a short drive away, Shedd Aquarium is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. Located on the picturesque Museum Campus by Lake Michigan, the Shedd is home to over 32,000 aquatic animals, including dolphins, sharks, otters, and tropical fish. Guests can explore exhibits like the Caribbean Reef where they’ll encounter colorful marine life, as well as the Amazon Rising, which recreates the lush ecosystems of the Amazon River. With its focus on conservation and education, the Shedd Aquarium is not just a place to marvel at aquatic creatures but also a hub for teaching kids about protecting our planet’s waterways. 

mother and son

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn

Just a short drive from Midway, this museum is designed specifically for young kids with hands-on exhibits and creative play spaces. Popular attractions include the We the People exhibit, where kids can role-play as community helpers, and the Imagination Playground, which encourages building and teamwork. The museum also hosts educational programs, seasonal events, and workshops for families to learn together. 

National Museum of Mexican Art

The National Museum of Mexican Art is located in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood and celebrates the heritage and creativity of Mexican art and culture. This free-admission museum houses one of the largest collections of Mexican art in the United States. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase paintings, sculptures, textiles, and folk art, giving a deep dive into Mexico’s diverse artistic legacy. 

Chicago Ridge Mall

Chicago Ridge Mall is a popular rainy-day shopping spot located about 15 minutes from Midway Airport in Chicago Ridge, Illinois. It features a variety of fun sports, including a movie theater and kid-friendly restaurants. 

Ice Skating at Southwest Ice Arena

If you’re visiting Chicago, this ice rink is just a short drive from Midway Airport and is perfect for recreational skating. The arena offers families open skate sessions, where skaters of all skill levels can glide across the rink to music. The rink is well maintained, and rental skates are available for those who don’t have their own. Additionally, Southwest Ice Arena hosts special events, birthday parties, and themed skating nights, making it a fun way for families to enjoy the winter.

mother with her daughters skates on ice skating

Wintrust Sports Complex

Wintrust Sports Complex is a multi-purpose entertainment facility located near Midway Airport with something for everyone. Start by stepping into our massive 4,000-square-foot arcade, where you’ll find plenty of opportunities for family entertainment and chances to win prizes. We offer a range of games for all ages and skill levels and everyone’s welcome. 

For those with energetic kids looking to burn some energy on a rainy day, our state-of-the-art, 2,000-square-foot laser tag arena is the perfect family fun location. With two levels of challenging obstacles, our arena is designed to test your reflexes and even provide some educational benefits as you move through the different levels. 

If you’re planning a party or event, we offer customizable birthday party packages that include laser tag along with other family entertainment activities and catering options. Whether you want to focus on just laser tag or add it as part of a larger event, we can tailor the experience to fit your needs. 

When you’re ready to take a break, Station Grille is our go-to spot for great food and drinks. The restaurant is located on the second floor of our facility and is family friendly. We’re open seven days a week, and we hope you’ll check us out!

Outdoor Family Fun Locations

When the weather is warm and sunny, it’s time to head outside! Here, we cover a few of our favorite outdoor family entertainment options near Midway Airport in Chicago. 

Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo is just a short drive from Midway Airport and is a world-class destination for animal lovers and families. The zoo, which spans 216 acres, is home to over 2,000 animals representing nearly 400 species from around the globe. Guests can explore exhibits like Tropic World, an indoor rainforest with primates and exotic birds, and Habitat Africa! The Savannah, which features giraffes, zebras, and more. The Great Bear Wilderness showcases North American wildlife in natural settings, including polar bears and bison. Beyond exhibits, the zoo offers interactive experiences like feeding parakeets, seasonal dolphin shows, and educational talks with zookeepers. 

family in zoo park

Chicago Park District Playgrounds

The Chicago Park District operates a network of playgrounds across the city to give families a fun spot to get outdoors. These playgrounds are thoughtfully designed and often feature modern equipment like swings, slides, climbing structures, and splash pads. Many playgrounds are located within larger parks that also have amenities like sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas. 

Haunted Trails Family Amusement Park

Situated in nearby Burbank, just a short drive from Midway Airport, Haunted Trails is an outdoor family entertainment spot that offers mini-golf, go-karts, arcade games, and more. Younger visitors will enjoy the kiddie rides, while older kids and adults can go to the batting cages or bumper cars. The park also features a full-service snack bar and group party packages, making it a popular spot for birthday celebrations. 

Learn More About Fun Spots to Take Kids in Chicago 

If you’re looking for family fun in Chicago near Midway Airport, look no further than Wintrust Sports Complex. With our wide range of entertainment activities like laser tag, birthday celebrations, and dining options in a kid-friendly atmosphere, there’s something here for everyone.