Top 25 Fun Activities for Seniors in Chicago

The city of Chicago has tons of fun to offer all ages - including numerous events and activities for older adults year-round. From free events, to outdoor summer festivities, to museums, there's plenty to explore. Check out the below senior activities in and near Chicago that should be added to your must-see list.

• 1. Tour the Art Institute of Chicago

Founded in 1879, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the largest and oldest museums in the U.S. Plus, it's a great attraction to visit when you want to get out and about on a cold, rainy day. The museum has over 300,000 art pieces from artists of the past and present. Tickets are $26 for seniors over the age of 65.

• 2. Walk the Magnificent Mile

If you're on the hunt for a full-day activity you can enjoy alone or with company, walk the Magnificent Mile. As you walk from the Chicago River to Oak Street, you'll pass several 'Windy City' landmarks like the John Hancock Center and Water Tower. You can also explore all the shopping and food options Chicago offers.

• 3. Take a boat tour

Be a tourist for an afternoon and see everything your city has to offer on a Chicago boat tour. There are plenty of different tours to choose from, such as an architecture tour on the Chicago River or a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan. Prices and tour lengths vary depending on which tour you choose.

• 4. Explore Navy Pier

Whether you have friends or family visiting the area or want to enjoy a night out with other locals, visit Navy Pier. The 3,300-foot pier features rides, games, parks, and plenty of food options for you to enjoy. Whether you want to enjoy the fresh air or watch the sunset on the famous Ferris wheel, the pier offers something for everyone.

• 5. See the Skydeck at Willis Tower

On a day when the skies are clear and blue, visit the Willis Tower Skydeck to see panoramic views that extend into surrounding states. The clear glass box extends four feet out over the city - so make sure no one in your group is afraid of heights. Prices vary depending on the day and time you visit. Remember to capture your day and take a photo in the glass box to hang on your fridge when you get home.

• 6. Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo

For a family-friendly activity all ages can enjoy, visit the Lincoln Park Zoo located near Lake Michigan. It's one of the few remaining zoos that is free to the public. Make sure to put on your walking shoes if you want to see the almost 200 species of animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

• 7. Hang out at Wrigley Field

If you're a baseball fan, spending a day at Wrigley Field is a must, but it's also pretty fun to explore even if you're not. Built in 1914, Wrigley Field is now the oldest baseball diamond in the National League. Grab your favorite snacks and a baseball cap and enjoy your new favorite summertime activity.

• 8. Check out Northerly Island Park

The famous Chicago architect Daniel H. Burnham imagined Northerly Island as one of the most northern points in a series of man-made Chicago islands. Today, the well-known 119.7-acre park reflects an urban nature sanctuary, filled with trails, beaches, and wildlife. Whether you're in the mood for a scenic walk or want to enjoy an afternoon picnic and read, Northerly Island is the place to be. The park is open every day from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and is free for guests to visit.

• 9. Head to Millenium Park

Home of 'The Bean', Millennium Park is a great place to be if you want to move your body and enjoy some fresh air. The park offers beautiful gardens and walking paths, and hosts numerous local events like farmers' markets, festivals, and film viewings. Be sure to check out their event schedule to see if there's an upcoming event you might enjoy.

• 10. Go shopping

Chicago offers plenty of shopping opportunities from luxury stores on the Magnificent Mile to the premium outlets right outside of the city. If you're looking for indoor shopping, visit the Water Tower Palace, located along the Magnificent Mile.

• 11. Explore Grant Park

Grant Park, also known as 'Chicago's Front Yard' is a nearly 313-acre park located in Chicago's central business district. Whether you're in the mood for a picnic, simple stroll, or just to enjoy soaking up the sun, Grant Park is the perfect place.

• 12. Visit the Chicago Theatre

If you love theater, comedy, or concerts, you'll likely enjoy spending an evening watching a show at the iconic Chicago Theatre. Performances typically start after 7 p.m. Each show varies in price depending on the performer or act. Be sure to check online for tickets before any event.

• 13. Visit the Field Museum of Natural History

Spend your next rainy day discovering millions of artifacts at the Field Museum. You'll get to explore present and past cultures, scientific discoveries, and travel all around the world within a day. Check out exhibits like 'Bloodsuckers: Legends to Leeches' or dig into our world's history with 'Dinosaurs of Antarctica'. Basic admission varies depending on age and where you live. However, Chicago residents pay around $21 to enter the museum.

• 14. Visit the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

If you're a fan of museums, you're in luck. Chicago is home to many diverse museums, including Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. This is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, with 14 acres of hands-on exhibits.

The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m, with extended summer hours until 5:30 p.m. Non-resident adult admission is $25.95. However, Illinois and Chicago residents can enjoy discounted or even free tickets on certain days.

• 15. Join a walking architecture tour

Have you ever wondered what hidden gems are in your city? Well, now is your perfect chance to explore Chicago's lesser-known, unbelievable interior marvels. The Chicago's Secret Interiors Architectural Walking Tour is led by experts and showcases treasures such as domes and mosaics all around the city. The walking tour takes roughly two hours, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for this adventure.

• 16. Check out a new book at the library

If you're on the hunt for a relaxing, quiet activity you can enjoy any day, take a trip out to the Harold Washington Library Center. This library is the perfect spot to pick up a new read , relax, search the web, orlearn a new craft . With over 1.2 million offerings, you're bound to find a page-turner you won't want to put down.

• 17. Catch up with a friend at a local coffee shop

Living in a big city like Chicago has its perks when it comes to trying new foods and beverages. Whenever you'd like to get out of the house, call up a friend or family member and ask to grab coffee. With numerous local cafes located in the heart of the city, you're likely to find one near you that you enjoy.

• 18. Go to the aquarium

On a rainy or winter day, spend some time under the sea at the Shedd Aquarium. This aquarium is the third-largest in the Western Hemisphere and is home to nearly 32,000 animals. The aquarium opens daily at 9 a.m. and ranges in price for non-residents depending on the day. However, Chicago residents can visit the aquarium for $19.95 every day.

• 19. Explore the neighboring towns

While Chicago has plenty to offer, let's not forget about its neighboring suburbs. Glenview, Oak Park, and Naperville are just a few of the many suburbs you may want to add to your summer visit list. Many of these neighboring towns offer delicious food, shopping, and great sights you can enjoy for a day.

• 20. Take a workout class

Whether you enjoy being active alone or with friends, there are plenty of workout classes you can join in and around the city. From aerobics and cycling to hot pilates for older adults, there's something for everyone. Inferno hot Pilates starts at $10 per session, but prices may vary depending on the class you take.

• 21. Visit the Garfield Park Conservatory

The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest conservatories in the nation - and it's entirely free to the public. All you need to do is make a reservation in advance. The conservatory features thousands of plant species from around the globe. When you're in the middle of a frigid, dreary winter, take a trip out to the conservatory and enjoy the lush indoor gardens.

• 22. Head to the United Center

If you're a sports fanatic, spend an evening watching your home sports team at the United Center. Home of the Blackhawks and the Bulls, this sports arena is one you won't want to miss. Even if you aren't a big fan of hockey and basketball, the arena hosts numerous iconic artists each year like Shakira, Janet Jackson, and Usher.

• 23. Visit the American Writers Museum

First opened to the public in 2017, the American Writers Museum has many interactive and inspirational writings of all genres. Here, you can learn about the history of American writing and play interactive games. Admission is $10 for adults 65 and older. The museum is open every day besides Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• 24. Check out 360 Chicago

360 Chicago offers the full experience, from scenic views to delicious drinks. Head up to the 94th floor to see the stunning views your city has to offer. You can then end your day with a drink and appetizer on Cloud 94.

• 25. Treat yourself to a deep dish

Chicago is known for their numerous takes on deep-dish pizza. Whenever you're not in the mood to cook, head out with some family and friends to enjoy the famous dish. The gooey cheese sitting on a thick, warm crust will melt in your mouth with every bite. If you want a unique take on the classic, try iconic restaurant Pequod's for a caramelized, cheese-covered outer crust.

Let Meal Village handle the cooking while you explore the city

When you're out exploring everything your city has to offer, you might not have time to cook an extravagant meal. With Meal Village's nutritious, affordable, heat-and-eat meals, you can keep snacks and meals on hand as you venture to new activities . This way, you can spend more time doing the activities you love or can't wait to try. Plus, all meals are made by local Chicago chefs and are sent right to your door ready to heat and eat. Delicious, ready-to-go meals are just a few clicks or a phone call away.