Day Trips from Joliet
← All Joliet day tripsDay Trips from Joliet: Family Activities & Kid-Friendly Fun
The best family-friendly activities and kid-approved destinations within driving distance of Joliet, IL. Zoos, amusement parks, interactive museums, and outdoor fun the whole family will enjoy. Drive times, ratings, and budget estimates included.
12 family activities near Joliet
Zoom Zone Kids Animal Amusement Rides
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Just 1 hr 11 min from Joliet, rated 4.7 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Adrenaline Monkey Adventure Park
West Dundee, IL 60118
Just 1 hr 5 min from Joliet, rated 4.7 stars by 217 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Henry Vilas Zoo
Madison, WI 53715
Just 2 hrs 37 min from Joliet, rated 4.7 stars by 10,072 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Seven Seas
Riverside, IL 60546
Just 45 min from Joliet, rated 4.7 stars by 927 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Discovery World
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Just 1 hr 57 min from Joliet, rated 4.6 stars by 4,597 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Aikman Wildlife Adventure
Arcola, IL 61910
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Joliet, rated 4.6 stars by 1,342 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tropic World
Brookfield, IL 60513
Just 45 min from Joliet, rated 4.5 stars by 195 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Shedd Aquarium
Chicago, IL 60605
Just 48 min from Joliet, rated 4.5 stars by 32,164 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Discovery World's Reiman Aquarium
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Just 1 hr 57 min from Joliet, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Mega Fun Park LLC
Aurora, IL 60506
Just 52 min from Joliet, rated 4.3 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Safari Land
Villa Park, IL 60181
Just 43 min from Joliet, rated 4.2 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze
Chicago, IL 60611
Just 53 min from Joliet, rated 4.1 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Activities Day Trips from Joliet
What are the best family activities near Joliet, IL?
The best family activities near Joliet include zoos, children's museums, amusement parks, state parks with easy trails, and interactive science centers. Check the cards above for top-rated spots with real drive times.
What are cheap things to do with kids near Joliet?
State parks, nature preserves, and many community attractions near Joliet are free or under $15 per person. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. Check the budget estimates on each card above.
Are there indoor family activities near Joliet for rainy days?
Yes. Children's museums, aquariums, indoor water parks, and science centers near Joliet are all great rainy-day options. Look for "Family" tagged destinations above.
How far should I drive for a family day trip from Joliet?
For families with young kids, 1-2 hours is the sweet spot. Longer drives (2-3 hours) work well with older kids and are worth it for standout destinations like major zoos or amusement parks.
Don't know where to go?
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