Summer is finally here, and if you’re searching for an amazing summer camp experience in the heart of Chicago, then you’ve come to the right place. We have scoured the Windy City for some of the best camps offering a plethora of activities that will help give kids a memorable summertime adventure. Explore our top 15 picks and discover which one is perfect for your child!
1. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Camp
Looking for a summer camp that will engage your child’s curiosity and love of nature? Look no further than Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Camp! Located in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, our camp offers a unique opportunity for kids to learn about science and nature in a hands-on, interactive way. Our team of experienced counselors is committed to helping campers explore the natural world around them, whether they’re learning about plants and animals in the museum’s indoor spaces or venturing out into Lincoln Park itself. With four different two-week sessions to choose from, there’s plenty of time for campers to make new friends, develop new hobbies, and create lifelong memories. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable summer experience – sign up for Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Camp today.
Related Link: Five 5-Minute Hacks to 5x Your Teen’s Chances of Getting that Summer Internship
2. Lincoln Park Zoo’s Summer Conservation Camp
Looking for an adventure-filled summer camp where your child can learn about animals and the importance of conservation? Look no further than Lincoln Park Zoo’s Summer Conservation Camp! This unique camp invites campers in rising grades preK-5 to explore the amazing world of animals through hands-on activities, outdoor adventures, and close encounters with the zoo’s many inhabitants. With programs designed to inspire curiosity and empathy for the natural world, campers will also have the opportunity to make new friends, discover how to overcome challenges and develop a love of wildlife that will stick with them long after camp is over. Whether your child is a budding zoologist or just loves spending time outdoors, Lincoln Park Zoo’s Conservation Camp is bound to be an unforgettable experience. So hurry and sign up for this amazing summer camp adventure today.
Looking for opportunities to prepare your teenager for the future? Contact us at Impressive Teens today to see how we can help!
3. Galileo Summer Camp – Chicagoland
If you’re looking for a summer camp that truly sets itself apart, look no further than Galileo Summer Camp in the Chicagoland area. With a 12:1 camper-to-staff ratio, every child is sure to feel included and valued. However, Galileo’s unconventional camping style is what sets them apart. Campers learn the mindset and skills necessary to become visionary innovators through the Galileo Innovation Approach. It’s not all play, though; the educators behind Galileo’s lessons intend to instill a sense of wonder and awe in their young charges as they boost their self-esteem and advance their abilities. Campers who participate in the Galileo program are more open to new ideas and are more likely to stick with them, as evidenced by research conducted at Stanford University. Thus, Galileo is the solution for a summer full of creativity, companionship, and amusement.
4. School of Rock Music Camp
Do your children share your passion for music and wish to hone their musical abilities? If you’re looking for music camps and workshops, look no further than the School of Rock’s music camp. There is a wide variety of possible topics, from “Rock 101” to “artist-specific sessions.” Your children can gain a solid grounding in music theory while learning to play guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, and vocals. Campers showcase their musical prowess in a live rock concert. They’ll walk out with a renewed sense of self-assurance and a lifelong appreciation for music. That being said, why hold off? If you’re interested in learning more about upcoming music camps and clinics, be sure to contact the nearest School of Rock. Allow your children to let loose and follow their musical passions.
5. CircEsteem Summer Circus Camp
Join CircEsteem for an unforgettable summer at the circus! This camp gives kids the opportunity to learn about and practice circus arts in a safe and encouraging setting, with an emphasis on building self-esteem, body awareness, and specific skills. Campers can learn new skills and challenge themselves in a variety of areas, from acrobatics and trapeze to clowning and stilt walking. At the conclusion of the week, they will have the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of friends and family. CircEsteem Summer Circus Camp is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for kids ages 8-16.
6. Merit School of Music
Get ready to make some noise with the Merit School of Music! If you’re looking for a summer camp that’s both fun and educational, this is the one for you. Music education has been shown to have profound positive effects on cognitive and physical health, and Merit School of Music caters to students of all ages and skill levels with a wide variety of programs. Merit can accommodate your child’s musical needs regardless of whether he or she wants to learn guitar, piano, voice, or another instrument. There are many options to learn about music and meet new people, ranging from one-day workshops to week-long camps. In that case, you should crank up the volume and enroll at the Merit School of Music for the summer of 2023.
7. Morton Arboretum
The Morton Arboretum, situated on 1,700 beautiful acres, is a veritable paradise for those who appreciate nature. With more than 4,000 plant species, there is a wealth of flora to explore. The Arboretum is not only a beautiful setting, but also a great place to study during the warmer months. More than a hundred summer camps offer children ages 3.5 to 14 the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe, stimulating, and social setting. Young campers will make memories (and learn skills!) that will last a lifetime whether they spend their time at camp biking, hiking, or learning about conservation and the environment.
8. Steve and Kate’s Camp
The idea of putting kids in charge of their own learning might seem counterintuitive, but at Steve and Kate’s Camp in Chicago, it’s just what they’ve been doing for the last 43 years. Catering to children between the ages of 4-12, Steve and Kate’s Camp provides a plethora of activities to choose from ranging from sewing to sports to music. What makes this camp unique is its philosophy of allowing campers to decide what they want to do and for how long. Whether it’s creating stop-motion animations, trying their hand at bread making, or simply engaging in some good old-fashioned sports & recreation, the student will have full control over their learning experience. By letting campers try, fail, and learn on their own, Steve and Kate’s Camp fosters creativity and confidence, allowing kids to tackle the challenges of an ever-changing world. Plus, being able to buy any number of days and get refunded for unused days provides you with the flexibility you need in today’s world.
9. Kidstreet Camps at Lillstreet Art Center
Looking for a summer camp that will inspire your child’s creativity and imagination? Look no further than the Kidstreet Camps at Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago. With a variety of themes available, kids ages 3-16 can develop their artistic skills in drawing, clay, mixed media, and more. Whether your child wants to try their hand at acrylic painting, explore the wonders of ancient Egypt through art, or delve into the world of graphic novels, Kidstreet Camps have something for everyone. Your child will leave camp feeling inspired and proud of their creations, and you’ll be thrilled to have found such a unique and enriching experience for them.
10. KidzToPros Summer Camp
Parents, are you looking for the perfect summer camp experience for your child? Look no further than KidzToPros Summer Camp. Their mission is to prepare kids for a successful future by exercising both their bodies and minds with Sports, STEM, and Arts camps led by our top-notch instructors. They understand the challenges of raising children today and want to partner with you to help your child achieve their fullest potential. Whether on-campus or online, their summer camps are carefully tailored to each age group and taught by experienced educators capable of inspiring students. Give your child the gift of a lifetime of achievement, well-being, and prosperity with KidzToPros Summer Camp.
Related Link: 10 Things Parents Need to Stop Doing if They Want Their Teen to Be Successful
11. Decoma Day Camp
When it comes to finding a summer camp for your child, Decoma Day Camp is definitely worth considering. Established in 1949, Decoma has provided a fun and safe environment for generations of Chicago kids. They invite campers aged 2.5-13 to join in on all the summer fun, from making new friends to learning new skills to being active all day long. Plus, the camp offers convenience for parents with its door-to-door bus service and free before and aftercare. Not to mention, a daily hot lunch is also included in the rates. If your child has a particular interest, you can even sign them up for specialty camps like Tennis, Golf, or Riding Camp for an additional fee. Trust that Decoma Day Camp will make your child happy this summer!
12. Kids STEM Studio
If you’re looking for a summer camp that will inspire your child to explore the exciting world of STEM, Kids STEM Studio is a fantastic option. This camp is geared towards students going into grades 1 to 7, and offers hands-on technology and engineering activities designed to stimulate young minds. With a new theme and project every week, your child will always have something new and exciting to look forward to. Each day of camp includes half a day of technology and half a day of engineering, with plenty of time for outdoor recess. Best of all, campers get to take home their engineering models at the end of each week. With a low student-teacher ratio of 8:1, you can rest assured that your child will receive plenty of individual attention. And at the end of each week, campers will get the chance to show off their technology projects to proud parents. Just be sure to pack a nut-free lunch and snacks for your little scientist!
13. Kids Science Labs
Are you looking for a summer camp that will stimulate your child’s curiosity and imagination? Look no further than Kids Science Labs! With locations throughout Chicago, this innovative camp offers exciting, hands-on science experiences for children ages 4-12. From exploring the mysteries of everyday devices to designing futuristic cities, kids will love the chance to engage in creative experimentation and discovery. And with new weekly themes for the Innovators Camp every year, there’s always something exciting and fresh to explore. So why not give your child the gift of scientific exploration this summer with Kids Science Labs? Who knows what kind of world-changing ideas they might come up with?
14. The Little Gym of Chicago
The Little Gym of Chicago is a great place for kids to go this summer if you want to send them to camp without worrying about mosquito bites or other skin irritations. Your kid will have a blast at their day camps this summer because they feature a wide variety of exciting activities, including sports, games, and arts and crafts. Visit The Little Gym of Chicago to get some exercise and a cool breeze. Different styles of camps are available to accommodate your child’s preferences and busy schedule. Our camp programs have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a weekend camp or one that lasts throughout the school break. Join them this summer and provide your kid with an experience they won’t soon forget!
15. Big City Day Camp
Summer in Chicago is the time to get outside and explore all the amazing camps the city has to offer. One of the top camps on the list is the Big City Day Camp, located at JCYS Lincoln Square Ravenswood. Big City Day Camp has everything to make your child’s summer experience unforgettable. From swimming in the pool to crafting art projects, children will be engaged in a variety of activities. Moreover, the camp hosts workshops where children can learn new skills from experts in sports, arts, and crafts. Every staff member at Big City Day Camp brings something special to the table, ensuring your child will have a one-of-a-kind experience. With highly qualified counselors and small group sizes, parents can have complete peace of mind knowing their child is in good hands. Your child will come home happy, excited, and ready to tell you all about the incredible memories they made at Big City Day Camp.
Interested in finding extra-curricular activities for your teenager in your local area? Search for opportunities on Impressive Teens today!
Unforgettable Adventures Await: The Top 15 Summer Camps in Chicago
Summer camp can be the highlight of a child’s summer. The great thing about Chicago is the variety of awesome summer camps available that offer something for every interest, whether it’s cooking, outdoor adventure, coding, sports or theater. From day camps to sleepaway camps and more, there really are no limits when it comes to your choice! Whatever camp you choose for your kids this summer, you can rest assured that they will have an amazing time full of new experiences and lasting memories. With so many incredible summer activities to choose from in Chicago today, there really is something for every kid and every family in this amazing city! Give your kids a gift they won’t soon forget and give them the opportunity to explore their interests with one of these top 15 summer camps in Chicago.
Related Link: 12 Reasons Your Teen Isn’t Going to Stand Out on College Applications (And How to Reverse Them)
