Best Winter Birthday Parties for Toddlers and Preschoolers

1. Indoor playgrounds

There are lots of fun places to let kids crawl, climb, and jump around that aren't inside your house. Many indoor play spaces have private party rooms and don't require parents to plan activities or spend extensive time cleaning up.

2. Costumed birthday entertainers

If your kid is into having a super hero, princess, or magician at their party, you can get one to come to your house or to a rented room to entertain them and their guests. The littlest kids might like Paw Patrol or Disney princess to be in attendance, while bigger kids might want a bubble show or science show.

3. Preschool and toddler birthday party venues

Check out the latest experience at CAMP or visit Peppa Pig in her native habitat at Woodfield Mall. This list has all of the cutest places to turn two, three, or four.

 
Adventure themed party experiences! Photo courtesy of Hot Ground Gym, with locations in Arlington Heights & Libertyville

Top Cold Weather Birthday Parties for Elementary-Aged Kids

4. Indoor party places

We've got a list that includes rock climbing, American Girl, arts and crafts, ninja, arcades and more! Whatever your kids' interests are, you can find a spot to celebrate in Chicago and the suburbs

5. Spa parties

Lots of little girls like getting their nails done and relaxing with their gal pals. We have plenty of salons and spas that will cater to their every need — some will even come to your house!

6. Theme parties

Is your kid into science, cooking, sports, or art? Do they have one specific toy that they can't get enough of, like LEGOs? There are lots of places that offer parties based on these themes.

7. Ice skating parties

If your birthday doesn't fall during a polar vortex, you can enjoy one of our favorite outdoor skating rinks. Many are low-cost and provide a fun activity with no clean up.

8. Roller skating parties

Chicago still has a few great roller skating rinks, perfect for the not-so-young at heart. This great retro activity is delightful for lots of elementary-aged kids.

9. Indoor pool parties

Many Chicago area hotels offer day passes or party rooms at their indoor pool. Older elementary kids might even have a few friends stay overnight in a hotel room.

10. Museums

Many of Chicago's amazing museums have party spaces available. Aside from the usual suspects, like children's museums, you can party at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, the Field Museum, The Chicago Sports Museum, and the WNDR Museum.

 
Teens and tweens might like bowling birthday parties. Photo courtesy of Pinstripes

Best Winter Birthday Party Ideas for Tweens and Teens

11. Tween and teen birthday party spots

Whirlyball, indoor skydiving, and indoor mini golf top our list of favorite spots for the 12 and over set. 

12. Laser tag

Chicago has plenty of indoor venues to play the once futuristic looking game. As it gets warmer, you can also try out the paintball places on this list!

13. Bowling

This old school sport is still cool with teens and tweens. Our list includes places with fun foods, laser bowling, and even arcade games.

14. Cooking parties

A lot of our top places for kids to take cooking classes also offer private parties. This is a great way for little foodies to introduce their friends to new cuisine.

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15. Fun restaurants

From tea parties to train-delivered meals to over-the-top desserts, there's something for everyone on this list!

16. Tiny party

For anyone from a preschool who just has a handful of friends to a teen who wants a bigger adventure for just a few people, we have lots of ideas for smaller parties. Plan a playdate or visit an indoor water park for tons of fun any time of year.