Things to Do With Kids in Wheeling, IL

Updated November 2026 with the latest on the new aquatic center.

For families with young kids, Wheeling's best outings center on Heritage Park, with its playground, lake, walking paths and summer concerts, plus storytimes at the Indian Trails Public Library, walks along the Des Plaines River Trail and classes through the Wheeling Park District. Most are free or low cost.

Here is a parent's guide. Hours, programs and facilities change, so check the park district and library websites before you go.

Heritage Park

Heritage Park is Wheeling's central park, near the Metra station and village hall. A major renovation finished years ago gave it:

• A large playground
• Lake Heritage and paved walking paths, including a bridge over Buffalo Creek
• Interpretive signs about nature placed along the paths
• Open lawns for picnics and running
• A performance pavilion that hosts summer concerts and events
• The nearby Community Recreation Center, home to many park district classes and an indoor pool

The aquatic center: closed for rebuilding

Wheeling's Family Aquatic Center at 105 Community Boulevard, open since 1993, did not open in summer 2026 and was demolished in spring 2026. The park district is building a new, roughly $30 million aquatic center on the same site, and the village approved the plans in June 2026. Check the Wheeling Park District website for the opening date before planning a pool day.

Until then, Big Surf Wave Pool in Mount Prospect, at 411 S. Maple Street, is a short drive. It has a zero-depth area, and the waves stop every few minutes so little ones can wade in calm water. See our Mount Prospect guide.

Playgrounds around town

Wheeling has many neighborhood parks. Horizon Park, next to the Indian Trails Public Library, has playground equipment for ages 2 to 12 with a mud-free surface, which makes it an easy stop before or after storytime.

Library storytimes

The Indian Trails Public Library serves Wheeling and nearby areas. It offers storytimes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, family storytimes, and playful programs for young children. Some programs have been offered in languages other than English, including Russian. Check the library calendar for current times, and see our guide to library storytimes.

Nature and trails

The Des Plaines River Trail runs along the river through the Wheeling area, part of a long trail system with wooded sections and river views. Flat stretches are easy with a stroller or a balance bike. Look for birds and turtles near the water. River Trail Nature Center in nearby Northbrook is a great indoor-and-outdoor stop with live animals. See our guide to nature centers for kids.

Classes and indoor fun

The Wheeling Park District offers parent-and-child classes, preschool programs, swim lessons in its indoor pool, sports and arts for little ones. Indoor classes are a good way to get through winter. Registration often opens weeks before each season, and popular classes fill fast. Children who need extra support can get inclusion help through the Northwest Special Recreation Association, which works with the park district.

For cold-weather tips, see how to dress a toddler for winter.

Eating out with kids

Milwaukee Avenue's Restaurant Row has many family-friendly restaurants. Early dinners, before the evening rush, are usually easiest with toddlers.

Ideas by age

• Babies: baby storytime, stroller loops around Lake Heritage.
• Toddlers: Horizon Park playground, toddler storytime, short trail walks.
• Preschoolers: park district classes, summer concerts, nature walks on the river trail.

Looking for ideas nearby? See our guides to Glenview and Palatine.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Wheeling Family Aquatic Center open?

No. The old center was torn down in 2026 and a new aquatic center is being built on the same site. Check the Wheeling Park District website for the opening date.

Where can I take a toddler in Wheeling on a rainy day?

Try storytime at the Indian Trails Public Library or an indoor class at the Community Recreation Center.

Is Heritage Park good for toddlers?

Yes. It has a playground, flat paved paths for strollers and open space to run.

Children's Land in Wheeling

Children's Land has a center at 850 McHenry Road in Wheeling, open 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with hot breakfast and lunch, and extras such as yoga, gymnastics and soccer. Summer camp at this location serves children up to age 12. Ask the center which age groups have openings. Visit the Wheeling location page or contact us to schedule a tour.

Related reading: Daycare Tour Questions to Ask: A Parent Checklist.