Families & Kids

Family Escape Rooms in Chicago

The best screen-free family activity in Chicago. Our rooms are fun, not scary — with unlimited hints and a dedicated game master so everyone has a great time. Ages 8 and up welcome.

Book a Family Game
Family enjoying escape rooms at Escape The Room Chicago

Escape Rooms Your Whole Family Will Love

If you've never done an escape room with kids before, you might be wondering: Is it too hard? Will they get scared? What if they get frustrated? We hear these questions all the time — and the answer to all three is no.

Our rooms at Escape The Room Chicago are designed to be exciting, not frightening. Think of it as a live-action puzzle adventure, not a haunted house. Your dedicated game master watches your group's progress in real time and provides unlimited hints whenever anyone asks — so nobody gets stuck and the whole family stays engaged.

Kids love it because they get to be the hero. Parents love it because everyone puts their phones away for an hour. And since we're inside Oakbrook Center, you can make a whole afternoon of it — escape room, then lunch, maybe some shopping. It's an easy outing from anywhere in the western suburbs.

What Parents Need to Know

Not Scary

Our rooms are puzzle adventures — no jump scares, no darkness, no horror themes. Every room is designed to be exciting and fun for all ages.

Unlimited Hints

Your game master provides as many hints as your family needs. Nobody gets hopelessly stuck — the goal is for everyone to have fun.

Kids Ages 8+

Recommended for ages 8 and up. Kids under 13 must have at least one adult in the room with them.

Free Mall Parking

We're inside Oakbrook Center with a huge free parking lot. No garages, no meters — just drive up and walk in.

Best Rooms for Families

These two rooms are our most popular with families — fun themes, manageable difficulty, and puzzles that kids and adults can solve together.

Family enjoying Jurassic Escape at Escape The Room Chicago
🦕 Great for Families

Jurassic Escape

An evil corporation is cloning weaponized dinosaurs and it's up to you and your team to shut them down. Sneak through the facility, avoid detection, and stop the prehistoric predators before they're unleashed on the city.

Difficulty: 3/5 Up to 8 players 60 min
Book Jurassic Escape →
The Theater escape room — comical stage adventure
🎭 Great for Kids

The Theater

The show must go on! Imagine Toy Story meets Howdy Doody — a wacky, comical adventure full of lively characters and surprises. Your team has to solve puzzles before curtain call. It's silly, it's fun, and kids absolutely love it.

Difficulty: 3/5 Up to 10 players 60 min
Book The Theater →

Want a bigger challenge? See all 7 rooms →

Tips for Your Family Escape

1

Arrive 15 Minutes Early

This gives you time to check in, get briefed, and use the restroom before the clock starts.

2

Let the Kids Lead

Kids see things differently than adults. Let them explore and try things — you might be surprised how quickly they solve puzzles.

3

Ask for Hints Early

Don't wait until frustration sets in. Hints are unlimited and free — use them to keep the energy high and the fun flowing.

4

Communicate Everything

If someone finds something, shout it out! The best family teams share every clue and work on puzzles together.

5

Plan Something After

Since you're already at Oakbrook Center, make a day of it. Grab lunch at one of the restaurants in the mall, walk around the shops, or hit Mayslake Forest Preserve for a quick hike. Easy to combine with whatever else you've got going on.

Family FAQ

What's the minimum age to play?
We recommend ages 8 and up. Kids under 13 need at least one adult in the room. Our game masters provide extra hints for younger groups to keep things fun.
Are the rooms really not scary?
Really! There are no jump scares, no horror elements, no dark rooms. Our rooms are themed adventures — think Indiana Jones, not Friday the 13th. Kids walk out excited, not scared.
What if my kids get frustrated or stuck?
Your game master watches your progress and provides unlimited hints whenever you ask. If they notice your group getting stuck, they'll proactively help. Nobody leaves frustrated.
Can we leave the room if we need to?
Yes! The doors are never truly locked. Anyone can leave at any time for any reason — bathroom break, water, or if they're just done. Safety always comes first.
Do we need to book a private room for our family?
It's not required, but many families prefer it. You can upgrade to a private experience at checkout, which guarantees no other groups will join your room. It's especially nice for birthday parties or younger kids.
How much does it cost per person?
Prices start at $37 per person. Group discounts are available for larger families or when combined with a birthday party booking. Gift cards are also accepted.
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Book a Family Game Ages 8+ · Not scary · Unlimited hints · Free parking