Families traveling to Chicago with kids in tow need this insider’s guide to the best places to go and what to see, do, and eat. Chicago is a world-class city with fabulous architecture, a gorgeous lakefront, and food and cultural gems that rival NYC and LA any day. The choices are many, but to sort it out for you, here are Chicago’s greatest hits – a top 40 list of kid-friendly attractions for you and your family to explore. Various options are available for handicapped or special needs children (check out the website easyaccesschicago.org for a quick rundown of the major sites and what they provide for handicapped visitors).
Museums and Zoos
Field Museum
1400 South Lake Shore Drive
(312) 922-9410
www.fieldmuseum.org
Natural history museum. In addition to showcasing people and places from around the world, kids will love seeing the bones of Sue, the world’s largest, most complete T-Rex dinosaur.
Museum of Science and Industry
57th Street & Lake Shore Drive
(773) 684-1414
www.msichicago.org
Science museum. Features scientific discoveries, a trip into a coal mine, gadgets and gizmos, and a walk-through human heart. Don’t miss the exquisite Colleen Moore’s Fairy Castle in the Thorne Miniature Rooms.
The Art Institute of Chicago Museum
111 South Michigan Avenue
(312) 443-3600
www.artic.edu/aic/
Art museum. One of the finest collections of Impressionist paintings in the country. The Touch Gallery and BigSmall Gallery are great tactile and visual stimulation for children.
Chicago History Museum
1601 North Clark Street
(312) 642-4600
www.chicagohistory.org
History museum. Kids can learn about Abraham Lincoln, experience what its like to be a Chicago Hot Dog, and loads of other hands-on activities.
Shedd Aquarium
1200 South Lake Shore Drive
(312) 939-2438
www.sheddaquarium.org
Aquatic life museum. The Wild Reef sharks and the Oceanarium will thrill your kids.
Adler Planetarium
1300 South Lake Shore Drive
(312) 922-7827
www.adlerplanetarium.org
Astronomy museum. Daily show “One World, One Sky” features Big Bird and Sesame Street characters.
Robie House
5757 South Woodlawn Avenue
(773) 834-1847
www.wrightplus.org/robiehouse/ robiehouse.html
Historic house museum. Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece of the Prairie Style! Fantastic tours, some especially for children with a Junior Interpreter as your guide; themes include Wright 3 based on the popular children’s book, Geek tours, and special
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