Family Fun
in Chicago:
A Guide for Parents and Kids
Six Websites to Explore Before
You Go:
1. The Great Chicago Fire and the Web of
Memory http://www.chicagohs.org/fire/
2. Chicago’s History…From the Kids View
http://library.thinkquest.org/CR0215480/index.ht
m
3. My Chicago
http://www.chicagohs.org/mychicago/index.html
4. Chicago Kids
http://www.chicagokids.com/
5. Chicago Traveler
http://www.chicagotraveler.com/kids-things-todo.htm
6. Chicago Home Page
http://egov.cityofchicago.org/city/webportal/hom
e.do
Chicagoland – Play and Learn about
Chicago’s past
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Directions: Go to http://www.inspire.net/. Read the
article “Chicago” (Monkeyshines on America; Jul 2000
Illinois Issue, p9-10, 2p). Now you’re ready to play
Chicagoland!
Players roll the die, take a card, answer the question
correctly and move the number of dots on the die.
First player to reach the end of the game wins.
Continue playing to find out who comes in second,
third, and fourth place.
Chicagoland Game Questions:
1. Chicago was named for the _____________, which
runs through the city.
2. Why did Native Americans call the swampy land
surrounding the river “Checagou”?
3. The Chicago River provided a link between the
Great Lakes and the _______________.
4. In 1871, who founded the first settlement in the
place that is now Chicago?
5. Before Chicago was a city, it was the home of a
military base where many battles were fought. Name
that military base.
6. How many people lived in Chicago when it first
became a town?
a. 100
b. 300
c. 500
7. What tragedy struck the city in 1871, killing over
300 people and leaving 90,000 families homeless?
8. True or False – Chicago is the 3rd largest city in
the U.S.
9. Name three professional sports teams that call
Chicago their home.
10. What brand of chewing gum was created in
Chicago?
Answer Key to Chicagoland:
1. Chicago River
2. “Checagou” means “powerful”, and the wild onions
that were growing around the river had a powerful
smell.
3. Mississippi River
4. Jean Baptist DuSable, a French trapper
5. Fort Dearborn
6. b. 300
7. The Great Chicago Fire
8. True
9. Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bears,
Chicago Bulls, Chicago Blackhawks
10. Wrigley
Six Games to Play to Learn about Chicago’s
History
1. The Chicago Flag
Ideal for ages 6 and up
Use this interactive flag to learn what the symbols on the
Chicago flag represent. Then make your own Chicago
flag.
2. The Great Chicago Fire
Ideal for ages 6 and up
In this activity you are an artifact detective. Match
photographs of objects that were found after the fire and
try to guess what the objects were before they were
melted.
3. The Chicago Skyline
Ideal for ages 6 and up
Learn about a few of Chicago's famous buildings and then
create your own city skyline.
4. World's Fair Puzzles
Ideal for ages 8 and up
Answer questions about the World's Fairs of 1893 and
1933, to uncover puzzle pieces and magically reveal
photographs from these special events.
5. The Chicago River
Ideal for ages 10 and up
Take a trip down the Chicago River and use your
knowledge about the city to raise the bridges on your
journey.
6. Chicago Refrigerator Poetry
Ideal for ages 10 and up
You are the author as you mix and match words and
phrases that describe the city to create your own poem
about Chicago.
Six Books to Read Before You Go:
The Dragon of Navy Pier by Kate Noble
Journey Around Chicago from A to Z by
Martha Day Zschock
Fodor’s Around Chicago with Kids, 2nd Edition
by Fodor’s
Kidding Around Chicago by Carolyn Crimi
Frommer’s Chicago with Kids by Laura Tiebert
Let’s Go to Chicago! by Karen Dean
The Top Ten “Must See” Spots for
Families
1.
Shedd Aquarium-
Location: 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
Time: Varies by season
Cost: $10-$15
http://www.sheddaquarium.org/
Kids of all ages will enjoy a visit to this award-winning aquarium.
Don’t miss one of the most popular displays – the Caribbean reef
exhibit.
Your family will be entertained and amazed by the delightful
dolphins in the Pacific Northwest Coast exhibit. The dolphin show
is fun for the whole family.
If you have preschoolers, you will want to experience the
wonderful “Tots on Tuesday” program at the Shedd Aquarium. A
full day of activities created just for kids ages 3 to 5 is offered.
Check the Website for other special events, such as a sleepover
where kids can “sleep with the fishes.”
2.
The Art Institute of Chicago-
111 S. Michigan Ave.
312-443-3600
Admission- $12 adults
$7 children, free for 5 and under
M-W 10:30-4:30, Th 10:30-8, Sat-Sun 10-5
http://www.artic.edu/aic/kids/index.php
The Art Institute of Chicago is very welcoming to families.
Strollers are provided at no cost. Kids will enjoy the Touch
Gallery where they can handle some of the art. Families will
definitely want to visit the Art Institute’s Kraft Education Center,
which is designed with families in mind. It has kid-friendly
exhibits, puzzles, games, and children’s library. Special events
just for kids are also offered.
3.
Chicago’s Children’s Museum-
700 E. Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
Admission - $7
Sun-Wed & Fri 10-5
Thurs & Sat 10-8
Phone: (312) 527-1000
http://www.chichildrensmuseum.org/
Located on Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum has lots of
fun and learning to offer families. If your kids like Dinosaurs, they
will want to visit the Dinosaur Expedition, which re-creates a
Sahara archeological dig. Many other fun exhibits are perfect for
inviting kids to learn while they play.
4.
Adler Planetarium-
1300 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: (312) 922-STAR
http://www.adlerplanetarium.org/home.shtml
“Inspiring the next generation of explorers” is the theme of this
outstanding planetarium. Inspire your family with a trip to the
Adler Planetarium. Kids will love the StarRider Theater, the
historic Sky Theater, and the many kid-friendly, interactive
exhibits.
5.
Sears Tower Skydeck –
233 S. Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 875-9696
http://www.the-skydeck.com/homeDefault.htm
If you want to give your family the opportunity to see an amazing
view and to learn about Chicago’s history at the same time, take a
trip to the top of the Sears Tower. The Skydeck is on the 103rd
floor, and the trip to the top might just make you think you are
headed for the stars. The elevators are equipped with flat screen
monitors that enhance the experience.
Once you reach the Skydeck, you will find exhibits highlighting
Chicago’s famous landmarks, history, and memorable characters.
The kids will enjoy Knee-High Chicago, which is right at their level,
literally.
6.
Industry-
The Museum of Science and
57th St. and Lake Shore Dr.
Admission - $9 adults, $5 kids 3-11
(800) 468-6674
http://www.msichicago.org/
This museum is a world-class museum that exemplifies what it
means to make learning fun. It has something for everyone, and
everyone has their favorite parts of this museum. Some familyfavorite exhibits are the Coal Mine, the U-505 (a German
submarine captured during WWII), and the model of the human
heart through which you can walk. Your kids will also be intrigued
by the baby-chick hatchery or The Great Train Story, a 3,000square-foot model railroad. With over 800 exhibits, this museum
could captivate your family for quite some time.
7.
The Field Museum –
1400 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60605-2496
Phone: (312) 922-9410
http://www.fieldmuseum.org/
Let your kids become explorers and travel through time as they
interact with an incredible amount of exhibits at this Museum of
Natural History. The Inside Ancient Egypt area will allow kids to
take a peek into the past. Kids of all ages will not want to miss
Sue, the world’s largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex.
But Sue is just the beginning - this museum has much more for
your family to explore. Another must see is “Underground
Adventure”, where you can experience what it would be like to be
the size of an ant. Completely interactive, educational, and full of
surprises, this exhibit is great fun for families.
8.
The American Girl Place-
111 E. Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: (877) AGP-LACE
http://www.americangirl.com/
For those who have a little girl or once were little girls themselves, the
American Girl Place is a definite “must see” during a Chicago visit.
More than a place to shop, the American Girl Place is an experience
with so much to offer. The American Girl Café serves a memorable
brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner for girls and their dolls (the
doll sits in a special seat and receives her own special treats). The
American Girl Theater is the place to see an original historical
musical, just right for girls ages 6-12. Browse the collection of dolls,
clothing, and accessories. Enjoy the American Girls bookstore. The
dolls can even get a new look at the Doll Hair Salon. Whatever you
choose to do, your family can create lasting memories at this special
place.
9.
Brookfield Zoo
3300 1st Ave. & 31st St.
(800) 201-0784
www.brookfieldzoo.org
Chicago’s biggest zoo has so much waiting for families to discover.
The Brookfield Zoo has 2,700 inhabitants and covers more than 200
acres. The zoo offers family educational tours, but be sure to
register for these in advance. The tours are well worth the trip.
From alligators to zebras, kids of all ages will enjoy the amazing
animals at this zoo.
10.
Wrigley Field –
1060 W. Addison St., Chicago
http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/chc/ballpark/index.jsp
Catching a game at the home of the Chicago Cubs is a great family
experience. But even if you can’t watch a game, you may want to
check out the ballpark tours that take place year round when games
are not scheduled. The tour includes the dug out, playing field,
bleachers, press box, clubhouse, and the luxury suites. The tour is a
great history lesson, as well as a lot of fun for fans both young and
old.
Five More Places for Family Fun:
1.
Navy Pier-
600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
800 595-PIER
http://www.navypier.com/
This family playground is home to many exciting family attractions: a
ferris wheel, an IMAX theater, a miniature golf course, and a
carousel. Families can also visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater
or the beautiful Smith Museum of Stained Glass. With plenty of
restaurants, shops, and other adventures to choose from, Navy Pier
is a great choice to include in a fun-filled family vacation.
2.
Hershey’s Chicago –
822 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
http://www.hersheys.com/discover/chicago.asp
This interactive shopping experience will be a delicious and fun
addition to your itinerary. Shop for unique gifts and souvenirs, or just
pick up some of your favorite Hershey’s products. You can even
become an official Hershey’s factory worker for the day and work at
the Magnificent Chocolate Works Machine. Your family will be
entertained by the “Hershey-izer”, the singing baker at the Hershey’s
bake shop. This sweet treat of a store can be found on Chicago’s
Magnificent Mile.
3.
Chinatown-
Location: Canal St. and Lake Shore Dr.
Time: Always open
Cost: FREE
Give your family the opportunity to explore another culture. From
excellent restaurants to unique gift shops, this part of the city will
delight your senses. If possible, take a tour of the neighborhood.
The talented guides will intrigue you with fascinating tales and give
you a greater understanding of the history of Chinatown.
4.
Buckingham Fountain –
301 E. Columbus Dr. &
500 S. Congress Parkway
The Buckingham Fountain is a spectacular Chicago landmark. The
fountain, located in Grant Park, is one of the largest fountains in the
world. The fountain runs daily from 8:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M. April to
October. Every hour on the hour the fountain produces a twenty
minute water display. Beginning at dusk, the fountain’s display also
includes music and lights.
5.
Lincoln Park
North Avenue, Lake Shore Dr.,
And Bryn Mawr Ave.
(312) 742-7726
Chicago’s largest park is full of fun activities for families. It
includes several beaches along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. It is
also the home of the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is free to all visitors.
This small zoo offers more than you might think. The kids will
enjoy the Children’s Zoo, where they can actually pet the animals.
How to Get Around Chicago with Kids:
Company –
Chicago Trolley & Double Decker
http://www.chicagotrolley.com/
What could be more fun for your family than riding around the windy
city on a Chicago Trolley or Double Decker bus? The tours are led
by drivers who will entertain you and give you a greater
understanding of the city of Chicago. The hop-on and hop-off system
allows visitors to ride around the city all day, stopping at any of the
city’s popular spots. This gives your family the freedom to explore
the city on your own schedule, while still enjoying the expertise of a
guide.
Bobby’s Bike Hike Chicago – Guided Bicycle
Tours of Chicagohttp://www.bobbysbikehike.com/Default.aspx
There is no better city for bike riding than Chicago, voted the best
bicycling city in the country. Bobby’s Bike Hike will help your family
explore the city in a unique way. With an entertaining and
knowledgeable guide leading the way, your family will pedal all over
Chicago, stopping briefly at some of the most popular spots. These
popular tours may just be the best part of your trip to the windy city.
Cruise the Chicago River
400 N. Michigan Ave.
(312) 337-1446
www.wendellaboats.com
Wendella Boats has been cruising the Chicago River since 1935.
The cruises are a fun way for families to learn about Chicago and
enjoy the beauty of this great city. The cruises are 60 to 90 minutes
long, and the tours run year-round.
Insider Tips:
 Chicagoans are so proud of their city that they’ll show visitors
around for free. To book a tour with a local, contact the City of
Chicago Greeter Service (www.chicagogreeter.com).
 CityPass (www.citypass.com) is an excellent option for seeing
some of the city’s most popular attractions at a discounted
price. For $49.50, you will be able to visit the Art Institute, the
Field Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, and
several other attractions. The kids’ pass is $39 for children ages
3-11.
 The Kohl Children’s Museum is located in the nearby suburb of
Glenview. This is a less crowded alternative for a children’s
museum, and it offers many great hands-on experiences for
kids. (http://www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org/site/PageServer)
 For good food and a fun atmosphere, check out Gino’s East,
(633 N. Wells St. or 162 E. Superior St.) where you can write
on the walls); Ed Debevic’s, (640 N. Wells St.) where waiters
sing and dance on the tables; and the Rainforest Café, (605 N.
Clark St.) where the décor will make you feel as if you are
eating in the middle of a tropical rain forest.
Created by Heather Bontrager
October 2006