As a travel destination, Chicago for me had always seemed too big, too busy, daunting. Couple that with the fact that I’ve got baggage, small children to be more precise, and Chicago has been noticeably absent any of my travel agendas. I am happy to report that this is no longer the case. Oh, Chicago is still big and busy, but maybe not quite as daunting.
There are countless things to do and see in the Windy City and I would imagine that in a year you could scarcely see them all. However, with a well planned weekend, it’s possible to hit some highlights and whet your appetite for future returns.
The John G. Shedd Aquarium is a must see if you travel with kids. Home to thousands of species of aquatic life from sharks in the wild reef to frogs in the Amazon there is something for everyone. My kids really enjoyed speaking with the diver who fed the fish in the Carribean exhibit and learning about the different types of food all of the fish eat.
The Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd is open daily at 9:00 am and closes at 5:00 pm (6:00 pm weekends.) If your travel plans allow, I would suggest a weekday visit arriving when the doors open. I am told that on the weekends lines are long, though tickets may be purchased online in advance to avoid having to wait.
After your fill of aquatic splendor, adventure is only steps away, literally. The Shedd is part of what is called the Museum Campus which is also home to The Field Museum of Natural History, The Adler Space Planetarium and Soldier Field.
The Art Institute of Chicago should be a definite on any short list of things to see when planning your visit to Chicago. Home to some of the worlds most famous paintings and over 5,000 years of artistic expression the Art Institute offers something everyone in the family can appreciate. There’s even an area downstairs where kids can play with blocks and read books, color or actually touch some of the items on display. The docents really do not appreciate the touching of artwork in the galleries upstairs. This I know!
The Art Institute of Chicago
Admission to the Art Institute is $12 for adults and free to children 12 and younger. Thurday evenings from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm there is a sponsored free general admission for everyone. It’s hard to beat a deal like that.
The Art Institue is located on Michigan Avenue, yes that Michigan Avenue, so when you have sufficiently cultured up your next must experience is again literally steps away. Michagan Avenue is world famous for it’s ultimate shopping and dining.
And might I just add this little tidbit. If you happen to find yourself on Michigan Avenue shopping with a seven year old little girl, you can assure yourself of Parent of the Year status. Located in the Water Tower Center is every little girl’s promised land, The American Girl Place. All of your girl’s favorite characters are there replete with costumes and accessories. There’s a photo studio, a cafe, scheduled events and more. It was my experience, though, that six year old little boys do not particularly appreciate The American Girl Place.
I found Chicago a pleasant surprise and a great family vacation destination. Upon leaving I was already making a list of the things I need to see on my next trip back.
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6 Responses
Hi Ed: As a native Chicagoan, I can attest to the fact that it is a wonderful city. And midwesterners are salt of the earth people, always happy to help and ever welcoming. But, since you mentioned it in your post, I have a bit of trivia for you. Most people think the term “Windy City” refers to - well, wind. Truthfully, Chicago can be windy, especially in the winter when gales sweep in over giant Lake Michigan. But the term “Windy City” was coined during the early years of Chicago’s “machine politics” and refers to the era’s long-winded politicians!
Barbara–Thanks for that. I think I have heard that but the information was lost in my head somewhere. I was thinking the whole time I was there at how wonderful and calm the weather was, hardly any wind. We were very fortunate to have beautiful weather. I was also pleasantly surprised at how clean the city was. Definitely not what I had imagined for such a big city.
I’ve never been to Chicago. I was planning a visit this spring but the person I was going to visit moved. I was thinking about visiting both the Art Institute and the aquarium. Great minds think alike!
You should definitely go! I’ll give you my sister-in-law’s number. She lives in Lincoln Park (where I hear tell the zoo is free!) You can stay with her!
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