Chicago Parent Fall Going Places 2014 by Chicago Parent

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FALL 2014

NEW

places to play

Sweet spots

for your sweet tooth

Make

AUTUMN AWESOME Food, fright and Fire Fest 8/22/14 10:37 AM

Another case of a Subaru going places others don’t.

The all-new 2015 Legacy ® doesn’t follow. With industry-leading safety, it features available EyeSight ® driver assist technology.* Combine that with the confidence of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive at 36 mpg† and the most-spacious interior in its class,** and you’ll find yourself feeling something very new. Love. It’s what makes a Subaru, a Subaru.

Legacy. It’s not just a sedan. It’s a Subaru. Well-equipped at $21,695

††

Subaru, EyeSight and Legacy are registered trademarks. *Available beginning Fall 2014. †EPA-estimated hwy fuel economy for 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5i models. Actual mileage may vary. **Based on manufacturer-reported interior volumes according to the EPA’s Midsize Car class. ††MSRP excludes destination and delivery charges, tax, title, and registration fees. Retailer sets actual price. 2015 Subaru Legacy 2.5i Limited pictured has an MSRP of $26,495.

Roto Subaru Arlington Heights RotoSubaru.com

Autobarn Subaru Countryside AutobarnSubaruofCountryside.com

Liberty Subaru Libertyville LibertyAutoCitySubaru.com

Gerald North Aurora Subaru North Aurora GeraldSubaruNorthAurora.com

Evanston Subaru Skokie EvanstonSubaru.com

Grand Subaru Bensenville GrandSubaru.com

Muller Subaru Highland Park MullerSubaru.com

Gary Lang Subaru McHenry GaryLangSubaru.com

Napleton Subaru Rockford NapletonRockfordSubaru.com

International Subaru Tinley Park SubaruofOrlandPark.com

Mid City Subaru Chicago SubaruChicago.com

Bill Jacobs Subaru Joliet BillJacobsSubaru.com

Gerald Subaru Naperville GeraldSubaruNaperville.com

Napleton’s Schaumburg Subaru Schaumburg NapletonsSchaumburgSubaru.com

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GOING PLACES

British School of Chicago Lincoln Park â&#x20AC;˘ South Loop (Fall 2015)

Learning they will love. Early Years Open House: September 27, 9:00am-12:00pm Explore admission for your 3-5 year old by joining us at our open house! Your child can sing a song, make a masterpiece and move to the music in a session with our Early Years staff. These 20 minute sessions include art, music, dance and storytelling, and will give you a glimpse into the lives of our students. You can also hear from our principal and go on a mini-tour of the school. Register for a session on our website or by contacting our admissions office as space is limited.

www.britishschoolofchicago.org 2 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Fall 2014

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admissionsbsc@wclschools.org

773-506-2097 ChicagoParent.com

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THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FAMILY FUN FALL 2014

GOING PLACES

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy

FEATURES 7 What else to pick in the fall

EDITOR Liz DeCarlo

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elizabeth Diffin

9 Mr. Freeze 10 Haunted Houses

ART DIRECTOR Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNER Sky Hatter DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Jackie McGoey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Danielle Braff,

Linda Marsicano, Cindy Richards, Kathy Woods AD PRODUCTION MANAGER Philip Soell

FESTS 13

AD DESIGN MANAGER Andrew Mead

■ Chicago Fire Fest ■ Listings by month on parades, fairs and festivals

AD DESIGNERS Debbie Becker,

MUSEUMS 27

DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

■ Three exhibits not to miss ■ Listings on museums, including art, children’s, ’s, historical, science, special

Maggie Acker Walter Burden, Dawn Engelhardt, Lourdes Nicholls, Adrienne Smith, Lourd

interest and free days

Karen Skinner

CITY 39

Walter Burden

■ Water Tower Place and Jolly Posh ■ Listings on landmarks, sightseeing and tours s

TRAVEL 49

■ Hot and cold cruises ■ Cheyenne, Wyoming ■ Wildlife Prairie Park ■ Endangered apes in Indianapolis

STAGE 63

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING SALES CLASS

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ADMIN

Jessica Doerr CIRCULATION MANAGER Kathy Hansen CIRCU DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Alan Majeski DISTRI CREDIT MANAGER Debbie Zari COLLECTIONS Charlie Kelly COLLE PUBLISHER Dan Haley PUBLIS

■ HOTT productions: Community theater for charity arity ■ Listings by month on dance, music and theater ter

VP/DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS VP/DIR

PLAY 71

COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar COMPT

■ Sweet spots to visit and 3 new play places ■ Listings on entertainment, indoor play centers, eat ‘n’ play, creative studios,

family play and sports to watch

NATURE 85

■ The Indiana Dunes in the fall ■ Listings on botanic gardens and conservatories, farms and ranches, u-pick

and zoos

Andre Andrew Johnston

advertising@chicagoparent.com CLASSIFIED SALES

ON THE COVER

classified@chicagoparent.com

COVER KID: Aidan Brighty, 4, Chicago

CIRCULATION

PHOTO: Liz DeCarlo DESIGN: Claire Innes

circulation@chicagoparent.com Chicago Parent Going Places is published quarterly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. Our offices are at 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302.

FIND MORE AT: ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

Ages 6 mos. to Adult. Our year-round program includes Weekly Lessons and Swim Camps... Register Today!!

Highland Park • Lakeview • Libertyville • NEW!! South Barrington

Learn To Swim!! Swimmers Guaranteed.

Schedule your FREE In-water Level Assessment today!! www.fossswimschool.com

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GOING PLACES

Care for the entire family. Our primary care physicians are knowledgeable and friendly — and right in your neighborhood. Family Care Omer Ansari, MD New Lenox 815.485.2541

Muhammad Anwar, MD Lockport1 815.834.1903

Adam Cohen-Lewe, DO New Lenox 815.485.2541

Iulia Enacopol, MD Lemont 630.243.6300

Kevin Gordon, DO Joliet1 815.773.7807

Mahwesh Javed, MD Joliet2 815.725.3454

Vipuli Jayesinghe, MD Plainfield1, 2 815.436.7303

Vinitha Kunchala, MD Lockport 815.838.0694

Jana Mohan, MD Channahon 815.467.1988

Maria Onagan, MD New Lenox 815.485.2541

Muneeb Qadri, MD Joliet2 815.725.3454

Mohin Samaraweera, MD Plainfield1 815.436.7303

Bhavesh Gandhi, MD Crest Hill 815.773.7827

Marc Kantar, MD Crest Hill / New Lenox 815.773.7827

Kiarra King, MD Joliet1 815.773.7469

Serena Vance, DO Joliet1 815.773.7469

Tiffany Wilson, MD Joliet1 815.773.7469

Jonette Belicena, MD Joliet1 815.725.0007

Heather Decker, MD New Lenox 815.485.2541

Lee Patterson, MD Lockport2 815.838.0694

Geriatric Care Stephanie Whyte, MD New Lenox 815.485.2541

Obstetrics/Gynecology Care

Pediatric Care

Get in touch. Call to make an appointment with your neighborhood Presence Medical Group doctor today. For more information, visit presencehealth.org/medicalgroup. Coal City | 410 North Broadway

Crest Hill | 16151 Weber Road, Suite 101

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Lockport | 703 East 9th Street

Joliet | 301 North Madison Street

New Lenox | 410 East Lincoln Highway

Joliet | 3100 North Theodore Street

Lemont | 15947 127th Street, Suite B

Medical Group

Lockport | 300 North Read Street

Plainfield | 24016 West Main Street Plainfield | 7000 Caton Farm Road

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GOING PLACES

What else to pick

IN THE FALL

n the autumn, many families make an annual pilgrimage to an orchard or a pumpkin patch to stock up on crunchy apples or that perfect Halloween jack-o-lantern. But did you know that many area pick-your-own farms offer much more than apples and pumpkins? Think late-ripening fruits like raspberries and grapes and all kinds of vegetables from broccoli to squash. Here are some of the best local pick-your-own farms and what you might find there. Garden Patch Farms, Homer Glen: Less than an hour from the Loop, Garden Patch Farms is my family’s favorite. In September and beyond, look for raspberries—including a rare golden variety—green beans, sweet and hot peppers, winter squash, pears, eggplant, turnips and more.

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Be sure to visit the Farm Market for fresh eggs, cider, local jams and jellies and everything you need to decorate for fall, including corn stalks and hay bales. Kids can take a break from picking to feed the chickens. There are wagons to borrow for hauling your harvest, or you can bring your own.

There is a $5 per person fee to enter, plus you pay by the pound for whatever you pick. Stover’s Farm Market and U-Pic in Berrien Springs, Mich.: While a trip to Stover’s Farm Market is a good 90 minutes from Chicago, it is a worthwhile expedition. If you know the Stovers from one of their many booths at Chicago-area farmers markets, you know that they are as friendly as can be and they love their farm. See where the produce that you bought all summer long came from! Look for late varieties of peaches and nectarines, raspberries, grapes and pumpkins at this time of year. Fall weekends have the added attraction of hay rides and a corn maze. The Farm Market is just a short drive from both Warren Dunes State Park and

the charming beach town of St. Joseph, so plan to make a whole day of it. Garwood Orchards, LaPorte, Ind.: Famous for its homemade doughnuts, Garwood Orchards offers a nice pick-your-own experience only an hour from downtown Chicago. A horseor tractor-drawn wagon takes you out to the field to pick. Fall weekends bring live music, pony rides and other family activities. Look for a variety of vegetables including sweet and hot peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, pumpkins and winter squash. With no admission and a low per-pound price, Garwood Orchards is a great value. Find out what’s available to pick by following the farm on Twitter @GarwoodOrchard. Emily Paster

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GOING PLACES

Presented by the Francis W. Parker School

Saturday, September 27 • 9 am – 4 pm Looking to the future, the Francis W. Parker School introduces the Chicago Education Festival. Join leading innovators in a discussion around big ideas that will shape education and impact children of all ages. Learn more at edfestchi.com.

How is Parker Expanding Learning today and tomorrow? Middle School Open House, Grades 6–8 Saturday, October 25 | 1 pm Upper School Open House, Grades 9–12 Saturday, November 22 | 10 am Application Deadline: Monday, December 1 More online at fwparker.org/admission Francis W. Parker School | 330 W. Webster Ave. Chicago, IL 60614 | 773.353.3000 | www.fwparker.org

Is your car ready for the road? Cassidy will get you there!

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BERWYN DOWNERS GROVE NAPERVILLE 1580 W. Ogden 7000 W. Ogden Ave. 523 W. Ogden 630-518-4840 708-298-4303 630-324-0030 LINCOLNWOOD 7220 N. Cicero 847-462-4395

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Chilling with

GOING PLACES

MR. FREEZE

“W

hy is Mr. Freeze so healthy? Because he never catches a cold!” Corny cryo

jokes are part of Jerry Zimmerman’s (a.k.a. Mr. Freeze) trademark humor. They are sprinkled throughout his popular cryogenic demonstration (a branch of physics that deals with the production and effects of very low temperatures) along with lots of ice and fog, pops and explosions. Zimmerman’s signature “cryo-mallows”—marshmallows dipped in liquid nitrogen, frozen to a crunch—delight kids and adults alike. As a kid, Zimmerman dreamed of becoming an inventor someday. “I was always the great inventor, a Thomas Edison or Nikola Tesla, and my invention would revolutionize the world,” says Zimmerman. What Zimmerman didn’t know then was that one day he would become not only an inventor, but a Fermilab engineer with a public persona known to hundreds of schoolchildren as Mr. Freeze. Zimmerman grew up in Plano, the youngest of four children. His parents, Leroy and Rosemarie, didn’t know what their inquisitive son would turn out to be. They only knew he constantly had his nose in the family’s Time Life books and all that the wind-up clocks in the house were taken apart

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and put back together again—sometimes with a piece or two left over. He ended up with a degree in physics from Northern Illinois University and an unusual job title. Mr. Freeze knows the show has a magical quality, and he definitely wants the audience to have fun, but he also hopes kids will learn new things and think of science as a future career path. He also enjoys challenging his own inventive spirit. “I’m always trying to come up with the next new thing,” he says. The next new thing may be a cryo-gun Zimmerman has been working on, though it won’t be used to freeze people a la Mr. Freeze, the comic book villain of Batman fame. Zimmerman’s gun would instead produce a

dramatic pop followed by a column of thick fog. When Zimmerman isn’t working as an engineer or giving a cryo demonstration, he can often be found roller skating at a rink near Batavia. He enjoys it almost as much as science and uses scientific principles to teach himself how to figure out fancy skate moves. “It’s a case of understanding science

and applying it to my pastime,” he says. Whether he’s firing off his cryo-cannon or coasting around the roller rink, Zimmerman hopes to inspire kids to find and follow their passion in life. Of course if it turns out to be science, Mr. Freeze is cool with that. Find him at mrfreezeman.webs.com. Kathy Woods

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GOING PLACES

Haunted Houses 101:Too scary or just right?

The Fear Haunted House at Navy Pier

ear not, little ones. We’ve rounded up the least scary haunted houses in the Chicago-area so even the tiniest scaredy-cats can take in ju just ust the right amount of fear this Halloween. H Ha Hallowee a eeen There T Th eree are er a even some haunted houses ar offer tthat tha th hat offe er llights-on experiences for children who w are afraid of the dark but see a goblin or two. But we also want to sse few have a fe ew for those kids who are brave like and an d li ike k a little bit of fright in their life.

Danielle Braff

The Fear Haunted H House at Navy Pier This haunted h ho house is a Chicago favorite. During the day, it t’s a lights-on show. The night show it’s is designe ed to be scarier with the lights off. designed Even so, b be prepared to see bloody monsters, zombies, va vampires, werewolves and goblins during th he 2 the 20-minute visit. Since this show is usuallyy pr pretty crowded, your best bet is to go on a T Thu Thursday or a Sunday to avoid the longest lin ne lines. 600 E. G Gr Grand Ave., Chicago thefearh hau thefearhauntedhouse.com

Nightmare at the Terrace Haunted House

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GOING PLACES 13 Terrors Haunted House

Fear City

Fear City In this 40,000-square-foot haunted house, you’ll meet some very scary zombies. If you come at night, you’ll get to play laser tag in the dark with the zombies who will fall down but get back up again (as zombies tend to do). They have iconic Chicago references, but this year, they promise to have all new nightmares—some of which may not be appropriate for children, including a torture room and surreal illusions. 8240 N Austin Ave., Morton Grove fearcitychicago.com

Nightmare at the Terrace Haunted House During the lights-on daytime hours, the actors hand out candy instead of popping out to scare the children. But this may still be a little scary, as it con13 Terrors Haunted House sists of more than twelve rooms Best for children 8 and older, that are designed to feature this haunted house takes place “your worst fears,” in an old sanitarium that according to the is now Theater on the haunted house’s Lake. During this Facebook page. time of the year, it Gale Moore becomes a haunted Park, 11500 house filled with S Beloit Ave., ghosts, monsters, Worth evil clowns, mirror worthpark mazes and more. Scream Scene district.org Diversey Harbor Lot Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm This has a haunted house, a farm and lots of little kid amusement all rolled into one. It opens at the end of September, and what’s super cool about this place is that there’s a haunted barn for those who want to be scared and a fun barn for those who just want to have fun. And they’re both located in the same area. The haunted area has scary creatures that are not super scary, but scary enough that it’s rated PG-13. There are also pony rides, pig races, a petting zoo and so much more (note that it’s very crowded on the weekends). 13341 W. 151st St., Homer Glen pumpkin farm.com

north of Fullerton on Cannon in Chicago chicagoparkdistrict.com

Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch This is for little children. While their haunted house is still scary because, well, it’s haunted—it’s supposed to be for children, so it doesn’t have live actors or anything that’ll leave most children with nightmares. If you come for the haunted house, make sure you stay for everything else, which includes pig racing, pony rides, a corn stalk maze, camel rides and a petting farm. 42W813 Reinking Road, Hampshire goebbertspumpkinpatch.com

Spooky Barn Family Haunt at Dollinger Farm This is not a scary haunted haunt at all. It’s all about friendly ghosts and goblins who are a tiny bit ghostly but appropriate for kids of all ages. While you’re there, check out the petting zoo, pick out a pumpkin and get lost in the corn maze. It’s a great family farm. 7502 E. Hansel Road, Channahon dollingerfarms.com Scream Scene

Scream Scene It’s lights-on during the day and lights-off at night, though this one is best for children older than the age of 10. There are crazy butchers, scary clowns, bloody dead people, monsters and chainsaw maniacs around every turn in the creepy maze here. This may cause nightmares, so only brave kids should come. 4701 Oakton St., Skokie screamscene.org

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GOING PLACES

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Always a reason to celebrate

fests

In this section 14 Great Chicago Fire Festival 15 September 20 October 25 November PHOTO BY DIGITAS

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FESTS

GREAT CHICAGO Fire Festival

PHOTO BY AL ZAYED

he Great Chicago Fire of 1871 reduced the city to ashes, but it couldn’t diminish the spunk and resilience of the people who lived here. Only days after the fire ended, the rebuilding of Chicago began; and nearly a century-and-a-half later, the third largest city in the U.S. stands as a monument to the moxie of its people. In that spirit, Redmoon Theater and the City of Chicago have teamed up to plan a never-to-be-forgotten gala event known as the Great Chicago Fire Festival. Community celebrations in 15 official Fire Festival Neighborhoods began in the summer and will conclude in spectacular fashion with a River Bazaar and pyrotechnic Grand Spectacle on the Chicago River on Saturday, Oct. 4. According to Frank Maugeri, producing artistic director of Redmoon, the fire became a metaphor for the kind of people who live here. “We’re tough people who roll up our sleeves, get into the ring and take the world on,” says Maugeri. “We

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have great challenges, but we are the kind of people who overcome.” The River Bazaar and Grand Spectacle will be staged on the main branch of the Chicago River between the State Street and Columbus Drive bridges. Festivities begin in the midafternoon and continue into the evening. Throughout the afternoon, the River Bazaar will offer crafts and goods for sale from Fire Festival Neighborhoods. Winners of the bake-off contests will peddle their mouth-watering creations to the sounds of live entertainment provided by local talent. At sundown, the Grand Spectacle will feature fire dancers, a Victorian-era-inspired steampunk boat, the Chicago Children’s Choir, and floating Fire Sculptures followed by a dazzling grand finale of fireworks set to music. Maugeri says to think of the Grand Spectacle as a visual poem, subject to interpretation based on age and experience. Adults are more likely to appre-

PHOTO BY AL ZAYED

Summer neighborhood events helped build excitement for the festival. ciate its Great Fire symbolism, while young children will simply enjoy the most exciting parade they’ve ever been to. Maugeri hopes people will see the festival as a gift to the community and an opportunity to gather in a beautiful public space, coming together in friendship and unity. “It will say ‘here are the people from the city—one world,’”

says Maugeri. It’s anticipated that tens of thousands will attend what Redmoon and the City of Chicago hope will become a muchanticipated and beloved annual tradition. The Fire Festival is free and intended for all ages. Visit redmoon.org or chicagofirefestival. com for more information. Kathy Woods

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FESTS SEPTEMBER

Visit website for information. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free.

Cornfest Family Fun Day Graue Mill 3800 York Road Oak Brook (630) 655-2090 grauemill.org Sept. 7

Festival de la Villita

Celebrate the beginning of fall with an old-fashioned family picnic featuring burgers and hot dogs, roasted corn on the cob, homemade pies and taffy apples. Entertainment includes games, races and a fishing tournament for kids. Kids can use hammers, nails and paint to create a craft project in the giant woodpile. Hours: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; food and some activities extra.

Community cultural event celebrates Mexico’s independence from Spanish rule. Highlights include food, music, carnival rides and kids’ entertainment. On Sunday, the festival is the end location of the 26th Street Parade, one of the largest celebrations of Hispanic culture in the Midwest. Hours: 6-11 p.m. Sept. 12 (carnival only), noon-11 p.m. Sept. 13-14. Admission: Free; carnival rides extra.

World Music Festival

Pilsen Mexican Independence Day Parade

2600 S. Kostner Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com Sept. 12-14

Various locations, including Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington St. Chicago (312) 742-1938 worldmusicfestivalchicago.org Sept. 11-21

18th Street from Newberry Avenue to Wolcott Chicago (312) 671-1620 cityofchicago.org/specialevents Sept. 13

Eleven-day festival features free concerts presented in museums, parks, cultural centers and music stores.

Celebrate Mexican Independence in the vibrant Pilsen neighborhood. Hours: Noon. Admission: Free.

Aquatic Experience-Chicago, see page 25.

Our Top Four Family Activities This Fall

Share the excitement at The Morton Arboretum

Children’s Garden

Theatre-Hikes®

Drive-In Nights

Open Daily

Weekends, now through October

October 10 & 11

Weekends in October

Explore the changes autumn brings to our award-winning, four-acre Children’s Garden.

Experience live theater on nature’s stage as you walk along with the action from scene to scene.

Share an old-fashioned family movie night during our drive-in movie series featuring Frankenweenie and Hocus Pocus.

See brilliantly colored trees while enjoying grilled goodies, taffy apples, a scarecrow trail, and much more.

Fall Color Festival

Learn more at mortonarb.org/events. THE MORTON ARBORETUM 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, IL 60532 • mortonarb.org • 630-968-0074

CONNECT WITH US

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#mortonarboretum

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FESTS

Oaktoberfest Saturday, September 20, 12-5pm

Kid’s Root Beer Garden - FREE Enjoy family activities on Marion St. on Saturday, September 20, from 12-5pm. Zucchini racing will offer the chance for kids to create and race their own zucchini cars. The kids’ area will also feature karaoke, root beer floats, and other games and activities by local organizations including Oak Park Public Library, Wonder Works, Constructive Chaos, Oak Park Art League and Flipside Academy of Movement’s obstacle course and skill workshops.

Green Halloween Saturday, October 16, 11-3pm

Have a boo-rific time at this EEK-o-friendly, healthy, green event! Stop in participating local businesses on the Green Pumpkin Trail to participate in free kids’ activities including a pumpkin patch and kids’ costume swap, and collect healthy treats.

Lake/Marion/North Blvd. | For all event details visit downtownoakpark.net

Spooky Pooch Parade, see page 23. ARTumn Deer Park Town Center 20530 Rand Road Deer Park (847) 726-8669 dwevents.org Sept. 13-14

Friday, October 3 5-10 pm Saturday, October 4 noon-10 pm

e v E s w o l l a |ll H Friday & Saturday October 17 & 18 6:30-10 pm

523 S. Webster St. Naperville, Illinois 630.420.6010

napersettlement.org

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Features fine art displays and free kids’ art activities. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 13, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 14. Admission: Free.

Crush in Old Town Wells Street and North Avenue Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com Sept. 13-14 Wine and craft beer tasting tents, music, juried art, kids’ activities and the cuisine of neighborhood restaurants (including special mac ‘n cheese dishes). Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sept. 13, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 14. Admission: $7 donation.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts On Broadway from Belmont Avenue to Roscoe Street Chicago

lakevieweastfestivalofthearts.com Sept. 13-14 Showcases more than 150 juried artists featuring original paintings, sculpture, photography, furniture, jewelry and more. In addition to the artists’ booths, the festival features two live music tents and a beer and wine garden, a landscape garden oasis, interactive children’s area, a mosaic mural making booth, live glass blowing and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 14. Admission: $5 donation.

Revolutionary War Reenactment 1S151 Winfield Road Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org Sept. 13-14 Soldiers give history lessons on camp life, military artillery and war time in the 1700s. Hundreds of reenactors from the Northwest Territory Alliance will assemble on the battlefield twice a day, firing cannons and muskets. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; $5 parking.

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FESTS Pioneer Day Elk Grove Historical Museum 399 Biesterfield Road Elk Grove Village (847) 439-3994 elkgroveparks.org Sept. 14 Features reenactments, historical demonstrations, old-fashioned games and crafts, museum tours and a petting zoo. Hours: 1-5 p.m. Admission: Free; $10 to create a life-sized scarecrow with the Garden Club.

Rock the Beach for Syd Rocks Gillson Beach Lake Avenue at Lake Michigan Wilmette (847) 226-1268 walkthebeach.sydrocks.com Sept. 14 Includes music from five local high school bands, Syd Rocks necklace making, beach yoga and food trucks. Proceeds benefit Syd Rocks to fund medical research for Langerhan’s Cell Histiocytosis, pediatric cancer and blood diseases. Hours: 3-6 p.m. Admission: $35, $10 kids.

Fiestas Patrias Greenbelt Forest Preserve 1215 Green Bay Road North Chicago (847) 968-3477 greenbeltculturalcenter.org Sept. 14 Celebrate Mexican and Central American Independence with live music and authentic food from Mexico, Honduras, Belize and Guatemala. Plus, games and nature activities for children. Hours: 2-7 p.m. Admission: Free.

Art on Harrison Harrison Street Oak Park oakparkartsdistrict.com/events/art-onharrison Sept. 19-20 Includes art, music, food, dance and hands-on demonstrations for the whole family. Hours: 6-10 p.m. Sept. 19, noon-8 p.m. Sept. 20. Admission: Free.

Autumn in the Park Festival Village Green Palos Park autumnintheparkfestival.org Sept. 19-20 Event includes a parade, a Chili and BBQ Rib Cook-Off, music, games and entertainment, including a sports cave and a kids’ area with

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petting zoo, games, touch-a-truck, euro bungee and pony and hayrack rides (open 12:30-6 p.m.). Hours: 5-10 p.m. Sept. 19, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sept. 20 (parade at 11 a.m.). Admission: Free.

Berwyn Oktoberfest Depot District Windsor and Stanley avenues Berwyn (708) 788-8100 berwynoktoberfest.com Sept. 19-20 Includes an international food court, live bands, carnival and amusements, family pavilion, crafters, vendors and beer garden. Hours: 6-11 p.m. Sept. 19, noon11 p.m. Sept. 20. Admission: Free.

Oak-Toberfest Between Marion Street and Forest Boulevard Oak Park (708) 383-4145 downtownoakpark.net/oaktoberfest.html Sept. 19-20 Features music, seasonal food and kids’ root beer garden and zucchini races on Saturday. Hours: 4-10 p.m. Sept. 19, noon-10 p.m. Sept. 20. Admission: Free; food extra.

Art In Your Eye Batavia Riverwalk Island Avenue and Houston Street Batavia (630) 761-3528 artinyoureye.com Sept. 19-21 Features two art exhibits—The City Hall Exhibit and Student Legacy Exhibit—concerts, craft beer and wine tent, food, and live music and performances. Kids can visit the Picasso Tent or try chalkboard art on Saturday and Sunday. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free.

Oktoberfest Smith and Slade streets Palatine palatinerotary.com Sept. 19-21 Features German food and beverages, authentic music, and activities for all. There are family activities on Saturday afternoon, including music, art and German language lessons. Hours: 5 p.m.-midnight Sept. 19, noon-midnight Sept. 20, noon-6 p.m. Sept. 21. Admission: Free.

Lincoln Square Apple Fest 4700 block of North Lincoln Avenue

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FESTS Chicago lincolnsquareravenswood.org Sept. 20

midwayvillage.com Sept. 20-21

This fest celebrating fall and apples includes vendors selling a variety of items. Pick up a fresh baked apple pie, a bushel of apples, hot apple cider, or an apple pizza. Also features the Kid Zone and live music. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Lakeview Taco Fest 3500 N. Southport Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com Sept. 20-21 The taco gets the spotlight treatment at this fest in the heart of the Southport Corridor. In addition to tacos and music, features beer and taco pairings, Mexican wrestlers, a kids’ activity area and arts/crafts. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sept. 20, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 21. Admission: $5.

World War II Days Midway Village Museum 6799 Guilford Road Rockford (815) 397-9112

Includes realistic battles complete with tanks, artillery, armored vehicles and pyrotechnic displays. Battle shows held 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday. There are also displays and encampments. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 20, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 21. Admission: $14, $7 kids 3-17, free for WWII veterans and members; twoday pass $18, $9 kids 3-17; discount online through Sept. 15.

Wauconda (847) 968-3400 lcfpd.org/farmheritage Sept. 20-21 Features hundreds of tractors, cars, engines and other farm machinery. Daily highlights include a tractor parade, sheep herding demonstrations, live music, scarecrow making, wagon and barrel train rides, and a petting zoo. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $10, $5 kids 4-17 and seniors, free kids 3 and under.

Design Harvest Festival

Park Forest Art Fair

Grand Avenue between Damen and Wood Chicago design-harvest.com Sept. 20-21

367 Artist Walk Park Forest (708) 748-3377 tallgrassarts.org Sept. 20-21

Features contemporary and sustainable design, original live music, unique vendors, hay rides, and more. Family activities include a hay maze, face painting, scarecrow making, petting zoo (noon-4 p.m.) and more. Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sept. 20, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 21. Admission: $5 donation.

Farm Heritage Festival Lakewood Forest Preserve Route 176, west of Fairfield Road

Tall Grass Art Association presents the Annual Park Forest Art Fair, featuring fine art, kids’ art activity, food and music. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

northbrookhistory.org/shermerfest.htm Sept. 21 Community fall festival includes collectible and antique car show, children’s activities, hot dogs, soup and home-made sweets. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free.

Long Grove Apple Fest Old McHenry Road and Robert Parker Coffin Road Long Grove (847) 634-0888 longgroveonline.com Sept. 26-28 Enjoy the beautiful fall outdoor ambiance and participate in activities including free live music throughout the historic village. Get your apple fix with treats like brown bag apple pies, apple cider doughnuts, hot apple cider, caramel apple lattes and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $5, free kids 12 and under.

Shermerfest

Oktoberfest Chicago at St. Alphonsus

Village Green 1776 Walters Ave. Northbrook (847) 498-3404

St. Alphonsus Church Southport and Lincoln avenues Chicago (773) 868-3010

Get Ready... Get Set... FALL is Here!

SIX Amazing Locations 18 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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Fall and School are here and cooler weather is on its way! Once Upon A Child is ready with fresh fall coats, boots, pants and more for 70% off mall prices! Don’t forget to bring in what they have outgrown and get paid CA$H for everything accepted. Chicago Ridge • 708-499-7035 9990 Ridgeland Ave.

Harwood Heights • 708-867-8651 4616 N Harlem Ave.

Oak Brook • 630-468-2330 1600 West 16th St.

Crest Hill • 815-744-0202 2108 Plainfield Rd.

Naperville • 630-416-9344 552 South Route 59

Orland Park • 708-364-6333 9520 West 159th St.

www.onceuponachild.com ChicagoParent.com

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FESTS Northbrook Autumnfest

chicagoevents.com Sept. 26-28

Meadowhill Park 1479 Maple Ave. Northbrook (847) 291-2995 nbparks.org Sept. 27

Annual neighborhood event features food, music and entertainment on three stages, arts and crafts, and activities for families and kids (KinderFest held on Sunday). Hours: 5-10 p.m. Sept. 26, 11 a.m.10 p.m. Sept. 27, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept. 28. Admission: $5.

Celebrate the season with a free family event that includes main stage entertainment, magic, a petting zoo, I-Spy hayride, games and face painting, inflatables, bonfire with s’mores, golf games, and the finals of Northbrook’s Talent Showdown. Hours: 2-6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Elim Dutch Festival Elim Christian Services 13020 S. Central Ave. Palos Heights (708) 389-0555 elimcs.org Sept. 27 Features food including Dutch specialties, gifts and collectibles, entertainment, petting zoo, carnival, magic show, farmers market, and Wooden Shoe Carver. Kids may catch a glimpse of Sinterklaas (Dutch Santa Claus). Proceeds benefit Elim Christian Services, an organization that provides services to people with developmental disabilities. Hours: 7:30 a.m. pancake breakfast; fest runs 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; food and some activities extra.

Hyde Park Jazz Festival Throughout Hyde Park neighborhood and Midway Plaisance 59th Street Chicago (773) 324-8614 hydeparkjazzfestival.org Sept. 27-28

Boo! at the Zoo, see page 23.

Features the finest in local jazz and national and international jazz artists; diverse performance venues; outdoor dance floor; food/beverage vendors and picnic areas; artisan vendors; and activities for kids. Hours: 1 p.m.-midnight Sept. 27, 1-7 p.m. Sept. 28. Admission: Free.

Spirit. Study. Service. A Saint Andrew student is a person with SPIRIT. Students have good manners, share with others and practice random acts of kindness. They are honest, trustworthy, patient and exhibit good sportsmanship. They are accountable for their actions. They witness their faith by giving Sunday to God. A Saint Andrew Student leads through example and strives for integrity.

A Saint Andrew student is a person who STUDIES. Students come to class prepared, on time and well rested. They are able to participate in class by listening and being self-disciplined. A Saint Andrew Student gives maximum effort in all academic subjects and extracurricular activities.

A Saint Andrew student is person of SERVICE. Students demonstrate an awareness of their blessings through volunteer service to their school, family and neighborhood. They develop high self esteem that is not focused on reward. A Saint Andrew Student develops confidence through service for the greater good.

Saint Andrew School Providing educational excellence in a vibrant and caring environment

1710 West Addison Street • Chicago 773-248-2500 • www.saintandrewchicago.com CAmPUS ToURS - 2nd Tuesday of each month at 9am

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FESTS Barkapalooza

(847) 985-2100 parkfun.com Oct. 5

Lisle Community Park 1825 Short St. Lisle wshs-dg.org/barkapalooza Sept. 28

Experience life on an 1880s farm by helping with the harvest, cooking over the woodstove or squeezing fresh apple cider. Relive the adventure of the Illinois frontier at an authentic pioneer encampment near the log cabin. The day will include historical demonstrations, children’s crafts, haywagon shuttle, live music and a variety of tasty fall foods. Hours: Noon-5 p.m. Admission: $20 family, $5 person, free kids 3 and under.

This fundraiser for the West Suburban Humane Society features a Dog Walkathon, Pet Expo, blessing of animals at 10 a.m. and a demonstration by Dog Scouts of America. Kids’ activities include clowns, face painting, balloon sculptures and a Kids and Kindness Zone. Food available for humans and dogs. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: $15 registration by Sept. 20, $20 starting Sept. 21, free kids 12 and under.

Grove Fest The Grove 1421 Milwaukee Ave. Glenview (847) 299-6096 glenviewparks.org Oct. 5

Harvest Celebration Willye B. White Park 1610 W. Howard St. Chicago hellohoward.org Sept. 28 Features free hayrides, pumpkins, treats and entertainment. Whole Foods will provide a kid-friendly cooking demonstration as well as complimentary refreshments including cider, cinnamon rolls and apples. Hours: 1-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

OCTOBER

Oktoberfest-Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St. Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.org Oct. 3-4 Hear live music as you enjoy authentic German cuisine during this fun salute to one of the community’s ethnic heritages. Familyfriendly activities will be available on Saturday afternoon. Hours: 5-10 p.m. Oct. 3, noon-10 p.m. Oct. 4. Admission: $15, $10 kids; $10 in advance, $5 kids in advance; free kids under 4. Additional cost for food.

West Town Art Walk Chicago Avenue Milwaukee Avenue to Leavitt and Ogden Chicago (312) 850-9390 westtownartwalk.com Oct. 3-4 Showcases dozens of local and upcoming artists and designers. Every participating location transforms into a weekend gallery, each featuring a specific artist, food, drink and music. Hours: 5-10 p.m.

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Features live folk music, square dancing, hayrides and pioneer craft demonstrations. Storytelling for kids offered throughout the day. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $4, $1 kids under 12.

Safety Town Trick-or-Treating, see page 22.

St. Charles Scarecrow Festival

Oct. 3, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Oct. 4. Admission: Free.

Downtown at Route 64 and Fox River St. Charles (630) 377-6161 scarecrowfest.com Oct. 10-12

Midway Village and Museum Scarecrow Harvest Festival 6799 Guilford Road Rockford (815) 397-9112 midwayvillage.com Oct. 4-5 Families can build their own scarecrow with straw provided free. Bring old clothes to stuff, or buy clothes and accessories. Activities include traditional harvest crafts and activities, old-fashioned games, wagon rides around the village, square dancing and demonstrations. Hours: Noon-5 p.m. Admission: $7, $5 kids 3-17, free members.

Long Grove Oktoberfest Historic Downtown Long Grove 308 Old McHenry Road Long Grove (847) 634-0888 visitlonggrove.com Oct. 4-12 Join in the celebration of Long Grove’s heritage by enjoying authentic German food, Oktoberfest beer tents, live entertainment fea-

turing German bands, free hayrides throughout town, and more. On Oct. 4, guests can enjoy the European Autoschau, a concourse event showcasing a broad range of classic European cars. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 4-5 and 11-12. Admission: Free.

Fall Color Festival Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53 Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org Oct. 4-26 Enjoy the fall colors and admire nature-themed scarecrows showcased around Meadow Lake. Plus, build-your-own taffy apples and sample other food and beverages available for purchase. Festival kicks off with the Fall Color 5K Run & Walk and Kids Dash on Sunday, Oct. 5 at 8 a.m. Hours: Weekends in October and Columbus Day. Admission: Free with admission.

Autumn Harvest Festival Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm 1111 E. Schaumburg Road Schaumburg

View more than 150 handcrafted scarecrows and vote for your favorite in each of six categories. Plus live entertainment, arts and crafts show, carnival, petting zoo, canine corner and make-your-own scarecrow. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Oct. 10-11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 12. Admission: Free.

Cantigny Fall Festival Cantigny Park 1 S. 151 Winfield Road Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org Oct. 11 Features hayrides, live entertainment, inflatable jumpers and slides, pumpkin decorating, monster mural, face painting and candydive. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; $5 parking.

Fall Festival Downtown Mount Prospect Corner of Busse and Emerson Mount Prospect

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Teach your child to swim, it’s the gift that lasts a lifetime! Small Class Sizes for ages 6 months and up Professional swim instructors Adapted Aquatics Instruction for Children with Special Needs “I smiled so much, my face hurt” - Tricia, mom

Photo by G. Yoshioka

FESTS

Redefining Smart.

At Brickton Montessori School we measure our students’ abilities to THINK critically, MAKE responsible decisions, and SOLVE problems creatively. Call 773.714.0646 today or visit www.brickton.org.

Redefining Smart.

Enroll now for Academic Year 2014-2015 Contact us today to schedule your private tour

At Brickton Montessori School we measure our Located just South of I-90MAKE between students’ abilities to THINK critically, Cumberland East River Road responsible decisions, andand SOLVE problems 8622 West Catalpatoday Avenueor in visit Chicago creatively. Call 773.714.0646 www.brickton.org. Ages 2-14 (Toddlers do not need to be

t need to be toilet trained) dependent Schools Association the American Montessori Society.

trained) Located just South oftoilet I-90 Fully accredited between Cumberland and by the Independent East River Road Schools Association

of the Central States 2222 N. Elston, Chicago 8622 West Catalpa Avenue and the American in Chicago Montessori Society. chicagobluedolphins.com

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FESTS (847) 506-4948 Oct. 11 Includes crafts, trick-or-treat candy line, hay rides and food and music in the downtown area. Hours: 1-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

Safety Town Safe Trick-or-Treating at Annual York/Vallette Business Association Family Fall Fest The Depot 511 S. York Road Elmhurst epd.org Oct. 11 Head to Safety Town Village for some early Halloween fun and safe trick-or-treating through a kid-sized village. Dressed-up volunteers will pass out candy and prizes. Plus face painting, pony rides, petting farm, moon jump, pumpkins, food and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission: Free.

North American Reptile Breeders Conference and Trade Show Tinley Park Convention Center 18451 Convention Center Drive Tinley Park (708) 932-8044 reptileconference.com Oct. 11-12

The U.S. Department of Education recognized Queen of Angels Catholic Elementary School with the 2013 National Blue Ribbon award for exemplary high performance. Queen of Angels was one of only 50 private schools in the nation to receive this honor. Located in the Lincoln Square and Ravenswood neighborhoods, Queen of Angels Catholic Elementary School offers a strong core curriculum, enrichment programs, dedicated faculty and supportive parish community for students from Preschool to 8th grade.

An exhibition and sale of many breeds of exotic and pet-friendly reptiles, as well as supplies for pet owners. Event also includes educational talks on various aspects of reptiles. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 11, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 12. Admission: $15, $8 kids 6-12, free kids 5 and under.

Columbus Day Parade Columbus Drive from Balbo Drive to Monroe Street Chicago jccia.com Oct. 13 The Columbus Day parade celebrates Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage to America and ItalianAmerican culture. Hours: 12:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Pinball Expo The Westin Chicago North Shore 601 N. Milwaukee Ave. Wheeling pinballexpo.com Oct. 15-19 Pinball exposition features exhibitors, seminars and speakers. Plus, tour the Stern Pinball factory and participate in a pinball tournament. Hours: Check website. Admission: Check website.

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All Hallows Eve Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St. Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.museum Oct. 17-18 Experience two of the darkest nights of the year during this experience that brings some of the scariest literature of the past, present and future to life. For ages 8 and up; not suitable for young children. Hours: 6:30-10 p.m. Admission: $15 at door, $10 in advance.

Great Highwood Pumpkin Fest 17 Highwood Ave. Highwood celebratehighwood.com Oct. 17-19 Come to watch as Highwood attempts to win the Guiness World Record and partner with the Autism Society of Illinois to carve and light a pumpkin for each individual impacted by autism in Illinois. Other activities include trick-ortreating, food vendors, live music, hay rides, pumpkin carving, massive pumpkin displays, light up the night parade, pet costume contest, pumpkin dump and more. The autism-friendly event will have a sensory quiet area located at the Highwood Library. Hours: Check website. Admission: $2; $10 ride wristbands.

Halloween Hollow Main Park 10925 La Porte Road Mokena (708) 390-2401 mokenapark.com Oct. 17-19 Features carnival, food, activities, entertainment, Scarecrow Laboratory, hayrides, horse rides and contests. Hours: 6-10 p.m. Oct. 17, noon-9 p.m. Oct. 18, 1-6 p.m. Oct. 19. Admission: $2, free kids under 5.

Community Expo Carl Sandburg High School 13300 S. La Grange Road Orland Park orlandparkchamber.org Oct. 18 Features clowns, mascots, face painting, raffles and refreshments. Also includes Kidsfair, sponsored by Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital, with a magic show, Doctor Dress Up, Fun with Food, jumprope contest, and more kids’

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FESTS

Great Highwood Pumpkin Fest, see page 22. activities. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission: Free.

Spooky Pooch Parade Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org Oct. 18 Dogs are allowed in the garden for two hours for a canine Halloween costume parade. The event includes parade, judging and awards. Nonprofits and vendors from a variety of local pet supply shops will share information and sell dog-related products. Hours: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission: $19, $14 members in advance.

Chicago Family Fun Expo DuPage Expo Center 4050 E. Main St. St. Charles (630) 385-4000

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chicagofamilyfunexpo.com Oct. 18-19 The expo is designed to help bring families together and find educational, healthy and fun activities. Learn about the latest products and services to make your life easier and meet fitness instructors and coaches. Includes live stage demonstrations, face painting, balloon animals and magic shows. Hours: Check website. Admission: $7, free kids under 18 and seniors over 65.

Boo! at the Zoo Brookfield Zoo First Avenue and 31st Street Brookfield (708) 688-8000 czs.org Oct. 18-26 The not-so-scary and fun-filled event has something for the entire family to enjoy, including the “Crazy Maize” corn maze, haunted hayrides, the popular “Pumpkin Smasher,” professional pumpkin

carving demonstrations, a 1 p.m. Costume Parade followed by the Costume Showcase at 1:30 p.m., scarecrow building, and Zoo Chats about some of the zoo’s creepy critters. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free with zoo admission.

Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Sycamore

(815) 895-5161 sycamorepumpkinfestival.com Oct. 22-26

Features thousands of decorated pumpkins on display, food booths, carnival, parade, and Saturday entertainment. A performance by the South Shore Drill team takes place at 2 p.m. Saturday, and a parade kicks off at 1 p.m. Sunday. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free; entry fee for craft fair.

Happy Hauntings Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington Chicago

cityofchicago.org/dcase Oct. 23-26 Families can enjoy performances, arts and crafts and movies at the Chicago Cultural Center, including the Midnight Circus on Thursday. Hours: 4-7 p.m. Oct 23, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Oct. 24-25, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 26. Admission: Free.

Chicago Green Festival Navy Pier 600 East Grand Ave. Chicago greenfestivals.org Oct. 24-26 Features leaders in the social justice and environmental community, an organic beer, mead and wine pavilion, and a dedicated kids’ area for learning about easy and fun ways to incorporate green at a young age. Plus, more than 350 eco-friendly businesses exhibit. Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Oct. 24, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 25-26. Admission: Check website.

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FESTS Chicago International Children’s Film Festival Facets Multi-Media 1517 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago (773) 281-9075 cicff.org Oct. 24-Nov. 2

6:15-9:30 p.m. Admission: $8 per person; $6 in advance.

BatFest

Features more than 250 films from over 40 countries and engages kids of all ages with screening Q&As with filmmakers, interactive workshops with special guests, peer-topeer dialogues, filmmaker-led seminars, and the CICFF Children’s and Youth Juries. Hours: Check website. Admission: $9, $6 kids.

A Haunting in the Valley Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm 1111 E. Schaumburg Road Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com Oct. 24-25 Costumed guides lead scheduled groups through the Log Cabin Woods on a trail of Halloween fun, adventure, and magic. Also includes refreshments, games, live owl display, and a bonfire. Hours:

Batavia Riverwalk Batavia (630) 879-5235 downtownbatavia.com Oct. 25 Features trick-or-treating, Mothers’ Club Parade, pumpkin roll, contests and games. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: Free.

Scarecrows on Parade and Clark Street Spooktacular Clark Street between Armitage and Diversey and Diversey from Orchard to Lakeview Chicago visitclarkstreet.com Oct. 25 Includes free refreshments, crafts and games, plus trick-or-treating to participating businesses throughout the community. During trickor-treating, there are Halloween inflatables, magicians, balloon twist artists, jugglers and stilt walkers. Visitors will enjoy Scarecrows on Parade, costume contests for adults and kids, prizes from area mer-

chants, special savings at participating restaurants and an afternoon of outdoor family fun. Hours: 1-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Spooky Zoo Spectacular Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N. Cannon Drive Chicago (312) 742-2000 lpzoo.org Oct. 25 Spooky Zoo offers a free, safe alternative to trick-or-treating for more than 30,000 children, as well as a variety of entertainment, crafts and fun for the whole family. Dress up in costume and come to the Lincoln Park Zoo ready for an evening full of fun and games. Hours: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: Free.

HallowFest: A Garden of Good… and Evil! Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org/hallowfest Oct. 25-26 Take either the “friendly” or “spooky” path to activities in the

Regenstein Center and McGinley Pavilion. Experience familyfriendly thrills and chills, including two stages of entertainment, fortune telling, face painting, a spooky snack shack, and a ride on the “Howlin’ Express.” As night falls, walk through the Model Railroad Garden, decorated in ghastly lights and running special ghost trains. Hours: 5:30-9 p.m. Oct. 25, 4-7:30 p.m. Oct. 26. Admission: $19, $14 members in advance, free kids 2 and under.

Ray Bradbury Storytelling Festival Genesee Theatre 203 N. Genesee St. Waukegan waukeganpl.org Oct. 31 Hosted by the Waukegan Public Library, this annual award-winning storytelling festival features the work of Ray Bradbury. The 2014 theme is “Literary Halloween.” Call the Genesee Theatre box office for tickets. Hours: 10:30 a.m. children’s matinee; 7:30 p.m. performance for 12 and older. Admission: $6 children’s matinee, $17 evening performance.

Now O pen

Come Play With Us! Languages Currently Offered Polish

Spanish

Japanese

French

Russian

Chinese

Italian

German

and more!

Instruments Currently Offered

5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn, IL 708-423-6709 Check our web site for programs and hours www.cmoaklawn.org Have your birthday party or Field Trip with us! Call for more details!

Piano

Violin

Clarinet

Guitar

Voice

Saxophone

Bass Guitar Trumpet

and more!

Try out a class of your choice! A trial lesson is only $28, and a second trial is just $10.

Celebrating our 20th Anniversary!! Call us about our Parent & Tot/Preschool Spanish Classes!

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to positively impact a child’s potential in life through play-based education.

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FESTS

Visit Quest Academy

Call or email today for your viewbook and curriculum guide. North American Reptile Breeders Conference and Trade Show, see page 22. NOVEMBER

From Hog House to Smokehouse Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm 1111 E. Schaumburg Road Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com Nov. 2 See how 19th century farm families preserved meat and other food for the long winter. Features authentic demonstrations, craft activities, wagon rides and refreshments. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Admission: $3 person, $12 family, free kids 3 and under.

Toy Soldier Show Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org Nov. 2 Toy soldier enthusiasts will display collections of small-scale sol-

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diers and armaments. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; $5 parking.

Aquatic Experience - Chicago Renaissance Schaumberg Convention Center 1551 N. Thoreau Drive Schaumburg aquaticexperience.org Nov. 7-9 In addition to seeing sharks up close as a diver swims and interacts with these awe-inspiring animals, attendees will experience “everything aquatic under one roof” including displays of fish from around the world, educational seminars with industry experts, a free Kids Aquarium Contest and thriving show floor of exhibitors showcasing the latest in aquatic trends and products—for advanced hobbyists and first-time aquarium keepers alike. Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 9. Admission: $10; $25 family pass.

Does your child. . . • Thrive on complexity? • Seek deeper understanding? • Make connections? Then, learn more about our . . . • Innovative curriculum for active learning • Committed faculty who challenge their students • Nurturing culture and small classes Contact Director of Admission, Leslie Kovich at leslie.kovich@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035 today.

questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067

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GOING PLACES

LET ’S

ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org AT NAVY PIER • Open daily at 10 am 26 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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Discover the world around you

museums

In this section 29 Art and Children’s 30 Historical/Regional 32 Free Days 34 Science 36 Special Interest

ADLER PLANETARIUM

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MUSEUMS

Three exhibits that

INSPIRE CURIOSITY

ate math? You won’t after the new Museum of Science and Industry permanent exhibit opens this fall. After several years of work on the exhibit Numbers in Nature, MSI experts plan to take the fear out of math and numbers by showing mathematical patterns are everywhere around us, says John Beckman, director of exhibit design and development. The centerpiece is a 1,600-square-foot mirror maze that will be fun for all ages. It leads from the front of the exhibit where patterns are introduced to the back of the exhibit where families can explore math concepts more in depth. “It’s a great low-barrier way to get people to understand how math can be used,” Beckman says. “When you can start to recognize it in nature, you can start to understand how the patterns help things function and how we can use patterns as well.” Beckman hopes families leave the exhibit with more appreciation for math. He says they will discover what long-time math lovers already know, that “math can be fun.”

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He says the exhibit, which moves into the space across from the coal mine on the first floor of the museum, will offer something for everyone. “We really hope people leave the exhibit and see their world in a new way,” he says. Numbers in Nature opens Oct. 8 at MSI. The exhibit is included in museum admission. Just in time for winter’s chill, families can seek refuge in the rainforest without ever leaving Chicago. This November, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum opens its new exhibit, Rainforest Adventure, that will bring the rainforest home. Families can climb a kapok tree, explore a gorilla’s nest and meet virtual scientists.

And of course it leaves kids inspired to find ways to make a difference in the fragile ecosystems. Rainforest Adventure opens Nov. 8 at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. It is included in general admission. Kids loved Science+You when it debuted at Kohl Children’s Museum in 2011 and now that it has returned from an international tour, it is time to get back to see it. The exhibit is set up like a reallife laboratory, complete with a pretend shower and handwashing station upon entry, as well as some adorable mini-lab coats that help kids really look the part

(provided your little ones will actually wear them). Inside, kids can mix and separate liquids and solids using scientific equipment, magnify ordinary objects with video microscopes and measure substances inside a glove box. Don’t miss the test kitchen where kids can make a healthy soup and the humansized puzzle that shows how important nutrition, exercise and rest are for a growing body. The museum’s website even has some kid-friendly experiments to try on your own at home. Science+You is open through Nov. 2 at Kohl Children’s Museum. It is included in general admission.

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MUSEUMS ART

Art Institute of Chicago 159 E. Monroe Chicago (312) 443-3600 artinstituteofchicago.org A great place for families to begin their visit is the Ryan Education Center on the first floor of the Modern Wing. The Family Room in the education center includes hands-on activities kids can use to learn about art from building blocks to puzzles of the great masterpieces to the “Curious Corner” computer interactive. Art-making takes place in the center at selected times on weekends. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Sunday; 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday (Family Room open until 5 p.m.). Admission: $23, $17 students and seniors 65+, free kids under 14. Free Thursdays for Illinois residents.

Elmhurst Art Museum 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave. Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 elmhurstartmuseum.org Bring the whole family to see lively artwork from contemporary artists, stroll through Mies van der Rohe’s McCormick House, and explore The Artivity, an interactive art wall where families can draw, design and discover their own creative talents. Art classes and free artist-led workshops available. Stop by for Art on the Run, a free educational art project for families. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5, $3 seniors and students, free kids under 5. Free Fridays and to members.

Museum of Contemporary Art 220 E. Chicago Ave. Chicago (312) 280-2660 mcachicago.org Exhibit halls are filled with brightly colored artwork and sculptures even young kids will enjoy. Family Days are held on the second Saturdays of the month, October-May, and include art-making activities, scavenger hunts, and artist-led projects. Admission is free for families with children 12 and under, and activities are appropriate for all ages. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. WednesdaySunday. Closed Monday and major holidays. Admission: $12, $7 students with ID and seniors, free kids

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Discovery Center Museum, see page 34. 12 and under, members and military personnel. Free Tuesdays for Illinois residents.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park Governors State University 1 University Parkway University Park (708) 534-4486 govst.edu/Nathan_Manilow_Sculpture_ Park/ A collection of 29 works set within the wild prairie swales of the campus. The giant sculptures include Paul Bunyan, a flying saucer and a circular maze. Be prepared for lots of walking, and consider breaking your visits into tours of the north and south parts of the park to make the trip more manageable with kids. Hours: Dawn to dusk, daily. Admission: Free ; fees for some activities.

National Museum of Mexican Art 1852 W. 19th St. Chicago (312) 738-1503 nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org This Pilsen museum is a natural for families. Ongoing exhibits present 3,000 years of Mexican history through ancient, colonial and contemporary art. The museum also offers performing arts events and educational programs for adults, educators and children. This is a small museum that can be a great

way to introduce younger children to art. Kraft Family Sundays are free, year-round, hands-on art programs related to the themes of current exhibitions (reservations required). Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Admission: Free; donations accepted. Performance festivals and tours are ticketed.

Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park McCormick Boulevard between Dempster and Touhy avenues Skokie (847) 679-4265 sculpturepark.org This is a great place to bike, jog or walk, even with a stroller or a few kids on training wheels in tow. Two miles of landscaped park are studded with more than 60 sculptures. Kids will enjoy the life-size, brightly colored horses or the many other giant sculptures. Before you go, download a family guide filled with clues, questions and information. Free, family-friendly tours on Sept. 28, Oct. 26. Hours: Open 24 hours daily year-round. Admission: Free.

Smart Museum of Art University of Chicago 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Chicago (773) 702-0200 smartmuseum.uchicago.edu Explore the many forms of sculpture or pick up and play

500 Clown’s The Art of Experience during the Smart’s 40th anniversary in 2014-2015. Visit during scheduled free Family Days, when kids can make their own art based on the art in the galleries (Sept. 28, Oct. 11, Nov. 1). Family tours (10 people minimum) are available by appointment. There is a cafe on-site. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdayWednesday, Friday-Sunday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday. Admission: Free.

CHILDREN’S

Bronzeville Children’s Museum 9301 S. Stony Island Ave. Chicago (773) 721-9301 bronzevillechildrensmuseum.com This museum makes African-American history interesting and accessible. In the It’s Easy Being Green exhibit, learn about composting and planting in the “garden.” Check out the Carbon Footprint game, then hop on a stationary bike for a quick ride. Little ones will love the Binga Bank teller windows and ATM and the hospital exhibit with stethoscopes and a heart model puzzle. Learn about African-American inventors. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. TuesdaySaturday. Tours: 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 1 and 2 p.m. Admission: $5.

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MUSEUMS Chicago Children’s Museum

Admission: $11, $10 seniors, free kids under 12 months and members.

700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration

This museum is three stories high and filled with engaging, educational exhibits including a dinosaur dig and a water play area. Kids also enjoy the big backyard and treehouse exhibits. Learn about fire safety in the Play it Safe exhibit where kids can practice safely exiting a smoky bedroom. Exhibits geared toward preschoolers and toddlers are gated. Older kids will love climbing on the museum’s climbing schooner. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday. Admission: $14, $13 seniors, free kids under 1 and members. Visit website for free admission days.

Located in the Swedish American Museum, in the Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration kids can climb aboard a 20-foot immigration steamer or tour a 100-year-old Swedish farmhouse for a first-hand immigration experience. Family nights and afterschool programs offered. Hours: 1-4 p.m. MondayThursday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $4, $3 students and seniors, free kids under 1.

Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn

Wonder Works

5211 N. Clark St. Chicago (773) 728-8111 swedishamericanmuseum.org

5100 Museum Drive Oak Lawn (708) 423-6709 cmoaklawn.org The 9,000-square-feet of exhibit space on two floors includes the new exhibit, “We the People…” which has two beam pieces from the World Trade Center Towers on display with a theme of patriotism, helping, friendship and unity. There is a water area, a treehouse where kids can get a bird’s eye view of the entire second floor, theater for plays, Safe Haven Animal Shelter for animal care and the Construction House where kids can use real tools. Separate area is available for infants, and art projects are available for all kids in the art studio. Hours: Check website. Admission: $7, $6 seniors, $3 teachers, free kids under 1. Free parking is available on the fifth floor of the Parking Tower.

DuPage Children’s Museum

6445 W. North Ave. Oak Park (708) 383-4815 wonder-works.org Kids birth to 8 can enjoy art, science and early learning programming. Includes six child-size permanent exhibits, as well as special events. Free parking on street and off the alley. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 kids and adults, free kids under 1 and members.

Art Institute of Chicago, see page 29. day-Thursday (open until 8 p.m. every Third Thursday); 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $11, $10 seniors 60+, free kids under 1.

KidsWork Children’s Museum

301 N. Washington St. Naperville (630) 637-8000 dupagechildrensmuseum.org

11 S. White St. (inside the trolley barn in downtown Frankfort) Frankfort (815) 469-1199 kidsworkchildrensmuseum.org

Roll a ball down a ramp to explore gravity and movement in Make it Move or create a pipe structure in Built It, using real tools. Blow a bubble or splash at the water tables, then dry off in the wind tunnel. The museum also offers a special time for families of children with visual and mobility impairments to visit on Third Thursdays (5-7 p.m.). Visit the new S.M.A.R.T. Café on the lower level. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues-

This two-story children’s museum brings children, families and the community together in fun, handson interactive play. Features a pet vet exhibit, tot spot, theater, light exhibit and an artworks area. Plus, life-sized “Operation” table, rowboat exhibit, Smart Table, and a piano you can play with your feet. Special Needs Family Nights take place the last Wednesday of the month. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday;

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HISTORICAL/REGIONAL 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Closed on Monday, except for some school holidays. Admission: $7 adults and kids, $6 seniors.

Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd. Glenview (847) 832-6600 kohlchildrensmuseum.org Seventeen hands-on interactive exhibits for children birth to 8, including Car Care, Pet Vet, Water Works, and the newly-refurbished Adventures in Art. Wear layers— the two-acre outdoor Habitat Park exhibit is at its best in the autumn. Four infant areas provide a safe place for babies to explore. Cosi Cafe in the museum offers an easy lunch option, with kid-friendly food items. Experience Science + You, a child-sized lab, through Nov. 2. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Arlington Heights Historical Museum 110-112 W. Fremont St. Arlington Heights (847) 255-1225 ahmuseum.org The five-building complex and their contents tell the story of Arlington Heights over the last 150 years. The Muller Victorian and 1908 Banta homes, carpentry and blacksmith shop, soda factory displays and dioramas in the coach house are popular. Tour the Martha Mills doll collection and three dollhouses filled with amazing miniatures. Hours: Tours: 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday or by appointment. Heritage Gallery: 1:30-4:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Admission: $4, $2 kids for tours. $2 donation suggested for Heritage Gallery.

Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road Wheaton

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MUSEUMS (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org

(312) 642-4600 chicagohistory.org

Visit the First Division Museum, a highly interactive experience that explores our nation’s military history through the eyes of the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division. Lifesize soldiers demonstrate what life was like during each particular war, and kids can experience the sounds of bombs exploding as they travel through bunkers or jungles, or step out onto Omaha Beach from a life-like landing craft. The highlight of the visit for most kids is climbing and pretending on the real tanks and other military equipment parked outside the museum. Cantigny Park has many events for families including festivals, concerts and educational workshops for all ages. There’s a restaurant, coffee shop, gift shop and picnic area with playground. Hours: Museum: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. starting Nov. 1. Gardens/Grounds: 7 a.m.-sunset daily May 1-Oct. 31; 9 a.m.-sunset daily Nov. 1-April 30. Call or visit website for special events. Admission: Free. Parking (per car): $5, $2 off peak.

The museum offers a permanent exhibition, Sensing Chicago, where children can explore the city’s history through their five senses. Kids love making themselves into a giant Chicago-style hotdog or smelling the (sometimes awful) smells associated with the city, or becoming part of a giant Chicago postcard. Families can also explore the city’s first ‘L’ Car and the first steam-powered locomotive to come through Chicago. The Facing Freedom exhibit depicts the struggles Americans have had over freedom both past and present. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $14, $12 seniors and students, free museum members and kids 12 and under. Call or check website for free day schedule.

Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St. Chicago

Des Plaines History Center 781 Pearson St. Des Plaines (847) 391-5399 desplaineshistory.org Kids and parents can see the newest exhibits on display in the Visitor Center and take a tour of the 1907 Kinder House. The Visitor Center is

stroller accessible, and the Kinder House has stairs. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free, donations accepted.

DuPage County Historical Museum 102 E. Wesley St. Wheaton (630) 510-4941 dupagemuseum.org Offers guided tours, summer camps and birthday parties. Programs are offered each month for all ages. The HO gauge model train display runs 1:30-3:30 p.m. on the third and fifth Saturday of each month. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; noon-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Closed holidays. Admission: Free, donations welcome ($4, $2 kids).

Durant House Museum LeRoy Oaks Forest Preserve Dean Street, about a mile west of Randall Road St. Charles (630) 377-6424 ppfv.org/durant.htm The Durant House is recognized as Kane County’s own “Little House on the Prairie.” It has programs designed to highlight a prairie family’s routines of work and play

throughout the year. Hours: September-October: 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $2, $1 kids, suggested donation.

Elk Grove Historical Museum 399 Biesterfield Road Elk Grove Village (847) 439-3994 elkgroveparks.org/museumcampus.asp Explore rural life in the 1800s. Tour a farmhouse, a barn, a chicken coop and privy. Experience pioneer life with crafts, games, exhibits and demonstrations. Hours: 2:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $1 suggested donation for general admission. Program prices vary.

Elmhurst Historical Museum 120 E. Park Ave. Elmhurst (630) 833-1457 elmhursthistory.org Explore this family-friendly history museum in the Glos Mansion featuring a wide range of exhibits and family activities. “Cubs vs. Sox: The Chicago Civil Wars” is open through Sept. 28. “Visionary Voices,” a new permanent historical exhibit that focuses on the many voices that have come together for more than

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MUSEUMS 160 years to make Elmhurst what it is today, opens in November. Hours: 1-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Admission: Free, nominal fee for programs.

Graue Mill and Museum 3800 S. York Road Oak Brook (630) 655-2090 grauemill.org Step back in time and explore four floors of amazing exhibits and learn about pioneer life on the Illinois prairie and the Underground Railroad. Try your hand at spinning wool and weaving. Help the miller prepare and grind corn. Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Admission: $4.50, $4 seniors, $2 kids.

Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center 9603 Woods Drive Skokie (847) 967-4800 ilholocaustmuseum.org Explore engaging games, multimedia, and interactive exhibits in Make a Difference! The Harvey L. Miller Family Youth Exhibition, where children ages 8-12 can have fun discovering ways to respect differences, address bullying, and take a stand on issues that matter to them. Exhibits include Take A Stand, a virtual reality game where frogs confront “bullies” in their pond; Choices, a peek inside school lockers to find inspiring stories about Rosa Parks and Anne Frank as well as modern-day teens who took a stand; and What Do You See, where kids explore an interactive mural to see who is standing up for what is right and who could use a hand. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $12, $8 students 12-22 and seniors, $6 kids 5-11, free members.

Isle a la Cache Museum 501 E. 135th St. (Romeo Road) Romeoville (815) 886-1467 reconnectwithnature.org Explore exhibits of the 18th century French fur trade when the “Illinois Country” was home to French voyageurs and native Potawatomi. Find out about a voyageur’s day on the river, examine a real birch bark canoe and visit a replica Native American

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Free Days Please note: Free days are for Illinois residents only in most cases. Days can change; always check before going.

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-STAR Free admission: Sept. 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30.

Art Institute of Chicago 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 857-7161 Free admission: 5-8 p.m. Thursdays. Always free for kids 13 and under.

Cantigny Park and First Division Museum 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton (630) 668-5161 Free admission: Always free. Parking is $5, $2 off- peak.

Chicago Children’s Museum 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago (312) 527-1000 Free admission: 5-8 p.m. Thursdays; first Sunday of every month for kids 15 and under. Always free for kids under 1.

Field Museum

1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-9410 Free admission: Check website.

Museum of Contemporary Art 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago (312) 280-2660 Free admission: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Always free for kids 12 and under. Additionally, the second Saturday of every month from October through May is free for families with children ages 12 and under. Those days are: Oct. 11, Nov. 8, Dec. 13, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, March 14, April 11, May 9.

Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (773) 684-1414 Free admission: Sept. 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, 29; Oct. 6, 7; Nov. 3, 4; Dec. 8, 9.

National Museum of Mexican Art 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago (312) 738-1503 Free admission: Always free.

Notebaert Nature Museum

Chicago History Museum

2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago (773) 755-5100

1601 N. Clark St., Chicago (312) 642-4600

Free admission: Thursdays. Always free for kids under 3.

Free admission: Every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of the month in September.

Shedd Aquarium

Elmhurst Art Museum 150 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 Free admission: Fridays. Always free for kids 4 and under.

1200 S. Lake Shore Drive (312) 939-2438 Free admission: Sept. 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30; Oct. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28; Nov. 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30.

longhouse. Stop by the gift shop to purchase replica arrowheads, Professor Noggin’s card games, and books about French and Native American history. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free.

Jane Addams Hull-House Museum The University of Illinois at Chicago 800 S. Halsted St. Chicago (312) 413-5353 hullhousemuseum.org This museum offers both selfguided and guided tours. Visitors will find expanded exhibits on the life of Jane Addams and other Settlement residents, immigration in Chicago, and social change. Programs for children and families are available. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Public tours: 1 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday or by appointment. Admission: $5 suggested donation.

Joliet Area Historical Museum 204 N. Ottawa St. Joliet (815) 723-5201 jolietmuseum.org Located at the crossroads of Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway in the former 1909 Ottawa Street Methodist Church. Visitors walk through a scale replica of the Illinois & Michigan Canal, the crosscountry ancestor to Route 66; board a turn-of-the-century trolley and travel the streets of yesteryear in Joliet decades before Route 66 traversed downtown; and test their endurance landing the Apollo Lunar Module, a brainchild of Joliet native John C. Houbolt. Enjoy close-up views of the craftsmanship of century-old stained glass windows and take a mug shot with Joliet Jake and Elwood as you view artifacts from the former 1858 Illinois State Penitentiary. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6, $5 seniors, $4 students 18 and up, $3 kids 4-17, free kids 3 and under and members.

Lake County Discovery Museum Lakewood Forest Preserve Route 176, west of Fairfield Road Wauconda (847) 968-3400 lakecountydiscoverymuseum.org Be whooshed through 10,000

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MUSEUMS years of Lake County history, meet an 11-foot-tall mastodon and check out the world’s largest collection of picture postcards. Explore the prairie-themed Children’s Learning Gallery for kids 10 and under featuring a variety of hands-on activities including a puppet log, leaf-blowing stump and interactives designed to encourage exploration, help kids develop motor skills, express their creativity and learn about nature. The Children’s Learning Gallery is occasionally closed for education programs; call ahead. The museum is located in Lakewood, Lake County’s largest forest preserve, with picnic shelters, fishing ponds and trails. Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6, $2.50 kids 4-17, $3 students 18-25 and seniors, free kids 3 and under and members. Discount Tuesday $3, free kids 17 and under.

Lemont Area Historical Society & Museum 306 Lemont St. Lemont (630) 257-2972 lemonthistorical.org This museum is in the Old Stone Church, a recruiting station for the

house. At river level, visitors can view the massive gears of Chicago’s most famous movable bridge and then journey through time as they experience the story of the Chicago River. Once at the top of the bridgehouse, visitors are treated to magnificent 360 degree views of the city and river. On select dates, you can see the bridge gears at work as they lift the bridge. See website for lift schedule and other special events. Hours: Through Oct. 31. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Monday. Admission: $5, $4 kids 6-12 and seniors, free kids 5 and under, free Sundays; $10 bridge lifts.

Midway Village Museum

DuPage Children’s Museum, see page 30. Union Army during the Civil War. Inside see artifacts from the early 1800s, a general store, a medical office, an early 19th-century schoolroom and period toys. There is a Civil War exhibit on the lower level. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Call ahead on weekends to verify hours. Admission: $2, $1 kids.

McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum Michigan Avenue at Wacker Drive 376 N. Michigan Ave., Riverwalk Level Chicago (312) 977-0227 bridgehousemuseum.org Beginning at river level and spiraling five stories up, the museum provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore a historic landmark bridge-

6799 Guilford Road Rockford (815) 397-9112 midwayvillage.com Features 26 historical structures including a general store, hardware store, blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, town hall, police station, fire station, church, two barns and four farm houses. The Village is representative of a typical rural town in Northern Illinois at the end of the 19th century. Special events include World War II Days in September and Scarecrow Harvest Festival and All Hallows Eve in October. Visit the

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MUSEUMS website for details. Hours: Main Museum Center: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $7, $5 kids.

part in special programming for kids 2-6 called “Young Explorers Mondays.” Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $12, $10 seniors, $8 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under. Discounts for Chicago residents. Shows cost extra.

Mitchell Museum of the American Indian 3001 Central St. Evanston (847) 475-1030 mitchellmuseum.org Touch snakeskin, caribou fur, birch bark, turquoise and buffalo skin or sit inside a small wigwam. See temporary exhibits Storytelling: Inspiring Traditions for Generations and Moccasins: Steps Through Time. At Kids Craft Mornings, Saturdays from 11 a.m.-noon, and Sundays from 12:30-1:30 p.m., children learn about Native American culture through hands-on activities. Recommended for children ages 5 and up, but there is no minimum age requirement. Participants under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. No pre-registration is necessary. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5, $3 kids 17 and under, students and seniors. Free first Friday of the month. Free members and tribal members.

Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St. Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.com This outdoor living history museum is a place where the stories and people of our past come alive through award-winning familyfriendly exhibits, special events and programs. Hours: Through October: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. November: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. Exteriors of buildings available for touring. Admission: Through October: $12, $10 seniors, $8 kids 4-12, free kids under 4. November: $5.25, $4.75 seniors, $4 kids 4-12, free members and kids under 4. Free Naperville residents and members.

Raupp Memorial Museum 901 Dunham Lane Buffalo Grove (847) 459-2318 bgparks.org Experience a day in the life of an 1830s Native American child or a 1910 pioneer child. Museum features interactive exhibits where visitors can learn what grew in Potawatomi gardens, sit on a porch of an 1890s farmhouse, walk

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Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 N. Main St. Rockford (815) 965-3433 burpee.org Featuring Jane, the world’s most complete and best preserved juvenile T. rex and Homer, a teen-aged Triceratops. Burpee showcases a Fossil Prep Viewing Lab where patrons can see fossils being prepared for study and exhibit. Geoscience, the Green River Formation, and Native Americans of Northern Illinois are just a few of the other exhibits. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $8, $7 kids 4-12, free kids 3 and under.

Cernan Earth and Space Center at Triton College 2000 Fifth Ave. River Grove (708) 583-3100 triton.edu/cernan

Chicago History Museum, see page 31. through an old-fashioned general store, try Morse code at the Train Station and see a 1960s computer. Hours: 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MondayThursday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free.

The Grove 1421 Milwaukee Ave. Glenview (847) 299-6096 glenviewparks.org Peek into a tank full of turtles, touch a fossil, learn about pioneer and Native American life. The 135acre grounds have wetland, woodland and prairie areas. Discover the past at the Kennicott House. Visit the log cabin, longhouse and schoolhouse with costumed guides. Hours: The Interpretive Center and grounds are open to the public yearround, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MondayFriday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Historic tours are Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free; some programs and events cost extra.

Wilmette Historical Museum 609 Ridge Road Wilmette

(847) 853-7666 wilmettehistory.org The museum is located in the former Gross Point Village Hall, built in 1896. Stop in to explore more than six exhibit areas covering Wilmette and North Shore history. Kids especially love getting “locked up” in the original jail cell. Children can also join the “Junior History Club” and participate in local history-focused activities. Hours: 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday. Admission: Free; programs and events may cost extra.

SCIENCE

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 922-STAR (7827) adlerplanetarium.org See the stars and planets, and discover the thrills and dangers of being a space explorer at Adler, America’s first planetarium. While there, take a tour on Adler’s newest space adventure, Destination Solar System, where audiences tour the most spectacular sights in our celestial neighborhood. 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. every Monday, families can take

Visitors can get a crash course in astronomy and explore the wonders of the earth and universe by attending one of the programs offered. Hours: Call or check website. Admission: Earth & Sky shows: $8, $4 kids and seniors. Laser light shows: $10, $5 kids and seniors.

Dearborn Observatory at Northwestern University 2131 Tech Drive Evanston (847) 491-7650 ciera.northwestern.edu/observatory.php Historic telescope still in operation. Young eyes can roam the skies here every Friday night. Gaze through an 18.5-inch telescope, see planets and star formations, ask questions and get answers. Great for kids to spark an interest in science. Note that the building does not have an elevator. 8-9 p.m.: One hour session by reservation only. 9-10 p.m.: Walk-ins are welcome, but space in the dome is limited. Hours: 9-11 p.m. April 1-Sept. 30; 8-10 p.m. Oct. 1-March 31. Admission: Free.

Discovery Center Museum 711 N. Main St. Rockford

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MUSEUMS (815) 963-6769 discoverycentermuseum.org Kids can see what it’s like to be a news anchor, a farmer or an athlete as they explore more than 250 exhibits at this science-themed museum. Be sure to check out the permanent exhibit on agriculture with a real tractor to drive, a real bee hive and cows to “milk.” Outdoor park with two-story wooden maze included with admission. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $8 kids and adults, free kids 1 and under and members.

Field Museum 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 922-9410 fieldmuseum.org From ancient mummies to endangered plants to a complete T. rex, the museum boasts a treasury of 24 million specimens. The Crown Family PlayLab has six themed play areas and is perfect for younger kids. Kids can dig up dinosaur bones, grind corn in a pueblo and put on an animal costume. Many other areas of the museum also offer interactive elements for children. Check out Biomechanics: The Machine Inside through Jan.

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4. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Last admission at 4 p.m. Admission: $13-$31; visit website for pricing structure. Discounts available to Chicago residents.

Museum of Science and Industry

John G. Shedd Aquarium

See your heart beat 13-feet-tall. Manipulate a 40-foot tornado. Climb aboard a World War II German submarine. Plunge into a working coal mine. Dissect an eyeball. Step into the future. Discover permanent exhibits like Science Storms, YOU! The Experience and Future Energy Chicago, and hands-on “live science experiences” that happen multiple times daily. The Idea Factory caters to a range of kids—from infants to 10-yearolds. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Admission: Ticket packages begin at $18 for kids and go up to $36 for adults. Museum Entry is $11 for kids, $17 for seniors and $18 for adults. City of Chicago residents receive a discount on packages and Museum Entry. Parking $20.

1200 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 939-2438 sheddaquarium.org Visitors can discover the Pacific white-sided dolphins, beluga whales and sea lions in the Abbott Oceanarium and get a view from below after watching the multispecies aquatic show. In the Polar Play Zone, kids can get a diver’s eye view of all kinds of aquatic life, including penguins, sea otters, Pacific white-sided dolphins and beluga whales, plus they can touch a live sea star. Explore the Waters of the World in Shedd’s original galleries, see sharks swim around in the Wild Reef exhibit, feel a stingray in the seasonal Stingray Touch pool or stroke prehistoric sturgeon at the At Home on the Great Lakes gallery. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday and holidays. Admission: General Admission (original galleries only): $8, $6 kids. Total Experience pass: $39.95, $30.95 kids.

5700 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (773) 684-1414 msichicago.org

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum 2430 N. Cannon Drive Chicago (773) 755-5100 naturemuseum.org This is a lovely way to introduce children to nature. The highlight for

most children is the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven where butterflies from around the world fly free. There are also exhibits to climb in, splash in and explore an extreme green house. The museum offers a variety of daily events for children and adults, including animal feedings and butterfly releases. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $9, $7 seniors and students, $6 kids 3-12, free kids under 3.

Prehistoric Life Museum and Dave’s Down to Earth Rock Shop 704 Main St. Evanston (847) 866-7374 davesdowntoearthrockshop.com See the largest dinosaur egg in the world along with bones and fossils in this basement-level museum. Rocks and fossils are available for purchase at the store. Store is handicap and stroller friendly, but the downstairs museum is not. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Tuesday and Friday; 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Free.

SciTech Hands-On Museum 18 W. Benton St.

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MUSEUMS Aurora (630) 859-3434 scitechmuseum.org Experience 78 mph winds in the new Wild Winds exhibit, investigate the inside of a two-story tornado, build your own Imagination Playground and more. The museum teaches about science, technology, engineering and math with more than 150 interactive exhibits. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Admission: $8, $6 seniors, free kids 3 and under and members.

SPECIAL INTEREST

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum

ust g u A n Ope

Play with ideas, explore materials and tinker with tools!

Check it out at DiscoveryCenterMuseum.org 711 N. Main St. Rockford, IL 61103 discoverycentermuseum.org 815.963.6769 36 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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361 S. LaFox St. (Ill. 31) South Elgin (847) 697-4676 foxtrolley.org

Follow Abraham Lincoln through his boyhood years, the White House, the Civil War and his assassination. The museum immerses visitors in Lincoln’s world and time. Mrs. Lincoln’s Attic is a great place for the kids where they can try on period clothing, build a log cabin and do oldfashioned chores. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily with last admission at 4 p.m. Admission: $15, $12 seniors and students, $10 military, $6 kids 5-15, free kids 4 and under.

Air Classics Museum of Aviation

Illinois Railway Museum

Aurora Airport 44W546 U.S. 30 (one mile west of airport entrance) Sugar Grove (630) 466-0888 airclassicsmuseum.org

Sponsored by: The Kjellstrom Family Foundation

Fox River Trolley Museum

Take a ride into the past on the Fox River Line’s historic trolley cars, some of which are more than a century old. At Pumpkin Trolley (Oct. 13, 14, 20 and 21), ride an old-time electric trolley to the Pumpkin Patch and choose a pumpkin. At Halloween Haunted Ghost Story Train (Oct. 20 and 27), take a spooky ride on a “haunted” trolley along the Fox River to a campfire along the shore of the Fox complete with ghost stories, hot chocolate and s’mores. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays Oct. 13 and 20 and Sundays through Nov. 4. Admission: $4, $3 seniors 65+, $2 for kids 3-11, free kids under 3.

212 N. Sixth St. Springfield (800) 610-2094 presidentlincoln.illinois.gov

y4 r a u n a 23 – J

Getting There, Getting Water, Getting Rescued reveals 150 years of fire fighting history. Pass a leather fire bucket, see fire horse stalls and turn on a fire alarm, complete with ringing bells and a ticker-tape. See and hear how modern fire apparatus clears the streets with sirens, air horns and devices that change traffic lights green. Hours: 1-4 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Admission: $5, $3 kids.

At this aviation museum, visitors can get up close and personal with an A-7E Corsair II that flew in the Gulf War and climb into the pilot’s seat of a UH-1 Huey helicopter. The museum’s collection includes aircraft, vehicles, uniforms and other aviation memorabilia from the 1930s to the present. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $8, $5 kids 5-15 and seniors, free kids under 5 with parent.

Aurora Regional Fire Museum 53 N. Broadway Aurora (630) 892-1572 auroraregionalfiremuseum.org Located in Aurora’s 1894 Central Fire Station, the museum features a variety of interactive exhibits designed to educate and entertain children, families, and firefighters.

7000 Olson Road Union (800) BIG-RAIL (244-7245) (815) 923-4000 irm.org See, ride and experience America’s largest railway museum. Browse one of the largest collections of railroad memorabilia around, and enjoy fun family photo ops. Picnic and indoor dining areas available. On Oct. 25-26 at Trick or Treat Trolley, kids in costume get treats. Hours: Vary; see website. Season runs through October. Admission: Weekends in September: $14, $10 kids 3-11, max $50 family; weekends in October: $10, $7 kids 3-11, max $38 family.

International Museum of Surgical Science 1524 N. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 642-6502 imss.org Future doctors can glimpse the medical past, present and future. See an iron lung and enter a room full of X-rays. New interactive

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MUSEUMS exhibits especially for kids have fun activities including ‘makeyour-own-blood’ and ‘decode the disease’ games that showcase medical careers. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Last admission one hour before closing. Admission: $15, $10 students and seniors, $7 kids 4-13, free kids 3 and under. Free Tuesdays.

through farmland 30 feet over Yellow Creek. The museum across the street features antiques and memorabilia from Freeport from the early 1900s. Open Oct. 4-5 and 18-19. Train of Terror runs 6-10 p.m. on Oct. 11, 18, and 25 ($8). Hours: Open 11 a.m.-4 p.m. select weekends and holidays through October. Admission: Museum: $4, free kids under 12. Train rides: $7, $3 kids under 12.

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park) Elmhurst (630) 833-1616 lizzadromuseum.org Rocks are hot here, from meteorites to gemstones. See more than 200 pieces of jade and the Castle Lizzadro, which is carved out of gold. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5, $4 seniors 60+, $3 students and teens, $2 kids 7-12, free kids under 7. Free Fridays.

National Hellenic Museum 333 S. Halsted St. Chicago (312) 655-1234 nationalhellenicmuseum.org The only major museum in the U.S. dedicated to telling the story of the

Volo Auto Museum 27582 Volo Village Road Volo (815) 385-3644 volocars.com

Burpee Museum of Natural History, see page 34. Greek American experience, from ancient history to modern immigrant stories. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $10, $8 seniors and students, $7 kids 3-12, free kids under 3.

Silver Creek & Stephenson Railroad 2954 S. Walnut Road Freeport (800) 369-2955 thefreeportshow.com A standard-gauge steam train pulls three open cars and three cabooses

See the Midwest’s largest allindoor vintage, collector and Hollywood car collection. This multimillion dollar display includes the Batmobile, Ghostbusters Ecto-1, Flintstones-mobile, Bugs Bunny, Ninja Turtle Van, Herbie and numerous family-friendly exhibits. Expansive military museum included with admission. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $13.95, $11.95 seniors 65+ and veterans/military with ID, $8.95 kids 6-12, free kids under 5 and military in uniform.

DISCOVER THE PLACE WHERE AWESOME LIVES. Every one of our 17 interactive exhibits is a play station that ignites curiosity, inspires imagination and stirs creativity. We’re not just a kid’s museum – we’re an incubator for transforming young minds into creative thinkers, learners, and leaders. Now through November 2, explore Science + You, a child-sized laboratory where kids become little scientists. Discover for yourself just how powerful play can be. 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | (847) 832-6600 | kcmgc.org

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GOING PLACES

Chicago Grammar School

Celebrating Student Achievement: 2014 CGS Honor Wall 1st Place 2014! CGS Certamen Team wins Chicago Regional Junior High Division

US Kangaroo Math 2014 Winners - CGS students place 16th and 17th nationally!

National Latin Exam 2014 - CGS students receive Outstanding Achievement Awards

The CGS Class of 2014 will be attending North Side Prep, Jones College Prep and St. Ignatius in the Fall. Best wishes for their continued academic success!

CGS Student wins Top Prize in UK Based 2014 Minimus Mythology Competition

Illinois Kangaroo Math 2014 Winners CGS students place in the Top 15 in the State

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610

The

ACHIEVEMENT LIKE THIS BEGINS WITH PRESCHOOL Come to a Fall 2014 Information Night and discover CGS. Oct 23, Nov 11 & Dec 10. Call to reserve.

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org

Congratulations to our students! On the Iowa Test of Basic Skills May 2014, CGS class scores ranged from the 98th to 99th percentiles.

Preschool at CGS ...begin the Chicago Grammar School experience.

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, our program sparks children’s curiosity, enabling them to experience the world purposefully, acquire social skills and build the necessary foundation for a successful and joyful academic journey.

Join us for our information nights: Oct. 23, Nov. 11, Dec. 10 Follow us on Facebook

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610 38 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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• Active learning • Creative play • Daily art and gym classes • Nurturing environment with low student/teacher ratio • Half, full and extended day option • Private log-in for daily photo/narrative reports

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org ChicagoParent.com

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Family-friendly urban adventures

city

In this section 40 Water Tower Place 42 Landmarks 44 Sightseeing and tours 45 A posh outing

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CITY

THE ART OF DR. SEUSS GALLERY

than a mall

hen you think of Water Tower Place, you probably think about an upscale mall in the heart of the Magnificent Mile (or a place to duck inside when you unexpectedly get caught in the rain). And while that’s certainly true—the seven-story shopping center houses such high-end names as Henri Bendel and Armani Exchange—it’s more than just a mall. It’s also a place that makes an effort to appeal to kids of all types (and cut down on the whining on behalf of all parents). Next time you’re on Michigan Avenue, here are some spots to check out.

Elizabeth Diffin

For the athlete

Ever dreamed of testing your jump shot against Jordan’s or blocking a puck shot by Patrick Kane? Check out the Chicago Sports Museum, which highlights

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the Chicago teams and personalities we hold dear. Kids will love learning from some of the greats, playing with the sports simulators, impersonating Harry Caray in the announcer’s booth,

CHICAGO SPORTS MUSEUM

and blowing up the infamous “Bartman Ball” from 2003. Admission is $6, but the fee is waived if you spend at least that much per person at the adjoining Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch restaurant (try the delicious Mac ‘n Cheese Muffins!).

Other stores for the kid set: ■ abercrombie ■ Adidas

Sports Performance Store ■ Billabong ■ Campus Colors ■ S.A. Elite Sports Authority ChicagoParent.com

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CITY frontman Dee Snider take on some carols with “Dee Snider’s Rock and Roll Christmas Tale” (Nov. 4-Jan. 4).

For the smarty pants

2014 AMERICAN GIRL

For the girly-girl

When American Girl Place moved across Michigan Avenue in 2008, it helped usher in a new family-friendly era at Water Tower Place. The huge store is every little girl’s dream (or grown-up girl, for that matter). The downstairs is devoted to the company’s historical characters and Bitty Baby dolls, while the second floor displays the popular Girl of the Year dolls and personalized My American Girl collection. There are events—both free and paid—every month, including crafts and activities. Be sure to check out Avenue AG, which features specialty shops, a doll hospital and hair salon, plus the American Girl Café. And did we mention lots of pink?

For the architect-intraining Is there anything worse than losing that one key piece of a Lego kit? Stop by The Lego Store’s Pick-a-Brick Wall, which features all manner (and color) of Lego bricks, so your kid can finally complete that Lego mas-

THE LEGO STORE

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terpiece they’ve been obsessing over. Kids can also build right in the store, thanks to circular tables that hold legions of Legos (there’s a Duplo table, too, for little ones). For an inexpensive outing, don’t forget the free monthly building events for kids 6-14. Plus, the Lego-made skyline makes for a colorful and kid-sized photo op.

Marbles the Brain Store may promise to build your brain, but we can guarantee it’s the most fun mental exercise you’ll ever get. Brush up on your critical thinking, word skills, memory, visual perception and coordination, all thanks to games, puzzles and books you’ll love. Lots of the games are available for handson testing, and the friendly staff are always willing to explain the rules. And since the games are designed for kids and adults alike, you’ll never get bored

MARBLES: THE BRAIN STORE

For the drama queen

Most malls aren’t also home to a Broadway-caliber theater, but Water Tower Place isn’t most malls. The Broadway Playhouse stages shows throughout the year, including some that are kid-friendly. This fall, the classic fairytale of candy-craving Hansel and Gretel gets transformed into an all-ages rock musical called “Hansel & Gretel: A Wickedly Delicious Musical Treat,” under the supervision of Emerald City Theatre’s Ernie Nolan and Grammy-nominated performer Justin Roberts (Nov. 22-Jan. 4). And come the holidays, you can see Twisted Sister

in this store. Bonus: if you’re looking for some out-of-thebox gift ideas, this is the place to visit (where else would you find something called “The Four Square Kit with a Wonky Bit”?).

AMY BOYLE

For the book worm

Once you see the Horton statue, you immediately know The Art of Dr. Seuss Gallery isn’t your typical snooty art gallery (plus, it’s free!). The small storefront features both well-known sketches from Theodor Seuss Geisel as well as some more obscure ones—and a whole antler collection inspired by Geisel’s father’s work at a zoo. The gallery just opened in June, but already is planning monthly events geared toward families, such as coloring contests and scavenger hunts. This fall, celebrate the 75th anniversary of Seuss’ book The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins by checking out the temporary exhibit “Hats Off to Dr. Seuss!,” which will include Geisel’s never-before-seen hat collection (Sept. 19-Oct. 12).

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CITY LANDMARKS

360 CHICAGO 875 N. Michigan Ave. (888) 875-VIEW (8439) jhochicago.com 360 CHICAGO (formerly John Hancock Observatory) sits in the heart of the city, a thousand feet up, and features TILT, an enclosed glass platform allowing visitors to extend out and over the Magnificent Mile. The adventure begins with a 40-second thrill ride up 1,000 feet in North America’s fastest elevator. On the 94th floor, guests can enjoy 360 degree views, as well as interactive learning opportunities in seven languages, a café and gift shop. Hours: 9 a.m.-11 p.m. (Last ticket sold at 10:30 p.m.) The best time to visit is 9-11 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to catch sunsets and starry skylines. Admission: $18 ages 12 and up, $12 kids 3-11, free kids under 3. Total Tower Experience (includes audio tour and a gift) $28; $22. Fast pass express entry $35; Sun & Stars pass (re-entry within 48 hours) $24.50; $18.50.

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Company, see page 46. (312) 595-PIER (7437) navypier.com More than 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, restaurants and attractions, as well as an

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave.

array of family-oriented events and attractions. The pier is home to the Chicago Children’s Museum, IMAX Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, the iconic Navy Pier Ferris

wheel and Amazing Chicago, a 4,000-square-foot maze. Also, many pleasure boats dock at Navy Pier and offer everything from dinner cruises to speedboat rides. Hours:

A POWERFUL EDUCATION IN THINKING FOR LIFE

ncona educators tap into each individual child’s innate gifts and guide them toward a

lifelong love of

learning. Built on the time-tested principles of Montessori education, Ancona is a transformational journey that builds on the wonder inside young learners and teaches them how to soar.

Now enrolling three-, four- and five-year-olds ready to move the world!*

Register for an upcoming Open House or Admissions Coffee at anconaschool.org/apply or contact admissions at 773.924.2356. *New all-day, all-year/dual language Montessori options.

Apply online on or after September 1, 2014

The Ancona School • 4770 South Dorchester Ave. • Chicago, IL 60615 • P: 773.924.2356 • F: 773.924.8905 • www.anconaschool.org

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CITY

SURE, AT FIRST I WAS A LITTLE TAKEN ABACK BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. SURE, BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AT FIRST WAS HANGING A LITTLEOUT TAKEN ABACK ANDI NOW WITH HIM BY THE WHOLE PEEING STANDING UP THING. IS THE BEST PART OF MY DAY. BUT I TAUGHT HIM TO THROW A STICK AND NOW HANGING OUT —WITH HIM EINSTEIN IS THE BEST PART OFadopted MY DAY.12-09-10 — EINSTEIN adopted 12-09-10

• Full day Pre-K & Kindergarten • Low student/teacher ratio • Foreign Language, Music, Choir, Band, Art • Physical Education & Athletic Teams • Excellent test scores & top high school placement

A Comprehensive Catholic Education for Pre Kindergarten through 8th Grade www.stjosaphat.net 2245 North Southport Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60614 773-549-0909 phone 773-549-3127 fax Call to register for a tour: sept 17th, oCt 15th, Nov 19th, DeC 10th JaN 21st.

More Than an Award Winning Education

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CITY

360 CHICAGO, see page 42. Check website. Admission: Free admission. Fees for parking and attractions.

Skydeck Chicago 233 S. Wacker Drive Enter on Jackson Boulevard, (south side of building), between Wacker Drive and Franklin Street (312) 875-9696 theskydeck.com Step out onto The Ledge, glass balconies that extend more than four feet outside of Willis Tower and Chicago is literally at your feet, 1,353 feet below. Watch the trains, expressways and river traffic from 103 floors above the Loop. Print out a kids’ scavenger hunt from the website and see whether your family can spot Lincoln Park Zoo, Wrigley Field and other landmarks. “Knee-High Chicago” exhibits are geared toward kids. The elevators travel at 1,600 feet per minute. Hours: 9 a.m.-10 p.m. April-September and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. OctoberMarch. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing. Admission: $19, $12 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under.

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SIGHTSEEING AND TOURS

Antique Coach and Carriage Board at the southeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Huron Street (773) 735-9400 for reservations antiquecoach-carriage.com Experience the city 19th-century style in an antique Victorian carriage. Choose your own routes in open and closed carriages. Hours: Monday-Friday evenings only. Saturday and Sunday days and evenings. Pick-ups and drop-offs available. Call for times. Admission: $100 per hour, $80 per 45 minutes, $50 per half-hour, $40 for 20 minutes for up to four people. Additional $5 per person for a total of six people per ride.

Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady 224 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 922-3432 architecture.org River cruises depart from Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, just north of Millennium Park. Docents provide the 90-minute tour with

entertaining and fact-filled commentary on Chicago’s architecture. Hours: Season runs through Nov. 23; check website for times. Admission: $37.85.

Chicago by Night! Riverside Gardens Dock at the lower level and southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue bridge and Wacker Drive (312) 332-1353 mercuryskylinecruiseline.com Timed to coincide with the sunset, the 90-minute river and lake cruise provides sunset views of Chicago ‘s skyline. The highlight of the trip is a brief stop near Buckingham Fountain at 9 p.m. to view the nightly light show. Hours: 8 p.m. weekends Sept. 2-Oct. 3. Admission: $32, $12 kids under 12, free kids under 3.

Chicago Detours 30 E. Adams St., Suite 425 (312) 350-1131 chicagodetours.com Offers guided tours of architecture, history and culture to explore stories and places locals don’t even know. Kids enjoy the use of shared iPads with historic photos

and video clips. The interior tours make for great rainy day (or sunny day!) options for exploring downtown and learning about Chicago history. The Loop Interior Architecture Tour uses secret shortcuts and underground passages to explore Chicago from the inside, including the mostly underground Pedway System. You’ll comfortably spend less than five minutes outdoors during this two-hour tour. Hours: 11 a.m. Monday; 10 a.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 3 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Saturday; 1:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $26, $24 student/senior, $18 kids 5 and up, free kids under 5.

Chicago Food Planet Food Tours 830 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 445-9948 chicagofoodplanet.com Three-hour food tasting and cultural walking tours combine delicious food and drink tastings in Chicago’s Chinatown, Bucktown/ Wicker Park, Gold Coast/Old Town and Lincoln Park neighborhoods. Suitable for all age groups and fitness levels. Experience foods from specialty food stores and ethnic eateries while receiving an

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CITY

A posh outing

for American families

ith a Starbucks on practically every corner, it’s easy to figure out where to go for a decent cup of coffee. But a spot of tea? It’s a whole other story. That’s where Spencer’s Jolly Posh Foods comes in. The airy Lakeview tea shop and café is the perfect spot to indulge your inner Anglophile—and bring your little tykes along for some culture at the same time. Owner Nicholas Spencer, himself a father of two young girls (and a native Brit), designed the shop with families in mind. That’s why the store has easy stroller access via a ramp, changing tables in both the men’s and women’s restrooms, ergonomic high chairs, and decidedly British children’s books to keep the kids entertained while they’re waiting for their food. Spencer also assured us that his staff understands children’s behavior (good or bad), an assertion that was put to the test when a certain 2-year-old I know flung a ceramic plate off the table. The shards were cleaned up in a very no-muss-no-fuss way that saved us from too much

embarrassment—although not him from the ensuing timeout. As far as food, the restaurant offers classic sandwiches and salads with British flair (and names), from the Cheese Ploughman’s to the Cheeky Coronation Chicken Curry. Most selections can be simplified for the younger set, and there are also homemade sausages that are popular with kids.

The real highlight is the afternoon tea, which also has a children’s version. While the adults enjoyed finger sandwiches in some fancier varieties, the kids couldn’t get over their luck in eating “chocolate sandwiches” (aka Nutella) for lunch. We also found the scones with Devon clotted cream to be a delight, as well as the mugs of steaming hot Irish tea (the kids enjoyed a black currant cordial that’s popular on the other side of the pond). At $19 per adult and $12.50 per child, the afternoon tea might be better for special occasions (or for bringing grandma along). Jolly Posh also offers typically British foodstuffs for sale, including tea bags, spice mixes and hard ciders. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to check out the extensive selection of popular British candy. The boys would recommend the Cadbury Chocolate Buttons—a perfectly sized treat to end our day in the U.K. Elizabeth Diffin ■ Spencer’s

Jolly Posh Foods ■ 3755 N. Southport Ave., Chicago ■ (872) 802-3840 ■ jollyposh.com Fall 2014 • goingplaces 45

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CITY insiders’ view into the culture, history and architecture that defines the Windy City. Tours are appropriate for children, but may be best for older kids. Hours: Tours available through mid-November. Admission: $45-$55 depending on tour; $15-$35 children and teens, depending on tour and age.

Chicago Grand Tour (888) 881-3284 chicagotours.us This tour covers both the North and South sides of Chicago, passing through the parks, outer Lake Shore Drive and stopping at the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Also offered with a stop at the John Hancock Tower ($5 extra). Hours: 9:30 a.m.,11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. through September; 10 a.m. and noon October-May. Admission: $49.95, $23.95 kids 5-14, free kids under 5. Tours include free pickup at downtown Chicago hotels. $5 off each adult ticket booked online.

Chicago Line Cruises 465 N. McClurg Court (312) 527-2002 chicagoline.com The 90-minute Architectural Cruise

travels the Chicago River and covers notable buildings along the way. The Historical Cruise, also 90 minutes, is done with the Chicago History Museum and includes the river and lake. Guides discuss architecture and the history of Chicago from early settlements to the Chicago fire to the World’s Fair. Reservations are recommended. Free snacks and drinks available. Hours: Sailing season runs through November. Check website for seasonal tour times. Admission: $40, $33 seniors, $23 kids 7-18, free kids 6 and under.

Chicago North Side Tour and Chicago South Shore Tour Board at Chicago hotels (888) 881-3284 chicagotours.us The Chicago North Side Tour includes the Lincoln Park Conservatory and the Magnificent Mile. The South Shore Tour includes the Museum of Science and Industry and Jackson Park. Hours: North Side Tour: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. October-late May; 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. late May-September. South Shore Tour: Noon October-May and 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. June-Sep-

tember. Admission: $32.95, $13.95 kids 5-14, free 4 and under. $5 off online.

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Company Various pick-up and drop-off spots around Chicago (773) 648-5000 chicagotrolley.com Learn about Chicago on these twohour tours with 13 stops on the Signature tour, Neighborhood Tours to the North, South and West areas (through Sept. 30) and the City Lights Night Tour offering a view of the city all lit up in the evening (through Sept. 30). Avoid crowds by going weekday mornings. Tickets can be purchased at the Explore Store at Block 37, the Park Shop at Millennium Park and online. Hours: Boarding times start at 9 a.m. daily and the last pick up is at 5 p.m. Admission: $18-$45. Discounts are available when booking online.

Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline Southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue bridge and Wacker Drive

(312) 332-1353 mercurycruises.com The Urban Adventure Package Cruise includes admission to the John Hancock Observatory. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily through October. Admission: Call or check website.

Mystic Blue Cruises Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (877) 299-7783 mysticbluecruises.com Buffet, DJ entertainment and amazing skyline views. Take it all in during a lunch, brunch, dinner or blue after-dark moonlight cruise. Mystic also features holiday and specialty cruises throughout the year. Hours: Cruises year-round. Lunch: noon-2:30 p.m.; dinner: 6-8:30 p.m.; brunch: 12:30-3 p.m. All cruise times subject to change. Admission: $42-$47 for lunch, kids 3-12 are 40 percent off; $64-$99 for dinners, no discount for kids.

Noble Horse 820 N. Michigan Ave.

312.266.3381 catherinecookschool.org

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CITY (312) 266-7878 noblehorsechicago.com/carriages.html

$72-$104 for dinners, no discount for kids.

Catch an old-fashioned carriage ride at the corner of Michigan and Pierson. Carriages are stationed at 820 N. Michigan Ave. Go for a noisy city ride or enjoy a calm lakeside drive. Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.-midnight daily; horses do not go out during weekday rush hour. Admission: $80 per hour, $60 for 45 minutes, $40 per halfhour for up to four people.

Tall Ship Windy Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 451-2700 tallshipwindy.com During the 75-minute sail on Chicago’s very own tall ship, passengers are encouraged to help hoist the sails and pass commands from deck to deck. Windy sails with the wind, making every sail different. Most days you could find a “pirate” or a 19th Century sailor telling stories of Great Lakes history, real life piracy and ghostly happenings. Tickets are sold online or at the Windy Ticket Booth, located at Navy Pier. Hours: Season runs through October. Check website for specific sailing times. Admission: $30-45, $25-40 seniors and students, $10-25 kids 3-12, $1 kids 24 months and under.

O’Leary’s Chicago Fire Truck Tours Board at Michigan Avenue and Illinois Street (312) 287-6565 olearysfiretours.com Ride on an antique fire truck for a 60-minute tour and see two Chicago firehouses, the old Water Tower and the Pumping Station. Commentary covers the history of the fire department and the Great Chicago Fire. Board near the InterContinental Hotel, 505 N. Michigan Ave. New team member is Brady the fire dog. Hours: By appointment only. Tours are weather permitting. Admission: Call or check website.

Odyssey Cruises Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (866) 305-2469 odysseycruises.com Enjoy dinner, dancing and skyline views aboard the all new Odyssey II. The newly renovated Odyssey features new menu choices, handcrafted cocktails and interior and exterior upgrades. Hours: Cruises year-round. Dinner: 7-11 p.m.; lunch: 12:15-3 p.m.; brunch: 12:15-3 p.m. All cruise times subject to change. Admission: Prices run $51-$64 for lunch, kids 3-12 are 40 percent off; $89-$129 for dinner, no discounts for kids.

Seadog Speedboat Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 822-7200 seadogcruises.com Learn Chicago trivia and see the sights on board this exciting yellow speedboat, weather permitting. The 75-minute Lake and River Architectural Tours include up-close views and interesting Chicago history. The Lakefront tours include a 30-minute speedboat ride accompanied with a narrated tour of the skyline. With the most horsepower, Seadog Extreme features a more intense

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Chicago Detours, see page 44. and jet-propelled experience along the lakefront. Must be 48 inches or taller to ride Seadog Extreme. Reservations not required. Hours: Vary per cruise. Call for times. Boat tours run through October. Admission: $22.95-$38.95.

Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tours 401 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 222-9328 shorelinesightseeing.com One-hour cruises, led by professional and entertaining guides, highlight more than 40 landmark buildings. Learn how Chicago rose from the ashes of the Great Fire to become the home of the skyscraper and the birthplace of modern American architecture. Hours: Daily service with multiple departures from 10 a.m. through November at the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the Chicago River, or from Gateway Park at Navy Pier. Admission: Check website.

Shoreline Sightseeing Classic Lake Tours Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 222-9328 shorelinesightseeing.com Enjoy a panoramic Lake Michigan boat tour complete with professional narration on Chicago’s colorful history and famous landmarks.

U.S. Cellular tour Hours: Half-hour tours depart from Navy Pier April through October. Admission: Check website.

Slice of Chicago Pizza Tours River North (exact location provided upon reservation) (312) 623-9292 sliceofchicagopizzatours.com These pizza tours are family and kid-friendly events. Tours combine the tasting of several deep-dish pizzas with fun, historical information on the history of each pizzeria and its founder. The walking distance is fairly short and the tour time is short enough to keep everyone’s attention. Hours: Season runs through October. 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Private tours available for parties of eight or more. Admission: $45, free kids 5 and under if they share pizza with adult.

Spirit of Chicago Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (866) 273-2469 spiritofchicago.com Year-round cruises offer dining, dancing, entertainment and spectacular views on lunch, brunch, dinner, moonlight and specialty cruises. Hours: Cruises year-round. Lunch: noon-2:30 p.m.; brunch: noon-2:30 p.m.; dinner: 6:30-10 p.m. All hours subject to change. Admission: Prices run $37-$54 for lunch, kids 3-12 are 40 percent off;

333 W. 35th St. (312) 674-1000 chicago.whitesox.mlb.com Tours include the home dugout, the press box, the field, the suites and the Stadium Club. Advance reservations required. For younger children who might find the 75-minute tour too long, field visits where they visit the dugout can be scheduled. Hours: 10:30 a.m. game days; 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. non-game days. Year-round, weather-permitting. Admission: Call for suggested donation.

Wendella Sightseeing Boats 400 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 337-1446 wendellaboats.com or chicagowatertaxi. com Try the family-friendly and affordable new 45-minute Chicago River Experience Tour or the original 90-minute lake and river tour, a fun overview of Chicago featuring a trip through the Chicago Lock and Lake Michigan. For a more in-depth tour, try the 75-minute Chicago River Architecture tour. Buy tickets online or over the phone. Firework tours every Wednesday and Saturday. Hours: Call or check website for times. Season runs through November. Admission: Lake and River tour and Architecture Tour: $30; $27 seniors, $15 kids 11 and under, free kids under 3. Chicago River Experience Tour: $17, $15 seniors, $6 kids 11 and under, free kids under 3.

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GOING PLACES

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Day trips to week-long getaways

travel caption, see page xx.

In this section 51 Sail away for family fun 56 Cheyenne, Wyoming 59 Wildlife Prairie Park 61 Endangered apes in Indianapolis

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TRAVEL

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Fall Fun

MAKE

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September & October For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com 50 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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TRAVEL

SAIL AWAY for family fun

ost cruises take you to warm weather destinations, but in this edition of Going Places we thought we’d tell you about both cold and warm weather cruises. Disney has used the popularity of the movie “Frozen” to develop a cruise through Norway inspired by the land of the movie. If you’d rather seek out the warmth, we’ve got some great ideas on Caribbean cruises that take travelers to tropical areas and beaches.

C Ch hicca ag goP oPa arre ren entt..cco om ChicagoParent.com

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TRAVEL

A “FROZEN” TREK

through Norway

hen Disney does something, it always does it big. The megahit animated movie “Frozen” is just one case in point. There’s a movie, music, princesses, products and a tour through Norway. That’s right. It’s possible to accompany Disney to see the land that inspired “Frozen.” Adventures by Disney, the land-based travel company that runs group tours in 28 destinations around the world, now runs weeklong trips through Norway.

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While the “Yore Way to Norway” trip doesn’t really have enough “Frozen” moments to keep an Annaand-Elsa-crazed fan happy, it does have incredible scenery, speedboat rides on a fjord, the chance to pet baby goats on a working Norwegian farm and the

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TRAVEL constant attention of two terrific tour guides. The trip starts in beautiful Bergen, a port city on the west coast of Norway, then moves on to a week spent on a comfortable touring bus interrupted by stops to speed across a fjord, paddle up close to a glacier, hike to a waterfall and taste some local specialties (reindeer meatballs, anyone?) before ending in Oslo. Only one stop had a close connection to “Frozen”—the nearly 800-year-old Borgund Stave Church that served as the visual inspiration for the castle in “Frozen.”

The bus rides are punctuated by drives up and over or through the Norwegian mountains. On one day alone, we drove through 39 tunnels, which was much less impressive than the times we drove over the mountains, gawking at the incredible views while our bus driver negotiated hairpin turns on what amounted to one-lane roads. This is not a trip for the claustrophobic or faint of stomach. The only day when the bus ride was scheduled to be longer than two hours without a break, we were entertained by a movie. You

guessed it: “Frozen.” Still, land tours are only as good as the guides who lead them. In this case both of ours were Disney-certified winners. Their job—and they did it oh-so-well—is to make sure everyone, kids and parents alike, have fun and get a real vacation. That meant they did everything from coordinating the pickup and delivery of our luggage to our room at night to phoning ahead to see about any special requests made by the group, to herding us all from one spot to the next. Around every corner, there’s another natural

Adventures by Disney ■ adventuresbydisney.com

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marvel—a steep drop into a lush valley, another rushing waterfall, an evergreen covered mountain, a fog draped road, patches of snow (in mid-June) on the rock outcroppings, a curved road that hugs the top edge of the mountain, a glacier, another hairpin turn in the highway, another UNESCO heritage site. The “Frozen” Norway tour is recommended only for kids age 6 and older. We had one 6-year-old on our tour and she was a real trooper. But the historic and cultural emphasis of this tour make it a better fit for older kids, teens and even adults looking for a luxury tour of Norway. Younger kids might find the northern European Disney cruise that will launch in 2015 a better bet. Not only is there a good chance Anna and Elsa will make an appearance on board, but there’s also no need to pack a bag and change hotels every couple of nights. And any bus rides will be short daytrips in port. Cindy Richards

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TRAVEL

WARM UP WITH

Royal Caribbean family cruise

hen we left O’Hare, Chicago was still in the grip of the polar vortex. By the time we set sail on The Navigator of the Seas from Galveston, Texas, it was so foggy we couldn’t see land. But once we docked at our first shore excursion of Roatan, Honduras, the weather had reached perfection—especially as a getaway from the often-harsh weather of Illinois. The Navigator of the Seas is one of the newly renovated ships that are part of Royal Caribbean’s Voyager Class fleet. Although the ship features some of the amenities you can find on any cruise ship—swimming pools, a casino and numerous highquality restaurants—it’s also specifically targeted to active families. The family focus is clear thanks to a rock climbing wall that lets you ascend more than 150 feet above sea level, a nine-hole miniature golf course, and a surf simulator called FlowRider.

Navigator of the Seas ■ royalcaribbean.com

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There’s also an indoor ice skating rink (also used for a Capades-esque ice show during the week) to stay active if the weather doesn’t quite cooperate. Our shore excursions, scheduled through Royal Caribbean’s partners, also kept us moving (which was somewhat necessary, considering the sumptuous feasts we were served onboard!). The highlight definitely was our adventure, courtesy of Chukka, both above and below the jungles of Belize (ages 8 and up). After an hour-long bus ride away from the city, we climbed a path through the palm greenery before coasting down five different ziplines. Next, we put on our bathing suits for a little cave tubing—floating along in

the chilly water of Belize’s crystal caves that used to be used for Mayan worship. But never fear, other shore excursions aren’t quite as extreme. We also enjoyed a lazy beach day, complete with a visit to an animal rehabilitation facility, in Honduras, and exploration of the ancient Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico. Back on the ship, there are plenty of other options for kids and adults separately (what parent couldn’t use a little alone time?). Children’s programming starts at 6 months in the Royal Babies & Tots drop-off nursery, and continues through age 17 thanks to the Adventure Ocean and Teen Programs

offered on the ship. Structured activities range from art and music to scavenger hunts and games, plus themed nights (Pirate Night, Space Night). And for some family togetherness, there’s always bedtime stories in the Adventure Family Library or movies on the outdoor big screen. Watching a movie while floating in the pool— what could be better? Unfortunately, we eventually did have to return to a sedentary (and cold!) Chicago winter. But for one blissful week, we were able to enjoy some luxuriously warm weather and all the fun activities that go along with it. Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

Holidays At The Lake Create special memories and new traditions that will last a lifetime with a holiday getaway at The Abbey Resort.

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WISCONSIN’S CRANBERRY COUNTRY

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TRAVEL

The tamer side OF

D W L I ES T W E H T

f the 400+ photos of the sky on my camera are any indication, Wyoming truly is ‘big sky country.’ For Chicagoans, whose view of the sky is generally the skyline, seeing wide open country with the Rocky Mountains on one side and rolling hills on the other was a gorgeous sight my daughter and I couldn’t get enough of on our recent vacation to Cheyenne. Cheyenne, a small historic town nestled near the Colorado border, takes visitors back to the old wild west with its historic buildings and tales of famous western characters who visited. We started our trip with a horsedrawn carriage ride through the downtown, which is filled with giant painted cowboy boots and westernstyle stores. We decided after

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that to make our trip primarily an outdoor adventure, so the next morning we headed to Bit-OWy ranch for a horseback ride. Unlike trail rides around the Midwest, this one took us out into open country, where we went up and down hills and even jumped a small creek. After lunch at the nearby Bunkhouse Bar and

Grill, which is so typical Wyoming it’s not unusual to find a guest’s horse tied up outside, we headed to the nearby state park to hike. Cheyenne is less than half an hour from Curt Gowdy State Park and the Vedauwoo Recreation Area. While we were fascinated to watch experienced climbers heading straight up the rock cliffs, we opted for an easy walk along a well-marked trail. The trail was filled with beautiful rock formations, beaver dams and even grazing cows. We also drove north of Cheyenne to Fort Laramie, a military outpost from the 1800s, but found it geared more toward adults. However, nearby Register Cliff was fascinating. Pioneers carved their names in the limestone cliffs to let the family and friends who followed know they had made it that far. We saw name etchings dating back to the early 1800s, as well as the wagon ruts permanently dug into the rocks from the wagon trains on their trek west.

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TRAVEL

caption, see page xx. The town of Cheyenne itself also has lots to offer, especially for families with young children. From botanic gardens with a children’s play area to several western museums, you don’t even have to leave town to entertain your crew. My cowgirl loved having a hat custom-steamed for her at the Wrangler store and bought some western boots to complete the outfit. We also headed a few miles down the road to the Terry Bison ranch, where guests

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can ride a train through the bison herd and feed the bison, who come right up to the train for treats and petting. (Plus some cowboy train robbers hold up the train along the way and a shootout ensues, which the kids on the train loved.) It’s easy to get around Cheyenne—all the museums are nearby, there are trolleys and horse-drawn carriages, and parking is abundant. There are many hotels on the edge of town—we stayed courtesy of Days Inn, which had bunk beds in addition to two queen beds in the room—and more hotels are in the process of being built. If you have a budding cowgirl or cowboy, this is the place for them to really experience the west as it used to be, with all the conveniences of modern day life. For more details to plan your trip, visit cheyenne.org. Liz DeCarlo

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TRAVEL

715.479.5778

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•

blackbearlodge.com

•

1330 Halberstadt Road

•

St. Germain, WI

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TRAVEL

WILDLIFE PRAIRIE PARK

offers fun for all ages

ne warm evening, I found myself sitting at a picnic table under the stars, a forested area behind me and a herd of bison grazing in a field in front of me. Nearby, nine happy children ran in and out of four old train cabooses, screaming and having the time of their lives. Three of my friends and I, along with all of our children, decided to take advantage of a unique lodging opportunity offered at Wildlife Prairie Park, near Peoria, about two-and-ahalf hours southwest of Chicago. The Santa Fe Train Cabooses were our home for the evening. Each caboose can comfortably sleep five people and are one of several unique, reasonably priced overnight accom-

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modations inside the park. They are nestled between Caboose Lake and a field dozens of bison and elk call home. While we grilled our dinner, the kids—and adults—were delighted to get an up-close look at the animals grazing mere feet away. My kids, Madeline, 6, and Maxwell, almost 3, loved sleeping in the cabooses. Although they aren’t luxurious, they are clean and functional, with a bathroom, shower and mini-refrigerator. While the cabooses are only available to rent AprilOctober, other year-round overnight accommodations are available, including Cabin on the Hill and Prairie Stables. Although sleeping in the cabooses was probably the highlight of our overnight stay for the nine kids, there were many other things the kids enjoyed doing. Max loved riding the small-scale train, which loops from one end of the park to the other. The younger kids also liked walking through the exhibits of animals native to Illinois, including a bear, cougar, bobcat, coyote and fox, wolves and bald eagles. The kids loved petting small ponies and feeding the goats as well as walking

Wildlife Prairie Park ■ wildlifeprairiepark.org

through the butterfly habitat.. A highlight he for some of the as the older kids was Gollywhopperr Sliding Board, a nearly 60-foot-long slide down the sidee of a ugh they hill. Even though had to climb dozens of steps to gett from the k bottom of thee slide back ey all slid to the top, they down dozens of times, ing to figure each time trying o faster. out how to go arrie Rodovich Carrie

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T:7”

TRAVEL

T:10”

BRING BRING IT IT IN IN FOR FOR A A

BIRTHDAY BIRTHDAY BEAR BEAR HUG HUG Only YOU Can Prevent Wildfires. #SMOKEYBEARHUG 60 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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SMOKEYBEAR.COM ChicagoParent.com

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TRAVEL

Endangered apes

invade Indy

t wasn’t all that long ago that Indianapolis was less-thanaffectionately known as “India-no-place” or Nap Town. Both were apt monikers for Indiana’s sleepy capital city. But the city sleeps no more. Indianapolis has undergone a stunning renaissance. The centerpiece of its downtown is the idyllic White River State Park, home to summer concerts, a canal, three museums, an IMAX theater, the charming Indianapolis Zoo and a minor league baseball stadium. The renaissance has been so strong that Indianapolis ranked No. 34 on the New York Times’ list of 52 places to see in 2014. The paper’s praise centered on Indy’s development of the eightmile bike-friendly Indy Cultural Trail. There’s a great reason you should plan a trek to central Indiana this year: The International Orangutan Center at the Indianapolis Zoo.

Cindy Richards

International Orangutan Center

These apes seem too cute to be endangered. But they are. In fact, there are predictions that orangutans are in danger of becoming the first great ape species to become extinct. The newly opened Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center at the Indianapolis Zoo is part entertainment and part education—of visitors and apes. The center houses eight orangutans, all of them raised in captivity in zoos or with private owners. One of them, Rocky, is the “George Clooney of orangutans”—at one time, he was the most-seen orangutan in commercials, movies and other media. The center is the size of two football fields, which gives the orangutans plenty of space to play and show off for visitors, including the overhead “Hutan Trail,” a network of cables, platforms and bridges as high as 80 feet. During my visit, Rocky was having a great time swinging from the highest heights

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while we snapped his picture from below. Visitors also can get a skyhigh view of the Hutan Trail with a ride on the Skyline tram. Inside the center, there’s an education space. If you get lucky, you can watch as scientists teach the apes to work on computers. It’s a relatively small space, so the training schedule isn’t posted. Instead, those who happen to be inside the center when training is in session will be invited to pull up a chair and watch. Even if you miss one of the formal training sessions, you can still be fascinated by these creatures who are just as fascinated by the humans on the other side of the glass. They like shiny objects and spend time in industrious pursuits like making their beds, running the “Beacon of Light” spotlight and posing for selfies with their guests. The Indianapolis Zoo is the largest privately funded zoo in the country. Admission prices vary by day of the week. Expect to pay about $20 per person for admission that includes access to the Orangutan Center. indianapoliszoo.com.

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GOING PLACES

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62 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Fall 2014

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Spotlight on our favorite shows

stage

In this section 64 September 67 October 68 November 69 Ongoing CIVIC ORCHESTRA OF CHICAGO

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STAGE SEPTEMBER

Back To School Edition of That’s Weird Grandma Barrel of Monkeys The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor) 5153 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago (312) 409-1954 barrelofmonkeys.org Sept. 8-Dec. 1 The new school year brings plenty of new stories—all conceived and written by Chicago Public School students and adapted for the stage and performed by Barrel of Monkeys Company members. The lineup changes each week by audience vote, so no two shows are ever the same. 8 p.m. Mondays from Sept. 8-Oct. 6, Oct. 27-Dec. 1. $12; $6 kids under 12.

Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes United Center 1901 W. Madison St. Chicago disneyonice.com Sept. 10-14 Join Ariel as she yearns to explore the world above the waves and Prince Eric breaks Ursula’s slither-

The Three Little Pigs, see page 68.

Need to Get The Kids Moving?

Enroll in Dance Class Now!

DeMaira Dance Studios, Inc. Oak Park | Chicago www.demaira-dance.com

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STAGE

. .T.T tion, O . H rma r visit o re info

r mo 50-HOTT 47) 6 .com call (8 roductions p hott

■ Fo

Community theater gives CHARITY A STARRING ROLE

“H

elping others through theatre” is more than a tagline for Illinois not-for-profit company H.O.T.T. Productions; it’s a way of life. The only community theater founded with the mission of donating proceeds to charitable organizations while providing quality musical performances, Schaumburg-based H.O.T.T. Productions was created in 1995 by sisters Chris Seminaro and Donica Seminaro Luzwick. Staffed fully by volunteers, family and friends, they’ve since donated more than $123,000 to charity.

During the holiday season, H.O.T.T. Productions provides participants in the Prevention Initiative Program with funds for transportation, as well as money toward warm clothing and shelter for some of the

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area’s neediest families. More recently, show proceeds have helped with the goal of bringing theater to individuals with autism spectrum disorders. H.O.T.T. has sponsored multiple

performances of the Chicago Children’s Theatre’s Red Kite Project, which creates multisensory theatrical experiences. H.O.T.T. has linked up with organizations through America In Joining Forces-Taking Action To Serve America’s Military Families; not only has the company pledged volunteer hours, but they’ve also invited veterans from Edward Hines Jr. Veterans Hospital to attend performances. While at the theater, audience members write letters to service members and their families. Another special touch is that one performance during each show’s run is done for an invitation-only audience that may not otherwise have access to a live musical theater event, including many with disabilities. Known for its family-

friendly musical hits such as “Oklahoma” and “The Music Man,” H.O.T.T. Productions is gearing up for its fall performance of “Showboat.” As for the “community” aspect of this theater company, cast members range in age from 3 to 75 and come from all walks of life and professions. The company makes sure to include actors with developmental disabilities. Members of H.O.T.T.’s troupe have gone on to marry, have children, name each other as godparents, and remain close friends for life. On the eve of its 20th season, H.O.T.T. Productions continues to provide familyfriendly musical hits—and the opportunity for a good bit of generosity with your theatergoing. Keely Flynn

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STAGE BIENEN SCHOOL OF MUSIC

NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

KIDS FARE 2014-15

These fun, interactive, hour-long concerts help your child discover the magic of music! Shows are Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. in Pick-Staiger Concert Hall. FALL PERFORMANCES: September 27 November 8

Call now for the BEST seats!

Tickets & Information 847/467-4000 www.pickstaiger.org

AMERICAN DANCE CENTER Nationally Recognized School & Performing Company F14_Going Places.indd 1 8/14/14

A 44 Year Tradition of Excellence!

H Fall Sign-Up H View teacher bios, photos, schedules

Voted “Best Dance School” 19 Years Straight... SouthtownStar

• Ballet • Pointe • Hip Hop • Jazz • Tap • Modern • Pilates • Leaps/Turns • Lyrical/Contemporary

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

3:59 PM

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

Chicago’s only local magazine and resource guide to life for families who have children with special needs. • 50,000 copies distributed in early intervention specialist offices, and local libraries • Expanded special needs resource directory online at ChicagoParent.com

Award-Winning Youth Division 3 years and up Beginner Dance • Tumbling

Invited 2015 Illinois Delegate

6 Studios • Dance Shop Free Student Evaluation

708-349-4964 10464 163rd Place Orland Park

Dance Excellence International

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708-747-4969 1933 Ridge Road Homewood

Summer edition now available! For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

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STAGE

Disney On Ice presents Princesses & Heroes, see page 64. ing spell, see Prince Philip defeat the evil Maleficent as she transforms herself into a fire-breathing dragon in a race against time to rescue Sleeping Beauty’s Aurora. Discover a whole new world with Jasmine and Aladdin and watch as the dreams of Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, Rapunzel and Tiana come true. $13.

Bingo’s Birthday Emerald City’s Little Theatre 2933 N. Southport Ave. Chicago (773) 529-2690 ext. 810 emeraldcitytheatre.com Sept. 20-Jan. 4 Kids are invited to Bingo the dog’s birthday, but no one can find Bingo. An interactive performance just for the very young, ages 0-4. Call for cost.

OCTOBER

(773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Oct. 4-Jan. 3 Music and mayhem in this classic fairytale make it just right for the entire family. Check website for cost.

The Phantom Tollbooth Chicago Playworks at DePaul University Merle Reskin Theatre 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago (312) 922-1999 theatreschool.depaul.edu Oct. 7-Nov. 15 Milo is bored in his bedroom until a magical tollbooth appears and transports him to the Kingdom of Wisdom. He discovers the magic of words and numbers, travels to strange lands like Dictionopolis and Digitopolis, and meets a Mathemagician, Spelling Bee, and other curious friends. Recommended for families with kids 7 and older. $10.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Global Rhythms

Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago

Athenaeum Theatre 2936 N. Southport Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6875

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athenaeumtheatre.com Oct. 9-12 Choreographer Gilles Brinas has adapted two Malambo styles featuring powerful foot stomping from the North and the subtler Southern style in bare feet. The rhythms are echoed by “bombos”—large, fat, rustic drums—and “boleadoras,” or bolas—long, thin ropes with two or more stones attached at the ends— accompanied by song and guitar. Argentina’s Che Malambo, joined by Chicago’s Mexican Dance Ensemble and Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theatre, perform. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9; 8 p.m. Oct. 10-11; 3 p.m. Oct. 12. Call for cost.

Circus in Progress: An Evening of Daring New Work The Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St. Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.com Oct. 11 This latest installation of the performance series focuses on the development of new acts. Professionals

from the Chicagoland circus community will be featured as well as advanced students from The Actors Gymnasium’s own classes. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. $15.

Princess and the Pea Theatre at the Center The Center for Visual and Performing Arts 1040 Ridge Road Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255 theatreatthecenter.com Oct. 11 Public performance at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. $9.50, $7.50 kids.

Scare-illon Concert Naperville Park District 305 W. Jackson Ave. Naperville (630) 848-5000 napervilleparks.org Oct. 15 Head to the Millennium Carillon for a Halloween-themed concert. Concert-goers hear spooky and atmospheric pieces, featuring both classical and popular music to set the mood. 7-8 p.m. Free.

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STAGE Frederick Chicago Children’s Theatre The Ruth Page Center for Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St. Chicago (872) 222-9555 chicagochildrenstheatre.org Oct. 15-Nov. 16 Musical based on the book about Frederick the mouse. Recommended for families with kids 3 and older. Call for cost.

The Princess and the Pea Chicago Kids Company Beverly Arts Center 2407 W. 111th Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Oct. 15-Nov. 26 Only a real Princess can feel a pea under a stack of 20 mattresses. Meet Princess Penelope and her crazy friends—and find out if she can pass the ultimate Princess Test. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. 10:30 a.m. weekday morning; 1 p.m. Saturday Nov. 8. $12.

The Velveteen Rabbit

LIMITED HOLIDAY ENGAGEMENT! NOVEMBER 20–29

Lifeline Theatre 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com Oct. 18-Nov. 23 Return to a simpler time with this heartwarming story about the transformative power of love. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. $15.

How I Became a Pirate

“AN EXTRAORDINARY PERFORMANCE 100 times better than any bedside story!” - The New York Times

Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences 3323 Walters Ave. Northbrook (847) 291-2367 northbrooktheatre.org Oct. 18-Nov. 22 A swashbuckling musical adventure about a boy who runs off with pirates. Recommended for preschool and older. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. $12 ($10 on Fridays at box office during season).

The Three Little Pigs

ON SALE NOW!

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Chicago Kids Company Stahl Family Theater 5900 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Oct. 20-Nov. 26 Recommended for families with

kids 2-12. 10:30 a.m. weekday morning; 1 p.m. Saturday Nov. 22. $12.

Chicago International Children’s Film Festival Facets Multi-Media 1517 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago (773) 281-9075 cicff.org Oct. 24-Nov. 2 The festival features more than 250 films from more than 40 countries and engages kids of all ages with screening Q&A’s with filmmakers, interactive workshops with special guests, peer-to-peer dialogues, filmmaker-led seminars, and the CICFF Children’s and Youth juries. $9, $6 kids.

The B.F.G. (Big Friendly Giant) Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Oct. 25-Jan. 4 The story of the lonely orphan Sophie, who is snatched away by the Big Friendly Giant to an enchanted land. Call for cost.

Hallowed Haunts Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 294-3000 cso.org The Civic Orchestra of Chicago performs a program of spooky music. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. for young ghosts, goblins and ghouls to enjoy Halloween games and arts-and-crafts activities. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older. 3 p.m. $10– $60.

Jeanie B! Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 111 W. Campbell St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-2121 metropolisarts.com Oct. 26 This rockin’ mom delights kids of all ages with her show jammed full of dancing, sing-alongs, laughs and audience participation. 3 p.m. $15, $12 kids 12 and under.

NOVEMBER

Dee Snider’s Rock and Roll

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STAGE Christmas Tale

transports audiences down the rabbit hole to a circus-infused playground for a wonderland adventure inspired by Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories. Call for cost.

Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place 175 E. Chestnut St. Chicago (800) 775-2000 broadwayinchicago.com Nov. 4-Jan. 4

ONGOING

This show tells the story of Däisy Cütter, a heavy metal bar band looking to make it big even though the ’80s are long over. These four guys are ready to take the ultimate step and, in mythic rock tradition, sell their souls to the devil in exchange for success beyond their wildest metal dreams. But every time they try to seal the infernal pact, their head-banging anthems turn into warm-hearted carols. Soon these rockers are forced to realize their dreams of stardom are no match for the Christmas spirit. Dee Snider, infamous lead singer of Twisted Sister, has created and stars in this funny and sweet new holiday musical, guaranteed to rock your whole family’s holiday. Call for cost.

Blue Man Group Briar Street Theatre 3133 N. Halsted St. Chicago (773) 348-4000 blueman.com Multi-sensory experience that fuses innovative theatrical spectacle and powerful original music with hilarious comedy. Performance dates and times vary. A full schedule can be found online. $49-$97.

Hogwash: An Improvised Tall Tale Bughouse Theater 2054 W. Irving Park Chicago bughousetheater.com Interactive show where kids help guide the story from scene to scene and song to song with talented improvisors. Kids create backdrop of the story and pick out the costumes. For tickets, email shelby@ bughousetheater.com. For information, visit hogwashkids.com. Recommended for families with kids 3-10. 10:30 a.m. Donations welcome.

Theater Unspeakable Presents: The American Revolution Adventure Stage Chicago Vittum Theater 1012 N. Noble St. Chicago (773) 342-4141 adventurestage.org. Nov. 4-28 The American Revolution is a critical history lesson in 50 minutes. Seven actors—suspended on a platform two feet off the ground— share 21 square feet of space to recreate the entire American fight for independence from Lexington to Yorktown. Combining tonguein-cheek humor with a dash of derring-do, The American Revolution displays bare-boned and imaginative physical theater in its first ever extended run in Chicago. $17, $12 kids 14 and under. A special $10 ticket is available to neighbors in the 60622 and 60642 zip codes.

If Scrooge Was a Brother eta Creative Arts Foundation 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. Chicago (773) 752-3955 etacreativearts.org Nov. 7-Dec. 28 It’s all about Scrooge in this hilarious and heartwarming reconstruction of the classic Christmas ghost tale. Call for cost.

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Improvised Double Dare ComedySportz Theatre 929 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 549-8080 comedysportzchicago.com

The Princess and the Pea, see page 68. The Wizard of Oz Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences 10 Marriott Drive Lincolnshire (847) 634-0200 marriotttheatre.com Nov. 7-Jan. 3 Join Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow as they journey down the yellow brick road to the magical Emerald City. This is a special one-hour presentation for kids (and parents) of all ages, followed by a Question & Answer Session with the cast. $15.

Fall Youth Circus The Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center

927 Noyes St. Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.com Nov. 8-16 Physical theater piece that combines circus spectacle and narrative drama. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. $15.

Lookingglass Alice Lookingglass Theatre in the Water Tower Water Works 821 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 337-0665 lookingglasstheatre.org Nov. 10-Dec. 21 For all ages, this performance

Watch as two teams compete against each other in tests of trivia, physical challenges and improvisation until one team gets to undergo the ultimate gauntlet of skill— the Obstacle Course. Based on the ‘80s/’90s Nickelodeon game show, “Double Dare.” 7 p.m. Sundays. $5.

Children’s Concert Monica + Andy 2038 N. Halsted Chicago (312) 600-8530 monicaandandy.com Live children’s music concert performed by Bubbles Academy. Families can enjoy a fun and interactive performance with popular children’s songs to sing and dance along to. The 30-minute show is held from 10:30-11 a.m. every Tuesday. Free.

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GOING PLACES

VERTICAL ENDEAVORS Indoor Rock Climbing

COME TRY SOMETHING NEW! BOOK YOUR GROUP TODAY NOW OPEN Schedule your event at our newest location, Glendale Heights

We offer Birthday Parties, Holiday Camps, Group Events, Youth Teams and more! Email jourdan@verticalendeavors.com Glendale Heights 246 Windy Point Drive / 630.784.9000 Warrenville 28141 Diehl Road / 630.836.0122

www.VerticalEndeavors.com

• Lite Brite Wall • Climbing Wall • Water Play • Transportation Station • Engineering Mega Station • Tubes and Tunnels • Toddler area • Dress up Stage • Birthday Parties 4701 Oakton Street, Skokie • (847) 674-1500, ext. 2700 70 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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SkokieParks.org ChicagoParent.com

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Make the most of your day

play

In this section 72 Arcades and entertainment 74 Creative studios 77 Eat ‘n’ play 80 Family sports and indoor play centers 83 Sports to watch

JUMPS ‘N’ JIGGLES AND CAROUSEL

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PLAY ARCADES AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS

$10 for 1/2 hour of racing (includes car and controller).

Amazing Chicago

Funway Ultimate Entertainment Center

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (between Riva Chicago Restaurant and the Shakespeare Theater) Chicago (312) 595-5375 amazingchicago.com

1335 S. River St. Batavia (630) 879-8717 funway.com This five-acre facility features laser tag, spin zone bumper cars, black light mini-golf, arcade games, roller skating and bowling inside. Hours: Open 365 days a year. Hours per attraction vary; check website. Admission: Free; pricing varies by attraction.

Part funhouse, part maze, visitors will navigate through 4,000 square feet of tunnels and mazes for a full sensory experience. Try Time Freak, a thrilling race against time that challenges players to compete against the clock while pushing buttons as they light up. Hours: Opens every day at 10 a.m.; check website for closing times. Admission: $9.99 per person; $2 Time Freak and Atomic Rush; free kids 4 and under.

Odyssey Fun World Naperville 3440 Odyssey Court Naperville (630) 416-2222 odysseyfunworld.com

Dads Slot Cars 700 Lee St. Des Plaines (847) 298-0688 dadsslotcars.com Slot car racing on two tracks with eight lanes each. Old-fashioned ice cream parlor on site. Hours: Noon-8:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission:

Pickleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Playroom, see page 79.

Four-level soft playland with a maze of tubes and ball pits, laser tag, video games, bowling, paintball and indoor family thrill rides (Bumper Cars, Frog Hopper and Dizzy Clown Cups). Hours: Check website. Admission: Pay per attraction or buy wristbands or game tokens.

Zombie safari hayride open 7:00pm - midnight, every friday, saturday, and sunday, 9/27 - 11/1

fun farm open sept. 27 - nov. 1 | 10am - 6pm

72 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Fall 2014

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PLAY

THE SUGAR RUSH: Sweet spots in Chicago

f someone in your family has a sweet tooth (and who doesn’t?), these five Chicago area candy shops are a mustvisit. Each of these sugar shacks has its own unique charm that makes it special beyond the candy it carries. Linda Marsicano

SWEET BUDDHA, Lincoln Park, Chicago Certainly the candy is center stage, but this Zen venue offers so much more. Yoga for parents and dance classes for kids help work up a sweat, while the birthday parties are like a real-life trip to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. The hip jewelry and accessories are almost as tantalizing as the colorful jars of candy. thesweetbuddha.com

MORKES CHOCOLATE, Palatine and Algonquin You haven’t seen creative until you see what Morkes can make out of chocolate. (Bloody chocolate brains for Halloween, anyone?) So enthralled with making candy, Morkes wants to share that skill with kids via their chocolate-making p parties and candy camps. m morkeschocolates.com

BARTLETT’S CANDY HOUSE, Bartlett Sure, you can find p pretty much any type of ccandy here, but there are aalso 24 flavors of soft ice ccream, a cute party space aand inflatables to rent. Retro candy lovers w will be in heaven with nostalgic throw-backs. Don’t miss the Annie

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B’s caramels that come in flavors like apple, chocolate and sea salt. This shop is as classic as some of the candy it sells, having been part of the Bartlett community for more than 80 years. bartlettscandyhouse.com

DULCELANDIA, Logan Square and other Chicago area locations o What better place to find piñatas and candyy to est fill them than the largest distributor of Mexican candy in the Midwest?? Meaning “Candy Land”” in English, Dulcelandiaa carries more than 500 varieties of Mexican candy and piñatas of all kinds. Mexican candy is is deliciously unique, coming in flavors both sweet and spicy. The sheer volume of candy here can be a bit overwhelming, so enlist the help of a worker who will gladly provide

a tutorial on Mexican confections. dulcelandia.com

CANDYALITY, downtown and Lakeview, Chicago Candyality really wants to get to know its customers—or at least what their “CandyScope” is. Whether your candy personality is sweet, sour, crunchy or one of about a dozen categories,

Candyality has a candy fix for you. While there, check out the artwork and other items made out of candy and wrappers, including dresses that would impress Lady Gaga. candyality.com

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PLAY

We’ve Expanded! New Banquet Facilities Now Available!

As Seen on TV ABC’s Ch. 7 “190 North”

Celebrating Over 55 Years in Business • EST. 1957 PRIVATE PARTIES • PRIVATE & GROUP LESSONS FUND RAISERS • ROLLER DERBY & SPEED SKATING ENJOY YOUR NEXT BIRTHDAY PARTY AT FLEETWOOD

BIRTHDAY PACKAGE INCLUDES:

As Seen on TV WGN’s Ch. 9 “Around Town”

• ADMISSION TO RINK • SKATE RENTAL • DECORATED CAKE • PIZZA & SOFT DRINK • HELIUM BALLOONS

• BIRTHDAY HOST & MIC ANNOUNCEMENT • GIFT FOR BIRTHDAY PERSON • FREE PASS ON YOUR NEXT VISIT ($8 VALUE)

12 -$14 PER PERSON MINIMUM 10 PEOPLE

(Birthday package available during any public session.)

NEW BANQUET FACILITIES NOW OPEN FOR PRIVATE EVENTS, GRADUATIONS, SHOWERS AND MORE! DAY TIME AND EVENING AVAILABILITY 7 DAYS A WEEK

325 - $500 (Taxes Included)

GOOD FOR ONE

FREE

ADMISSION WITH ONE PAID ADMISSION

ANY PUBLIC SESSION. SKATE RENTAL EXTRA. EXPIRES 10/31/14

PUBLIC SKATING HOURS WED EVENING 6:30PM-9PM $7 FRI EVENING 7:30PM-10:30PM $8 SAT MORNING 10:30AM-1PM $7 SAT AFTERNOON 1:30PM-4:30PM $8 SAT EVENING 7:30PM-10:30PM $8 SUN AFTERNOON 1:30AM-4:30PM $8 SUN EVENING 6:30PM-9PM $7

PARENTS! Enjoy a Drink While Watching Our Big Screen TVs & Try Your luck on Our Slot Machines While the Kids Skate!

PLUS $3.00 FOR SKATE RENTAL

7231 West Archer Ave. • Summit (1/4 Block West of Harlem, 3 Blocks South of I-55)

708-458-0300 • www.fleetwoodrollerrink.com

Mt. Prospect Park District has the BEST birthday parties!

Lillstreet Art Center, see page 76. Odyssey Fun World Tinley Park 19111 S. Oak Park Ave. Tinley Park (708) 429-3800 odysseyfunworld.com Indoor area includes roller coaster, Ferris wheel, bumper cars, laser tag, four-story softplay with tunnels and balls, eight-station gamers lounge, 200+ arcade and prize redemption games and half-scale bowling. Hours: Check website. Admission: Pay per attraction or buy wristbands or game tokens.

Party Time Palace Family Entertainment Center

Book your party NOW! 847-255-5380 www.mppd.org 74 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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723 W. Golf Road Des Plaines (847) 437-3100 partytimepalace.com Indoor family entertainment center featuring laser tag, inflatables, mechanical bull riding, interactive games, miniature golf and train rides. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free; pay per attraction.

Rink Side Ice Arena & Family Entertainment Center Gurnee Mills Mall 6152 W. Grand Ave. Gurnee (847) 856-1064 rink-side.com Ice skating, laser tag, video arcade and 18 holes of blacklight miniature golf. Restaurant serves homemade pizza. Hours: Open yearround, including holidays. Hours vary by attraction; check website. Admission: Ice skating: $6, $5 kids 12 and under. Skate rentals: $5. Helmet rental: $5. Golf: $6, Laser Tag: $6.

CREATIVE STUDIOS

Beauty and Brawn Art Gallery and Think Space 3501 W. Fullerton Chicago (773) 772-9808 beautyandbrawngallery.com A multi-media gallery and arts education facility in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood. The space offers art exhibitions, art classes

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PLAY

Ball Factory Indoor Play & Café

Kid’s Island and Wellness Spa

Duck Duck Goose

Always a new place to play

hen you get tired of cleaning up the messes your children make in your home, there’s a simple solution: Take them to the nearest indoor play space and let them take out all the toys in someone else’s space. There are a bunch of spots that already exist in the Windy City, but we’re so lucky to live here because we just landed a few new ones.

Danielle Braff

Kid’s Island and Wellness Spa. If your child craves sandcastle fun during the winter months, you’re in luck. This play space has it year-round—indoors. He can dig, slide and get messy while you go to the adjoining Wellness Nail Spa. As long as your children are 9 months or older, you can leave them at Kid’s

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Island, where they’ll get to do an art project or listen to a story while you get your nails done. $12 for open play or $10 per child for the drop-off service. 1358 W. Webster Ave., Chicago; (773) 935-6060, chicago kidsisland.com Ball Factory Indoor Play & Café. This is one of the rare indoor spots that

caters to older children (up to age 13) as well as tiny tots. They can do it all because they’ve got 10,000 square feet of space, consisting of four levels of play structures. It’s really got something for everyone, including a 1,000-squarefoot space sectioned off for those 4 and younger, a gigantic obstacle-filled play structure, tunnels, climbing walls, truck area, café area with Wi-Fi, tons of slides— and balls. Lots and lots of balls, as would be expected by its name. Be warned, however. This place gets packed on the weekends, so your best bet is to check it out during the week. $9 toddlers, $11 kids 5 and up during the week; $12 toddlers, $14 kids 5 and up during weekends. 864 S.

Route 59, Naperville; (630) 445-8365, ballfactoryfun. com Duck Duck Goose. This adorable little play space has sweet extras. Every Tuesday and Thursday, craft stations are set up so you can get their space messy instead of yours (there’s no extra charge for this). They also offer Mommy & Me classes ($25 per class), birthday parties and camp. If you want to drop your child off, you can do this via their nanny service (call ahead for this) from 9:3011:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays for $20. $10 per child for open play. The third sibling is free. 1727 N. Western Ave., Chicago; (773) 360-8240, duckduck gooseplayground.com

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PLAY and offers event rental space and studio gatherings. Hours: Vary. Admission: Class and camp fees vary; gallery is free.

p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday. Admission: Varies.

Chicago Glass Collective 1770 W. Berteau Ave., 203 B Chicago (216) 543-2329 chicagoglasscollective.com

Beverly Arts Center 2407 W. 111th St. Chicago (773) 445-3838 beverlyartcenter.org Exhibits, productions, programming and fine arts education in art, ceramics, music, theater, dance and more for kids 2 through teens. Art exhibits change monthly, and school of the arts offers more than 125 classes in each of four sessions. Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free; additional charge for classes and special events.

Community-based art studio dedicated to the medium of glass through educational workshops and studio space for new and experienced glass artists. Offers classes, family workshops and private lessons throughout the year. Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 5-9 p.m. Wednesday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Varies by class.

CircEsteem & The Chicago Youth Circus 4730 N. Sheridan Road Chicago (312) 731-HAHA (4242) circesteem.org

Bughouse Studio 4845 Oakton St. Skokie (847) 674-3774 bughouseartstudio.com All artwork is made from scratch, starting with a fresh slab of clay, blank piece of paper or sheet of glass. Offers a variety of classes to artists of all ages. Hours: 11 a.m.-8

Building self-esteem through circus arts. CircEsteem offers fun and unique circus classes for kids ages 3 and up through a variety of afterschool programs, Saturday classes, workshops. Hours: Vary. Admission: Call or check website.

HASSLE-FREE BIRTHDAY PARTIES Hassle-free and convenient for parents

VOTED BEST PLACE TO WEAR OUT THE KIDS

Many themed packages available

Event staff plan and facilitate games

Follow WCF Online

WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays

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Paint-Your-Own-Pottery and Glass Fusing studio. Pottery Painting is very simple, even for the ‘artistically challenged.’ Call or visit website regarding classes and workshops. Hours: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. MondayThursday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Check website.

Color Wheel Studio 2016 W. Concord Place Chicago (773) 661-1743 thecolorwheelstudio.com Offers formal art classes as well as weekly open studio time for kids 2-12. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Open Studio: $25 per hour; $150 membership pass good for 10 hours. Classes: start at $115 for fourweek session, $220 for eight-week session.

Constructive Chaos 349 Ashland Ave. River Forest

Chicagoland’s

Best Family Fun Center!!!

Visual arts and culinary center for children ages 5-18. Offers art and culinary classes. Hours: Check website for hours; Saturday-Sunday parties and private events. Admission: Check website.

Kids Clay Room 2646 N. Halsted Ave. Chicago (773) 416-4511 kidsclayroom.com Pottery studio for children. Children make and glaze clay pieces through classes, individual and group workshops and camps. Hours: Check website. Admission: $30-$45 per child.

Lillstreet Art Center 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave. Chicago (773) 769-4226 lillstreet.com Classes and day camps for kids ages 18 months to 18 years in clay, painting, drawing, metalsmithing, cartooning, animation, and photography. Hours: 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5

TWO DIFFERENT PLAY PACKAGES

14 $ .00 21

.00 Per Person

Per Person

3 Hours of Fun! Bumper Cars Lazer Maze Typhoon Motion Ride Video Game Play Rockwall

(Ticket & prize games not included) Weather Permitting

3 Hours of Ultimate Fun! Go-Karts Mini-Golf Bumper Cars Lazer Maze Typhoon Motion Ride Video Game Play Rockwall (Ticket & prize games not included) Weather Permitting

OUR LOCATION FEATURES:

Call Alexis at

76 goingplaces • Fall 2014

700 N. Milwaukee Ave. Vernon Hills (847) 816-0997 vernonhills.colormemine.com

Save on these Great Specials

No cleanup CALL NOW! Dates filling fast!

or email akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com

(708) 613-0444 constructive-chaos.com

HOLLYWOOD PARK 5051 Cal-Sag Road Crestwood, IL 708-389-7275 www.hollywoodfunpark.com

Fun and exciting for kids of all ages, 1 to adult

(773) 486-7416

Color Me Mine - Vernon Hills

• Two Miniature Golf Courses • Indoor Bumper Cars • Hollywood Speedway Go Karts • New! Lazer Maze • Over 100 Arcade Games

• Rock Climbing Wall • Prize Redemption Center • Hollywood Cafe & Pizzeria • Hollywood Memorabilia on Display

★ Birthday Parties ★ Group Outings & Overnight Lock-Ins

ChicagoParent.com

8/29/14 2:49 PM

PLAY p.m. Sunday. Admission: Varies by activity.

with a pirate clubhouse, princess castle, wooden play structure and dress-up clothes. Parents can relax with a cup of organic, fair trade Kind Coffee. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $8.50 kids, $5 crawlers.

Little Bits Workshop 411 Park Ave. River Forest 630-309-1606 thelittlebitsworkshop.com Teaches the art of upcycling through classic crafts such as sewing, knitting, crochet, jewelry-making, bookbinding, collage and building. Workshops are geared for ages 6-adult. Also features camps and afterschool workshops. Hours: Check website. Admission: $15-$45.

Growth Spurts 404 Linden Ave. Wilmette (847) 850-9059 agrowthspurt.com Indoor play space and family cafe offering block building, playdough, music enrichment, and art. The cafe serves natural and organic snacks, coffee, tea and has free Wi-Fi. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. MondayFriday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $10.95, $5.95 and $2.95 siblings, free adults.

Magical Minds Studio 343 Harrison St. Oak Park (708) 948-7934 magicalmindsstudio.com An art studio that allows children to learn through hands-on art experiences. The studio fosters intellectual, physical, social and emotional development through the child’s artistic endeavors. In art classes, children work on everything from water painting to sculpting clay. Morning preschool and after-school programs are available. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Visit the website for Open Studio hours. Admission: Program prices vary. Open Studio: $10 per hour, per child. Buy punch card for $90 and get 10 classes.

KidStreet PlayCenter and Grounds for Hope cafe 2701 Maple Ave. Lisle (630) 857-3355 groundsforhopecafe.org

Terra Incognito 246 Chicago Ave. Oak Park (708) 383-6228 terraincognitostudios.com Fully equipped ceramics studio offers pottery classes for all ages, family workshops, and parties for kids and adults. Also features jewelry making classes. Hours: Gallery: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; classes as scheduled. Admission: Free; prices vary for classes.

The Art Station Studio 8106 Oakton St. Niles (847) 274-8478 theartstationstudio.com Offers art classes recycling, upcycling and re-purposing as much material from local resources as possible to create beautiful and whimsical art. This incredible variety of media and materials provides a limitless selection of interesting, enjoyable art projects to choose from. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. MondayThursday; call ahead for an appointment. Admission: Check website.

ChicagoParent.com

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Legoland Discovery Center, see page 81. The Wishcraft Workshop 3907 N. Damen Ave. Chicago (773) 348-9474 wishcraftworkshop.com Features sewing, art and craft classes, tutoring, after-school programs, camps, workshops and parties. Hours: Varies; check website. Admission: Check website.

EAT ‘N’ PLAY

Ball Factory Indoor Play & Cafe 864 S. Route 59 Naperville (630) 445-8365 ballfactoryfun.com A safe, clean and stimulating environment for physically active children aged 13 and under to play

in and explore. 10,000-squarefoot area consists of four-level play structure, 30-foot-long triple slide, enclosed Parent & Tot Lounge-play area for toddlers under age 4 and a café with seating to accommodate 60 people. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday and Sunday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Admission: Monday-Friday: $9 kids 6 months-4, $12 kids 5-12; Weekends: $11 kids 6 months-4; $14 kids 5-12. Free adults, newborns and crawling siblings.

Cafe N Play 1767 W. Ogden Ave. Suite 155 Naperville (630) 995-3101 cafenplay.com Features an indoor playground

A family-friendly cafe that strives to serve nutritious snacks and tasty beverages. It features a clean, bright cafe and play atmosphere. Grounds for Hope is also aligned with a world relief fund called Project Grounds providing clean drinking water around the world. Includes a family-friendly kids play area for all ages called KidStreet. Hours: Playcenter: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m.-noon Sunday. Cafe: 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-noon Sunday. Admission: $5 per family.

Kookaburra Play Cafe 2267 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago (773) 281 5400 kookaburraplaycafe.com Kids can play, create, explore, listen to stories and have a play date. There are arts and crafts and afterschool programs. All ages are welcome. Parents can have a meet up, host a baby shower or relax and watch children play. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday; closed Sunday for private events. Admission: $12, $10 from 3:30-5 p.m.; $7 sibling, $5 sibling from 3:30-5 p.m.; free infants with drink purchase.

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PLAY Little Beans Cafe 1809 W. Webster Chicago (773) 251-1025 littlebeanscafe.com A family cafe and indoor playground for kids. Play areas include a custom built “village” complete with a grocery store, firehouse, playhouse, school and service station for kids to run errands, shop or work just like mom and dad. Other play areas include spaces for puzzles, books and games and a soft touch area for the crawlers to explore. The creative space allows parents to relax and chat alongside their kids while Little Beans staff members keep things safe, clean and fun. There is also a cafe with several menu items. Little Beans offers open play, classes, events and more. Visit the website for event, camp and class information. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $12 daily pass, $10 sibling.

Little Monkey Bizness 229 Rice Lake Square Wheaton (630) 384-2300 littlemonkeybizness.com

Odyssey Fun World Naperville, see page 72.

Parents can enjoy a relaxed setting

with a full-service coffee bar while watching their kids, infant-7, play in a 3,500-square-foot play area.

There is art and crafts, open play times, walled off infant/crawler area and supervised play area.

Healthy snacks and free Wi-Fi also available. At 11 a.m. Wednesday, there is story time with Curious

A Grantee of the University of Chicago Medical Center & the University of Chicago Childcare Initiative in Hyde Park serving a diverse group of children ages 2 to 5 years old. Quality Rating System STAR LEVEL THREE Illinois Department of Human Services

QUALITY COUNTS

• We offer high quality, creative, full-day childcare from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Accredited by NAEYC • We accept subsidy child care (child care initiative)

5467 S. University Ave., Chicago, IL 60615 773-643-0452 / www.cccsociety.org

SLOT CAR RACING IS  rentals available  Plenty of track sPace Pace Pace  birthday Parties  bring a friend

SLOT CARS 700 LEE STREET DES PLainES, iLLinoiS 60016 847/298-0688 www.dadsslotcars.com

78 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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ChicagoParent.com

8/28/14 5:45 PM

PLAY George. Hours: Open Play: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-noon SaturdaySunday. Admission: $8 walkers, $5 crawlers.

Pickle’s Playroom 2315 W. Lawrence Ave. Chicago (773) 293-7747 picklesplayroom.com This play center lets kids burn off some energy in its unique, indoor play space, but there’s also a fullservice cafe and a children’s hair salon all under the same roof. The play space is designed for children 6 months through 7 years old and includes a crawlers-only area. While kids play, parents can supervise from the cozy cafe space. Other offerings include classes and workshops. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $12, $9 sibling (crawlers and up); free adults. $20 haircuts, includes 30 minutes of play time in the play area.

Funway Ultimate Entertainment Center, see page 72.

Lakeview’s #1 Hip Hop Studio

Fairytale Ballet® 18 months - 5 years Academy Ballet 5 -18 years

Hip Hop JAzz

TAp ConTEmporAry Tiny TumBlE BoogiE BABiEs

performanceTroupe

Fairytale Ballet Classes 1.5-2.5 yrs Mom & Me 3-6 yrs with tap option June Recital

Academy Classes Ballet, Pre-pointe, Pointe & Modern Nutcracker & June Recital

Birthday PartieS too!

Now Enrolling

773-606-1345 CHiCAgo/lAkEviEw

www.StarbrightChicago.com ChicagoParent.com

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A Beautiful Beginning To Ballet with cherished childhood literature, costumes, and props

Chicago/Lakeview 773-477-4488

Enroll onlinE!

GRAND OPENING in Bucktown! 773-606-0318

North Evanston 773-477-4488

ww w.AFa iryta le B al l et.co m Fall 2014 • goingplaces 79

8/28/14 5:56 PM

PLAY TreeHouse 985 S. Rand Road Lake Zurich (847) 438-8887 thechicagotreehouse.com Indoor play cafe with three-level soft indoor treehouse play structure. Offers leather couches, free Wi-Fi, gourmet coffee and espresso bar, and healthy homemade food for kids and adults. Hours: Check website. Admission: $10.50 kids; free adults.

FAMILY SPORTS

Scuba Emporium 16336 S. 104th Ave. Orland Park (708) 226-1614 scubaemporium.com Offers swim and snorkeling lessons, SASY program for 5-7 years old (kids use scuba equipment in the pool but do not submerge), certification programs for kids 10 and older, and an ongoing scuba program called PADI Seal for kids 8 and up. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Varies by activity.

The C.A.K.E. Village, see page 82.

Topgolf

Vertical Endeavors Glendale Heights

699 W. Thorndale Ave. Wood Dale (630) 595-4653 topgolf.com Challenge your friends and family to addictive point-scoring golf games that anyone can play yearround. Picture a 300-yard outfield with dartboard-like targets in the ground. The closer to the center or “bull’s-eye” you get and the farther out you hit your microchipped balls, the more points you receive. Hours: Check website. Admission: Purchase a playing card pre-loaded with game credits or a card where you pay by the game.

Vertical Endeavors 28141 Diehl Road Warrenville (630) 836-0122 verticalendeavors.com/warrenville Participants of all ages can climb any time of the year and feel comfortable doing so. There is a wall designed specifically for families and children that offers whimsically shaped holds for kids. Waiver required for participation. Parties, kids and family programs and, rock climbing day camps are offered. Call or check the website for special events. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

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Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $15 to climb all day, $17 on weekends; rental gear costs extra.

246 Windy Point Drive Glendale Heights (630) 784-9000 verticalendeavors.com/glendaleheights With more than 44,000 square feet of climbing surface, VE Glendale Heights is the largest climbing facility and includes 3,500 square feet of bouldering surface in three separate bouldering areas, 30 Auto Belays, and more than 180 separate routes for climbing. Hours: 8 a.m.11 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $15 to climb all day, $17 on weekends; rental gear costs extra.

INDOOR PLAY CENTERS

Airtastic Play Land 850 S. Frontenac St. Aurora (630) 851-7525 airtastic.com Features 10 gigantic inflatable play structures and two age appropriate play areas. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $8.50 for one hour, $9.50 for one and half hours and

$10.50 for two hours. Find coupons online.

C & A Robot Factory Inc. 326 Peterson Road Libertyville (847) 996-0123 carobotfactory.com A place for Lego enthusiasts to use their imaginations to create unique projects during “open play.” Offers Lego-themed day play camps and STEM enrichment classes based on the Lego. Hours: Check website. Admission: $10 per child; free 1 and under; $5 adults.

climbing wall, transportation station, improved water play area, book nook, toddler zone and twoand-a-half story tubes and tunnels structure. Socks required in tubes and tunnels. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; closed Thursday and Sunday. Admission: Free-$5 depending on age and residency.

Gather 602 Davis St. Evanston (847) 859-2312 meetatgather.com

Indoor playspace in the Kenwood/ Hyde Park neighborhood. Offers open play and camps. Hours: Open Play: 3-6 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Admission: $12 first child, $8 additional child, free adults.

Drop-in Monday through Saturday for arts and crafts (all ages) and open play (birth to 8 years). Parents with pre-walkers can relax in the private quiet room with couches, soft toys, books and puzzles. Admission includes complimentary coffee, tea and water. Guest artist exhibits feature the work of Illinois artists. Hours: Check website. Admission: $12 daily drop-in, $3 sibling; 10 visit pass $100, or monthly membership $75.

Exploritorium

Go Bananas

4701 Oakton St. Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 2700 skokieparks.org

4516 N. Harlem Ave. Norridge (708) 669-7029 gobananasfun.com

Features an expanded water play area, music walls, a giant LiteBrite wall, stage and dress-up area, Engineering Mega Station,

At this jungle-themed indoor family entertainment center, there are six amusement park rides, including two roller coasters, bumper

Chicago Playpen 908 E. 47th St. Chicago (773) 268-2899 playpenchicago.com

ChicagoParent.com

8/28/14 5:45 PM

PLAY cars and a train. Kids can climb in a maze of tubes and slides, play games, bowl and jump in an inflatable bouncer. Food is available in the Rhino Diner. Bring socks. Free parking. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free; pay per attraction or buy an unlimited ride pass.

Jump!Zone Various locations jumpzoneparty.com Features inflatable slides, obstacle courses and bounce houses, interactive games, toddler activities and more. Hours: Check website. Admission: Vary by day; check website.

Jumps ‘N’ Jiggles and Carousel Pavilion 1000 Wellington Ave. Elk Grove Village (847) 437-9494 elkgroveparks.org The Carousel stands 28 feet high and features 18 hand painted jumping horses. Carousel is open to all ages. The indoor playground includes a maze of tunnels and climbing features, toys and a slide. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday. Admission: $4, free 12 months and under.

K1 Speed Addison 2381 W. Army Trail Road Addison (630) 433-3700 301 Hastings Drive Buffalo Grove (847) 941-9400 k1speed.com Indoor go-kart racing. The K1 Speed Chicago facilities are entertainment venues designed to keep visitors entertained and engaged, whether on or off the track. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Varies.

Kaitlin’s Hideout for Kids with Autism 526 Crescent Blvd. Glen Ellyn (630) 460-0878 kaitlinshideout.com A recreation, resource and support center for special needs families (specializing in autism). Offers respite care, music, art, exercise and yoga classes, plus social skills groups for children and teens; check website for hours and programs. Hours: Check website. Admission: Varies.

ChicagoParent.com

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Kid City 1837 W. Grand Ave. Chicago (312) 829-6775 kidcitychicago.com Features a grocery store, movie theater, costume boutique and playhouse. Check events page on website for details. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday through September; 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday starting in October. Admission: $14; $24 two siblings; $30 three siblings; $35 four siblings; pass cards and memberships available.

Kidstown Play & Party 1141 Butterfield Road Wheaton (630) 260-8545 kidstownplayandparty.com

3rd Annual

ARTUMN HARVEST ART FESTIVAL

Indoor play center with more than a dozen themed play areas. Offers open play. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $10, $5 kids under 1, free adults and additional siblings under 1.

Legoland Discovery Center The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall) 601 N. Martingale Road Schaumburg (847) 592-9700 legolanddiscoverycenter.com/chicago An indoor family entertainment destination with more than 3 million Lego bricks and nine attractions including: Master Builder Academy; Jungle Expedition; Kingdom Quest Laser Ride; Lego City Construction Site Play Zone. New for 2014: Lego Star Wars Miniland; Merlin’s Apprentice Ride; Lego 4D Cinema; Build and Test; Lego Factory Tour; and Miniland featuring iconic Chicago landmarks. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Extended hours available on school vacation days and national holidays. Admission: $18; discounts available online.

SATURDAY, SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 SEPTEMBER 14 10AM-5PM 11AM-5PM HANDMADE & FINE ART FROM LOCAL ARTISANS LIVE ENTERTAINMENT INTERACTIVE KID’S ART AREA For more information and a list of participating artists, visit ShopDeerParkTownCenter.com.

Monkey Island 2100 N. 15th Ave. Melrose Park (708) 344-4803 playmonkeyisland.com This indoor playground includes jumpies, a three-story climbing structure, basketball court, soccer field, laser tag, arcade games, and more. Play group packages avail-

20530 N Rand Road Deer Park, IL shopdeerparktowncenter.com 847.726.7755

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PLAY

Kids Clay Room, see page 76. able. Socks must be worn in the play area. Hours: Noon-8 p.m. Monday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Admission: $4.20, $8.40 kids.

Party Fantasy 342 Townline Road Corner of routes 45 and 60 Mundelein (847) 837-0010 partyfantasy.net Drop-in play, eight party rooms, inflatables, rock climbing wall, gokarts, Fantasy Cafe, seasonal outdoor go-kart track, toddler area and arcade with redeemable prizes. Offers party packages. Hours: Check website. Admission: Check website.

Peekaboo Playroom 206 S. Marion St. Oak Park peekabooplayroom.com A playroom where children are free to create, imagine, and dream in a safe and calm environment. Parents can relax and take joy as their children play. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; check website for Sunday hours. Admission: $12 kids, $8 siblings.

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Pump It Up Various locations pumpitupparty.com Indoor arenas with inflatable slides, bounce houses and obstacle courses. Hours: Check website by location. Admission: Varies.

Purple Monkey Playroom 2040 N. Western Ave. Chicago (773) 772-8411 purplemonkeyplayroom.com 1,500-square-foot playroom includes a plush alcove dedicated to lap babies and crawlers with ageappropriate toys. Older kids can bounce, climb, build, read, color and engage in imaginative play. Plus, life-sized Tiki Hut and climber with a rock climbing board, slide and tunnel. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; check website for weekend hours. Admission: $12 one child, $22 for up to three children, $6 babies under 8 months free siblings under 8 months; free parking. Families of multiples are $6 per child on “Multiples Mondays.”

Corporate Lane (just north of I-88 and just east of Route 59) (630) 717-5867 Sky High Sports Niles, 6424 W. Howard (behind Fibrecraft) (847) 801-5867 Nap.JumpSkyHigh.com Trampoline parks in Naperville and Niles. Hours: Vary; check website. Admission: Varies; check website.

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park 325 W. Lake St., Suite A Elmhurst (331) 209-6333 skyzone.com/elmhurst Indoor trampoline park that offers open jumps, SkyFitness and Ultimate Dodgeball. Hours: 4-8 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 4-10:30 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $10 for 30 minutes; $14 for 60 minutes; $18 for 90 minutes.

Sod Room

Sky High Sports

1454 S. Michigan Ave., 2nd Floor Chicago (312) 922-3131 sodroom.com

Sky High Sports Naperville, 2244

An eco-friendly, indoor playspace

located in the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago. Features drop-in play, classes, as well as a private event space for parties. Small boutique area features eco-friendly gifts for parents and children. Hours: Monday-Friday. Hours vary. Admission: $12 kids, $8 sibling (0-6 month old siblings free with paid admission).

The C.A.K.E. Village 611 E. Main St. East Dundee (224) 699-9968 thecakevillage.com A cultural, visual and performing arts center that immerses children in the culture of Africa. The goal is to foster an enriched, positive connection between all children and Africa. The Mini-Village is a playroom with a stage, huts, dress-up, fruit stand, pretend play and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday; by appointment only Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. Admission: $7 per child.

Xtreme Trampolines 485 Mission St., Carol Stream 950 Busch Parkway, Buffalo Grove

ChicagoParent.com

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PLAY (630) 752-1400 xtremetrampolines.com Indoor trampoline park offers dropin jump times. Hours: Check website. Admission: Carol Stream: $11 first hour, $6 each additional hour; Buffalo Grove: $12 one hour, $16 90 minutes, $19 two hours.

Yu Kids Island Chicago Woodfield Mall, next to Sears 5 Woodfield Mall Schaumburg (847) 969-9000 yukidschicago.com Unique playground inside the mall for kids under 48 inches tall. Includes 10 attractions, including The Dancing Balloons, The Spinning Palms and The Revolving Tree. Also offers party packages. Bring socks. Additional location at Westfield Hawthorn Mall in Vernon Hills. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Check website.

SPORTS TO WATCH

Chicago Steel Edge Ice Arena 735 E. Jefferson St.

Bensenville (630) 594-1162 chicagosteelhockeyteam.com Features top young players in the United States Hockey League, a stepping stone to the NHL. Check website for ticket information and family events. Hours: Season runs late-September through April. Admission: $8, $6.50 in advance, $5.50 online. Family packs start at $30. Check website for kids’ packages.

Chicago Wolves Allstate Arena 6920 N. Mannheim Road Rosemont (800) THE-WOLVES chicagowolves.com The Wolves play their first home game of the 2014-15 season on Oct. 11; their 38-game home schedule runs through April. Visit website to take advantage of ticket specials and family packages that feature tickets, food and souvenirs. Most home games are played on Friday nights, Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons. Hours: Season runs October-April. Admission: $10 and up.

Sod Room, see page 82.

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Safari Land Explore Chicagoland’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park And Experience The Largest Indoor Roller Coaster In Illinois Exhilarating Family Fun filled with adventure, food, games and rides! Tilt-A-Whirl • 3DMaxFlight Simulator • Bumper Cars Kiddie Go Karts • Cosmic Bowling • Soft Play Video Games • Atlantis Restaurant

Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

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Birthday Parties & Group Packages

701 W. North Ave., Villa Park 630•530•4649 www.safarilandfun.com

The Mystery Shop

Interactive mysteries for all ages (630) 690-1105 www.TheMysteryShop.com

Montessori 6 Week - 6 Year

Zunco Childcare INC

Licensed by DCFS Monday - Friday 6:30am - 6:00pm Ph: (773) 575-7063 Serving Organic Food Director: Shilan Callaghan Northwest Chicago Niles • Park Ridge Check us out on ChicagoParent.com and type Zunco in the search box.

Fall 2014 • goingplaces 83

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GOING PLACES

AFFORDABLE FUN ON THE FARM®

Open Daily 10am-6pm

Sept 20th-Nov 1st & Columbus Day Weber Rd • Crest Hill

Includes over 20 Unlimited Attractions

OurPumpkinFarm.com/GP

FREE ADMISSION

for Military, First Responders, Spouse & Children

Military Appreciation Weekend

Sept. 20th & 21st

First Responders Appreciation Weekend

Sept. 27th & 28th

Grandparents FREE • Monday-Friday

fun All fright! No

Meals & Treats To Eat 2014 Corn Maze Included in General Admission

Open Weekends & Columbus Day

Our CornMaze.com

Zombie Paintball Ride Memories are made here! ILY OPEN DA pm 0 :0 7 9:00am t. 31 c O Sept. 13 2014

Over a half-mile of terror as you shoot zombies with slime paintballs

Siegel’s Cottonwood Pumpkin Farm $ave Time & Buy Tickets ONLINE

$5 OFF

Combo Ticket

Admission & Zombie Paintball Ride Code: GPCombo

$2 OFF

Gen. Admission

Over 20 unlimited attractions included Code: GP14

(Good for up to 6 people)

5 Miles South of I-55 on Weber (exit 283) or 5 miles North of I-80 (exit 130N)

17250 Weber Rd, Lockport 60441 815.741.2693 GP

710 W. Boughton Road Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630.759.8711 www.johansenfarms.com 84 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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Your City: # In Party

Kids 2 and Under Free. Not valid with school tours, groups, & any other offer

ChicagoParent.com

8/28/14 5:47 PM

nature

Our guide to the outside

In this section 88 Botanic gardens and conservatories 89 Farms and ranches 90 U-Pick 94 Zoos BENGTSON’S PUMPKIN FARM

ChicagoParent.com

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Fall 2014 • goingplaces 85

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INDIANA DUNES

CHRISTINE LIVINGSTON

NATURE

National Lakeshore spells fun

eptember’s here and Chicago kids are back in the classroom learning their ABCs and 1-2-3s. Summer trips to the beach may be over—but autumn weekends at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore still spell fun. With eight beaches and numerous hiking trails to choose from, there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy family-friendly activities.

Kathy Woods

Become a junior ranger

SPONSORED

Through Dec. 31, kids can earn a badge in the Dunes Junior Ranger Program. Visit the Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center (corner of Highways 20 and 49) between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to pick up a set of self-guided activities. Enjoy exploring the Dunes as a

Eat a picnic lunch

Picnics are always in season, and fall is a nice time to sit on the beach savoring your favorite fall foods. We suggest sweet potato quesadillas, coleslaw and cider with apple crisp or caramel apples for dessert.

Paul H. Douglas Center JEFF MANUSZAK, NPS COLLECTION

Nature brought to you by THE MORTON ARBORETUM

CONNECT WITH US

PLAN YOUR VISIT AT MORTONARB.ORG

#mortonarboretum

86 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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family and learn something at the same time.

ChicagoParent.com

8/28/14 5:36 PM

NATURE

CHRISTINE LIVINGSTON CHRISTINE LIVINGSTON

Attempt a swim

Lake Michigan has had all summer to warm up, and just because it’s September doesn’t mean the water turns cold overnight. Our family has been known to sneak in a swim or two on warm afternoons as late as October.

Comb the sand

Everyone likes a treasure hunt, and the beach offers miles of opportunity. Beach glass is bits and pieces of broken jars, bottles and pottery that are tumbled by waves and eroded by sand until they are smooth and frosty. Crinoids are fossilized pieces of stalks from sea lilies once attached to the bottom of the lake. They require a sharp eye to spot but are exciting to find.

CHRISTINE LIVINGSTON

Hike

There are a number of trails within the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore that are well worth hiking. Take a short stroll along the Great Marsh Trail or choose Cowles Bog Trail for something lengthier and a bit more challenging. Walk along Lake Front Drive for great views of the lake and see the five Houses of Tomorrow, built for the 1933 World’s Fair and shipped over on barges from Chicago. For more information and maps of the area, stop by the Visitor Center or visit the website of the National Park Service at nps.gov/indu.

SPONSORED

CHRISTINE LIVINGSTON

What makes leaves change color?

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Fall 2014 • goingplaces 87

8/28/14 5:37 PM

NATURE BOTANIC GARDENS

Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org A 385-acre living plant museum featuring 26 display gardens and four natural areas, situated on nine islands surrounded by lakes. Visit the Conservation Science Center with interactive exhibits and the Green Roof Garden. New gardens include the Grunsfeld Children’s Growing Garden and Kleinman Family Cove. It has events, programs and activities for all ages. Hours: 8 a.m.-sunset. Admission: Free; select event fees apply. Parking is $20-$25; free for members.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden 2715 S. Main St., Rockford (815) 965-8146 klehm.org

SPONSORED

This 155-acre outdoor living museum has 1.8 miles of acces-

sible paved trails with a children’s garden, picnic area and fountain garden. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Admission: $6, $3 seniors, students and kids 3-17, free kids under 3.

Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org Explore 1,700 acres of plants and trees. Walk, run or bike nine miles of paved roads or hike 16 miles of trails with birds, frogs and other wildlife, amid trees, meadows, ponds and lakes. Wander a Maze Garden or enjoy the Children’s Garden with year-round activities for ages 2 and up. Family and youth outings, classes, story times and other nature- and science-based activities year-round. Visitor stations at Big Rock and Schulenberg Prairie tell the story of the area and its ecosystems. Hours: 7 a.m.sunset daily. Visit website for Children’s Garden hours. Admission: $12, $11 seniors, $9 ages 2-17, free

kids under 2. Wednesdays: $8, $7 seniors, $6 kids, free kids under 2. Free parking.

The Lurie Garden in Millennium Park Columbus Drive and Monroe Street Chicago (312) 228-1004 luriegarden.org Offers a variety of free family workshops throughout the year. An urban model of sustainable horticulture, the garden provides a healthy habitat for a wide variety of plants and wildlife. Hours: 6 a.m.11 p.m. daily unless otherwise specified. Admission: Free.

CONSERVATORIES

Bird Haven Greenhouse 225 N. Gougar Road, Joliet (815) 741-7278 jolietpark.org Four greenhouses are open to the

public with outdoor gardens. There are special events held throughout the year just for kids. Hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily. Call or visit website regarding holiday closings. Admission: Free.

Friendship Park Conservatory 395 W. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines (847) 298-3500 mppd.org Visit the three-story indoor atrium and 15 acres of outdoor gardens. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayThursday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Closed major holidays. Admission: Free.

Garfield Park Conservatory 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago (773) 638-1766 garfieldconservatory.org The Elizabeth Morse Children’s Garden is where kids can go down the vine tube slide, climb a giant seed or crank up a huge bee to pol-

The green pigment goes away to reveal the other colors.

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Keeping you COOL with 6 great pools! MT. PROSPECT PARK DISTRICT’S POOL PASS INCLUDES

• Big Surf Wave Pool • Meadows Aquatic Center • RecPlex Indoor Pool • Des Plaines Park District pools CHIPPEWA & IROQUOIS MYSTIC WATERS AT REDUCED FEES

For more info, visit www.mppd.org or call 847-640-1000 88 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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NATURE Wilder Park Conservatory

linate an enormous flower. There’s also a toddler-size playground and a digging area. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Open until 8 p.m. Wednesday. Admission: Free.

225 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst (630) 993-8901 epd.org A small conservatory, ideal for little feet, showcases seasonal plants as well as flowering tropical plants. The park features a formal garden, herb gardens, seasonal displays, perennial beds, and a paved walkway. Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free; donations appreciated.

Lincoln Park Conservatory 2391 N. Stockton Drive, Chicago (312) 742-7736 chicagoparkdistrict.com A great place to relax after a day at Lincoln Park Zoo. Take a stroll through the tropical flora and fauna. Look for goldfish and koi. No food allowed in the conservatory. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: Free.

FARMS AND RANCHES

Big Run Wolf Ranch 14857 Farrell Road, Lockport (815) 588-0044 bigrunwolfranch.org

Oak Park Conservatory 615 Garfield St., Oak Park (708) 725-2400 oakparkconservatory.org

SPONSORED

Walk through a warm, lush wonderland of ferns, tropical plants, and cacti. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday; 2-4 p.m. Monday. Admission: $2 suggested donation.

A non-profit educational facility specializing in North American wildlife. Visit during Family Day/ Open Houses or book a presentation, party or camping. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 27, Oct. 25. Admission: $5.

Jollay Orchards, see page 92.

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Have You been

scared lately?

A must see, must do adventure.... DUSK (6:30) ‘TIL MIDNIGHT FRI. & SAT. Live Action Haunted Cornfield 45 MINUTES OF TERROR • 45 MINUTES OF SCREAMS AN EVENING OF FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT

HAUNTING STORIES BY THE BONFIRE Daytime Creepy Cornfield Adventure Less Intense - No Live Actors Action Creatures & Sound Effects

Daytime Wagon Rides Pumpkin Picking • Animal Park Wagon Rides 10am-6pm • Fri, Sat. & Sun.

Child-Friendly Family Nights: Thurs. & Sun. Nights 6pm-10pm (no live actors)

5 off

1/2 off

$ The Midwest’s www.meadowbrookfun.com greatest cornfield MEADOWBROOK PUMPKIN FARM adventure! Special Group & Tour Rates Available 2970 Mile View Road • West Bend, WI • 262-338-3649 Daytime Activities begin Saturday, Sept. 20 Nighttime Haunt Begins Friday, Sept. 26 Mon.-Wed. 10-7 • Thurs. & Sun. 10-10 • Fri. & Sat. 10am-Midnight

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Creepy Cornfield Admission

Nighttime Haunted Cornfield

on the purchase of a pair of admissions - no limit Meadowbrook Market West Bend 262-338-3649 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 10/24/14

purchase 1 admission to the creepy cornfield at regular price, get a 2nd admission 1/2 price Meadowbrook Market West Bend 262-338-3649

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 10/24/14 CP

Fall 2014 • goingplaces 89

8/29/14 12:45 PM

NATURE Blackberry Farm

Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm

100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora (630) 892-1550 foxvalleyparkdistrict.org This farm celebrates the pioneer days of the 1800s. The multi-level adventure playground will delight the kids with its network of climbing decks, slides, ropes and catwalkstyle bridges connecting an array of playhouses and a zip line. Includes unlimited rides on the steamengine replica train, hay wagon, carousel, ponies and pedal tractor course. Visit the farm animals and learn about pioneer life from the costumed historical interpreters. Hours: Sept. 2-30: 9:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. Friday; 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. October (weekends only): 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $8, $7 kids and seniors; $5 resident, $4.50 resident kids and seniors; free kids under 2.

Bonner Heritage Farm 19412 W. Sand Lake Road, just west of Route 45, Lindenhurst (847) 968-3400 bonnerfarm.org The building and exhibits bring to life a picture of farming and agriculture in Lake County. The farm includes an original barn, a carpenter’s shop, a granary, hay barn, pump house, hog house, chicken coop and storage shed. Self-guided exhibits are all outside. Hours: 6:30 a.m.-sunset. Admission: Free.

Enjoy Pioneer Farm 17N400 Big Timber Road, Hampshire (847) 683-2863 enjoypioneerfarm.com This working farm between Chicago and Rockford features u-pick and pre-picked pumpkins, corn stalks, straw, Indian corn, winter squash, gourds and mums. Farm fresh eggs and fresh frozen lamb, pork and chicken are available. See lambs, beef calves, pig, goats, turkeys and chickens. Hours: Sunrise-sunset daily. Admission: Free.

Garfield Farm Museum 3N016 Garfield Road, Campton Hills (630) 584-8485 garfieldfarm.org

SPONSORED

This museum offers a variety of educational, family and entertain-

Step back in time to see Illinois as it once was at this 135-acre site. At the 19th century working farm, see how pioneers did chores. The farm animals, including draft horses, are big attractions for kids. At the nature center, see turtles, hike through natural habitats and let kids loose at educational displays, puzzles and seasonal activities. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free; some programs require fees and pre-registration.

Big Run Wolf Ranch, see page 89.

The Children’s Farm at The Center

ment events focusing on 1840s farm and inn history. Hours: Year-round by appointment. Walk-in tours 1-4 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday through September. Admission: Tours $3, $2 kids. Higher admission for special events.

friendly businesses include a petting zoo, carousel and mini train. Hours: Farmyard: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily April-October. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. November weekends. Check website for restaurant and shop hours. Admission: $8, $12 kids 2-12.

Kline Creek Farm

Prairie Crossing Farm

1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago (630) 876-5900 dupageforest.org/klinecreekfarm

32400 N. Harris Road, Grayslake (847) 548-4062 ext. 11 libertyprairie.org

Visit this living-history farm to discover life for DuPage County families in the 1890s. Tour the house, barn and visitor center. See sheep, chickens and horses while costumed staff share life on the farm. Activities and special events include the annual “Corn Harvest” on Oct. 11 and 12. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Monday. Surrounding Timber Ridge Forest Preserve open daily one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset. Admission: Free to forest preserve and farm. Fees for some programs.

The Liberty Prairie Foundation supports educational programming at the Prairie Crossing Farm to educate and inspire people to value healthy food, land and community through experiences on the farm. Visit website for information about youth development, educational tours, community garden plots, and lifelong learning events at this working organic farm. Hours: Check website. Admission: Check website.

Lambs Farm I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville (847) 362-4636 lambsfarm.org Visit the farmyard and attractions, garden and pet center, café & bakery, country store and thrift shop while experiencing the farm’s mission of serving people with developmental disabilities. Kid-

Riegel Farm & Conservation Center 580 Farmview Road, University Park (708) 534-6456 university-park-il.com This site has a barn and picnic areas. The petting zoo has a diverse group of animals, including exotic birds, snakes and an alligator. Birthday parties and tours available. Hours: 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission: Donations accepted.

12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park (708) 361-3650 thecenterpalos.org/farm.html Sixty-acre educational working farm with cows, pigs, sheep, goats, horses, donkey, rabbits, chickens, geese and ducks. Complimentary pony rides (September and November) and hayrides (October). Pick your own pumpkin in October. Hours: March-November (except October): 1-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; October: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: Check website.

Wagner Farm & Heritage Center 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview (847) 657-1506 glenviewparks.org Visit one of the few remaining dairy farms. Learn about the farm’s livestock and crops at this 18-acre working farm. The Heritage Center features interactive exhibits, a milking parlor, greenhouse, authentic 1930’s store and museum gift shop. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. MondaySaturday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free; some programs and special events cost extra.

U PICK

Apple Holler 5006 S. Sylvania Ave., Sturtevant, Wis.

The leaves are too fragile to survive winter. New ones will grow in spring.

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90 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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Schaumburg Park District 1111 E. Schaumburg Road Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com/spring-valley

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NATURE (262) 884-7100 appleholler.com Pick more than 30 varieties of apples, along with peaches, pears, pumpkins and other fruit. Enjoy hay wagon rides, pony rides, corn maze, bounce house, pedal carts, live entertainment on weekends in the fall, pig races, kids’ korral play area, gemstone mining, gift shop, bakery, and a down home restaurant. Hours: Check website. Admission: Varies; check website.

Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm 13341 W. 151st St., Homer Glen (708) 301-3276 pumpkinfarm.com

SPONSORED

New for 2014, six kiddie rides are included with general admission. Families can enjoy a tractorpulled hayrack ride, new six-lane Mega Fun Slide, new Happy Swing, Pumpkin Chucker, new pumpkin village, animated Haunted Barn and Fun Barn, pig races and petting zoo. Also features a Giant Corn Box, corn maze, simulated milking cows,

pony and camel rides for a fee and Halloween shop. Hours: Sept. 27-Oct. 30: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Admission: Check website.

Currans Orchard 6385 Kilburn Ave., Rockford (815) 963-7848 curransorchard.com Try some award-winning cider, pick your own apples, raspberries and pumpkins. Enjoy some apple doughnuts, hot apple pies, glazed nuts, honey, real maple syrup, jams, gourmet dressings, Honey Crisp caramel apples, wagon rides, straw bale mini-maze, climbing bales, petting corral and apple slingshot. Hours: Opens for season Labor Day weekend. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Admission: Free; call or check website for other costs.

Didier Farms 16678 W. Aptakisic Road Prairie View/Lincolnshire

(847) 634-3291 didierfarms.com Enjoy a tractor-drawn hayride through Scarecrow Alley or visit Animal Land to meet farm and exotic animals. Your family can enjoy pony rides, the corn maze, kiddie mechanical rides, rope making and more. Visit the educational farming display and new Pumpkin Playland. Farm fresh apple cider and pumpkin doughnuts made daily. Try the homemade fudge. Birthday parties and school group rates available by reservation only. Hours: Check website. Pumpkinfest runs Sept. 20-Oct. 31. Admission: Free; price varies for activities.

Garwood Orchard 5911 W. 50 South, LaPorte, Ind. (219) 362-4385 garwoodorchard.com Pick your own apples, pumpkins and raspberries. Horse and tractor drawn wagon rides take you to the u-pick areas. Live bands on select fall weekends. Apple Fest Arts & Craft show

is held in September. Hours: Open daily; check website. Admission: Free; produce prices vary.

Goebbert’s Farm and Garden Center 40 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington (847) 428-6727 pumpkinfarms.com Features an animal farm, giraffe barn, little farmers play yard, pony rides, camel rides, wagon rides, haunted house, corn box, gem mining, corn stalk maze, straw town maze, pumpkin-eating dinosaur, jumping pillow, pumpkin tunnel, and weekend pig racing. New for 2014, Weekend Magic Show. Fall harvest market includes pumpkins, gourds, corn stalks, Michigan apples, apple cider doughnuts, fresh pies and apple cider. The Red Barn Cafe, fudge shop and gift shop are open daily. Kettle corn and corn roasting are open on weekends. Hours: Sept. 20-Oct 31. Attractions and Cafe: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Fall Harvest

What happens to the leaves that fall?

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Weekends in October 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Pumpkin Patch

Included with daily admission Pumpkin Weekends are back! Seasonal crafts, harvest decor and pumpkin stories can be enjoyed every weekend.

Blackberry Farm

Oct. 18 • Magic Show Oct. 25 • Trick-or-Treat After& Costume Contest hour Group

100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora • 630-892-1550

foxvalleyparkdistrict.org BUTTERPRINT FARM PROVIDES A FUN AND EXCEPTIONAL LEARNING EXPERIENCE LIKE NONE OTHER TO STUDENTS ON RURAL WILDLIFE AND EARLY FARM LIFE. Individually Guided Tours for your group! You won't fight the crowds! • Crow Family Puppet Shows • Handson Rope Making and Corn Processing • Domestic Livestock Up-Close and Personal • Educational Displays • Historic Stassen Farm Museum • Butterprint Native Prairie • Touch of Nature Learning Center • Scenic Hayrides • Pick your Pumpkin from the Vine • Lunch facilities available

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Fun-Packed Guided tours. $9 per person with free pumpkin. Teachers are Free!

24936 S. 80th Ave., Monee www.butterprintfarm.com Open weekdays from September 22 through October 31

Hayrides available!

Yo u r FA M I LY ' s FA L L T R A D I T I O N

OPEN FOR THE SEASON SEASO N

Store Hours: 9 AM to 5:30 PM - 7 days a week

Apple Picking, Corn Maze, Barn Yard Activity Area, Apple Train, Apple Cannons, and Petting Zoo open Labor Day Weekend 815.825.2158 - JonamacOrchard.com - Malta, Illinois l o cat e d 6 m i l e s W e s t o f D e k a l b o n S h a b b o n a R o a d

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NATURE (269) 468-3075 jollayorchards.com

Market and Gift Shop: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: Call for prices.

Harvest Festival begins Labor Day weekend. Activities include animal farm, pond fishing, cornfield maze, playground, haunted house and caterpillar crawl, in addition to taking a hayride to pick apples and pumpkins. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. EST weekends. Admission: $8 activity admission; free to pick fruit.

Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch 42W813 Reinking Road, Hampshire (847) 464-5952 pumpkinfarms.com Pumpkins, wagon rides, animal farm, corn stalk maze, haunted barn, pumpkin-eating monster, pig racing, pony rides, jumping pillow, corn box, train ride, paint ball gallery, pumpkin slide and weekend magic show. Fall Harvest Market features Michigan apples, squash, apple cider, doughnuts, pies and fudge, Farmers Wife Cafe open daily. School tours, birthday parties and group outings available by reservation. Hours: Sept. 20-Oct 31. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Admission: Call for prices.

Jollay Orchards

SPONSORED

1850 Friday Road, Coloma, Mich.

Kuipers Family Farm 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park (815) 827-5200 kuipersfamilyfarm.com Apples, pumpkins, hayrides, pony rides, petting zoo, haunted forest, corn maze, pig races and many more fall activities. Apple picking on weekends only. Features two stores and bakery. Hours: Aug. 23-Oct. 31: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. MondaySaturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday; Nov. 1-Dec. 21: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: U-pick apples: $9; Pumpkin Farm Activity Area: $8.75 weekdays, $11.75 weekends.

Kline Creek Farm, see page 90.

Microbes and fungi consume them, and they become part of the soil.

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Special advertiSing Section

Take a Closer look aT Your Park DisTriCT Bolingbrook Park District 201 Recreation Dr., Bolingbrook (630) 739-0272 bolingbrook.org

Deerfield Park District 836 Jewett Park Dr., Deerfield (847) 945-0650 deerfieldparks.org

Des Plaines Park District 2222 Birch St., Des Plaines (847) 391-5700 DPParks.org

Mt. Prospect Park District 1000 W. Central Rd., Mount Prospect (847) 255-5380 mppd.org

Naperville Park District 320 W. Jackson, Naperville (630) 848-5000 napervilleparks.org

92 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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Photo courtesy of Mt. ProsPect Park district

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Place, Skokie (847) 674-1500 skokieparks.org

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8/29/14 12:44 PM

NATURE Meadowbrook’s Pumpkin Farm 2970 Mile View Road West Bend, Wis. (262) 338-3649 meadowbrookfun.com Take a wagon ride out to the field to pick your own pumpkin. Then visit the Farm Critter park, explore a haunted cornfield full of action props, sound and light effects and stop by the Halloween store. There is southern-style BBQ, bonfire and storyteller, and live actors at the haunted cornfield on Friday and Saturday nights. Hours: Sept. 21-Oct. 30: 7 p.m. daily (open until 11 p.m. Friday-Saturday in October); Haunted Cornfield stays open until 11:30 on Friday and Saturday. Admission: Visit website.

Pick. at Garden Patch Farms 14158 W. 159th St., Homer Glen (708) 301-7720 pickthefarm.com

SPONSORED

Fresh, u-pick fruits and vegetables available seasonally. Visitors can

pick an assortment of squash, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, greens, pumpkins and much more. Visitors can also pick fresh fruits and herbs from the field. Visit website to find what’s available for picking. Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Admission: $5, free kids 2 and under.

Richardson Adventure Farm 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove (815) 675-9729 richardsonfarm.com New location features the World’s Largest Corn Maze with two kids’ maze trails and five maze games. The farm has more than 25 activities, including 50-foot-tall observation tower, kiddie zip line, 850-foot zip line, pig races, orbiting, carousel, slides, pedal carts, two jumping pillows (one for younger kids) wagon rides, gem mining, campfires, corn cannon and concessions. Smaller kids and parents will enjoy secure Kiddie Country with pedal trikes, shelled corn bin, jumping pillow, play fort, tunnel and more.

Fifteen varieties of pumpkin available. Hours: 3-10 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday; 3-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; noon-10 p.m. Sunday. Open through Nov. 2, including Columbus Day. Admission: $13, $10 kids 4-12, free kids 3 and under. Check website for campfire reservations. Free parking.

Royal Oak Farm Orchard 15908 Hebron Road, Harvard (815) 648-4141 royaloakfarmorchard.com Pick apples, raspberries and pumpkins. There is a gift shop, restaurant, bakery, play area, carousel, petting zoo, tours and train ride. Applefest runs on weekends and holidays Sept. 20 through Columbus Day. Check website for weekend event information. Hours: Sept. 1-Oct 31: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9:30a.m.-7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday; Nov. 1-Nov. 15: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Admission: Free; prices for fruits vary.

Siegel’s Cottonwood Pumpkin Farm 17259 S. Weber Road, Crest Hill (800) 304-FARM (3276) ourpumpkinfarm.com This 105-year-old family-owned working farm features three playlands, climbing wall, haunted barn, giant slides, moon walk, petting zoo and train rides. Enjoy Army Obstacle Course, Grain Cart Ride, T-Ball and 17-acre cornfield maze. Visit website for event schedule. Hours: Sept. 20-Nov. 1: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Admission: $10 weekday with coupon, $12 weekend with coupon, free kids 2 and under. Visit website for coupon.

Sonny Acres Farm 29W310 North Ave., West Chicago (630) 231-3859 sonnyacres.com Look for piles of pumpkins, plus squash, roasted corn and apples amid more than a dozen Halloween and fall-themed attractions. Some are gentle enough for less hearty vis-

What is inside a seed?

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Together...

Let’s Protect Them This Holiday Season, Adopt-A-Manatee®

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NATURE itors, but the haunted barn is “not a place for the weak at heart.” There’s also a haunted hayride, Halloween costume shop, pony rides, petting zoo and kiddie korral. Hours: MidSeptember-October. Times vary; call ahead. Admission: Pay per attraction; tickets are $1 each.

and features a historical train station, a railroad caboose, picnic area and seasonal concession stand. Offers educational programs and a variety of special events. Pumpkin Fest runs Oct. 1-31. Hours: November-March 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily; April-October 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $5, $4 seniors, free kids 17 and under, members and Wheaton Park District residents.

Susanna Farms 24153 Town Line Road, Lake Villa (847) 838-0798 susannafarms.com

Lincoln Park Zoo

Children can play in the mini maze of clover and sunflowers and enjoy a scenic hayride or train ride. Parents and children will love the corn box and talking to all the animals. Horseback rides are available for $5 for five minutes. Snacks are available at the snack shack and there are plenty of areas for sitting in the gardens. Take a turn on the obstacle course, try out some archery and just have a good old-fashioned day of fun. Kids can channel their inner creativity while painting a totem pole and can find a fun design for a face painting. Plus see the herd of Scottish Highland cattle and all the Susanna Farm animals. Pumpkins, mums, decorative plants, corn stocks and ornamental plants for sale. Hours: Weekends in October, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $8.

See more than 1,100 animals, many of them endangered. Popular stops include Regenstein Center for African Apes, Kovler Sea Lion Pool and Regenstein African Journey. Other major exhibits include the McCormick Bird House and Helen Brach Primate House. Kids can see bears, wolves, beavers and otters play at Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo, and climb in the Treetop Canopy Climbing Adventure. The Nature Boardwalk allows visitors to experience a multisensory, interactive ecosystem. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily September-October; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily November. Admission: Free; parking $20-$35.

The Elegant Farmer Highways ES & J, Mukwonago, Wis. (262) 363-6770 elegantfarmer.com

SPONSORED

Autumn Harvest Festival features 12 varieties of apples to pick right from the tree along with a pumpkin patch, tractor-pulled hayrides, pony rides and vintage train rides on The East Troy Electric Railroad. New this year is a family-friendly farm scene corn maze. Make caramel apples, enjoy freshly made cider doughnuts, BBQ pork sandwiches, hot cider, and the famous Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag. Visit the farmers market for specialty food and a selection of local farmraised fruits and veggies. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 6-Oct. 26. Farm Kitchen and Deli is open year round 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free; Hayrides: $3, $2 kids 3-11. Pony rides: $5. Trolley rides: $12.50 adults, $10.50 seniors, $8 kids 3-11, free for kids under 3.

Morton Arboretum, see page 88. Thompson Strawberry Farm Hwy. 50, Bristol, Wis. Hotline: (262) 857-2353 thompsonstrawberryfarm.com U-pick pumpkins and raspberries. Call the hotline before you go to make sure produce is ripe. Raspberries available in late August through October. (8 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday); pumpkins start Sept. 20 through Halloween (10 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends; 3-5 p.m. weekdays). Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends. Admission: $3.50 pint for raspberries; $60 carload of pumpkins while supplies last.

Tree-Mendus Fruit Farm 9351 E. Eureka Road, Eau Claire, Mich. (269) 782-7101 treemendus-fruit.com The high elevation at Tree-Mendus means the farm grows fruit throughout the late summer and early fall including peaches, nectarines and more than 200 varieties of apples. There is u-pick and a market. Group tours available. Hours: Sept. 2-Nov. 1: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Monday. Admission: Free; price for fruit varies.

ZOOS

Brookfield Zoo 8400 31st St., Brookfield (708) 688-8000 czs.org This 216-acre zoo has more than 2,000 animals. At the Hamill Family Play Zoo, kids can touch domestic animals, look for insects, watch and help zookeepers prepare animal food. Visit the Great Bear Wilderness which features bison, bald eagles, polar bears and grizzly bears. Backstage Adventures gives participants an opportunity to experience the day with a zookeeper (for ages 8 and up). Training encounters with dolphins, penguins and more are available; call for reservations. Make sure to take a ride on the zoo’s carousel, one of the largest hand-carved wooden carousels in the country. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $16.95, $11.95 kids 3-11 and seniors, free kids 2 and under. $10 parking.

Cosley Zoo 1356 Gary Ave., Wheaton (630) 665-5534 cosleyzoo.org This five-acre zoo showcases a variety of farm animals and Illinois wildlife

Phillips Park Zoo 1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora (630) 256-3860 phillipsparkaurora.com Get an up-close look at a bald eagle, gray wolves and cougars. See North American river otters, elk herd, goats, swans, turkeys, peacocks and Reptile House. Stop by the visitor center to see educational displays and exhibits featuring Mastodon bones. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: Free.

Randall Oaks Barnyard Zoo 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee (847) 551-4310 dtpd.org Visit, pet and feed the farm animals, while also seeing emus, lynx, hawks, owls and reptiles. Pony rides and jumpy are available for an additional charge. Bring a picnic lunch and spend the day. Animal feeding times are posted online. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily through Oct. 13; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends only Oct. 18-Nov. 23. Admission: $4, $3.25 resident, free kids under 2.

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Fall 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ goingplaces 95

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GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CHICAGOLAND

Halloween Happenings Apple Holler

Fox Valley Park District

5006 S. Sylvania Ave. Sturtevant, Wi 53177 (262) 884-7100 appleholler.com Pick your own Apples & Pumpkins 10-5 daily Bring the family and spend the day on the farm, restaurant, country store and bakery. Apple Holler has Tractor – drawn wagon rides, Pedal Cart Rides, Hand Led Pony Rides Corn Maze, Golden Goat Bridge, Animals for petting and feeding, Johnny Apple Seed Maze, Kids Korral Play area, Jack & The Beanstalk Story Trail & Giant Slide, , Straw Mountain, Cool Cow Maze, Amish Built Train and MORE!

Pumpkin Week-ends 11 am to 4 pm, in October Crafts, décor, stories, hayrides Blackberry Farm 100 S. Barnes Rd, Aurora (630) 892-1550 Foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

Blackhawk Waterways CVB Trail of Terror 201 N. Franklin Ave., Polo (800) 678-2108 Bwcvb.com The Trail of Terror includes Fall Festivals, Haunted Happenings, Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes in Carroll, DeKalb, Henry, Jo Daviess, Lee, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, and Whitside Counties. For more info visit illinoistrailofterror.com

Didier Farms 16678 W. Aptakisic Rd. Prairie View-Lincolnshire (847) 634-3291 didierfarms.com Make a family memory at our 112 yr. old farm! Hayrides, pony rides, 5 acre corn maze, Animal Land Zoo, kiddie rides, camel rides,& Sunshine Craft Activity. Visit the indian teepees ,antique tractors, Educational Farming Display and baby chicks! Fall produce, apple cider and pumpkin donuts made fresh daily. School groups weekdays. Birthday Parties. Call to reserve dates!

Downtown Oak Park Green Halloween Lake / Marion / North Blvd. downtownoakpark.net October 16, 11am–3pm Have a boo-rific time at this EEK-o-friendly, healthy, green event! Stop in participating local businesses on the Green Pumpkin Trail to participate in free kids’ activities including a pumpkin patch and kids’ costume swap, and collect healthy treats. 96 goingplaces • Fall 2014

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Highlights Halloween Puzzles & Crafts & more Highlights.com/imagine

Jonamac Orchard 19412 Shabonna Rd, Malta (815) 825-2158 Jonamacorchard.com for calendar of events Pick-your-own orchard, barnyard kids activity area, Petting Zoo and week-end Corn Maze, Hayrides, Live music and more.

Kuipers Family Farm 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park (815) 827-5200 X107 kuipersfamilyfarm.com U-pic apple orchard, Pumpkin farm and Christmas tree farm located just west of Geneva. Two gift shops and bakery famous for apple cider doughnuts, pies, fudge, hand-spun caramel apples and freshly pressed apple cider. Apple picking weekends only. Pumpkin Farm fun begins September 20th. Everything you love about fall!

Meadowbrook’s Pumpkin Farm Spooky Week-end Adventure for Family 2970 MileView Rd., West Bend, WI (262) 338-3649 meadowbrookfun.com Daytime Creepy Cornfield Adventure: 10 a.m. – 6p.m. Begins Sept 20. Wagon Rides & picking pumpkins begin Sept 20. Haunt begins September 26. Daytime Creepy Cornfield Adventure: 10 a.m. – 6p.m. Nighttime Haunted Cornfield: Friday and Saturday - 7 pm - 11 pm.

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GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CHICAGOLAND

Halloween Happenings Mt. Prospect Park District Lions Recreation Center Howlin’ Halloween Fest 411 S. Maple, Mt. Prospect (847) 632-9333 mppd.org For children ages 3-8 yr, accompanied by an adult Sat Oct 18 11am-3pm* $5 per child Adults free. Don’t forget your costume!! Trick or Treat bags will be provided. Strollers permitted.

Naper Settlement All Hallows Eve: Village of Fear (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.com Friday & Saturday, October 17 & 18 : 6:30-10 pm Experience two of the darkest nights of the year with haunting creatures, eerie entertainment and mustsee horrors. This one-of-a-kind experience brings some of the scariest characters of the past, present and future to life. Meet the lost souls of the dead in a haunted happening you won’t forget.

Statesville Haunted Prison 17250 S. Weber Road, Crest Hill (877) SCARED2 statesville.org Opens October 2nd Thursdays thru Sundays till Nov 2nd. 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. Ages 16- Adult

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GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Top Schools Fall Open Houses Ancona School

Catherine Cook School

For 52 years, Ancona’s progressive curriculum has nurtured a love for learning and equipped young minds for the 21st century and beyond. Our early childhood Montessori classrooms prepare students for life and feature half day, school year and all year options. Register for an upcoming admissions coffee or open house at anconaschool.org/admissions

Catherine Cook inspires children in a nurturing environment, providing challenging, project-based experiences using computational thinking. Motivated learners focus on social development and personal excellence. The result is a confident, ethical student ready to succeed in high school and beyond. Tours: Sept.-Jan. Open House: Nov. 2, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Ages 3 through 8th Grade 4770 South Dorchester Ave., Chicago (773) 924-2356 anconaschool.org

Avery Coonley School

Pre-K - 8th, gifted 1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org

Accelerated curriculum; comprehensive technology and arts program; and a nurturing faculty that understand the unique needs of gifted students. Open Houses: Oct. 15, Nov. 5, and Dec. 3, Jan. 7 & 21, Feb. 11 & 25.

Brickton Montessori School 8622 W. Catalpa, Chicago (773) 714-0646 brickton.org

Brickton Montessori School is fully accredited by the American Montessori Society and ISACS. We offer extended day, year-round programs for students ages 2-8th grade (Toddlers do not need to be toilet trained – partial week option available for 2 & 3 year-olds). A hands-on, individualized learning experience is enhanced by low student-teacher ratios, excellent enrichment classes, and a variety of on-site extracurricular activities. Located on the Northwest side of Chicago, just south of the I-90 in between Cumberland Avenue and East River Road. Schedule your private tour today!

British School of Chicago 814 W. Eastman, Chicago (773) 506-2097 britishschoolofchicago.org admissionsbsc@wclschools.org

Truly an international school, we promote a culture of global awareness and celebration. An engaging curriculum, coupled with our high expectations and academic standards, enables our students to meet and exceed their potential, performing well beyond expectations for their age. As partners in their education with teachers and parents, our students learn how to actively participate in their present and acquire skills for the future.

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Preschool – 8th Grade 226 W. Schiller St., Chicago (312) 266-3381 catherinecookschool.org

Chiaravalle Montessori School 425 Dempster St., Evanston (847) 844-2190 chiaravalle.org

In the true spirit of Montessori, Chiaravalle has been inspiring childen’s sense of discovery and creativity since 1965. We ignite empathetic self-directed and to be active thinkers by offering an education as unique as each child.

Chicago Grammar School

Queen of Angels School

4520 N. Western Ave., Chicago (773) 769-4211 queenofangelschicago.org

At Queen of Angels, we nurture our students’ wonder, curiosity and faith in the world, instilling a love of learning that will last a lifetime. Our students develop sound academic skills, critical thinking skills and an ability to learn independently and cooperatively through a rich academic curriculum. Each day is designed to bring new excitement and opportunities to engage in learning in a safe, child-centered environment. Monthly Informational Tours on Wednesdays begin at 8:30am (October 1st, November 5th, December 3rd, January 7th, February 4th, March 4th, April 1st, May 6th). Join us for an Open House on Sunday, January 25th, from 10:30am to 12:30pm.

Quest Academy

Independent day school, gifted and talented students prechool-8th 500 N. Benton, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org

Lower School Open House & Middle School Info Night: Wednesday, November 5, 2014 (5:30 - 7 p.m.) Thursday, February 19, 2015 (5:30 - 7 p.m.) Preschool and PreKindergarten Play Dates: Chicago Grammar School provides a rigorous classical Saturday, February 28, 2015 (9 - 10:30 a.m.) Saturday, April 18, 2015 (9 – 10:30 a.m.) education fully integrated with the arts, including national and international travel experiences. CGS Saint Andrew School students participate and win awards in national and 1710 W. Addison, Chicago international competitions. The curriculum is well (773) 248-2500 suited for the gifted or academically talented child looking for a challenge. GoSaintAndrew.com Information Nights: Oct. 23, Nov. 11, and Dec. 10 or Saint Andrew is a Catholic school providing an call for a private tour. atmosphere of academic excellence to children in preschool - 8th grade. Experienced and dedicated teachers educate students with an emphasis on Francis W. Parker School academic and technological skills while nurturing Serving JK–12th Grades creativity through art, music and literature. The 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago intellectual development and spiritual growth (773) 797-5107 provided by Saint Andrew are enhanced by a socially fwparker.org/admission diverse environment that reflects the strength of Middle School Open House for 6th–8th Grades a vibrant parish. School tours: 2nd Tuesday of the Saturday, October 25 | 1 pm month at 9am. Call for reservations and information. Upper School Open House for 9th–12th Grades

Pre-K – 8th grade 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 www.chicagogrammar.org

Saturday, November 22 | 10 am Application Deadline Monday, December 1 facebook.com/parkerchicago twitter.com/fwparker

ChicagoParent.com

8/29/14 2:25 PM

GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Top Schools Fall Open Houses Saint Clement School

St. Josaphat School

Saint Clement is a parish school rooted in Catholic traditions of Christian service and global awareness. Our curriculum and assessment is aligned to the Common Core Standards along with Spanish, Art, Music and outdoor play. We offer before and after school care, scouts, enrichment classes, including band and interscholastic sports. Attend one of our upcoming Friday morning Admission Coffee events: October 3, November 7, December 5 or January 9th. See website for details.

Ms. Colleen Cannon, Principal St. Josaphat is a 2010 National Blue Ribbon School Catholic Elementary school Grades PreK - 8, with extended care options. School Tours: Wednesdays, Sept.17, Oct.15, Nov. 19, Dec. 10 & Jan. 21

2524 N. Orchard, Chicago (773) 348-8212 www.stclementschool.org

2245 N. Southport, Chicago (773) 549-0909 stjosaphat.net

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ANCONA SCHOOL

Making theGrade Chicago Parent’s annual resource guide for Chicago area schools. P re s c h o o l s | E l e m e n t a ry | H i g h S c h o o l s | B o a rd i n g | E n ri c h m e n t S p e c i a l N e e d s | A c a d e m i c Tu t o ri n g S e rv i c e s a n d m o re

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GOING PLACES

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GOING PLACES

going places advertiser index The Abbey Resort....................................55, 101

DePaul University School of Music .................12

The Mystery Shop ...........................................83

American Dance Center..................................66

Didier Farms ..................................................84

Naper Settlement ...........................................16

Ancona School................................................42

Discovery Center Museum ......................36, 101

Odyssey Fun Farm ..........................................72

Apple Holler....................................................17

Dolphin Swim ........................... 101, Back Cover

Once Upon a Child .........................................18

Avery Coonley .................................................33

Downtown Oak Park .......................................16

Pick Staiger Theater .......................................66

Black Bear Lodge ...........................................58

DuPage Children’s Museum ...................31, 101

Blackhawk Waterways ....................................58

Fairytale Ballet...............................................79

Bolingbrook Park District ...............................78

Fleetwood Roller Rink .....................................74

Brehm School .................................................35

Foss Swim School.............................................5

Brickton Montessori .......................................21

Fox Valley Park District...................................91

British School of Chicago .................................2

Francis Parker School.......................................8

Butterprint Farm ............................................91

Hollywood Park ...............................................76

Presence Medical Group ...................................6 Putting Edge ................................................101 Queen of Angels .............................................22 Quest Academy ..............................................25 Rosemont Theatre ..........................................64 Safariland ......................................................83 Saint Andrew School ......................................19

Cassidy Tire......................................................8

Johansen Farms .............................................84

Catherine Cook School ...................................46

Jonamac Orchard ...........................................91

Chiaravalle.....................................................31

Kenosha CVB..................................................50

Chicago Athletic Clubs.....................................3

Kohl Children’s Museum.........................37, 101

Chicago Blue Dolphins ...................................21

Kuipers Farm..................................................88

Chicago Child Care Society ............................78

Language & Music .........................................24

Chicago Children’s Museum...........................26

Lifeline Theatre ..............................................66

Chicago Grammar School...............................38

Meadowbrook Pumpkin Farm .........................89

Chicago Theatre .............................................68

Medieval Times ..............................................62

Tomah ............................................................55

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn .............24

Mid City Subaru ...............................................1

Vertical Endeavors .........................................70

Dad’s Slot Cars ..............................................78

Morton Arboretum ..........................................15

Visit Up North.................................................50

Deer Park Town Center ...................................81

Mt. Prospect Park District ........................74, 88

Windy City Fieldhouse ....................................76

DeMaira Dance Studios ..................................64

Munising Visitor’s Bureau ......................48, 101

Zunco Childcare .............................................83

Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm ......................84, 101

ChicagoParent.com

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Skokie Park District ........................................70 St. Clement ....................................................33 St. Josaphat School ........................................43 Starbright Dance............................................79 Subaru ............................................ Inside Front Theatre at the Center .....................................66

Fall 2014 • goingplaces 103

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GOING PLACES

Make way for hay

nlike their cold-weather cousins, hayrides don’t have any peppy songs written about them. But there’s no question that during harvest season, there’s nothing more quintessentially “fall” than hunkering down in a bed of hay and heading out to explore. In the Chicago area, lots of farms offer hayrides through fields or to U-Pick locations. These spots prove you don’t have to go totally country to have a fun hay day. With 500 acres brimming with plants, trees and other horticultural wonders, there’s no better place than Cantigny to check out the hues of the season. The Fall Color Hayride Tour takes guests from the Visitors Center through the extensive grounds to spy all the reds, golds and browns you can handle. 10 a.m.-noon Oct. 7. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Free, $5 parking.

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In Naperville, the Family Hayrides (for kids 3 and up) come with hot chocolate and hot cider around a campfire—and guests are

welcome to bring s’mores fixings for an oh-so-sweet ride. Knoch Knolls Park, 336 Knoch Knolls Road (Oct. 5 and 25), and Seager Park, 1163 Plank Road (Oct. 11 and 19). Or if you’re really in the holiday spirit, arrive in costume for the Halloween Hayride at Knoch Knolls Park, which includes a goodie bag filled with treats, no tricks required. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Oct. 25. $13, $9 resident, free kids under 3.

Music is the star of Hayrides at The Grove, where

families sit on bales of hay and sing familiar tunes as they travel through the woods. The trip includes popcorn and s’mores over a campfire—all that sing-

ing is sure to work up an appetite! 7-8, 7:30-8:30 and 8-9 p.m. Oct. 11, 19 and 25. The Grove, 1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview. $8.75, $7 residents. For a slightly educational spin, head to the Lake View Nature Center, where riders on the Halloween Hayrides learn about spooky creatures and “things that go bump in the night.” Afterward, enjoy outdoor stories, a craft activity and snacks around a campfire. The ghost stories are up to you. 5:30-7 p.m. or 7-8:30 p.m. Oct. 17. Lake View Nature Center, 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace. $4, $3 resident. Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com

8/28/14 5:33 PM

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