Going Places Summer 2016

Going Places FREE | SUMMER 2016

Water, water

everywhere

PASSPORT

TO PLAY

GP Cover Summer 2016.indd 1

11

WAYS TO CHILL OUT

5/3/16 12:30 PM

kids’free weekend kids stay free

kids play free

kids eat free

Kids stay free in their

Kids with an accompanying adult

Kids enjoy free breakfast

parents’ room*

bowl free at Pinstripes*

every morning*

A Kids’ Free Weekend at the Hotels of Oak Brook is something the whole family can enjoy. All weekend long your Kids Stay Free, Eat Free and Play Free. Plus, there’s so much to see and do like Brookfield Zoo, Morton Arboretum and free bowling at Pinstripes. So, if you’re looking for a great family weekend, the Hotels of Oak Brook have just what you’re looking for.

TO BOOK, VISIT US ONLINE AT OAKBROOKHOTELS.COM/KIDSFREE

DOUBLETREE HOTEL OAK BROOK

•

GREAT

RATES AVAILABLE

BOOK TODAY!

LE MÉRIDIEN CHICAGO - OAKBROOK CENTER

CHICAGO MARRIOTT OAK BROOK

•

HYATT LODGE OAK BROOK

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT OAK BROOK

•

THE DRAKE OAK BROOK

*Children must be accompanied by paying adult. Some restrictions apply. For full details visit us at OAKBROOKHOTELS.COM/KIDSFREE

OAK-1964_ChgoParent Ad_10.indd 1 GP0516_CV2.indd 1

5/5/16 2:45 PM 5/6/16 11:09 AM

GOING PLACES

D OUR METEORITE TRAVELE MILLIONS OF MILES TO GET HERE.

COME TOUCH IT.

SPACE IS FREAKING AWESOME.

adlerplanetarium.org @AdlerPlanet fb.com/AdlerPlanetarium

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_001.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 1

5/5/16 11:48 AM

GOING PLACES

Charge Into Summer!

• Two-Hour Live Tournament • Four Course Feast • Magnificent Pure Spanish Horses • Authentic Sword Fighting & Jousting

Adults $36.95* Kids $26.95* Use Code: CPSUMMER

2001 N. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, IL 60195

1-888-WE-JOUST | medievaltimes.com *Must mention or enter code CPSUMMER. at time of purchase. May not be combines with any other offer or group rate. Upgrades, tax, gartuity and applicable fees additional.

Not Valid on prior purchases. Valid at the Chicago location only thru 8/31/16.

2 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_002.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:48 AM

ENJOY THE

smiles thrills history legacy awesomeness

Wonder. You can’t help but feel it when you visit the dual worlds of Spencer County in the rolling hills of southern Indiana. Here, the tiny town of Santa Claus invites wide-eyed children to feel the happiness of Christmas morning as they soar through the twists and turns of thrilling rides at Holiday World and visit the specialty shops and famous post office.

Then just down the road, their eyes widen again as they quietly walk in the footsteps of a young Abe Lincoln on the very ground where he lived from age 7-21—the formative years when he vowed to abolish slavery.

The wonder of thrills and awe. That’s Honest-to-Goodness Indiana.

VisitIndiana.com/Spring C E L E B R AT I N G 2 0 0 O F

Y E A R S STAT E H O O D

HWSpencerCo_Print_ChicagoGoingPlaces 5.375x8.375.indd 2 GP0516_003.indd 1

4/20/16 9:15 AM 5/5/16 11:47 AM

GOING PLACES

SUMMER THEATRE CAMPS FOR KIDS 5–14 BEGIN DOWNTOWN ON JUNE 20 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

summergglass summergglass summergglass summergglass summer CampCamp summer summer summer Camp Camp • GRADES 4–8 • 4 • GRADES –8 • • GRADES • GRADES 4–8 • 4–8 •

Arts Quest Arts Quest Arts Arts Quest Quest summer CampCamp summer summer summer Camp Camp • GRADES K–3 • K • GRADES –3 • • GRADES • GRADES K–3 • K–3 •

Summer Camp Summer Camp Summer Summer Camp Camp on the Lake on the Lake on the on Lake the Lake loganlogan center—hyde park park center—hyde logan•logan center—hyde GRADES 4 – 8 • park • center—hyde GRADES 4 – 8 • park

• GRADES • GRADES 4–8 • 4–8 •

“It’s a fantastic program, that allows the kids to be creative, have fun, and learn new things!”

—Arts Quest 2015 Parent

“Every single day [my daughter] came home beaming and bursting with energy. ‘My day was magnificent!’”

—2015 Summergglass Parent

4 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_004.indd 1

lookingglasstheatre.org/education 773.477.9257x193

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:47 AM

Going Places SUMMER 2016

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FAMILY FUN FEATURES

CITY

6 Fun chill-out spots

48 Explore Chicago

11 Plan the perfect picnic 14 Parent/child playdates 18 How to survive August

52 Dining al fresco 54 Next-level ice cream 58 8 fun fountains

TRAVEL

96 Come sail away

61 Chicago’s Canadian twin

FESTS

64 Diggerland USA

PLAY

66 Summer in Saugatuck

83 Women’s sports to watch

STAGE

86 Not your ordinary park districts

20 Kid-approved fests 22 Listings of parades and festivals 39 A day at Lake County Fair

MUSEUMS 43 Make a splash!

46 Free days

71 Outdoor concerts 74 Fight the brain drain

NATURE

78 Listings of theater, music and dance

90 100 years of national parks

Going Places FREE | SUMMER 2016

Water, water

11

everywhere

PASSPORT

TO PLAY

WAYS TO CHILL OUT

On the Cover: Charlie Gallagher, 7, Chicago Photographer: Thomas Kubik Design: Claire Innes

88 Row your boat

STAFF EDITOR ELIZABETH DIFFIN EDITORINCHIEF TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY DIGITAL EDITOR JACKIE MCGOEY ASSOCIATE EDITOR EMILY ADAMS ART DIRECTOR CLAIRE INNES EDITORIAL DESIGNERS JAQUINETE BALDWIN, JAVIER GOVEA PHOTOGRAPHER THOMAS KUBIK OF TK PHOTOGRAPHY CHICAGO

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_005.indd 1

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DANIELLE BRAFF, CHERYL EUGENIO, KEELY FLYNN, CORTNEY FRIES, MELISSA HAAK, LINDA MARSICANO, JENNY MUSLIN, MARIBETH PJOSEK-DURKIN, CHRIS THOMAS, SHANNAN YOUNGER ADVERTISING SALES ANNETTE COFFEE, DAWN ENGELHARDT, LOURDES NICHOLLS, KAREN SKINNER

AD DESIGNERS DEBBIE BECKER, MARK MORONEY CIRCULATION MANAGER JILL WAGNER BUSINESS MANAGER JOYCE MINICH PUBLISHER DAN HALEY

AD PRODUCTION MANAGER PHILIP SOELL

HOW TO REACH US 141 S. OAK PARK AVE. OAK PARK, IL 60302 (708) 386-5555 CHIPARENT@CHICAGOPARENT.COM

AD DESIGN MANAGER ANDREW MEAD

© 2016 WEDNESDAY JOURNAL, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 5

5/5/16 11:47 AM

GOING PLACES

BEST PLACES

TO COOL OFF

Y

BY JENNY MUSLIN

ou heard it all winter long: Just wait until summer gets here! The magnificent summers in Chicago more than make up for our cold and dreary winters. But now that the sun is shining and the temperatures are rising, we Midwesterners are clamoring for somewhere to cool off (the grass is always greener). Luckily, you can beat the heat at these cool spots all summer long.

While there’s a plethora of splash pads in the city, Margaret Donahue Park, on School Street in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, is one of the newest of the bunch. It features an expansive water play area, playground, ample seating for a picnic and the perfect Cubsthemed field for kicking a ball around. The half-acre park is 6 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_006.indd 1

perfect for kids of all ages, with built-in water features and water table, as well as play structures that resemble Chicago landmarks like Willis Tower.

If you live in the Western ‘burbs or don’t mind making a trip that way, Ty Warner Park in Westmont is one of the best splash pads you’ll find. A zero-depth pool and

soft grounds make the park ideal for little ones, while older kids love getting blasted with the jets and spray rings or getting soaked from an overhead dunk bucket.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:46 AM

GOING PLACES

Maggie Daley Park

Ty Warner Park

What’s summer without an ice cream sugar rush, especially when the kiddies are involved?

At Cone Gourmet Ice Cream in the Chicago’s West Loop, customers can choose from unique flavors like Cookie Monster, Blueberry Cream CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 8

LONGER DAYS, MORE TIME OUTSIDE!

RIBBIT! THE EXHIBIT

DESTINATION ASIA FESTIVAL

THURSDAY FAMILY NIGHTS

Through Sunday, September 25

Saturday, August 6 and Sunday, August 7

Thursdays, June through August

Explore a collection of 23 whimsical, larger-than-life copper frog sculptures.

Celebrate Asia through tree collections, music, dance, food, sports, and more.

After-hours in our Children’s Garden: music, kid-friendly fare, more. (Open late on Tuesday nights, too.)

What’s happening today? Check out mortonarb.org/calendar.

Thursday Family Nights Sponsor

4100 Illinois Route 53 • Lisle, Illinois 60532 • 630-968-0074 • mortonarb.org

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_007.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 7

5/5/16 11:46 AM

GOING PLACES

BEST PLACES TO COOL OFF CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 7

Cheese and the ever-popular “Shamrock,” a soft serve cone covered with Lucky Charms.

For a blast from the past, head to Margie’s Candies, a Chicago institution since 1921 that serves a banana split that’s unrivaled. Kids will get a kick out of the old-fashioned parlor, once frequented by Hollywood stars and sports greats.

You won’t mind getting sprinkled while visiting Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world. Located in Grant Park, the fountain features a water show every hour on the hour; after dusk, they include choreographed lights and music. The fountain is open daily from 8 a.m.-11 p.m.

Feel the breeze as you sail through Chicago’s gorgeous lakefront on the Chicago River.

Kids love riding in a bright yellow Chicago Water Taxi while their parents take in

the beautiful architecture surrounding them.

Make like the tourists and check out Crown Fountain in Millennium Park. Children love getting their toes wet while they gaze up at the towering 50-foot video sculptures featuring faces of Chicagoans. After visiting the fountain, walk a few

Save the Date!

Saturday, August 6, 2016 | Soldier Field Family Friendly and Affordable

For more information visit, CHICAGOBEARS.COM/EVENTS 8 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_008.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:46 AM

GOING PLACES blocks east to Maggie Daley Park, the impressive 20-acre lakefront public park featuring a play garden, climbing walls and picnic groves. Each play area has signage with the appropriate ages for play, making it easy for parents to navigate.

The great thing about Chicago’s annual Air and Water Show in August is that there are so many places in the city to watch the naval and aviation teams perform their tricks. Of course, you can always grab a spot at North Avenue Beach or along Navy Pier. But if you need a break from the heat, cool off and enjoy the sky-high view from the Willis Tower Skydeck. To avoid the crowds and still let your kids see the action, consider watching the full rehearsal that typically takes place the Friday before.

Head to the northern suburbs to visit Chicago Botanic Garden, a breathtaking oasis with gardens, waterfalls and

Willis Tower Skydeck

Margie’s Candies

various rotating or seasonal exhibits. Children, particularly those into trains, love visiting the Model Railroad Garden, a 7,500-square-foot railroad

that twists and turns between gardens, miniature American landmarks and vignettes of small-scale people and animals. The Children’s Growing Garden allows kids to get their hands dirty while planting in the soil. At the shaded Butterflies & Blooms exhibit, you walk through the enclosed habitat filled with hundreds of live butterflies from all around the world. Then cool off at the Garden View Cafe with an iced coffee (or Dove bar for the kiddos).

Chicago Botanic Garden

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_009.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 9

5/5/16 11:45 AM

GOING PLACES

Lakeshore Academy of Artistic Gymnastics

Gear up for the 2016 Summer Olympics at Lakeshore Academy!

Our half day Gymnastics and Rock Climbing camp registration is now open! Please call for details and pricing.

Call Us Today!

Downtown Chicago Mt. Prospect 937 W. Chestnut Street 520 E. Business Center Drive 312.563.9400 847.376.8826 lakeshoreacademy.com 10 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_010.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:45 AM

GOING PLACES

GOING PLACES

#PICNICGOALS The ingredients for the perfect picnic in Chicago

P

BY EMILY ADAMS

icnicking is an art form to be taken seriously.

You need flawless weather (sunny and with a light breeze, ideally), just the right amount of foot traffic for peoplewatching, stimulating activity for the kids (but a

relaxing atmosphere for the grown-ups) and— perhaps most importantly—unparalleled refreshments to fuel your afternoon of play.

Slap on the sunscreen, place your favorite floppy hat atop your head, grab the checkered blanket and follow our recipe to picnicking perfection in Chicago.

Start with a base of fun

(201 E. Randolph St., Chicago). Not only is this stage home to some of Chicago’s favorite sumLocation, location, location. A fabulous mer festivals (sunset picnics for the win), but picnicking experience is highly dependent on after eating, you can also skip over to Maggie where you lay your blanket.

Daley Park or the Lakefront trail to prolong If you’re in a low-key mood, the outdoor fun. millenniumpark.org the Lucy Flower Playlot Have your pup along for the day?

(2554 W. Moffat St., Chicago) The lagoon in Humboldt Park that straddles the Buck(1400 N. Sacramento Ave., Chicago) town and Logan Square is a gorgeous backdrop for your neighborhoods is the picnic, with plenty of ducks and hidden gem you’ve been turtles to watch and even more searching for. Surrounding space to run around for kids and trees provide shade over a canines alike. chicagoparkdistrict.com Lucy Flower Playlot charming play structure, splash To get away from the city altogether, pad, picnic tables and a blooming check out the newly renovated Woodscreek community garden. chicagopark Park (1420 Willow Tree Drive, Crystal Lake) for district.com nature trails, climbing, sliding, swinging, fishing If you’re looking for a quintessential Chicago and all the play and nature your picnic party can day out, set yourself up on the grass in front of handle. crystallakeparks.org the Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 1 2 ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_011.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 11

5/5/16 4:40 PM

GOING PLACES

PICNIC CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 1 1

Combine with the ultimate sandwich Any picnic basket would be lonely without a delectable sandwich. And though your PB&J might suffice for an average lunch, picnics are special occasions and their sandwiches should be treated as such.

Nonna’s Sandwiches and Sundries (925 W. Randolph St., Chicago) is a cute grab-andgo style shop that crafts a signature meatball

sub fit for the sandwich gods.

And because all true carb lovers know that food trucks do it best, check out the BLT that puts all other BLTs to shame at fave food truck The Fat Shallot.

Kailley Lindman thefatshallot.com Finally, for a classic picnic sammy, make sure to pick up the spicy chicken sandwich at The Roost Carolina Kitchen (1467 W. Irving Park Road and 455 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago). It’s on a buttermilk biscuit—’nuff said.

Add in a splash of sunshine Lemonade is basically summer in a cup, and it’s a definite must-have for any self-respecting picnic.

Lucky for us, Mario’s Italian Lemonade (1068 W. Taylor St., Chicago) exists and is everything you need to drink up summertime. Pack your cups in a cooler or drink them all melty. Either way, we can’t picture life in Chicago without Mario’s sweet concoctions.

You can also get a little fancy with your beverage of choice, and try Alliance Bakery’s (1736 W. Division St., Chicago) incredibly refreshing hibiscus tea and lemonade hybrid. Be warned, the pastries inside this Wicker Park bakery will be hard to resist.

Stir in a side of awesome As good as that sandwich might be, an outdoor meal just doesn’t feel complete without a little extra somethin’-somethin’.

Fit in your dose of comfort food with a carry-out order of The Smoke Daddy’s (1804 W. Division St., Chicago) gooey, breadcrumb-encrusted mac and cheese.

And Fontano’s Subs (332 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago) in University Village is your one-stop shop for all things potato salad, pasta salad and coleslaw. The neighborhood favorite also has a long list of top-notch subs, including a veggie option, in case you’re still missing that key ingredient in your basket.

Top it off with something sweet Last but definitely not least, no picnic would be ethically sound without pie.

Beloved by all Chicagoans (who know what’s good for them), Bang Bang Pie (2051 N. California Ave., Chicago) has spectacular seasonal options, like Triple Berry Jam pie, that will have you with your back against a tree, hat over eyes, dreaming about how amazing picnics in Chicago are.

Because, c’mon, it doesn’t get any better than this.

12 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_012.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:44 AM

GOING PLACES

NEW EXHIBIT! MAY 18- SEP 4

SPONSORED BY:

SURPRISINGLY SERIOUS ABOUT PLAY! Ever wanted to know how an Etch-a-Sketch works? Curious about what makes a jack-in-the-box pop up? Toys: The Inside Story includes 12 different hands-on stations that illustrate simple mechanisms commonly found in toys, and lets you create your own toy-like combinations. Discover The Place Where Awesome Lives!

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | (847) 832-6600 | kcmgc.org ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_013.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 13

5/6/16 11:07 AM

GOING PLACES caption, cca cap apttio ap tiiioon n,, ssee se ee p ee pa page aggee xx. xxx.. xx

3

SummerDance

Perfect Chicago

parent/kid (play)dates

W

BY KEELY FLYNN

hen you became a parent, you probably thought you kissed full-day dates goodbye forever. Turns out, the type of date that keeps you smiling miling from sun-up to sundown is still possible, b but you might ble, just have to bring along a different type of partner (namely, your kid).

Whether you’re an art-loving viing duo, urban explorers or a parent/kiddo o pair who appreciates the finer thingss in life, we’ve got three perfect Chicago d days ays to help celebrate the best duo since cee peanut butter and jelly.

Artsy A.M. Little Goat Diner for brunch created by an artist: Few celebrity chefs are regarded more highly forr their art than Chicagoan (and d 14 Summer 2016 • goingplaces ces ce

GP0516_014.indd 1

mom-to-be!) Stephanie Izard. Her take on a diner (dark chocolate chip crunch pancakes, anyone?) is sure to provide a photo-worthy (and extremely kid-friendly) culinary brunch to start your day.

820 W. Randolph St., Chicago; littlegoatchicago.com The Art In Institute of Chicago for eye ca candy: an Once your bellies are ffille filled, do the same for your eyess at the always-engaging Art Ins Institute. A spin through thee fa famed Impressionist galler leries? ries A tip of the hat to the Gr Greeks? ee And, of course, no trip p to t the museum voted the be best est in the world is complete wi without tho a tiptoe through the Th Thorne orn Miniature Room and ad eb debate about where Tiny You w wo would be happiest living.

(The C Cap Cape Cod living room, circa 1750, al wa gets our vote.) always 111 S. M Mich Michigan Ave., Chicago; artic.edu u ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:43 AM

GOING PLACES Visit our website for a complete festival guide!

Glazed Expressions Studio

A session at Glazed Expressions for unleashing your own creativity: Feeling inspired? Try your hand at crafting your own masterpiece. It’s pretty much a foolproof activity: everyone knows that mamas love their offspring’s artwork above all else, and no kid worth their brains would ever suggest that their parent’s artistic creation is anything less than a masterpiece.

717 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago; glazedexpressionsstudio.weebly.com

Urban Outdoorsy Afternoon Get on your bikes and ride: Any day that starts with wheels is destined for greatness. Whether you pedal your own or rent one along the way, biking across Chicago is sure to bring out the 8-year-old in all of us. (Hint: Easily accessible Divvy bikes are available all along the beginning, middle and end of The 606 Trail!) divvybikes.com On the trail in the city: …Which brings us to The 606! Once an abandoned rail line, the beautifully transformed Bloomingdale Trail connects four neighborhoods and six parks.

Bike your way from its westernmost entrance at Ridgeway Avenue straight to Wicker Park. All of that fresh air can work up a mean appetite, so head down to Sultan’s Market for some incredible Middle Eastern takeout quicker than you can say “kefta kebab.”

2057 W. North Ave., Chicago, chicagofalafel.com; the606.org CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 1 6

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_015.indd 1

Your al Festiv a tion!

Destin

www.visiteffinghamil.com U-Pick or We Pick fruit in season.

Family owned and operated fruit farm.

Fruit available in season, Sweet & Tart Cherries, Apricots, Peaches, Pears, Plums, Nectarines, and over 200 varieties of apples.

Hours of operation: June through Labor Day Wed-Mon. 10-6 (closed on Tuesday) Labor Day through October Friday - Monday 10-6

Tree-Mendus Fruit Farm

9351 E Eureka Rd Eau Claire, MI 49111 Phone: 269-782-7101 877-863-3276 www.treemendus-fruit.com contactus@treemendus-fruit.com Summer 2016 • goingplaces 15

5/5/16 4:41 PM

GOING PLACES PLAYDATES CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 1 5

Dine under the stars: Head inside? Not just yet! Ride your picnic over to Wicker Park for one of the many stellar Movies in the Parks options. (Among the titles in the line-up? Mrs. Doubtfire and Jumanji!) Enjoy, all the while reminding yourself that this is exactly why you love raising kiddos here.

1425 N. Damen Ave., Chicago; chicagopark district.com

Fancy Pants Fun

Drake Hotel

Fabulous to the tips of your toes: A mama/daughter day that doesn’t begin with pampering? Unheard of! Get those digits looking divine at Fuga Centro Salon & Spa (which, aside from being a great place to soak your tootsies, is also within walking distance of your next fancy stop). And remember, when it comes to nails—as with so many other things in life—there’s no such thing as “too pink.”

8 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago; salonfuga.com Pinkies up with a china cup: Princesses of all ages are enamored of high tea at the Drake Hotel’s Palm Court, and with good reason: it’s a wonderfully decadent way to pass the

afternoon with your favorite partner in fanciness. (Plus, the “Little Prince & Princess” menu, besides being adorable, will make lemon curd fans out of your young royalty.)

140 E. Walton Place, Chicago; thedrakehotel.com Dance into the night: Take your fancy selves into the festive fray with a SummerDance rehearsal at 4 p.m. Free to join, watch and learn, the Millennium Park fun is led by a professional—and extremely tolerant—dancer.

Then at 5? Twirl, samba and waltz your ways into the ball-er, crowd.

601 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago; cityofchicago.org

8/31/16.

(847) 619-1900

16 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_016.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:43 AM

GOING PLACES Family Event

9th Annual

AND CRAFT AND VENDOR SHOW Saturday, June 25, 2016 ★ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Sunday, June 26, 2016 ★ Noon – 6:00 pm Located at the intersection of Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village

The “Little Boots Rodeo” is an event where families help their children participate in 14 events in a non-competitive atmosphere. After completing all events, the children will be certified as an official Cowboy or Cowgirl on stage, their name announced over the speaker and receive a certificate!

★ Rodeo Participant Events ★ Qwacky Track ★ Marble Madness ★ Cow Milking ★ Pick-a-Star ★ Sandy Candy ★ Corn Stripping ★ Chicken Toss ★ Pennies in the Corn ★ Crabbing ★ Dino Eggs ★ Panning for Gold ★ Kids Mechanical Bull ★ Pig Puzzle ★ Dinosaur Breath

★ General Public and Family Events ★ Large Petting Zoo ★ Raffle ★ Lasso ★ See Sue the “Live” T-Rex ★ Pig Races Water Balloon Toss ★ Wagon Rides ($2 / person) ★ Pony Rides ($2 / person) Little Boots Railroad ($2 / person) ★ Camel Rides ($3 / person) ★ Bungee Fun ($3 / person) ★ Butterfly Tent ($1 / person) ★ Pick a Pearl ($1 / person) ★ Best Dressed Cowgirl and Cowboy Contest (Trophy awarded every hour)

Meet Sue the “Live” T-Rex

Pig Races

Corn Stripping

Camel Rides

Little Boots Railroad

FREE OSCAR MEYER HOT DOG AND DRINK FOR PUNCH CARD PARTICIPANTS Huge Model Train Display on site from LGB Model Railroad Club of Chicago Proceeds will benefit The District 59 Education Foundation, The Elk Grove Farmers Market, The Lion’s, Lioness, Leo Clubs of Elk Grove Village and the Kenneth Young Center Rodeo organized and sponsored by the Little Boots Foundation in Elk Grove Village, IL a 501c3 Foundation We requested each child bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to one of Elk Grove’s various food banks Certification events entrance fee is $12.00 per punch card (only 1 child per punch card) Main: 630-766-8980 / Cell: 630-878-7627 / www.littlebootsrodeo.org / www.facebook.com/littlebootsrodeoegv www.littlebootsrodeo.org or https://www.facebook.com/littlebootsrodeoegv

Subject to Change

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_017.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 17

5/5/16 11:43 AM

GOING PLACES

AN AUGUST AFFAIR TO REMEMBER

O

BY LINDA MARSICANO

nce we get deep into August, sometimes the lazy days of summer become, well, long. Vacation is over, camps are done and it feels like your crew has pretty much done it all: ridden the Navy Pier Ferris wheel, visited the zoos, hit the beach, gotten water-logged at your pool, and toured every kid-friendly museum within the city limits.

Millennium Park

So what to do? Don’t wish those last precious days of summer away!

Embrace the dog days with some fresh ideas to get you through until school starts. Here are five options that fit a range of pocketbooks, all guaranteed to help you say so-long to summer in an unforgettable style.

Catch an outdoor flick: How about a not-so-typical Tuesday night at Millennium Park watching movies under the stars for free? The Fourth Annual Summer Film Series will feature some family-friendly classics, like Finding Nemo (Aug. 16). Older kids and teens might enjoy a family movie night of Westside Story (Aug. 2) or Grease (Aug. 9). The entire summer series list can be found at cityofchicago.org. All movies start at 6:30 p.m.

Cool off on the ice: Ice skating isn’t just for the winter; it’s actually a refreshing respite on a humid August day. Many area indoor rinks offer weekly open skate times where you’ll find you 18 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_018.indd 1

have the place almost to yourself to practice those double axels—or just to practice staying on your feet. Favorites include the Centennial Ice Rink in Wilmette, the Chicago Park District’s McFetridge Forest View Sports Center and the GlenFarms view Ice Center. Prices range from $5-$8 per skater, plus skate rentals.

Check out the Illinois State Fair: Head downstate to Springfield and experience how non-city folks throw a shindig (Aug. 11-22).

Don’t miss the life-size cow sculpted from 500 pounds of unsalted butter and the Farmer’s Little Helpers offering freebie hands-on activities to teach kids about farming and agriculture. The Kid’s Corner, which runs daily (10 a.m.-7 p.m.), hosts free activities such as face painting, a bicycle skills course and a tiny ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:42 AM

GOING PLACES tots play area. For nourishment, hit the Ethnic Village with 15 food booths such as Indian, Filipino, Greek, Cuban and more. Check website for general admission prices; rides, games, attractions and parking cost extra.

Experience some equine therapy: Horses are good for the soul, and kids as young as preschoolers can take to the saddle to experience the joy of riding. Sarah’s Pony Rides in Willow Springs is perfect for tots, with pint-sized ponies to match itty-bitty riders. Take a relaxing family trail ride or learn the finer points of riding via a private lesson (starts at $35 for a half-hour; $55 for an hour). Or, tour the Cook County Forest on horseback at Forest View Farms in Tinley Park, which offers trail rides from $25 per hour plus mommy and me lessons. The Double J Riding Club in Countryside specializes in family lessons,

Illinois State Fair

preschool introduction classes and tiny rider sessions, which include the basics on grooming, for $35 and up.

Set sail: You don’t have to own a boat to enjoy sailing Lake Michigan. Now you can charter one! From family sails for a day of swimming to excursions to watch the fireworks at Navy Pier, Chicago is home to many charters that specialize in sailing for non-sailors. With a captain to guide the way, daytime charters, Monday-Thursday,

tend to be the most economical variety. Chicago Sailboat Charters offers specials for $285 for a three-hour sail for up to six people during weekdays (check their website for current deals). The Seabreeze Charter Company has weekday sailing cruises from $178 per hour with a minimum of two hours. And while it’s not cheap, sailing into the end of summer is certainly something the kids will remember well after they’re stocking their new backpack.

Play • Learn • Grow Preschool • Day Care Early Childhood Education Summer Camps School Holiday Programs Enrichment Jewish Education

Buffalo Grove • Northwest Family Center (847) 279-0900 • nsamuels@jcys.org Chicago • Michael R. Lutz Family Center (773) 281-2533 • jlosek@jcys.org Highland Park • George W. Lutz Family Center (847) 433-6001 • micky.baer@jcys.org ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_019.indd 1

Jewish Council for Youth Services is proud to offer educational experiences to families of all religions and backgrounds.

Enroll online at jcys.org Summer 2016 • goingplaces 19

5/5/16 5:25 PM

Kid-tested

FESTS

(and approved)

FESTS

W

BY DANIELLE BRAFF

hen you were BK (before kids), you spent your weekends wandering through summer festivals, glass of wine in hand, bobbing up and down to the sound of an out-of-tune band.

Wipe those tears away. All is not lost now that you have kids in tow. Swap that glass of wine for a bottle of milk—we found some summer festivals that will make you feel right at home with your children.

Printers Row Lit Fest

Kids who can read and those who prefer to nibble their books are welcome at this lit fest, which is fun for all reading levels.

Throughout the two-day festival, there will be more than two dozen events for kids and teens, including story times with local authors, panels about reading to children and tiny shows for the tiny set. There’s also face painting, crafts and a whole lot of kids’ books for sale. Free; June 11-12; Dearborn from Congress to Polk; printersrowlitfest.org

Square Roots Festival

Fiesta del Sol

The Old Town School of Folk Music provides the entertainment, so kids are invited to bang on a drum all day. Seriously. There’s even an interactive rhythmic sound sculpture that’s activated by swings: when your kid swings, the snare bells and sleigh bells play. We can already hear the demands to replicate this in our own backyards. They’ll also have parachute games, a drum circle and a family barn dance.

If all that noise stresses you out, you can chill at a Bloom Yoga class, being offered right in the middle of the festival. Smart thinking, Square Roots. $20 suggested donation per family; July 8-10; Lincoln Avenue between Montrose and Wilson; squareroots.org

Head over to the largest Latino festival in the Midwest, where there will be face painting, read-aloud sessions and educational games. The children’s area is great—but the food is the real reason we (and our kids) come back year after year. The churros are as authentic as they get: crispy and hot on the outside, and melt-in-your mouth good on the inside. The tacos are cheap and so much better than what we can find in our local spots, and you can leave without trying their horchata (a sweet rice drink that our kids gulp down like apple juice). Free; July 28-31; 1400 W. Cermak Road; fiestadelsol.org

20 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_020.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/6/16 1:38 PM

FESTS

Southport Art & Music Fest (Formerly Summer on Southport) You may have remembered this festival’s crazy nightlife scene, where the crowded street is filled with beer-holding couples dancing the evening away. Ahh, youth. But during the day, it’s a lot calmer, and they’ve got a fabulous children’s area with interactive carnival games, a bungee jump and a bounce house.

It’s not all about the kids, though. Parents can browse art in all forms at center stage. $5 suggested donation per person; July 16-17; Southport Avenue from Waveland to Byron; southportneighbors.com CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 2 3

Raney Images

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_021.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 21

5/6/16 1:37 PM

FESTS

Do-Division Street Fest, see page 25.

MAY What’s Blooming on Harrison Street Art Festival Harrison Street Oak Park oakparkartsdistrict.com May 20-21

Features artist demonstrations, live music, dance performances and an art fair. What’s Blooming takes over Harrison Street with the art fair and other family fun activities.

Hours: 6 p.m. May 20; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. May 21. Admission: Free.

Mayfest 3100 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago (773) 665-4682 starevents.com May 20-22

Music, festival favorites, local vendors and interactive games and entertainment. Special events include Chicago Kids Day, a celebration of health and wellness, and the Chicago Pet Pageant and Expo.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. May 20; noon-10 p.m. May 21-22.

Admission: $10.

Earth Day-Arbor Day Festival The Konow Farm 16849 S. Cedar Road Homer Glen (708) 301-0632 homerglen.org May 21

Kids’ activities include crafts, petting zoo, jump zoo, Jim Necsi’s Cold Blooded Creatures, storytelling, antique cars, tractors, hay rides, H.G. The Talking Tree, exhibits, green market and demonstrations. Hours: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

Homewood Rail Fest Homewood Auditorium 2010 Chestnut Road Homewood (708) 798-3000 homesweethomewood.com May 21

Features rides on a trackless train, train displays and collectibles, live music, kids’ crafts and science activi-

22 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_022.indd 1

ties. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Admission: Free.

JustPlay! Rec & Sports Festival Carol Stream Town Center Gary Avenue and Lies Road Carol Stream justplay.org May 21

Dozens of free activities designed to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to get active, have fun and try new things. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

YEA! Festival Raymond Park Chicago Avenue and Lake Street Evanston yeaevanston.org May 21

A festival of visual art in which all Evanston schools are invited to exhibit students’ artwork.

A performing arts stage features music and dance

by Evanston kids. The event takes place on the sidewalks of the Chicago/

Dempster business district. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: Free.

“Love the Park” Fine Arts Fair Palos Park Metra Station 123rd Street and 82nd Avenue Palos Park (708) 671-3760 lovetheparkfinearts.org May 21-22

More than 25 juried artists, plus antique auto display, music, food, micro-brew sampling and wine tasting.

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. May 21; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. May 22.

Admission: Free.

Civil War Days at Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St. Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.org May 21-22

Naper Settlement becomes a Civil War Encampment where visitors can meet famous characters of the past and become immersed in history as the Civil

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:41 AM

FESTS

The Art Center’s Festival of Fine Art, see page 29.

War Sesquicentennial is commemorated. A battle is held each day at 2:30 p.m. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: $15, $10 kids 4-12; in advance $10, $5 kids 4-12; free kids 3 and under and members.

Riverside Arts Weekend 27 Riverside Drive Riverside riversideartsweekend.org May 21-22

KID FESTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Taste of Lincoln Avenue This festival is sprawled over six blocks, and it has more than 250 vendors and more than 30 music acts on three stages. But that probably doesn’t matter to your kids. What matters is that they have pony rides, a petting zoo, art activities, puppets, balloons, a giant slide and children’s entertainment. $10 per person; Aug. 6-7; Lincoln Avenue between Fullerton and Wrightwood, tasteoflincolnchicago.com

Features juried art, musical performances, an urban art installation, fashion show, food and drinks and art activities for kids. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. May 21; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 22. Admission: Free.

Skokie Festival of Cultures Oakton Park 4701 Oakton St. Skokie (847) 674-1500, ext. 2715 skokieculturefest.org May 21-22

Two days of ethnic folk music and dance, a wide range of food, unique arts and crafts, international games, children’s events, a merchandise bazaar, and cultural booths and displays. Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Daley Plaza Washington and Dearborn Chicago (312) 744-3370

GP0516_023.indd 1

The wreath laying ceremony begins at 11 a.m. at the Eternal Flame on Daley Plaza. The parade kicks off at noon and proceeds south on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street. Participants include area high schools’ Drum and Bugle Corps as well as veterans groups. Hours: 11 a.m. Admission: Free.

Barrington Art Festival Downtown Barrington Cook and Station streets Barrington (847) 926-4300 amdurproductions.com May 28-29

Festival showcases the work of 140 juried artists, including young artists in the Youth Art Division. Live music, food and fun art activities for kids. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Chicago Memorial Day Parade

ChicagoParent.com

cityofchicago.org/ specialevents May 28

Bike the Drive Grant Park Columbus and Jackson drives Chicago bikethedrive.org May 29

Choose between a 15- or 30-mile loop of Lake Shore Drive with no cars in sight. Participants receive an event T-shirt, access to three rest stops and admittance to a post-ride festival with food and live music. Hours: 5:30-9:30

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 23

5/5/16 4:42 PM

FESTS a.m. access to Lake Shore Drive; 8 a.m.-noon festival. Admission: Check website; $9 all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast.

JUNE Milk Days 300 Lawrence Road Harvard milkdays.com June 2-5

Includes a dairy cattle show, demos on cattle care, feeding and milking, a milk-drinking contest and live music. Plus, antique tractor display, two-mile and 10K milk runs, two-mile milk walk, junior dairy cattle show, talent show, bed races and a fireworks show Sunday evening. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Taste of Wheaton Memorial Park and downtown Wheaton wheatonparkdistrict.com/taste June 2-6

Includes Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 5K/10K, arts and crafts, food vendors, carnival rides, children’s games, live entertainment, beer garden and market place business expo. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free; fees for some activities.

Pivot Arts Festival Pivot Arts 1443 W. Norwood St. Chicago (773) 609-0782 pivotarts.org June 2-12

Features live music, theater, dance, puppetry, discussions, wine tastings, workshops, children’s performances and more.

Also includes a Community Parade on June 4, kicking off at George B. Swift Elementary School and culminating in performances on the play-

Southport Art Festival, see page 32. ground (2-3:30 p.m.). Plus, children’s performances

by Alternatives/Uplift, CircEsteem, Merry Music Makers, Swift School, Storytown Improv and others.

Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free-$25.

Squeez’d Girls on the Run 5K Chicago Grant Park Chicago (773) 342-1250 gotrchicago.org June 4

Girls celebrate their “girl power” by running 3.1 miles; families are encouraged to run along with them. The post-race festival features food, games, giveaways, face painting and tiara decorating.

Hours: June 4. Admission: Check website.

Chicago Gospel Music Festival Millennium Park Chicago (312) 744-3316 chicagogospelmusicfestival.us June 3-4

Showcases the best in local, national and inter-

24 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_024.indd 1

national Gospel Music performers. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: Free.

ebrated. Hours: 5-11 p.m.

June 3; noon-11 p.m. June 4; 4-10 p.m. June 5. Admission: $5 donation.

Flavors of Mexico

LaGrange Pet Parade

3000 W. 26th St. (at Sacramento) Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com June 3-5

Cossitt Avenue and LaGrange Road LaGrange (708) 352-7079 lgpetparade.org June 4

Foodies will revel in authentic Mexican foods when 26th Street, the hub of Little Village and Chicago’s Mexican community, hosts a cultural extravaganza. Highlights include a Restaurant Row, cooking demonstrations, music and cultural stages and more. Hours: 5-10 p.m.

June 3; noon-10 p.m. June 4-5. Admission: Free.

Lincoln Park Greek Fest 2701 N. Sheffield Chicago (773) 868-3010 lincolnparkgreekfest.com June 3-5

Authentic Greek cuisine, music, dance performances, kids’ activities and Greek culture and Hellenic pride are cel-

Features marching bands, kids showcasing their pets, floats and clowns. Visit The Pet Parade Facebook page, Eventbrite page, or email johnna@greatevent.com for registration.

Hours: 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Admission: Free.

57th Street Art Fair Hyde Park neighborhood Chicago 57thstreetartfair.org June 4-5

Chicago’s oldest juried art fair features art in many media, with hands-on activities, music and playgrounds for kids. Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. June 4; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 5. Admission: Free.

ChicagoParent.com

5/6/16 10:24 AM

FESTS Deerfield Festival of Fine Arts Park Avenue and Deerfield Road Deerfield (847) 726-8669 dwevents.org June 4-5

This fine art festival features 120 artists from across the U.S. and live music as well as free kids’ art activities. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Do-Division Street Fest Division Street from Ashland to Leavitt Chicago (312) 850-9390 do-divisionstreetfest.com June 4-5

Features the Family Fun Fest, with activities including pony and train rides, face painting, climbing wall, bounce house, jousting, kids’ music and talent show, sports-infused activity area and family stage.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. June 3; noon-10 p.m. June 4-5.

Admission: $5 donation.

Buffalo Grove Fine Arts Festival Buffalo Grove Town Center Corner of Lake Cook Road and Route 83 (McHenry Road) Buffalo Grove (847) 926-4300 buffalogroveartfestival.com June 4-5

Features works from more than 100 artist and kids’ art activities. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race Mount St. Mary Park St. Charles (630) 859-8606 foxvalleyparkdistrict.org/ event/mid-america-canoekayak-race June 5

Experience the excitement of paddling the scenic Fox River while enjoying this classic tradition that dates back to the 1960s. Rental boats are

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_025.indd 1

available. St. Charles to Aurora (10 miles) starts at 9 a.m.; Batavia to Aurora (6 miles) starts at 10 a.m.

Hours: 8:30 a.m. Admission: Check website.

Naperville Park District Frontier Park Kite Festival 3380 Cedar Glade Drive Frontier Park Naperville (630) 848-5000 napervilleparks.org June 5

Enjoy gigantic kites, exciting demonstrations, stunts and hands-on activities. Plus live music, games and giveaways.

Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Downtown Homewood Art and Garden Street Fair Martin Avenue and Ridge Road Downtown Homewood (708) 798-3000 homesweethomewood.com June 10-11

Features more than 45 unique artisans and vendors, live music, science activities by Homewood Science Center, 2-D chalk drawings and more.

Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Family Fridays Details on our website JUNE 17 JUNE 24 JULY 1 JULY 8 JULY 15 JULY 22 JULY 29 AUGUST 5

Also join us for: SUNDAY, JULY 31

Happy Birthday, Harry Potter

Andersonville Midsommarfest 5200 N. Clark between Foster and Catalpa Chicago (773) 728-2995 andersonville.org June 10-12

Features food, entertainment on five stages and family activities including face painting, games and a pet parade. The Swedish American Museum sponsors Swedish entertainment, music and dancing around the Midsommar Maypole. Hours: 5-10 p.m.

June 10 (between Balmoral and Catalpa Avenues only); 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

June 11-12. Admission: $10; free kids under 12.

Angry Birds When I Grow Up Kaboom!

Frozen Pizza Palooza EIEIO Jim Gill Finding Cory

ur See o n in o p u co back! the

711 N. Main St. Rockford, IL 61103 discoverycentermuseum.org 815.963.6769 Summer 2016 • goingplaces 25

5/5/16 4:46 PM

FESTS Old Town Art Fair Lincoln Avenue and Wisconsin Street (Main Gate) Chicago (312) 337-1938 oldtownartfair.org June 11-12

Features works of 250 artists in various mediums, plus a music stage, kids’ art, activities at the Children’s Corner, garden walk, food court and vendors. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Admission: $7 donation, free kids 12 and under.

Promenade of Art Arlington Heights

Chicago Botanic Garden’s Kite Festival, see page 36.

Ribfest Chicago Northcenter Lincoln Avenue at Irving Park Road Chicago (773) 525-3609 ribfest-chicago.com June 10-12

Enjoy ribs and top original bands while the kids hang out at “Kids Square” featuring entertainment, inflatables and games.

Plus, celebrity-judged “Best Ribs” award and professional rib-eating competition. Hours: Ribfest: 5-10 p.m. June 10; noon10 p.m. June 11-12. Kids Square: noon-8 p.m. Saturday; noon-7 p.m. Sunday.

Admission: $5 donation.

Dairy Breakfast and Farm Day Wagner Farm 1510 Wagner Road Glenview (847) 657-1506 glenviewparks.org June 11

Celebrate National Dairy Month and enjoy a farmstyle breakfast featuring plenty of dairy items.

Includes farm tours, demonstrations, hay rides and hands-on activities throughout the morning. Hours: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Admission: $10, $5 kids 2-10, free kids under 2.

Island Rendezvous Isle a la Cache Museum 501 E. Romeo Road Romeoville (815) 886-1467 reconnectwithnature.org June 11

Re-enactors representing voyageurs, colonists and soldiers relive the furtrade era. Activities include canoe racing and tomahawk throws. Hands-on opportunities also abound with skills and games, dancing to music of the era, buying unique quality goods and listening to tall tales. There will be crafts, games, storytellers and food available for sale. Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free.

St. Norbert Annual Block Party Meadow and Walters avenues Northbrook (847) 272-7090 stnorbertblockparty.org June 11

Features 5K fun run and Kids’ Dash at 8 a.m. Block party includes live music, beer garden, food and kids’ corner with games, inflatables, face painting and entertainment. Hours:

26 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_026.indd 1

Check website for schedule. Admission: $5, $10 after 7 p.m.

Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest Historic Printers Row Dearborn Street between Polk Street and Congress Parkway and the Harold Washington Library Chicago (312) 222-3986 printersrowlitfest.org June 11-12

Lit Fest brings together lovers of literature, national best-selling authors, performers, and booksellers. Children’s programming includes storytelling, performances, sing-alongs and special activities. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: Free.

Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival Burlington Park 30 E. Chicago Ave. Hinsdale (630) 323-3952 hinsdalechamber.com June 11-12

More than 140 juried artists, food and beverage, kids’ activities and more.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free.

121 W. Campbell Arlington Heights (847) 926-4300 promenadeofartarlington heights.com June 11-12

Features more than 110 juried artists, live music, food and kids’ activities.

Art enthusiasts of all ages can get into the “art-filled action” by making their mark on a graffiti wall at the festival. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Wells Street Art Festival Wells Street between North Avenue and Division Street Chicago (773) 868-3010 wellsstreetartfest.us June 11-12

Features the works of more than 225 juried artists from across the nation. Also, live music, the cuisine of local restaurants, kids’ activity area and more. Hours: 10 a.m.10 p.m. Admission: $7 donation.

Grant Park Music Festival Millennium Park Chicago grantparkmusicfestival.com June 15-Aug. 20

Grant Park Music Festival presents more than 20 concerts. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: Free.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:39 AM

FESTS services, sustainability demonstrations, green arts and crafts, and the Green Family Fun Fest with recycled arts & crafts, DIY musical instruments, henna artists, bounce house, mini-golf, kiddie play area, and children’s musical programming. Cyclists provide the natural wattage for the music all weekend at the Bicycle Powered Stage. Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Admission: $5 donation.

Libertyville Days Festival 135 W. Church St. Libertyville (847) 918-8880 libciviccenter.org June 16-19

The family festival has carnival rides, entertainment, food and more. Hours: Check website for hours.

Admission: Check website.

Lockport Old Canal Days Downtown Lockport (815) 838-3357 oldcanaldays.com June 16-19

Gold Coast Art Fair at Grant Park Grant Park’s Butler Field Corner of Monroe and Lake Shore Drive Chicago (847) 926-4300 goldcoastartfair.com June 18-19

Event celebrating the history and culture of downtown Lockport features a parade, carnival, music, craft fair, family activities, horse-drawn wagon tours, tour of the 1907 Hydraulic Power Plant, food and entertainment. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free.

Puerto Rican Festival Division and California Humboldt Park Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com June 16-19

Features food, music, arts and crafts, carnival rides and more. On Saturday the fest is the end location of Chicago’s annual Puerto Rican Day Parade on Division Street.

Hours: 3-10:30 p.m. June 16-17; noon-10:30 p.m. June 18-19. Admission: Free; carnival rides cost extra.

Highland Games & Scottish Festival Hamilton Lakes Highway 290 and Thorndale Itasca chicagoscots.org June 17-18

Events includes a highland dance competition, athletics competition, cultural exhibits, car show, kids’ crafts and activities.

Hours: 4-10 p.m. June 17; 8 a.m.-9 p.m. June 18.

Admission: $12, free kids Friday; $20, $5 kids 3-12. $5 parking.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_027.indd 1

Showcases the work of more than 250 juried artists from around the world, plus live music, food and fun activities for kids, including an art scavenger hunt and interactive mural. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Glencoe Festival of Art, see page 34.

Taste of Des Plaines

Custer Fair

Des Plaines Train Station 1501 Miner St. Des Plaines (773) 868-3010 tasteofdesplaines.com June 17-18

600 Main St. Evanston (847) 328-2204 custerfair.com June 18-19

Features music, food and kids’ activities. 5K will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday. Hours: 3-11 p.m. June 17; noon-11 p.m. June 18.

Admission: Free.

6 Corners BBQ Fest 4000-4080 N. Milwaukee Ave. From Irving Park Road to Belle Plaine Avenue Chicago sixcornerschicago.com June 18-19

Beyond slabs and cool tunes, other highlights include arts & crafts, kids’ activity area, pro-wrestling shows and more.

Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

June 18; 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

June 19. Admission: $5 donation.

Puerto Rican People’s Parade

Eclectic art festival with diverse works from 300+ artists. Plus, unique folk and Native American music on two stages, an “EcoVillage” green vendor area, a children’s park with kids’ activities, and the cuisine from more than 30 restaurants. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Division Street from Western to Sacramento Chicago cityofchicago.org/special events June 19

Humboldt Park’s Puerto Rican community celebrates the 36th anniversary of the People’s Parade. Hours: 3 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Swedish Day Good Templar Park 528 East Side Drive Geneva (847) 845-2640 swedishday.net June 19

Wicker Park Green Music Fest Damen Avenue, between North and Schiller Chicago (312) 850-9390 greenmusicfest chicago.com June 18-19

Fest blends cutting edge, environmentally-conscious bands with environmentally-friendly production, eco-minded vendors and

Features Scandinavian song and dance, Swedish food, Viking encampment, children’s activities, Maypole raising, Piano Man tribute band, food and carnival games. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $5, free kids 12 and under.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 27

5/5/16 11:38 AM

FESTS Fridays-Saturdays; 4-5 p.m. dance lessons, 5-7 p.m. live music and dancing Sundays. Admission: Free.

Make Music Chicago Various locations Chicago makemusicchicago.com June 21

Fun and Fit Family Day

Music-makers of all ages, abilities and musical tastes gather for performances and participatory events throughout Chicago’s public spaces, including Maggie Daley Park, Riverwalk, Daley Plaza, Lincoln Park Zoo and more than 15 Chicago Park District sites. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Lambs Farm I-94 and Route 176 Libertyville (847) 362-4636 lambsfarm.org June 25

Swedish Days Festival presented by Northwestern Medicine South Third Street and West State Street (Rte. 38) Geneva (630) 232-6060 genevachamber.com/ swedish_days.php June 21-26

Geneva celebrates its Swedish heritage with a festival featuring American and Swedish food including a craft beer tent, a carnival, kids’ day, “Geneva’s Got Talent” and Sweden Väst, musical entertainment and the Grand Parade. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free; fees for some activities and carnival.

SJC Fest St. John of the Cross 51st Street and Wolf Road Western Springs (708) 246-4404 sjcfest.com June 23-26

Features carnival rides, midway games, food from area restaurants, a bake sale, face painting, live music and entertainment and more. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: Free; food and rides cost extra.

Logan Square Arts Festival I AM Logan Square Gallery 2644 ½ N. Milwaukee

Barrington Art Festival, see page 23.

Chicago (847) 675-2580 logansquareartsfestival.org June 24-26

Features art installations across the neighborhood, great local music, craft beer, food from neighborhood restaurants and family fun. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Long Grove Summer Fest

ATI Field at Joliet Memorial Stadium 3000 W. Jefferson St. Joliet (815) 741-7275 tasteofjoliet.com June 24-26

Glenview SummerFest

Features live music, carnival, food vendors and kid zone. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Showcases a range of regional businesses and civic organizations. Favorites include the Glenview Fire Department’s fire pole and special entertainment and kid-friendly activities.

Plus, balloons, crafts, puppies, live music and a beer tent. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Chicago SummerDance

Long Grove Historic Village 308 Old McHenry Road Long Grove (847) 634-0888 visitlonggrove.com June 24-26

Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park 601 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 742-4007 chicagosummerdance.org June 24-Sept. 11

Enjoy food, shopping and entertainment. Plus, activities, kiddie rides, face painting, outdoor activities and tents of family and education-oriented products. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: $5, free kids 12 and under.

Free one-hour dance lessons by professional instructors and two hours of live music and dancing are presented as a part of the largest annual outdoor dancing series in the U.S. Hours: 6-7 p.m. dance lessons, 7:30-9:30 p.m. live music and dancing

28 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_028.indd 1

Taste of Joliet

The 5K Run/2 Mile Walk is designed to encourage families and individuals to participate in fun activities to stay active and healthy together. Post-run, families can enjoy special activities for children, browse sponsor booths, visit Lambs Farm’s Farmyard and Attractions, or enjoy a meal at the Magnolia Café & Bakery. New this year: Performance by Ralph of Ralph’s World and optional course obstacles by Cross Training Playground. Hours: 9 a.m.noon. Admission: $25, $100 family of five. Prices increase after June 2.

Lehigh between Glenview Road and Washington Street Glenview (847) 724-0900 business.glenviewchamber.com June 25

Dragon Boat Race for Literacy Ping Tom Memorial Park 300 W. 19th St. Chicago (312) 326-5320 chicagochinatown.org June 25

Teams compete in a fastpaced race on the south branch of the Chicago River in decorated dragon boats.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 4:44 PM

FESTS

COME for COME for the BEAUTY!

the BEAUTY!

LaSalle County. We’re not your ordinary destination!

Just 75 miles southwest of Chicago, LaSalle County is home to four state parks, a wealth of historic sites, great dining, comfortable lodging and endless recreational opportunities — all of which add up to a perfect weekend getaway.

COME for the BEA

What are you waiting for? Come and join us!

STAY for Wrigleyville Summerfest, see page 35.

In addition to the boat tournament, features onland spectacles such as live musical and dance performances, booth vendors and special guest appearances. Proceeds are donated to promote literacy. Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Just 75 miles southwest of Chicago, LaSalle County is home to four state parks, a wealth of historic sites, great dining, comfortable Central Avenue and Sheridan lodging and endless recreational for the Avenue opportunities — all of which add up to a perfect weekend getaway.

Highland Park Visit www.enjoylasallecounty.com for more information What are you waiting for? Come and join us!

(847) 926-4300 festivaloffineartshp.com Visit www.enjoylasallecounty.com June 25-26

The Art Center’s Festival of Fine Art

STAY for the ADVENTURE!

Elston Avenue Sausage & Music Fest 3800 N. Elston Ave. Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com June 25-26

Encased meats will be in the spotlight. Plus, live music, arts and crafts, and activities for kids. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $5 donation.

Fountain Square Arts Festival Sherman and Church streets Evanston (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com June 25-26

Features the eclectic works of more than 170 juried artists. Also: kids’ art activities, food and jazz-centric music lineup.

Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

June 25; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

June 26. Admission: $5 donation.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_029.indd 1

the ADVENTURE!

LaSalle County.

We’re not your ordinary destination!

Showcases original works from 120 juried artists and offers activities for children and families, as well as live entertainment and tasty festival treats. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free; suggested donation.

STAY

ADVENT

for more information

Eyes to the Skies Balloon Festival Community Park 1825 Short St. Lisle (630) 769-1000 eyestotheskies.org June 29-July 3

Features hot air balloon shows and rides, as well as musical entertainment, a special kids’ area, an arts and crafts fair, fireworks, a large carnival and an assortment of daily events.

Hours: Carnival starts June 29; festival runs July 1-3. Check website for schedule. Admission: $8, free kids 6 and under.

Farmyard & Attractions I Cafe & Bakery Garden & Pet Center I Country Store Thrift Shop I Visitors Center Helping people with developmental disabilities since 1961 14245 W. Rockland Rd, Libertyville, IL 60048 www.lambsfarm.org

Frontier Days Recreation Park 3 blocks east of Arlington Heights Road at 500 Miner St.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 29

5/6/16 11:15 AM

Visit www

FESTS Arlington Heights (847) 577-8572 frontierdays.org June 30-July 4

Illinois Shakespeare Festival Ewing Manor 48 Sunset Road Bloomington (866) IL-SHAKE thefestival.org July 5-Aug. 13

Features family-friendly activities, live music, a carnival, a Fourth of July parade and a craft market.

Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

The festival produces full productions of Shakespeare and other plays in the spirit of Shakespeare’s work, as well Theater for Young People performances Wednesday and Saturday mornings free to the public. It also presents the Improvised Shakespeare Company Sunday evenings. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

JULY International Festival of Life Union Park 1501 W. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 427-0266 festivaloflife.biz July 1-4

Features international and local acts on two stages, arts and crafts, food, games and entertainment for kids. Plus, 3x3 soccer tournament. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Naperville Ribfest Knoch Park 700 S. West St. Naperville ribfest.net July 1-4

Features a BBQ contest, food, two live music stages, special events, and fireworks (July 4).

Family area features carnival rides, inflatables, circus tricks, magic show, face painting, petting zoo and live performances.

Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Admission: Varies by day.

Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org July 2-3

Guests can stroll the Esplanade and shop for beautiful botanic-themed art and art made from plant materials. Artist talks and family activities will be featured. Hours:

Taste of Chicago

Lincolnshire Art Festival, see page 36.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free; parking fees apply.

Glen Ellyn 4th of July Lake Ellyn Park Glen Ellyn glenellyn4thofjuly.com July 2-4

Features The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta and Picnic in the Park at Lake Ellyn Park, parade, family fest and fireworks. Hours: Cardboard Regatta: noon July 2; Picnic in the Park: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. July 2; Parade: noon July 4; Fireworks: dusk July 4.

Admission: Free; food and family fest activities extra.

Windy City Ribfest Lawrence Avenue and Broadway Street Chicago windycityribfest.com July 2-4

Features live music, lots of ribs, arts and crafts and kids’ area on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. July 2-3; noon-9 p.m. July 4.

Admission: $5.

30 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_030.indd 1

Highland Park Fourth Fest Sunset Woods Park 1801 Sunset Ave. Highland Park (847) 579-3121 pdhp.org July 4

Enjoy food from Highland Park restaurants, carnival games and pony and carnival rides. Hours: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: Free; wristbands for unlimited rides and games cost extra.

Lake Forest Festival & Fireworks Deerpath Park Deerpath and Hastings roads Lake Forest friendslfpr.org July 4

Features food, a beer garden, live music, activities for kids and a fireworks display. Hours: 5-10 p.m. Admission: $10 residents, $15 nonresidents; free kids 5 and under. VIP packages start at $25.

Grant Park 331 E. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 744-3315 tasteofchicago.us July 6-10

A massive foodie fair complete with live music and activities for the entire family. Popular features include a three-course fine dining experience prepared by a notable Chicago Chef at Celebrity Chef du Jour, Pop-up Restaurants, food trucks and more. Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. July 6-8; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 9-10. Admission: Free; additional cost for food and seating at Petrillo.

Railroad Days Pioneer Park Lyman Street West Chicago (630) 231-3003 sponsorchicago.com/ West-Chicago-Railroad-Days/ index.html July 7-10

Music, food, fireworks, carnival rides, parade, 5K Run/Walk, community art show and beer garden.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. July 7; 5-11 p.m. July 8; noon-midnight July 9; 3-10 p.m. July 10. Admission: Free.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:37 AM

FESTS Windmill City Festival

Bristol Renaissance Faire

Batavia Riverwalk 100 Island Ave. Batavia (630) 879-5235 windmillcityfest.org July 7-10

West of I-94, exit Russell Road and follow the signs Near the Illinois-Wisconsin border Kenosha, Wis. (847) 395-7773 renfair.com/bristol July 9-Sept. 5

Features carnival, entertainment, music and demonstrations. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: Free.

Millennium Art Festival Lake Street at Michigan Avenue Chicago amdurproductions.com/ millennium-art-festival July 8-10

Features original artwork from more than 110 artists, tasty treats on-site and from neighboring restaurants, as well as live music and on-site art demonstrations. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

July 8; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 9; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 10.

Admission: Free.

Square Roots Festival 4400-4560 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 728-6000 squareroots.org July 8-10

A festival of more than 70 acts including music, dance parties, jams and family activities. Also features the best local and regional craft breweries and Lincoln Square restaurants. Hours: 5-10 p.m.

July 8; noon-10 p.m. July 9; noon-9 p.m. July 10.

Admission: $10, $5 seniors and kids, $20 families.

The Irish American Heritage Festival 4626 N. Knox Ave. Chicago (773) 282-7035 ext. 10 irishfestchicago.com July 8-10

Features more than 100 performers for three days.

Plus, Irish and American food and drink, shopping, step dancers, cultural exhibits, children’s activities, a raffle with a trip to Ireland, the Mashed

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_031.indd 1

Glenview SummerFest, see page 28.

Potato Eating Contest and Sham-ROCK Stars singing contest for kids.

Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: $18$15 adult, $5 kids under 12, free kids 3 and under.

West Fest Chicago Avenue between Damen Avenue and Wood Street West Town neighborhood Chicago (312) 850-9390 westfestchicago.com June 8-10

Features live music on three stages, plus Kid Fest, Pup Fest and an array of vendor booths from neighborhood retailers, restaurants and artists. Hours: 5-10 p.m. June 8; noon-10 p.m. June 9-10. Admission: $5 donation.

Winfield Criterium Oakwood Park Winfield winfieldcriterium.com July 9

This competitive bike race attracts locals, national and international proranked cyclists and offers spectators an opportunity to experience championship-style bike racing.

Food, drink and entertainment for racers, spectators, and visitors. Hours: Noon7:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Civil War Days Lakewood Forest Preserve Rte. 176, west of Fairfield Road Wauconda (847) 968-3400 lcfpd.org/civilwar July 9-10

See large-scale battle reenactments, explore camps and shops and meet various characters.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

July 9; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 10. Admission: $10, $5 kids 4-17.

Roscoe Village Burger Fest Roscoe Village Belmont and Damen avenues Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com July 9-10

The savory patty and a rockin’ music lineup are in the spotlight for Roscoe Village’s 6 burger bash. In addition, good food and music, arts/crafts and a “Kids’ Zone” for children and families. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: $10 donation.

More than 1,200 performers, artisans and merchants take visitors on a trip through Elizabethan England with 16th Century games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music, and special entertainment. Kids Kingdom is an enclosed play area filled with oversized sand boxes, a climb-aboard pirate ship, interactive games, crafts and other child-friendly diversions. Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. weekends.

Admission: $24.95, $11.50 kids 5-12, free kids 4 and under.

Bucktown Tree and Garden Walk 1824 W. Wabansia Chicago (773) 486-4353 wickerparkbucktown.info/ events-1/bucktown-gardenwalk July 12-13

Features a garden walk, tree walk, trolley rides, live music at Club Lucky and petting zoo at Lottie’s Pub. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: $5 donation.

AccessChicago Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago cityofchicago.org/mopd July 13

Test products, services and connect with community organizations to learn about available disability-related social services. Take part in various adaptive sports and recreational demonstrations; learn about legal rights of people with disabilities; participate in a free health screening; and enjoy fun activities for kids. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 31

5/5/16 11:37 AM

FESTS Vernon Hills Summer Celebration Century Park north of U.S. Route 60 on Lakeview Parkway Vernon Hills (847) 361-8979 summercel.com/#summer-cel July 14-17

Includes live music, carnival rides, food, bingo games, car show and kids’ activities. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: Free.

BenFest St. Benedict Church courtyard 2215 W. Irving Park Chicago benfest.com July 15-17

Highlights food and refreshments, craft beer, live music, and quality family entertainment. The marketplace on Leavitt includes local vendors and merchants.

The children’s area features live music and dance, games, water slide, inflatables, face-painting, arts and craft area, the new Sport Zone and more. Hours: 4-10 p.m.

July 15; 1-10 p.m. July 16; 1-7 p.m. July 17. Admission: $5 donation.

St. Haralambos Big Greek Food Fest of Niles

DuPage County Fair, see page 34.

Windy City Smokeout Grand and the Chicago River Chicago windycitysmokeout.com July 15-17

Guests can enjoy southern-inspired fare from premiere Chicago BBQ restaurants and have the opportunity to interact with chefs and their culinary teams. Plus country music and a Family Day on Sunday. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: Check website; kids under 12 free with paying adult.

Holy Taxiarhai And Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church 7373 Caldwell Ave. Niles (847) 647-8880 biggreekfoodfestofniles.org July 15-17

Art in the Park Northbrook

Features authentic Greek food and wine, cooking demonstrations, live Greek music and dancing.

Kids Korner is a secure area where kids can enjoy face painting, crafts and more. Hours: 5 p.m.-midnight July 15; 3 p.m.-midnight July 16-17. Admission: $2, $1 seniors, free kids 12 and under; free 3-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Juried fine art and fine craft show. Includes live music both days, handson kids’ art activities and a food court. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 16; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 17.

Admission: Free.

Village Green Park Meadow and Shermer Northbrook (847) 726-8669 dwevents.org July 16-17

Evanston Ethnic Arts Festival Dawes Park Sheridan Road at Church

32 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_032.indd 1

Street Evanston (847) 448-8260 cityofevanston.org/ethnic July 16-17

This festival, a two-day celebration of global diversity, features art from an abundance of countries, family crafts activities, international cuisine, and live music, dance and spoken word performances. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Admission: Free.

Southport Art Festival

(815) 206-8525 oldsettlersdays.com July 16-19

Features parade, music, carnival rides, Trading Post, food and fireworks.

Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Caribbean Block Party 171st Street to Hickory Street Along Oak Park Avenue Tinley Park (708) 444-5678 downtowntinley.com July 17

3700 N. Southport at Waveland Chicago (773) 665-4682 southportartfestival.com July 16-17

Live music on two stages, family fun for all and a mini-Taste of Tinley Park. Hours: Noon-7 p.m.

Admission: Free.

This festival showcases the work of 100 juried artists. In addition to the artwork, festival-goers will enjoy great food from neighboring restaurants and live musical performances all weekend long.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: $5 donation.

Chinatown Summer Fair

Old Settlers Days Settlers Park East Hawick Street Rockton

Wentworth Avenue and Cermak Road Chicago (773) 868-3010 (312) 326-5320 chinatownspecialevents.org July 17

Iconic annual celebration of Far East culture includes the Dragon & Lion Dance Procession, artisans, food vendors and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission: Free.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:37 AM

FESTS Woodstock Folk Festival Woodstock Square Woodstock woodstockfolkmusic.com/ folkfestival July 17

Features folk acts. Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Admission: $15, $10 seniors and students; $25 family.

the disability community.

Parade marches west on Van Buren to Dearborn and north on Dearborn to Washington (Daley Plaza).

Post-parade celebration takes place on Daley Plaza at 12:30 p.m. Hours: 11 a.m.

Admission: Free.

Geneva Arts Fair

Taste of River North Ward Park Kingsbury Street and Erie Chicago tasteofrivernorth.com July 22-24

Enjoy cuisine from River North restaurants, merchants, artists, music and a Kids’ Zone. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: $5 donation.

Disability Pride Parade Downtown Chicago disabilityprideparade.org July 23

Annual event to generate national visibility for

Third Street Geneva (630) 232-6060 genevachamber.com/geneva_ art_fairs.php July 23-24

Features more than 150 artisans and a kids’ art area with special activities. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free.

North Shore Festival of Art Old Orchard Westfield Old Orchard 4999 Old Orchard Center Skokie

(847) 926-4300 northshorefestivalofart.com July 23-24

Features more than 120 juried artists, food, live music and kids’ activities including art bingo and color creation station. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Sheffield Music Festival & Garden Walk Sheffield Avenue between Webster and Belden Chicago sheffieldgardenwalk.com July 23-24

In addition to two stages of music, more than 80 of the neighborhood’s lush residential gardens will be open for the public to explore. Also includes food and, for children and families, the Kids’ Corner with entertainment and activities. Hours: Noon10 p.m. Admission: $7-$10 suggested donation.

Wicker Park Fest Milwaukee Avenue, between North Avenue and Paulina Chicago (773) 384-2672 wickerparkfest.com July 23-24

Features three stages of live music, a dedicated children’s fun area, an arts section with installation and performance acts, dozens of local vendors and restaurants, and environmentally-friendly production efforts. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $10 donation.

Veggie Fest Science of Spirituality Center 4045 N. Naperville Road Lisle (630) 955-1200 veggiefestchicago.org July 23-24

Features health booths, vegetarian food demos, talks by health professionals, drawings, live music,

Farm Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Jams, Jellies, Local Honey, Syrup and much morel

www.nyesapplebarn.corn

JUNE 17 &S,1ITA8SCA,2ILL0INO1IS6 th

th

HAMILTON LAKE

HIGHLAND DANCING - BAGPIPING - CELTIC ROCK MUSIC CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES - GENEALOGY - WHISKY TASTING CELTIC MARKETPLACE - HEAVY ATHLETICS AND MUCH MORE! FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

www.scottishfestivalchicago.org OR CALL 708.447.5092

PRESENT THIS AD AT THE GATE FOR $5 OFF ADULT SATURDAY ADMISSION OR ONE FREE CHILD SATURDAY ADMISSION WITH THE PURCHASE OF A SATURDAY ADULT ADMISSION

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_033.indd 1

• Hanging Baskets & Planters in May • Strawberries & Cherries in June/July • U-Pick Peaches in August • Apples start late Sept./Early Oct. We grow 25 varieties of apples, including Honeycrisp!

Availability dependent on weather, please call ahead

Open daily 9am-6pm, May - October 269-429-0596

3151 Niles Rd. (M-63), St. Joseph, Ml - Exit 27 off 1-94

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 33

5/6/16 10:22 AM

FESTS food to purchase and kids’ activities. Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission: Free.

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Oshkosh, Wis. airventure.org July 25-31

Features 10,000 aircraft, 2,500 show planes, worldclass daily air shows plus two night air shows, evening entertainment including opening day concert by Dierks Bentley, 800 exhibit areas, 1,000 forums and workshops, onsite camping, and KidVenture with hands-on activities. Hours: Gates open at 7 a.m.; check website for schedule.

Admission: Check website.

West Fest, see page 31.

DuPage County Fair 2015 Manchester Road Wheaton (630) 668-6636 dupagecountyfair.org July 27-31

Entertainment includes Rodeo, Demo Derbies, carnival rides, community service projects, concerts, craft fair and horse shows.

Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Lake County Fair Peterson and Midlothian roads Grayslake (847) 680-7200 lcfair.com July 27-31

Features high-powered motocross and demolition derbies, professional rodeo, daily entertainment stages, Camping World and County Fair traditions in the livestock barns and auction, horse show, carnival midway, petting zoo, diverse food treats and more. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: $5-$10; free kids 5 and under.

(312) 666-2663 fiestadelsol.org July 28-31

Arlington Heights gwndragonboat.com July 30

(708) 383-4145 downtownoakpark.net Aug. 2

Includes Aztec dancing, local art exhibit, craft workshop, a children’s area with read-out-loud sessions, free books, games and educational activities, Civil Rights of Immigrants Booth, College Fair, live entertainment, Pilsen School Expo, indoor soccer tournaments, free health screenings and food vendors. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Dragon Boat crews are comprised of competitive teams around North America, as well as local corporate teams. The event includes multicultural performances, the Walgreens Health and Wellness Village, exhibitions, food vendors and a Kids’ Zone. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

Savor art, food, wine, music, dance and all things authentically European. Kids’ activities include artistic face painting, a wandering mime, animal ambassador Mindy the Monkey and art with the Oak Park Art League.

Hours: Noon-9 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Pierogi Fest Downtown on 119th Street Whiting, Ind. (888) 659-0292 pierogifest.net July 29-31

Features food, entertainment, kids’ play area, polka parade and pierogi eating contest. Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. July 29-30; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. July 31. Admission: Free.

Fiesta del Sol

Walgreens Chicago International Dragon Boat Festival

1400 W. Cermak Road Chicago

Lake Arlington 2201 N. Windsor Drive

34 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_034.indd 1

Glencoe Festival of Art Downtown Glencoe Green Bay Road and Park Avenue Glencoe (847) 926-4300 glencoefestivalofart.com July 30-31

Features more than 110 juried artists from around the world. Live music, food and fun activities for kids, including an art scavenger hunt. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free.

AUGUST Arts Dans La Rue Marion Street, between Lake and North Boulevard Oak Park

Annual Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby Chicago River Columbus Avenue bridge to Michigan Avenue bridge Chicago chicagoduckrace.com Aug. 4

Spectators cheer on more than 50,000 yellow rubber ducks during the annual Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby to benefit Special Olympics Illinois. Family entertainment includes face painting, games, free food and appearances by several sports mascots.

Donated prizes will be provided to the adoptive parents of the winning ducks. Hours: 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Admission: Free; $5 to adopt a duck.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:36 AM

FESTS celebrating Ecuadorian independence. Hours: Noon. Admission: Free.

International Clown Week Woodlawn Cemetery 7750 W Cermak Road Forest Park performforthelove.com/ showmensrest Aug. 7

Promenade of Art Arlington Heights, see page 26.

Chicago Hot Dog Fest Chicago History Museum Clark and LaSalle streets Chicago chicagohotdogfest.com Aug. 5-7

Features live music and family-friendly activities, plus classic Chicago-style hot dogs. Hours: 5-9 p.m.

Aug. 5; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 6; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 7.

Admission: Free; cost for hot dogs.

Festa Italiana Boylan High School Grounds 4000 St. Francis Drive Rockford (815) 636-2902 griaa.com Aug. 5-7

Three days of authentic music, carnival, kids’ activities and Italian food.

Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

La Grange Endless Summerfest Gordon Park La Grange lagrangeendlesssummerfest. com Aug. 5-7

Celebrate summer at its best with family fun, live music and entertainment for all ages. Includes rides, entertainment, food vendors, beer garden,

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_035.indd 1

music and Sunday night fireworks. Hours: 5-10:30 p.m. Aug. 5; noon-10:30 p.m. Aug. 6, noon-10 p.m.

Aug. 7. Admission: Check website.

Taste of Lincoln Avenue North Lincoln Avenue between Fullerton and Wrightwood Chicago tasteoflincolnchicago.com Aug. 6-7

Features 250-plus vendors, food and nearly 35 acts on five music stages. Afternoons feature a standalone “kids’ carnival” on Altgeld (with art activities, pony rides and more) and the “Lill Street Craft Fair” showcasing handmade and DIY art. Hours: Noon10 p.m. Admission: $8 donation.

Art at the Glen Glen Town Center 1800 Patriot Boulevard Glenview (847) 926-4300 artattheglen.com Aug. 6-7

Families can stroll past the work of 185 artists, enjoy food from local restaurants, listen to music and enjoy kids’ activities, including an art scavenger hunt. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Evanston Lakeshore Arts Festival Dawes Park Sheridan Road at Church Street Evanston (847) 448-8260 cityofevanston.org/lakeshore Aug. 6-7

Includes juried fine arts, musical performance, delicious food, handson children’s crafts and an exclusive Silent Auction. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Wrigleyville Summerfest 3300 N. Seminary Ave. Chicago (773) 665-4682 starevents.com Aug. 6-7

Festive remembrance of circus artists past, held in the nation’s most wellknown final resting place for circus artists. Event includes speakers, laying of flowers, circus arts performances, lots of fun stuff for kids including activities and entertainment, prizes, snacks and refreshments, and many, many clowns. Hours: 1-3 p.m.

Admission: Free.

South Elgin Riverfest Panton Mill Park Route 31 and State Street South Elgin (847) 774-1151 riverfestexpress.net Aug. 11-14

Features food, carnival, kids’ activities, arts and crafts show, live music, entertainment and fireworks on Sunday night.

Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free.

Annual Ginza Holiday Festival

Includes live music, food, drinks including craft beer and the Kid’s Zone, including a moon bounce, arts and crafts, and mini golf. Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Admission: $5 donation.

Ecuador Parade Albany Park 4346 N. California Ave. Chicago cityofchicago.org/ specialevents Aug. 7

Features a vibrant train of floats, along with Andean music and dancing from local folkloric troupes, all

Midwest Buddhist Temple 435 W. Menomonee St. Chicago (312) 943-7801 ginzachicago.com Aug. 12-14

Experience a taste of Japan at this cultural festival, which features Japanese cultural exhibits and demonstrations, classical dances, drumming, ukelele, martial arts and fencing. Skilled master craftsmen (Waza) demonstrate crafts which will be offered for sale. Traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered and other Japanese merchandise.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 35

5/5/16 11:35 AM

FESTS Hours: 5:30-9 p.m. Aug 12; 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 13; 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 14. Admission: $7, $6 students and seniors, free kids under 12; $15 threeday pass.

Retro on Roscoe Roscoe and Damen Chicago (773) 665-4682 retroonroscoe.com Auf. 12-14

Features local restaurants, artisans, vendors, chili cookoff and a family area with crafts, balloon artists, face painting, music, rides and more. Hours: 5-10 p.m.

Aug. 12; noon-10 p.m. Aug. 13-14. Admission: $10.

Lincolnshire Art Festival Village Green Milwaukee Avenue and Old Half Day Road Lincolnshire (847) 926-4300 lincolnshireartfestival.com Aug. 13-14

Features more than 100 juried artists, live music and fun art activities for kids. Art enthusiasts of all ages can get into the “artfilled action” by making their mark on a graffiti wall at the festival. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Farm & Barn Fest Main Park 10925 LaPorte Road Mokena (708) 390-2401 mokenapark.com Aug. 13

Features sheep-shearing demos, petting zoo, horse rides, farm antiques, raffles, stage entertainment, kids’ games and activities, face painting and food vendors. Plus, blacksmithing demonstrations, baby and kid contest, flea market and a 5:30 p.m. country concert. New this year: bean bag tournament. Hours: 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; country concert at 5:30 p.m. Admission: Free; fees for some activities.

Annual Ginza Holiday Festival, see page 35.

Chicago Botanic Garden’s Kite Festival Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org Aug. 13-14

Enjoy stunt-kite performances set to music by the Chicago Fire Kite Team and the Kite Society of Wisconsin & Illinois.

The team flies precision and ballet routines with up to six pilots and their dual-line sport kites. Kids can enjoy kite-making workshops with provided materials. A free “Kids’ Mad Dash” rewards the first children to get their kite built and in the air.

Kites are also available for purchase. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free; $30 parking.

Taylor Street Festa Italiana Taylor Street between Racine Street and Ashland Avenue Chicago (312) 243-3773 starevents.com/festivals/ festa-italiana Aug. 18-21

Features authentic Italian activities, delectable Italian cuisine, cooking demos and live entertainment. Plus, meatball- and cannoli-eating contests, trolley tours, big band

36 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_036.indd 1

music and more. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: $5, free kids under 12.

Edison Park Fest Downtown Edison Park 6730 N. Olmstead Ave. Chicago (773) 631-0063 edisonpark.com Aug. 19-21

Includes music, food, craft fair, dog show, bags tournament and basketball clinic. Kids’ Play Area features a rock climbing wall and waterslide, and Children’s Stage has kid-friendly performances, craft booths and a playground. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Homewood’s Giant Block Party Hickory Road, between Dixie and Martin Homewood (708) 798-3000 homesweethomewood.com Aug. 20

Live music will begin at noon. A “liars contest” (for adults) is sponsored by the Homewood Public Library.

There will be an ice cream eating contest and a water balloon tossing contest.

Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Albany Park World Fest Lawrence and Kimball Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com Aug. 20-21

The northwest side neighborhood celebrates its melting pot diversity with food, music, arts and crafts and carnival rides.

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Aug. 20; noon-9 p.m. Aug. 21.

Admission: $5 donation.

Chicago Air and Water Show North Avenue Beach Chicago (312) 744-3370 chicagoairandwatershow.us Aug. 20-21

One of Chicago’s longestrunning events, the show includes a wide variety of civilian acts with daredevil pilots performing aerial stunts in the skies above Lake Michigan. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest 6900-7000 N. Glenwood Ave. (Morse and Glenwood) Chicago (773) 761-4477 glenwoodave.org Aug. 20-21

Includes a street art fair, indoor art displays, and live entertainment on three outdoor stages fea-

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:35 AM

FESTS turing 48 acts. KidFest Area features free handson arts activities. Hours: 6-10 p.m. Aug. 19; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 20-21. Admission: Free.

Water Street Mall in downtown Aurora and engage passerby with their art, craft, talent and more. More than 60 artists display their wares, food is available for purchase, and events include free yoga, a creative children’s booth and live music. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free.

Chicago Dancing Festival Various locations Chicago chicagodancingfestival.com Aug. 23-27

A five day-long celebration of the finest dancers and choreographers across Chicago’s top downtown venues.

Tickets for indoor performances at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance and the Museum of Contemporary Art need to be reserved in advance, however no tickets are required for the performance at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free.

Life Time Kids Tri Chicago

Port Clinton Art Festival, see page 40.

Cherry Valley Festival Days Baumann Park 218 S. Walnut St. Cherry Valley (815) 332-2152 valleydays.com Aug. 26-28

Includes entertainment, amusement rides, kids’ games, bingo, fireworks and

food. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Alley Art Festival Water Street Mall Aurora auroradowntown.org/alleyart-festival Aug. 27

Local artists converge on

Montrose Avenue Beach Chicago (773) 404-2372 chicagotriathlon.com/race/ kids-tri Aug. 27

The swim takes place in Lake Michigan at Chicago’s Montrose Avenue Beach, including a shallow water start, parallel to the beach. The bike and run take place on closed park roadways and running paths all along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront.

Blueberries Promote Good Health!!

20 Years!

• Beautiful, picturesque, wooded countryside • One hour & 15 minutes from Chicago Loop!

• Best-tasting blueberries in the Midwest!

• Reasonable prices Pick your own! (pre-pick available) • Normal season availability, mid July - Labor Day • Closed Tuesdays • Open 8:30-6 CT

BILLY BOY’S BLUEBERRY BARN

650 Freyer Rd. • Michigan City, IN 219.872.7477 www.billyboysblueberrybarn.com (check website or call)

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_037.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 37

5/5/16 11:35 AM

FESTS

A blue ribbon day at the

T

STORY AND STO ND DP PH PHOTOS HO OT OTO TO T OS BY OS

BY M MELI MELISSA ELISS ELI LLIISSA SS S S SA A HA H HAAK AAK AA AK

here is something oldfashioned and quintessentially “summer” about going to a county fair.

Even if you didn’t grow up in the country, a visit to a county fair can make you feel like a kid again (and bring out the childlike wonder in your little ones).

fair

And the best part? You don’t have to give up city living to enjoy it! The Lake County Fair, just a quick drive north of the city, is the county fair of your dreams, whether you’re a little bit country or a little rock ‘n’ roll.

For country mice For farm-obsessed toddlers and preschoolers, the county fair will be an unforgettable experience. Skip the petting zoo and animal shows and head right to the livestock barns, where families can see all the livestock being entered into competition (including those raised by local kids participating in 4-H).

Sometimes you can even meet the farmers and kids that raise the animals and learn about— and maybe even pet— cows or horses.

Then head inside the Expo Hall to the Farm Bureau’s Ag Adventure Area. Your little farmhands can milk a cow, dig in corn bins, ride tractors and more. It’s a perfect place to cool off on a hot day or as a transition to going home.

Tractor lovers will want to see the displays by local vendors. And the Farm Heritage Association antique tractor parade is a must-see.

38 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_038.indd 1

We usually grab a bite to eat and have dinner while we watch the parade go by.

And if all that’s not enough for your animal lover, there’s a petting zoo, animal shows and a rodeo on Saturday.

For city slickers The Midway is the place to be if you are looking for thrills. You’ll find all the typical carnival games and rides, from the kiddie rides that go in a circle to hang gliders and a Ferris wheel. If you have Chicag ChicagoParent.com agoPa oParen r t.com om

5/5/16 11:34 AM

FESTS

L .Torres Photo

Lake County Fair

Courtesy Lake County Fair

older kids, try to go at night to see it all lit up.

But for kids who love to ride the Tilt-a-Whirl until their stomach threatens to revolt, be sure to go during the day when unlimited ride wristbands are available.

If you prefer to keep your feet planted on the ground, head to the Expo Hall to see the talent of Lake County up close and personal. Everything from food to textiles, sewing to painting is on display, with adult and student entries.

The Expo Hall also houses business and organization booths. Kids will especially like meeting law enforcement officers and seeing their cars and motorcycles.

If speed is your thing, the fair does not disappoint, with Motorcross and Demolition Derby events throughout the weekend. There will also be tractor pulls and school bus racing.

And, of course, the food.

From foot-long corn dogs to deep-fried Oreos and donut cheeseburgers, this is the stuff you just can’t get anywhere else (and believe me, it’s worth the calories). The huge bags of cotton candy and fresh-from-the-fryer funnel cake are the cherry on top of a perfect day for my kids. And for my money, there’s nothing that says summer more than a fresh-squeezed lemon ice on a hot afternoon.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_039.indd 1

July 27-31 1060 East Peterson Road, Grayslake (847) 680-7200; lcfair.com $8 Wednesday-Friday, $10 Saturday-Sunday; $5 kids 5-13; free kids under 5. Cash only.

Coupons for discounted admission are available at visitlakecounty.com and the fair’s Facebook page.

If you are going with small kids, the best time is right when it opens on Wednesday morning. Paid parking is available in the paved lots or there is free parking available in grass lots (it’s rough terrain for small strollers).

OTHER LOCAL COUNTY FAIRS

Kane County Fair

July 20-24 525 S. Rand Road, St. Charles (630) 584-6926; kanecountyfair.com $5 Wednesday-Thursday, $10 FridaySunday; free kids 3 and under.

DuPage County Fair July 27-31 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton (630) 668-6636; dupagecountyfair.org $10; $4 kids; free kids under 3.

McHenry County Fair Aug. 3-7 11900 Country Club Road, Woodstock (815) 338-5315; mchenrycountyfair.com $8; $6 kids, veterans and seniors. Family passes online for $26 (2 adults and 3 kids).

Lake County Indiana Fair

Aug. 5-14 889 S. Court St., Crown Point, Ind. (219) 663-3617; lake-county-fair.com $5; $2 kids 9-12; free kids 8 and under. $5 parking.

Kenosha County Fair Aug. 17-21 30820 111th St., Wilmot, Wis. (262) 862-9666; kenoshacofair.com $9; $5 kids 8-11; free kids 7 and under.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 39

5/5/16 11:34 AM

FESTS Open to boys and girls 7-14. Hours: 8:30 a.m. first wave starts. Admission: Check website.

Port Clinton Art Festival Central Avenue at the intersections of First and Second streets Highland Park (847) 926-4300 portclintonartfestival.com Aug. 27-28

Features more than 260 artists including a Youth Art Division with works from kids 18 and younger. Event includes kids’ activities, music, and food from many local restaurants at the Taste of Highland Park, which runs in conjunction with the festival. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Taste of Greektown Greek Town 400 S. Halsted

Chicago (847) 509-8050 tasteofgreektown.com Aug. 27-28

Food, music and entertainment, including Greek bands, artisans and games for kids and families. Hours: Noon10 p.m. Admission: Free.

West Town Hoedown & Cookout Milwaukee between Division and Noble Chicago Aug. 27-28

In addition to the oyster shucking and shrimp boil, there will be “timed” whole pig roasts, a showcase alligator roast, pie eating contests and a “county fair” meets the heart of the city atmosphere with communal dining, neighborhood merchants/vendors, and live country, Americana and square dance music.

Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Admission: $5.

Taste of River North, see page 33.

minocqua.org • 800.44.noRTH •

fun comes

Naturally The Minocqua area is the perfect destination for your next vacation. With 2,300 bodies of water, hundreds of miles of trails, plus dozens of restaurants, shops and attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do year-round.

40 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_040.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:34 AM

Special Advertising Section

E Y E O N E L MH U R S T

Eye on Elmhurst summer events Explore Elmhurst Trolley All aboard the Explore Elmhurst Express Trolley running weekends from June 3rd September 18th!

Take a FREE ride to Elmhurst destinations while learning about highlighted areas of the City. Hop-off to EXPLORE more and enter-to-win weekly prizes through a citywide sweepstakes! www.

ExploreElmhurst.com

Elmhurst Farmer’s Market This is a recurring event - every Wednesday, from June 1st thru October 26th. Elmhurst Farmers Market on Vallette just east of York ‘farm fresh to your table’ every Wednesday 7am until 1pm starting June 1st thru October 26th contact - Adam Krzemkowski - 630832-4550

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art Lapidary is the art of cutting & polishing Elmhurst City Centre stone. People of all ages enjoy this June 1 – July 27 exceptional museum Elmhurst City dedicated to sharing Centre’s Block to with others the Block Party Music beauty of gemstones Series: Come to the and promoting heart of Downtown the study of earth Elmhurst for free science. The Museum live music every features a large Wednesday night collection of Chinese thru-out June and jade, hard-stone July. Wednesday’s carvings, displays from 5:30 to of animal dioramas, 8:30 pm. www. mineral specimens, elmhurstcitycentre. com continued on page 42

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF ELMHURST

ChicagoParent.com

Elmhurst_GPsum2016.indd 41

®

ALL ABOARD THE

Explore Elmhurst Express!

Ride

FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY JUNE 3 - SEPTEMBER 18

F R E E T ROL L E Y S E RV I C E

Looking for an adventure close to home this summer?

Take a free ride on the Explore Elmhurst Express trolley running weekends from June 3 through September 18! Hop off the trolley to explore more and enter-to-win weekly prizes through a citywide sweepstakes! For details, visit ExploreElmhurst.com.

EXPLORE RIDE

SHOP

EAT

ExploreElmhurst.com Summer 2016 • goingplaces 41

5/5/16 3:09 PM

E YE ON ELM H UR ST continued from page 41 gemstones and geological exhibits.

Summer programs for children include Rock & Mineral Identification classes, Fossil Collecting Field Trips, Volcano lecture, and starting a rock collection.

Please see our website for exhibits and programs. Group tours can be arranged with reservations, unique Gift Shop Location: Elmhurst and parking is free.

History Museum, 120 220 Cottage Hill Ave. E. Park Ave., Elmhurst (630)833-1616 www.

Admission: lizzadromuseum.org Free Ages: 8+ Elmhurst History elmhursthistory.org Museum Need some kitsch in your summer fun?

But Wait, Check out Elmhurst There’s More!

History Museum’s June 17-Sept. 18, 2016

42 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

Elmhurst_GPsum2016.indd 42

Special Advertising Section inventor who entered American homes hawking an endless array of gadgets and kitchen helpers. Kids can learn “the art of the pitch” at a video interactive, step into a booth to make-theirown TV commercial for posting, and explore many of Popeil’s most popular gadgets at handson displays. July 17: Celebrate Popeil’s wacky inventions new exhibit, “But and products at the Wait, There’s More!,” Isn’t That Amazing! the story of America’s Summer Spectacular, most famous TV a free all-ages event pitchman, Ron Popeil. on the museum From the Pocket grounds with Fisherman to Chop-O- product demos, Mr. Matic, Mr. Microphone Microphone karaoke, and so many more— a Chef Challenge, and Popeil was a tireless more. innovator and PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF ELMHURST

ChicagoParent.com

5/6/16 11:34 AM

MUSEUMS

THE WONDERS OF WATER

L

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHERYL EUGENIO

isten, we get it. Your kids love playing with water, but the thought of having soaked kids fills you with dread. But did you know that water play puts kids’ problem solving skills to work? Or that kids can learn about simple and complex machines while using gross motor skills?

Kohl Children’s Museum

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; kohlchildrensmuseum.org At WaterWorks, little ones can build a boat and then watch it float away, balance balls on jets of water and even create music by shootThe benefits far outweigh the damping water at instruments. While the ness you may encounter, so go kiddos are busy splashing away, sneak a little water knowledge ahead and let the kids experiby reading the helpful explament with the wonders of nations about the specific H20. Make a splash at these water activity. Heck, you may even learn a thing or museums that combine two! water play and learning.

Cool tip: When warm Just do yourself a favor and weather hits, meander outdoors to Habitat Park to paint bring an extra set of dry with water.

Kohl Children’s

clothes, because there’s no avoiding it—kids will get wet.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_043.indd 1

Museum

CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 4 4

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 43

5/5/16 4:46 PM

MUSEUMS THE WONDERS OF WATER CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 4 3

Museum of Science & Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago; msichicago.org The Idea Factory draws kids 10 and under to a mecca featuring 3,000 gallons of water play action. Watch rainbow-colored balls flow down the winding river, then listen to screams of glee as they’re inserted into the air tube and whisked away. The best part? Kids won’t even know they’re learning about the water cycle process! The huge water contraption is a total sensory experience like no other with a swirling vortex, blasting water cannons and bikes used to pump water. It sounds more like a water park than a museum exhibit!

Cool tip: Have tiny tots?

Babies can splash away at the little fountain found in the gated crawler section.

44 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_044.indd 1

DuPage Children’s Museum

Chicago Children’s Museum 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago; chicagochildrensmuseum.org WaterWays is a wonderland full of flowing, pumping, squirting water all around.

Looking for a dryer experi-

ence (and a chance to unwind)? Grab a brush and paint with water on the slate walls.

Another water experience awaits at Treehouse Trails where kiddos can grab a net and go fishin’ in the creek.

Cool tip: Want in on the splash action? Adult-sized raincoats are available.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:33 AM

MUSEUMS

DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington, Naperville; dupagechildrens.org

By Winter 2016, the newly redesigned Awesome Water exhibit will bring a brand new learning experience to the re-imagined museum. The one-of-a-kind water table made using earth-friendly materials (the first in the nation!) will feature twice the shoreline, beautiful umbrella sculptures and a gigantic waterwheel where kids can move blades to generate energy. But until then, there is no shortage of water play fun, with bubble stations and temporary water tables allowing youngsters to lift, pour and experiment with water.

Cool tip: Ever wanted to immerse yourself in a gigantic bubble? Here’s your chance (it’s harder than it looks).

Museum of Science & Industry

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.

Discovery Center Museum 711 N. Main St., Rockford; discoverycentermuseum.org It’s worth making the hour-and-a-half trek to this Rockford museum for not one, but two fun splash-making opportunities. Tot Spot’s “Make it Flow” water table allows the youngest visitors to squirt and play with bubbles. Then make your way to the outdoor science park to race boats down one of four lanes, or manipulate the flow of water through the locks and dams on the 40-foot Waterworks table.

Cool tip: Make most of this day trip with a visit to the adjacent Burpee Museum to meet Jane, a juvenile T. rex.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_045.indd 1

4520 N. Western • Chicago, IL 60625 www.queenofangelschicago.org (773) 769-4211

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 45

5/5/16 11:32 AM

MUSEUMS

Museum Free Days

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

Cantigny Park and First Division Museum

Chicago History Museum

1S151 Winfield Road,

Chicago

Wheaton (630) 668-5161

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-STAR

Free admission: June 6-8 and 13-15.

Always free for kids 2 and under.

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.

Free admission: Always free. Parking is $10, free on the first Wednesday of the month.

1601 N. Clark St.,

1852 W. 19th St., Chicago

(312) 642-4600

Free admission: July 4.

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.

(312) 738-1503

Museum of Contemporary Art

Free admission: Always free.

220 E. Chicago Ave.,

Elmhurst Art Museum

Notebaert Nature Museum

Chic Chicago

150 Cottage Hill ill Ave., Elmhurst

Chicago Children’s Museum

National Museum of Mexican Art

(630) 834-0202

Free admission: Friridays. Always free fo for kids under 5.

(312) 280-2660

2430 N. Cannon

Free admis admission: 10 p.m. Tuesdays. a.m.-8 p Always ffree for kids 12 and under. nd un

Drive, Chicago (773) 755-5100

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

Field Museum

Museum of Science and Industry

1400 S. Lake Shore

5700 S. Lake Shore

Drive, Chicago

Drive, Chicago

(312) 922-9410

(773) 684-1414

(312) 939-2438

Free admission: June 21-23.

Free admission: June 1-3 and 6-8.

Free admission: June 6-7 and 13-14.

Shedd Aquarium 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

Skokie Sports Park Adventure Golf, Batting Cages & Party Room

Golf Range, PGA Pro Group & Private Lessons

3459 Oakton Street • Skokie

(847) 674-1500 ext. 3100 • SkokieParks.org

46 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_046.indd 1

18 holes of around-the-world golfing adventure

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:32 AM

GOING PLACES

Chicago Grammar School Sapere Aude -- Dare to Know

The Classical Experience begins here Aspects of a Classical Education • The rigor of the traditional • The creativity of the progressive • Integrated arts and academics • Analysis that enables critical thinking • Cultural literacy Our commitment to the liberal arts challenges the ordinary. CGS students enjoy and thrive in an environment that nurtures curiosity, develops academic proficiency, and inspires personal virtue and wisdom.

900 N. Franklin, Chicago IL 60610 312.944.5600 www.chicagogrammar.org

Chicago Grammar School Celebrating Leonardo’s Notebooks Summer 2016 JK – 8th Grade Weekly Programs in Art & Design June 13--July 22 Oil Painting on Canvas Mosaics

ALSO Standardized Test Prep for 7th and 8th Grade students.

Clay Sculpture

Skills course in preparation for the NWEA-MAP, HSPT and ISEE. ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_047.indd 1

Mechanics Architecture Games & More

Register online 900 N. Franklin 312.944.5600 www.chicagogrammar.org Summer 2016 • goingplaces 47

5/5/16 5:25 PM

CITY caption cap ap pttio tiio ion

Fiestas Puertorriqueñas

PASSPORT TO

I

BY CHRIS THOMAS

’ve loved traveling my whole life. Ever since my mom and dad threw me into the back of the family station wagon and headed down the highway, I’ve wanted to go, go, go.

But lately, I’ve realized that I have traveled thousands of miles to see the sights, but haven’t really taken the time to explore my own backyard. Sure, we’ve schlepped the kids to the museums, parks and zoos, but we haven’t always made the effort to explore the 77 neighborhoods of the great city of Chicago. If your family is anything like ours, I’d say it’s time to hit the ‘hoods.

(Well, maybe not all 77; that would be crazy.) Here are just a few of the neighborhood spots not to miss.

48 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_048.indd 1

NORTH SIDE

Albany Park Multi-ethnic Sculpture Park and Healing Garden in Ronan Park 3000 W. Argyle St.; chicagoparkdistrict. com/parks/Ronan-Park The sculptures in this park embrace the community’s many ethnicities and heritages—there’s a reason it’s called the “Gateway to the World.” Close by, you’ll find Korean, Colombian and Lebanese restaurants, to name just a few.

Edgewater Broadway Antique Market 6130 N. Broadway; (773) 743-5444; bamchicago.com No need to head to the country to find some antique treasures. With more than 75,000 square feet of hidden gems, you and the kids ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:30 AM

CITY

Ed Paschke Art Center

CHICAGO will have a great time just looking around this market (if you can manage to keep your wallet in your pocket).

And if the kids need some convincing to go “shopping,” bribe them with a sweet treat from Lickity Split Frozen Custard (lickity splitchicago.com) just across the street.

Jefferson Park Ed Paschke Art Center 5415 W. Higgins Road; (312) 533-4911; edpaschkeartcenter.org You can see the artwork and hear about the life of this northside artist, as well as see other rotating exhibits from Chicago artists. A great time to visit is the third Saturday of each month for Family Story Time. Best of all, it’s free—and open seven days a week.

CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 5 0

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_049.indd 1

Broadway Antique Market

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 49

5/5/16 11:29 AM

CITY PASSPORT TO CHICAGO CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 4 9

WEST SIDE

Pilsen El Milagro Store and Taqueria 1927 S. Blue Island Ave.; (312) 421-7443; el-milagro.com You’ve probably been buying El Milagro’s tortillas and chips for years, but you might not know you can buy them direct from the source—and grab a bite to eat while you’re there. And for your viewing pleasure on your drive home, check out all of the glass mosaics and painted murals throughout the neighborhood.

Humboldt Park Fiestas Puertorriqueñas Division and California; chicagoevents.com Celebrate Puerto Rican heritage with four days of arts and crafts, food, music and carnival rides (June 16-19). At 2 p.m. on June 19, the annual Puerto Rican People’s Parade steps off from the corner of Division and Western (arrive early to get a prime spot).

Little Village Home Run Inn Pizza 4254 W. 31st St.; (773) 247-9696; homeruninnpizza.com/ pizzerias/chicago-31st-st Sure, you can visit Home Run Inn at many different locations, or you can even pick one up and bake it yourself. But if you like your pizza topped with a bit of history (and maybe some pepperoni), eating at the original location from 1947 is something not to be missed.

SOUTH SIDE

Pullman Pullman Porter Museum 10406 S. Maryland Ave.; (773) 850-8580; aphiliprandolphmuseum.com This whole neighborhood is a National Historic District, thanks to all the cool old buildings. You

CircEsteem

Circus Camp 1 week sessions June 20th - Aug 19th ages 7 and up

www.CircEsteem.org for more details!

50 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_050.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 4:47 PM

CITY can squeeze in some sneaky history lessons about the Pullman Porters and the neighborhood overall, just by visiting the museum (only open April-November). This is a must-stop for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.

South Shore 63rd Street Beach 6300 S. Lake Shore Drive; chicagoparkdistrict.com/ parks/63rd-street-beach There’s nothing wrong with those super-busy beaches on the north side, but they don’t have a two-story, open-air beach house—with fun water feature—do they? Or Jamaican food like they sell at Belly Up, for that matter. Pack up the beach toys and the kids and plan on spending the day. You can even rent bikes from Bike Chicago and go for a ride.

Hegewisch William W. Powers State Recreation Area

63rd Street Beach

12949 Avenue O; (773) 646-3270; dnr.illinois.gov/ Parks/Pages/WilliamWPowers.aspx Nearly 600 acres of outdoor fun await you here, including on Wolf Lake, where you can try to catch largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill and more off its six miles of shorelines.

And you thought you had to leave the city to find the great outdoors!

SUMMER FAMILY SAVINGS • UP TO FOUR FREE TICKETS! Free child’s Classic Lake Tour ticket with online purchase of adult ticket.

Coupon code: 2222 • Exp. 10.31.16

EXPLORE YOUR CHICAGO Architecture River Tours • Classic Lake Tours • Fireworks Tours • Water Taxis Docks at Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue Bridge shorelinesightseeing.com | 312.222.9328

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_051.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 51

5/5/16 11:28 AM

CITY

Courtesy CiNe

Food + fresh air = a family win

S

BY EMILY ADAMS

ummer isn’t really open for business until the restaurants are donning their weather-proof patio sets and twinkle lights. There’s something magical about munching on your favorite foods with a warm breeze rustling your napkin. The following are the best spots to take your little for a lovely alfresco-style adventure. Note: all of these hot spots are BYOK (bring your own kid).

CiNe 29 E. First St., Hinsdale; cinehinsdale.com Let’s start by swooning over the charming lights and 52 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_052.indd 1

hanging stars on this adorable patio in Hinsdale. We can’t even. All of this cuteness lives in the refurbished historic Hinsdale Theatre, an idyllic scene for kiddos to indulge in

Courtesy CiNe

the “Para Chicos” menu that includes mini burgers, mac and cheese, kids’ tacos and more.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:28 AM

CITY

El Cid 2645 N. Kedzie Ave.; elcid2.com El Cid is where you go when you’re longing for a chic urban vibe with equally kid-tastic options. This spot is picky-eater heaven because every delicious morsel of Mexican cuisine is completely customizable, and kids will have a blast dancing in the backyard space to live musicians throughout the summer. With affordable prices and a laid-back but delightfully fun atmosphere, El Cid scratches the itch for a night in the city without the stress.

Courtesy Dunlay’s on the Square

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Dunlay’s On The Square

3361 N. Elston Ave.; honeybutter.com I probably had you at honey butter—no 3137 W. Logan Blvd.; dunlaysonthesquare.com shame if you’re already drooling—so rest asNot only does this spot in the oh-so-hip sured that the crave-worthy chicken lives up Logan Square offer a “kids eat free” special every to every amount of hype. Add in corn muffins, day from 4:30-6:30 p.m., but brunchC Chocolate Toffee ing it up on this patio is also hard to C Cookies and maybe beat. Fresh juice for the young ones aan extra side of (and delectable Bloody Mary and Mih honey butter, and mosa options for you) complement yyour food baby their yummy Housemade Monkey w will start being as Bread, must-try French toast and p precious to you as insanely tasty omelettes. Enjoy it all yyour real one. As if a while basking in the chillaxing heart ccool patio was even of Logan. And if you’re ever dining n necessary with all with dessert on the brain (always), tthat goodness, the the Skillet Cookie and Chocolate o outdoor magnet Courtesy Honey Butter Fried Chicken Nutella Brownie totes speak for wall at HBFC is all themselves. your kids will want to play with. But eventually, they’ll have to demagnetize themselves for their Honey Buddies Meal, complete with chicken strips, mac and cheese, stickers and coloring pages.

Waterfront Cafe

Courtesy Waterfront Cafe

6219 N. Sheridan Road; waterfrontcafechicago.com Beachfront dining is always a huge win in a Chicago summer, especially when some of the menu items are made just for kids. After a day of splashing and sand castle-building, nothing will taste better than chicken tenders or PB&J for them and a Waterfront Wrap or Lobster Roll for you. Crank that lakeside living up a notch with one of their specialty cocktails, and you’ll forget that Chicago even has a winter.

Courtesy El Cid Courtesy El Cid

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_053.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 53

5/6/16 1:44 PM

CITY

Next-level

ice cream O

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DANIELLE BRAFF

nce your kids have mastered ice cream, it’s time to make a Chicago bucket list of all the weird, crazy, sweet places to try that are kinda-sorta-like ice cream in its most untraditional form. Got a picky eater?

Start him off with a green tea shaved snow, and in no time, he’ll be eating sushi.

Snow Dragon Shavery This may be our new favorite ice cream place—and that’s a big deal. Snow Dragon specializes in Taiwanese shaved snow, which is to ice cream what a gyro is to meat. They essentially have a machine that shaves layers of light snow off of a huge chunk of something resembling ice cream (it’s got dairy in it, at least). The result is a creamy, airy, melt-in-your mouth goodness that may be better than ice cream (this seems crazy to say, since ice cream is our favorite food group). Next, you get to drizzle on a wet topping (go for the condensed milk) and two side toppings (employees suggested mochi and pomegranate balls to go with our green tea and they were spot-on).

If you can’t get behind the texture of the shaved snow, go for the Macaron Sandwich, which is regular ice cream wedged between two macarons. Delish.

2618 N. Clark St., Chicago; (773) 281-9866, snowdragonshavery.com 54 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_054.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 4:47 PM

m

CITY

Trader Joe’s

La Michoacana Premium Few of the employees here speak English, so be prepared to do a lot of pointing if you don’t speak Spanish.

The yogurt is a huge seller, and it’s beyond anything we’d ever tried. It comes in flavors like plain and mango (and a few others that we couldn’t understand because our Spanish education ended in high school). The yogurt, which is a liquid, comes in a cup and you choose fruit and other toppings. We chose M&Ms and sprinkles, though the woman helping finally explained that we were supposed to be choosing granola, nuts and raisins—so we added those as well.

The result was a super-sweet crunchy almost-smoothie. They also have all different flavors of ice cream. Try the horchata (sweet rice) ice cream and any of the dozens of paletas (popsicles). 6533 W. Cermak Road, Berwyn; (708) 637-4075

Got a picky eater who may not be ready to venture out into the world of untra untraditional ice cream? Trader Joe’s is the perfect place for beginners. Grab a box of Chocolate Mochi Ice Cream. It’s a traditional Japanese dessert (though green tea is the traditional Japanese flavor, not chocolate), and it tastes like chocolate ice cream wrapped in a rice cake. We can’t stop at just one—my family usually eats the entire box. Once your kids have mastered the chocolate flavor, move them on to the Green Tea Mochi, also sold at Trader Joe’s. Got that down?

Then they can order the mochi at any Japanese restaurant like pros. Trader Joe’s locations throughout the Chicago area; traderjoes.com

Java & Mug Café This Northpark café does its own version of bingsoo (Korean shaved ice), and it’s overflowing with toppings. They drizzle it with a sweet fruit syrup, and the mango and mochi will satisfy any sugar craving. It also has red beans, bananas and strawberries (served with vanilla or strawberry ice cream). This location tends to get a little crowded, so go during off-peak hours (weekdays and mid-afternoons are best). 3247 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Chicago; (773) 539-0407

Cassava Café Order the Korean shaved ice, and about six minutes later, you’ll be presented with an entree-sized creation (one order should feed the entire family). On the bottom, there’s shaved ice, similar to a snow cone. It’s topped with vanilla ice cream, mango-type tapioca, muffin-top bits that look like brownies, bananas, strawberries, mangos and… red beans. “Why are there beans on my ice cream?” asked one of our child testers. But she didn’t pause long enough to hear our answer (“Try it, maybe you’ll like it.”). We dug in and tried the oddish mishmash of flavors. The ice made ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_055.indd 1

it refreshing, while the beans and banana gave it a creamy consistency, almost like a healthy chocolate. And while the kids won’t be requesting

red beans on their ice cream any time soon, they won’t mind it, either. 1211 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago; (312) 487-2888, cassava.cafe Summer 2016 • goingplaces 55

5/5/16 4:53 PM

LINCOLN PA R K

Sponsored

A visit to Lincoln Park is a summer must

By STEPHANIE BENAVIDEZ

L

incoln Park has long been considered the “it” neighborhood for young professionals given the plethora of local watering holes, live music venues and comedy clubs. However, more and more families are taking advantage of the prime real estate and all this Northside neighborhood has to offer.

In fact, when people talk of raising families in Chicago, they often mention Lincoln Park, which packs a ton into its 3.2 square miles.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LINCOLN PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Lincoln Park boasts some of the most beautiful and unique garden spaces. For families, Oz Park, The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory (which is free and open Play and Learn year-round) are the With more than 1,200 obvious highlights. But acres of green space, Lincoln Park is filled with

CHOICES for for Parents isisaa CHOICES Parents statewidecoalition coalition of parents statewide parentsand professionals ensuring ensuring that and professionals that children with identified hearing children with identified hearing loss and their families receive the loss and their families receive the necessary resources, advocacy, necessary resources, advocacy, information, services and support. information, services and support.

We also offer ASL classes in spoken Spanish, READ Kits, We also offer ASL classes in Children & Hearing Loss spoken Spanish, READ Resource Kits, Notebooks and more!

Children & Hearing Loss Resource Notebooks and more! www.choicesforparents.org

www.choicesforparents.org info@choicesforparents.org info@choicesforparents.org 312.523.6400 312.523.6400 866.733.8729 866.733.8729 56 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

LincolnPark_GPsum2016.indd 56

smaller, more intimate parks and play places that cater to all ages.

Emerald City Theatre, one of Chicago’s most attended non-profit theaters, reaching 80,000 kids a year. As a national leader in developing new work for young audiences, it

also offers camps and classes for kids 3-13 that teach life skills through arts education.

But summer in Lincoln Park is especially fun with movies in the parks and the street festivals that cater to families, including the 48th annual Sheffield

Art camps for kids ages 4-11 In the words of Pablo Picasso, every child is an artist. Why not give your child a shot at discovering her artist within? Learning, creating, exploring art through the senses ...

2646 N. Halsted Chicago, IL 773-636-1968 thepaintbrush.net ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 4:55 PM

L IN C O L N PA R K

Sponsored Music Festival & Garden Walk July 23-24 and the giant kids’ carnival at the Taste of Lincoln Avenue Aug. 6-7.

Lincoln Park’s North Avenue Beach is Chicago’s most popular beach with stunning views of the city’s skyline. With its ADA beach walk, it is an easy walk from the parking lot to the water for parents with little ones.

It’s best to take public transportation to the beach, though, because parking is limited.

Nearby Diversey Harbor is one of the most popular for sailing and water activities due to its sought-after location.

Shop

bike clinics. Its Sprouts program gets kids to try new locally grown, sustainable foods.

Home to many independent boutiques and high-end retailers, Lincoln Park’s childfocused businesses include Kangaroo Kids, Monica + Andy and Galt Baby: A Modern Baby Lifestyle Shop.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LINCOLN PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

summer-must featuring The Green City local artisans and Market on Saturdays is a vendors who showcase

farm-fresh finds, smallbatch ice creams as well as chef demos and

Plan your adventure For a full calendar of neighborhood events, resources, maps and even fun itineraries already planned for you, check out lincolnparkchamber.com.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Consumer accounts and new money only. Coin-only deposits are permitted. No cash, check, or electronic deposits are allowed.

Withdrawal Limitations: 6 free per month $3.00 per withdrawal thereafter. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for Pennywise Savings is 5.00% for balances up to $3,000.00; 0.05% for balances $3,000.01 - $9,999.99; and 0.10% for $10,000 and above. APY is accurate as of 5/1/16. Your interest rate and APY may change at any time. Interest will be compounded and credited to your account every month. If you close your account before interest is credited, you will not receive the accrued interest. We use the daily balance method to calculate the interest on your account. This method applies a daily periodic rate to the principal in the account each day.

Offer not available to those who have closed savings or money market accounts within 90 days. Fees may reduce earnings. Offer subject to change, is non-transferable, and cannot be combined with any other offer. Account opening is subject to approval.

ChicagoParent.com

LincolnPark_GPsum2016.indd 57

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 57

5/5/16 4:55 PM

CITY

FOUNTAINS OF YOUTH The Centennial Fountain

S

BY ELIZABETH DIFFIN

ure, you already know Buckingham and Crown Fountains, but so does every tourist who sets foot in our fair city. But if you want to prove your “local” cred, these eight fabulously fun fountains are must-sees—and just might help you cool off on some of these sweltering Chicago days.

1

The Children’s Fountain It’s right there in the name—this fountain is just for the littles in your life.

Chicago’s first female mayor, Jane Byrne, helped create the fountain to honor the city’s kids, and its figures of frolicking children will get yours in a playful mood. It can be found in Lincoln Park, not far from the Chicago History Museum.

2

3

The Historic Fountain During the summer, an eight-story jet of water arcs over the Chicago River at McClurg Court, making for a stunning sight.

If the breeze is just right, you just might catch a little mist in your face! The Centennial Fountain commemorates the reversal of the Chicago River, so try to squeeze in a mini history lesson while you’re there.

4

The Wild Fountain The Cool-Off Thirsty? If you’re Fountain spending the day at Lincoln Park Zoo, the answer Sure, you can run past The Wild Fountain is probably yes. Head to the the water coursing down Crown communal watering holes—aka Fountain, but you can run through water fountains—where you can the water here. Mary Bartelme Park in slurp up some refreshment with a pride the West Loop has a fountain that guards of lions, mother-and-baby elephant pair or a its entrance—and the five stainless steel arches sextet of woodland creatures. release a fine mist of water on hot days.

58 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_058.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:26 AM

CITY

8

Courtesy of the Art Institute of Chicago

The Restful Fountain Take a break from your busy day at the Art Institute with a breather in McKinlock Court, where the Fountain of the Tritons offers a soothing space (and maybe some giggles at the naked statues). Best of all, the courtyard is attached to the Museum Café, which offers kid faves and sweet treats.

6

The Wish Fountain If you’re looking for a place to toss your pennies, the Wicker Park Fountain (officially, Gurgoyle Fountain) is a picture-perfect spot. The granite base and cast-iron center practically beg to grant your dearest wishes— and come the holidays, it lights up with the best of ‘em.

7

The Tropical Fountain As far as tropical oases go, Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens are pretty top-of-the-line.

Add in the dancing leapfrog fountains just begging to be run through, and your kids will think it’s just as good as a vacation to Fiji. Afterward, order a Mai Tai from Harry Caray’s Tavern for the true experience.

The Escalator Fountain

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_059.indd 1

Courtesy of Navy Pier, Inc.

5

The Escalator Fountain If you’re dragging your kids along for a little retail therapy, the promise of this fountain might be good to have in your back pocket. They’ll love watching balls of water pop up as they ride the escalator in Water Tower Place so much, you might be the one begging them to head for the car.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 59

5/5/16 11:26 AM

GOING PLACES

60 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_060.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:25 AM

T R AV E L

CANADA, CHICAGO-STYLE

I

BY EMILY ADAMS

t takes exactly half a magazine and one glass of complimentaryy white wine (if you fly Porter Airlines) to skip over to Toronto forr the weekend. And Chicago’s Canadian sister city is well worth a few ew days of exploration.

Despite the currency exchange, which is presently in American favor—why hello, 30 percent sale on life—and those friendly Canadian accents, you’ll feel right at home in this urban scene don’tcha know.

In fact, Toronto and Chicago share so many similarities, getting around Canada’s largest city is a total lakeside breeze. Because if you love Chicago, chances are, you’ll love Toronto, too.

If you love Shedd Aquarium …

You’ll love Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. We are spoiled here in Chi-town with our worldChicagoParent.com

GP0516_061.indd 1

m of fish hy class museum fishy ut Ripley y’s wonder. But Ripley’s ons has some attractio attractions ou ur that rival even our d Shedd. beloved With a whimsical nter for kid ds play center kids ludes touc ch that includes touch st their size tanks just ving walkwa ay and a moving walkway ight into that glides right the underbelly off overhead ntire exhibit sharks—plus an entire h—this stop devoted to jellyfish—this leyaquariumss. is a can’t-miss. ripleyaquariums. com/canada CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 6 2

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 61

5/5/16 11:25 AM

T R AV E L TORONTO CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 6 1

If you love the Field Museum …

You’ll love the Royal Ontario Museum. Giant, impressive dinosaur skeleton at the entrance? Check. Enough exhibits to get lost in for hours with interactive kid zones? Check. Everything we Chicagoans love in our history museums can be found right here. rom.on.ca

If you love the lakefront …

You’ll love Centre Island.

An adorable amusement park devoted to littles—Centreville Theme Park—is only one reason to make this spot a priority. Ferry boat rides, hiking and biking trails and overall outdoor beauty make for a perfect day to bask in the Canadian sunshine. centre island.ca

62 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_062.indd 1

If you love the 360 Chicago or Skydeck Chicago …

You’ll love the CN Tower.

Because if you didn’t take a selfie on glass over the entire city, did it really even happen?

Make sure to make a reservation to eat at the restaurant on top so you can have a rotating, 360-degree view as you munch. If you don’t order the Lindt’s chocolate ice cream for dessert, we’re not friends anymore. cntower.ca

If you love Green City Market …

You’ll love St. Lawrence Market. Not only is it home to Toronto’s faaaamous sandwich, the Peameal Bacon, this market has rows of cute little stands with fresh foods, treats and souvenirs ripe for the picking. Looking for more local foodie favorites? Check out Bannock for authentic Canadian comfort food, freshly baked bannock bread and

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:25 AM

T R AV E L their famous chicken pot pie. stlawrencemarket.com; bannockrestaurant.com If you love Chicago’s neighborhoods …

You’ll love Little Italy, Dundas West and the Distillery District. Not into the whole touristy thing?

In true Chicago fashion, Toronto also has wonderfully colorful neighborhoods to explore. In Little Italy, you’ll find the hippest restaurants and nightlife. And in Dundas West, you can walk strings of art galleries, coffee shops and more. The Distillery District is a cobblestone paradise for antique and vintage shopping fanatics. seetorontonow.com

If you love the United Center …

You’ll love the Air Canada Centre. This country is the bona fide home of hockey, and you’ll see their pride in the game everywhere you look—including at the Hockey Hall of Fame close by— so this arena is a giant attraction for locals and tourists alike.

Catch a Maple Leafs or Raptors game during your stay, and join in on the hometown excitement. theaircanadacentre.com; hhof.com If you love the Magnificent Mile …

You’ll love the Bloor-Yorkville shopping district. It’s basically Michigan Avenue with the same stores and vibe, but with the exchange rate, everything

Looking for an genuine Toronto date night? Stay at the Chelsea Hotel downtown. They’ll babysit the kids in the cute playroom—complete with organized activities and real bunnies—and park the teens at the lounge for arcade games, video games, pool tables and more. Once they’re settled and having fun, you and your love can grab drinks at the hipster-esque Bar Raval in Little Italy and go salsa dancing at Lula Lounge in Dundas West for a truly festive night on the town. chelseatoronto.com; thisisbarraval.com; lula.ca is a great deal. Plus, you get to say you bought that leather jacket abroad, which basically means you’re winning at life. bloor-yorkville.com

New Balance North Shore 610 Central Avenue • Port Clinton Square Downtown Highland Park 847-266-8323 • Open 7 Days

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_063.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 63

5/5/16 4:50 PM

TRUCK L

T GR OAV I NE GLP L A C E S

OF FAMILY

Y

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ELIZABETH DIFFIN

ou know when you hear one of those truly brilliant ideas, and you say to yourself, “Why didn’t I think of that?” That’s exactly how I felt when I first entered Diggerland USA. Because adding construction trucks to an amusement park … well, to paraphrase Chandler Bing, “Could it be any more obvious than that?”

Diggerland, located in West Berlin, N.J., is based on a British theme park, and is, in short, every kid’s dream.

What makes it truly unique is that the rides aren’t some weak imitations of what you might see on a construction site: kids get to drive, dig and ride real construction trucks, from diggers to dumpers and everything in between. And believe me, our visit gave me a much greater appreciation for the workers behind those neon vests and hard hats—maneuvering heavy equipment is no joke!

Pretty much all the rides have a height requirement of 36 inches and many require an adult ride

64 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_064.indd 1

operator, but the kids still undeniably feel like they’re in the driver’s seat (sometimes quite literally) as they navigate through obstacle courses, transplant dirt piles, or do a little off-roading. But that means that if your littles don’t quite meet the height requirement, there’s not a whole lot for them to do; it’s better to delay your trip until they hit that next growth spurt.

When you need a break from being part of the crew (it’s a stressful job, after all), let some of Diggerland’s employees handle the gearshift on Backhoe Adventure, take a tour of the park on Excavator Express, or enjoy an elevated ride on the Ground Shuttle.

If you’re looking for traditional amusement rides, Diggerland’s got those too—although with a construction truck twist, natch. The seats on the merry-go-round are made from excavator buckets, while the Spin Dizzy whirls you around from your seat in a hydraulic excavator. Even the stage show, a staple at amusement parks, is digger-themed.

The daily stunt show features heavy equipment performing feats you would never dream they could accomplish (particularly when they’re dragging your commute out by hours).

For families that are evenly split between truckheads and non-fans, there are a handful of attractions that transcend the theme, includ-

Chi ChicagoParent.com hiicag ccaag ago oPa Paaren reen re nt. t.c t.c .com om

5/6/16 1:46 PM

LOAD S

T R AV E L

Y FUN

ing one of the world’s tallest ropes courses sees (four stories!), a 32-foot rock climbing wall, all, a playground-esque Kid Zone and an arcade. ade.

And while it might seem like a little odd,, animal enthusiasts will enjoy seeing the two Nigerian Dwarf Goats who call the park home (their names, Dozer and Diesel, sel, make them fit right in).

Diggerland only opened two years ago, o,, so it’s still a bit of a hidden gem waiting to o be dug up. Fortunately, that translates to o free parking, cheaper tickets and shorterr lines than you might find at the “namebrand” parks (something you’ll be thank-ful on a hot day with very little shade).

Outside food is not permitted, though, so expect to chip in for at least a cold beverage or frozen treat while you’re there. If you do bring a lunch, limited picnic cn nic space can be found outside the gates (or or plo plop op down under some of the pines like we did).

The park regularly hosts special needs events (a nod to the owners’ younger sister), as well as Diggerland XL, for those adults who never quite outgrew their construction truck phase.

While Diggerland isn’t exactly located in a metropolis, the website recommends a number of inexpensive local hotel partners if you want to stay overnight. Or make Philadelphia, about 20 minutes away, your home base and rent a car. The park is located directly next to Sahara Sam’s Oasis, an indoor/outdoor waterpark, which can be a great place to cool off and make a day of it (tickets are sold separately, although Twilight Tickets are available for visits after 3:30 p.m.).

While you might not have been the one to come up with the brainstorm for Diggerland, your kids will think you put on your good idea jeans the day you decided a trip to Diggerland USA was in order. And that’s something not even Chandler could mock.

ChicagoParen ChicagoParent.com nt.ccom m

GP0516_065.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 65

5/5/16 11:24 AM

T R AV E L

Making memories

in

S

Michigan

BY CORTNEY FRIES

ummers spent in Michigan, both as a kid and now as a mom of two, are certainly some of my most cherished memories. There really is something to those Tim Allen “Pure Michigan” ads. Time seems to slow down when you stroll on the beaches, relax in the sunshine and enjoy a boat cruise.

Saugatuck will forever be one of my favorite places on Earth, and I’m not alone in that opinion. This colorful, lakeside art town has received numerous accolades, including #1 Best Summer Weekend Escape in 2014 and Best Small Coastal Town in 2016 by USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice.

Here are my family’s recommendations for a jaunt around this beautiful beach town and two neighboring destinations you shouldn’t miss.

Simple pleasures of Saugatuck Saugatuck’s Oval Beach has been hailed as one of 66 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_066.indd 1

Star of Saugatuck

the top in the world and best in the Midwest. This serene shoreline nestled between sandy dunes is perfect for a sunny day of building sand castles or gallivanting in the gentle waves. Stay for sunset snuggles and you’ll cement some magnificent memories.

Take a hilly car ride to the beach, or even better, visit via hand-cranked ferry. The Saugatuck Chain Ferry, believed to be the only remaining one in the U.S., has been in use since 1838.

For a small fee, you can cross the Kalamazoo River,

Oval Beach Photo by Felicia Fairchild

hand-cranked on a chain, and experience a piece of history. Star of Saugatuck, a large paddle-wheel boat, and Harbor Duck Tours are also great ways to enjoy the water without getting wet.

Saugatuck has a delightful downtown, dotted with colorful boutiques and interesting art galleries. Stroll through the eclectic stores and stop to enjoy tasty treats.

Parents will love Uncommon Coffee Roasters, where you can order a frothy cappuccino, then swing around the corner to the Teeny Tiny Toy Store. Just be warned, you should probably set a budget with the kids first, because, although the shop is small, it’s bursting with every toy you can imagine.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:23 AM

T R AV E L Saugatuck Drug Store and Soda Fountain is another place you should hit. Hop on a stool and enjoy a handcreamed phosphate.

This retro drug store is a blast from the past, turning out sodas and malts for more than 100 years. Kids will enjoy shopping for souvenirs; silly T-shirts, toys and colorful kites are just a Village Puppeteers few of the fun options.

Without a doubt, Saugatuck Dune Rides are my all-time favorite activity in the area.

Jump aboard a dune buggy for a giggle-inducing, heart-pounding adventure for the whole family. It’s like a roller coaster ride in the sand dunes, full of quick jokes, fast turns and scenic outlooks. Call ahead to reserve tickets, because summer days sell out quick.

For lunch, you will love Lucy’s Little Kitchen. It’s a cute outdoor café that serves locally farmed foods and fresh seafood. Our kids couldn’t get enough of the sugarcane juice bar.

And make sure to catch the internationally acclaimed Village Puppeteers, who stage free public performances, for a comic romp sure to please your whole crew.

Douglas does a family good Douglas, sister city to Saugatuck, has several family-friendly options. While Saugatuck can be a bed-and-breakfast town, my flock opted to stay at AmericInn Lodge & Suites due to its indoor swimming pool. That way, our early risers could get a dip in the pool and enjoy a free, hot breakfast before most people even got going for the day.

It’s not school, it’s Quest!

An independent school for gifted children from Preschool through Eighth Grade.

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

Schedule a visit today.

CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 6 8

Contact Director of Admission, Kitsana Salyphone at kitsana.salyphone@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438

Alley’s

Photo by Cortney Fries

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_067.indd 1

500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067 questacademy.org Summer 2016 • goingplaces 67

5/5/16 11:23 AM

T R AV E L MEMORIES IN MICHIGAN CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 6 7

WayPoint Restaurant is where the locals go for hash brown omelets and super-friendly service. Cabbages & Kings is a delightful bookstore lined with precious children’s gifts.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner at a bowling alley? You just might be tempted to eat every meal at Alley’s Classic American Diner and Bowl. This cute, kitschy diner and bowling alley scored some of our best memories on our last visit.

Fennville is for farm-to-table and fun Celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fabulous meal? Fennville, a small farm town a few miles from Saugatuck, is the place to go. Salt of the Earth, a modern farm-to-table

Express Yourself Art Barn Photo by Felicia Fairchild

restaurant, right next to the Forever Curious Children’s Museum, is a delicious way to reward yourself for a day of supervising play. The rustic, seasonal menu showcases ingredients from within a 50mile radius of the restaurant. I dove into my pan-seared sea scallops and had to fight my 4-year-old daughter for the fresh bread. Our son devoured his wood-fired pizza, and we all enjoyed the live music.

Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant & Winery comes highly recommended, and for

good reason. This fifth generation family fruit farm, famous for grandma’s fruit pies, now also serves wine and cider. Pie flights are a great way to try all the tempting flavors. Parents will enjoy sampling the small batch wines and ciders.

Feeling artistic? Stop by the Express Yourself Art Barn, a whimsical art studio for all ages. Soon you’ll be painting, stringing beads, throwing pottery or whatever your heart desires. The art you create will be a lasting treasure from your vacation time together.

June 7 - August 13

ALWAYS LEGENDARY

GIVE YOUR FAMILY SOME LEGENDARY “ABE-SPIRATION” WITH A TRIP TO SPRINGFIELD.

Springfield offers the best of Lincoln, the nostalgia of Route 66 and more. Visit this summer when History Comes Alive! Enjoy live period music and interactions with nineteenth century characters. You might even get to meet Mr. Lincoln himself!

VISITSPRINGFIELDILLINOIS.COM

800-545-7300

Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau

68 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_068.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:23 AM

Special Advertising Section

DISCOVER OAK PARK/RIVER FOREST

Downtown Oak Park signature events: Thursday Night Out / May 19 – August 25 Thursdays 5-9PM Participate in the popular dine-around program and enjoy world music at Thursday Night Out’s outdoor concert series– wine and beer available to purchase. http://www.downtownoakpark.net/ signature-event/ thursday-night/ Art dans la Rue / August 2 12-9PM Embrace European culture at Downtown Oak Park’s French street festival featuring art, food,

PHOTO COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN OAK PARK

wine, music, film, dance and more. http://www.downtownoakpark.net/ signature-event/artdans-la-rue/ River Forest Community Center Full-Day and Half-Day Summer Camps beginning on June 6th. Parent

and Child play groups are forming for the 2016-2017 school. Registration is ongoing for halfday and full-day Preschool, Pre-K, and Before/After School Programs. Fall recreation classes will start back up in September: Visit

website for more info www.rfcc.info Alcuin Montessori School Alcuin Montessori is one of the jewels when it comes to educational opportunities in Oak Park. Take advantage of an enjoyable continued on page 70

Learn from a Legend: Invest In Yourself!

How will YOU challenge yourself this summer?

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park

708-383-3456

www.master-sh-yu.com Follow Us! Martial Arts Excellence in our community since 1994

ChicagoParent.com

OPRF_GPsum2016.indd 69

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 69

5/5/16 3:08 PM

DISCOVER OAK PARK/RIVER FOREST

Special Advertising Section

continued from page 69 summer program that provides the rewards of a Montessori approach with a big helping of summer fun. (708) 366-1882 or visit www.alcuin.org.

Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts World-Class Martial Arts Instruction for Families, Kids, Teen and Adults since 1994.

Summer Programs include our 12-week program of unlimited classes, NinjaCamp for Kids 5-12, featuring the culture, conditioning, and culture of martial arts practice; World Haidong Kumdo (Swords) Training every Saturday. We put the Art back into Martial Art: you and your children deserve this opportunity to discover how capable you are! www.Master-SH-Yu.com (708) 383-3456 Intercultural Montessori Intercultural Montessori offers Summer Language& Culture Camp Summer programs in Chinese Mandarin/English or Spanish/ English for ages 3 to 6. Students learn a foreign language while experiencing fun summer activities! Contact (708) 848-6626, www.interculturalmontessori.org, summer@ interculturalmontessori.org to learn more.

River Forest Community Center Early Childhood Learning Center ! Half-Day & Full-Day: Preschool & Pre-K ! Before and After School Care ! Summer Camps ! Parent and Tot Programs ! Full-Day Infant— Preschool Programs at our OPRF HS location

“I am a Citizen of the World.”

Dual-Language Montessori Education for ages 3 to 12

8020 Madison Street River Forest, IL 60305 (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info Bring in this ad to receive $10.00 off your initial registration fee! Summer gp15 70 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

OPRF_GPsum2016.indd 70

Your choice of programs: Chinese Mandarin/English Spanish/English Japanese/English

Two Locations: Historic Oak Park (708) 8498-6626 Chicago’s West Loop (312) 265-1514

ROLLING ADMISSIONS - SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY! www.interculturalmontessori.org

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 3:08 PM

Robin J. Carlson/ Chicago Botanic Garden

S TA G E

SONGS

T

large scale percussion instruments large-scale instruments. (Better there than your house, right?) The KidsLawn here are few better ways to enjoy also features stories, videos and the renowned summer than an outdoor concert instrument petting zoo.

This year’s Kids’ Concert Series includes Tom where the kids can dance like no Chapin & Friends, Laurie Berkner, The Joyous String Quartet and Opera for the Young’s preone’s watching. Here are some sentation of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. of our favorite outdoor concert

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER

series for children that are also music to parents’ ears—and wallets.

Ravinia Kids’ Concerts 200 Ravinia Park Drive, Highland Park Check website for dates, times and ticket costs ravinia.org/Page/KidConcerts Ravinia is the crown jewel of the outdoor summer concert scene, and taking your kids is fun and doesn’t have to break the bank. Lawn tickets for kids’ concerts are $5; all attendees need a ticket, regardless of age.

Interactive exhibits on the North Lawn include ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_071.indd 1

Children’s Concert Series at Cantigny 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton Noon, select Sundays, June 12-Aug. 21 (check website for dates) Free with $10 parking cantigny.org/calendar/ music-theater Concertgoers are advised to bring lawn chairs and/or blankets to these fun events, but chances are your kids won’t do a ton of sitting when they can move to the music of ScribbleMonster, CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 7 2

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 71

5/5/16 11:22 AM

S TA G E SONGS OF SUMMER CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 7 1

Jeanie B! and Wendy & DB. If you feel like dancing in the rain, you may just get your chance—children’s concerts are held rain or shine with the exception of extreme weather.

Dancin Sprouts at Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, June 8-Aug. 31 Free with parking fee ($25 weekdays) chicagobotanic.org/taxonomy/ term/10/0 Get your groove on in the garden! Be sure to check out concerts by The Exceptionals, a group of teachers from the Old Town School of Folk Music, who present a concert to accommodate children with sensory differences by creating a space that welcomes

Courtesy Ravinia Festival

all kids. Little Miss Ann Band, Duke Otherwise and Miss Jamie and the Farmhands are also in the lineup.

For parents in need of sustenance, food and beverages, including wine and beer (!!!),

are available for purchase onsite through the Garden View Café. Picnicking is permitted.

If the weather takes a turn for the worse, the show will go on inside the McGinley Pavilion or the Regenstein Center.

Affordable Summer Arts Camps One, Three, and Six week sessions available!

Camps and workshops beginning all summer long!

Acting, Singing, Dancing, Crafts, and Outdoor Activities!

Early Registration Discounts!

Camps & Workshops taught in the Palatine/Schaumburg, Rolling Meadows area For more info - visit our website at www.artreachspotlite.com or call our offices at (847) 372-7798 or (773) 604-1892.

72 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_072.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:22 AM

S TA G E

Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce Concert Series

A mime play for toddlers!

4731 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago 6:30-9 p.m. Thursdays, June 9-Sept. 1 Free lincolnsquare.org/summer-concert-series Families flock to the heart of Lincoln Square for these fun concerts in Giddings Plaza. The music is appropriate for all ages, but not necessarily aimed just at kids, so it’s a great way to introduce little ones to new genres and performers. There are lots of places to grab a sweet treat nearby, including Café Selmarie and Paciugo Gelato & Caffe’.

May 28-29 Northwestern University TICKETS: 847-491-7282 WIRTZ.NORTHWESTERN.EDU

Part-D Play B ay, as Presc ed hool!

Courtesy Naperville Park District

Children’s Lunch Hour Entertainment by Naperville Park District 11:30 a.m. select Tuesdays, June 14-July 26 Free Check website for specific dates and locations (either Frontier Park or the Riverwalk Grand Pavilion at Centennial Park) napervilleparks.org/childrenslunchhour entertainment One of the many awesome parts of being a kid is that in the summer you can bust a move before noon on a random Tuesday. Pack a picnic and dancing shoes for these fun lunchtime concerts in Naperville. Performances by favorites like Super Stoli, Scott Piner, and Istvan & His Imaginary Band last about 50 minutes and will get your kids twisting, turning and twirling. Pack a lunch, so you can nosh while you mosh (pit).

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_073.indd 1

2016-2017 Spaces Available • Extended day lunch and after school care available • Welcoming children of all abilities and backgrounds

New Dual Language SpanishEnglish Class for 3 year olds!

Warren W. Cherry Preschool 1418 Lake Street, Evanston 847.492.1213 www.cherrypreschool.org office@cherrypreschool.org Summer 2016 • goingplaces 73

5/5/16 11:21 AM

S TA G E

7

BRAIN DRAIN

BUSTERS

S

BY KEELY FLYNN

ummer brain drain: the struggle is real. Thankfully, the arts are here to save the day—yet again. Here are our picks for seven productions that’ll help your kid go right to the head of the class once school is back in session.

74 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_074.indd 1

SOCIAL STUDIES: Seed Folks Chicago Children’s Theatre Through May 22 at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago chicagochildrenstheatre.org One woman, 14 characters and the trying first year of a community garden; Seed Folks’ hard-working actress gives every persona (each from a different ethnic background) their own voice in this tale of how slowly and surely, a gritty neighborhood in Cleveland, Ohio, built more than just a row of vegetables.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:21 AM

S TA G E

CHICAGO HISTORY: Pushcart Tony June 10-12 at the Vittum Theater 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago vittumtheater.org How much do you really know about past Chicago mayors? Your tiny historians might just be surprised by the musical tale of Tony Cermak, from his days as a young laborer to his reign as the “Immigrant Mayor,” all while watching Chicago sprout up around him in fascinating moments from our city’s past (like during that little old event called the 1893 Columbian Exposition).

Schoolhouse Rock Live!

Theatre Hikes

ABCs/123s: Schoolhouse Rock Live!

Emerald City Theatre Through June 5 at the Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago July 8-Aug. 28 at the Broadway Playhouse 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago emeraldcitytheatre.com Say it with us: “Verbs! They’re what’s happenin’!”

Whether they’re counting along by 3s with the pitch-perfect (and unbelievably energetic) performers, or learning how a bill gets to Capitol Hill, your kids will be rocking out to a show that’s every bit as relevant (and awesome) as it was back on the Saturday mornings of our youth.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_075.indd 1

ENGLISH LIT: Twelfth Night July 17-Aug. 16 at multiple Chicago Park District parks chicagoshakes.com Disguises, unrequited love (triangles!), and more physical humor than a circus—no, we’re not describing a typical high school lunch room. Shakespeare’s most famous comedy gets the Shakespeare in the Parks treatment with this abridged, 75-minute production of one of the most beloved plays of all time. Head to your favorite park, watch a one-ofa-kind theater truck roll up (and roll it out), and pat yourself on the back for being a savvy enough multi-tasker to expose your kids to the classics while picnicking.

CHEMISTRY: Science Night June 15 at the 1700 Theatre 1700 N. Halsted St., Chicago steppenwolf.org/lookout As part of Steppenwolf’s LookOut summer series, The Dilettantes bring their experimental, immersive brand of shows to the 1700 Theatre.

Science Night is a live game show—with full audience participation—where contestants race to complete middle school science experiments before their opponents. You think they give out the title of Pre-Eminent Tandem Scientist to just anyone? Dust off your beakers and bring your baking soda-happy older inventors to witness—and maybe even perform—scientific greatness under pressure.

CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 7 6

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 75

5/5/16 11:20 AM

S TA G E BRAIN DRAIN CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 7 5

CLASSICAL STUDIES: The Iliad, The Odyssey and all of Greek Mythology in 99 mins or Less July 17 at Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave., Chicago July 23 at Horner Park, 2741 N. Montrose Ave., Chicago July 30-31 at North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski, Chicago Weekends, Aug. 6-28 at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Ill. Rte. 53, Lisle theatre-hikes.org Greek Mythology is rarely as hilarious—or quick—as when a talented cast of five races through pretty much every major Greek player at lightningspeed. Besides, Ancient Greece is always enjoyed best at a pristine park. (Take note, every teacher we’ve ever had.)

Barrel of Monkeys

Photo by Beth Bullock

CREATIVE WRITING: That’s Weird, Grandma: The Summer Strikes Back June 13-Aug. 22 at The Neo-Futurist Theater 5153 N. Ashland, Chicago barrelofmonkeys.org Kid-written (by Chicago Public

School students in underserved communities), grownup performed (by Barrel of Monkeys company members), and city-wide enjoyed (by audiences in elementary schools as well as the general adoring public). Sketch comedy at its finest, and who knows? Maybe your budding scribe will be inspired enough to hit the pencil and paper on the way home! (One can dream.)

TRAIN RIDES!

Have a

MINI GOLF PARTY! CE GO

Blac

kl

i

gh

Ga

mes

TM

LF

SPA

PLAN YOUR VISIT

&

tM f • Private Party Rooms ini G o l • Blacklight “Glow” Golf • Arcade Games & prizes • Build-You-Own Ice Cream Sundae

SPACE GOLF

Open Daily ..............June 6 - Sept. 2 Open Weekends ......May 7 - June 5 and Sept. 3 - Oct. 16 Train Rides ..............11 am, 1 pm & 3 pm Museum Hours .......9:30 am - 5:00 pm See restored railway equipment and take a 55-minute round-trip ride on historic rail cars.

Museum admission is FREE. See website for train ride prices and special event schedule.

Located in North Freedom, WI

Only 20 miles from Wisconsin Dells!

15611 S. 94th Ave. • Orland Park

(708) 460-3887 www.space-golf.com 76 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_076.indd 1

®

Mid-Continent Railway MuseuM

608-522-4261 -or- 800-930-1385 MidContinent.org

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:20 AM

Todd Rosenberg

S TA G E

Once Upon a Symphony-Goldilocks and the Three Bears, see page 78.

MAY A Circus Space Odyssey: CircEsteem’s Spring Circus Alternatives Inc. 4730 N. Sheridan Road Chicago (773) 732-4564 circesteem.org Through May 22

Jump into spring with a circus featuring trapeze, gym wheel, acrobatics, juggling, clowning, stilt walking and trampoline performances by CircEsteem youth. May 14-15 and 21-22. Check website for schedule. $8-$18; $35 VIP. Spring Youth Circus The Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St. Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.org Through May 22

This intensive experience pairs professional artists and youth performers to collaboratively create an original new show and includes high-quality training in drama, dance, aerial and circus arts. Recommended for families

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_077.indd 1

with kids 5 and up. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. May 14 and 21; 3 p.m. May 15 and 22. $12.50-$15.

Game, Set, Match!

Under The Gun Theater 956 W. Newport Ave. Chicago (773) 270-2440 undertheguntheater.com Through May 26

A new competitive improvisational comedy show that pits two teams of improvisers against each other in a fast-paced game-based format that puts the audience in the judge’s seat. Each scene is inspired by an audience suggestion and audience members score each scene. 7:30 p.m. Thursdays. $12.

The Jungle Book AlphaBet Soup Productions P.O. Box 85 Lombard (630) 932-1555 absproductions.com Through May 27

The Rudyard Kipling classic tells the story of young Mowgli as he learns the importance of friendship and survival with the help

of his new friends Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther. Performances at Museum of Science & Industry, Tivoli Theatre, Moraine Valley Community College and more.

10:30 a.m. Check website for schedule. $8-$9.

Peter Pan and Wendy Chicago Playworks at DePaul University Merle Reskin Theatre 60 E. Balbo Drive Chicago (312) 922-1999 theatreschool.depaul.edu Through May 28

Wendy dreams of freedom and adventure outside of the nursery walls. When Peter Pan flies into her life, she and her brothers jump at the chance to visit Neverland. Faced with boisterous Lost Boys and battles with Captain Hook, Wendy must ultimately decide whether or not to embrace the most exciting adventure yet: growing up. 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays. Check website for special performances. $8.

Charlotte’s Web Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace 100 Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace (630) 530-0111 drurylaneoakbrook.com Through May 28

The story of a Fern, a little girl who loves a sweet pig named Wilbur, and their friendship with a spider named Charlotte. Based on the novel by E.B. White.

10 a.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Saturdays. Check website for cost.

Seedfolks Chicago Children’s Theatre The Ruth Page Center for Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St. Chicago (872) 222-9555 chicagochildrenstheatre.org May 5-22

One woman plays 14 characters to tell the story of the founding and first year of a community garden in a gritty, immigrant neighborhood in Cleveland.

Each character is from a different ethnic group, and describes the transformation of the empty lot into a vibrant garden. Recommended for families

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 77

5/5/16 11:19 AM

S TA G E formed to his former self.

Check website for schedule. $45 and up.

Skippyjon Jones in the Cirque de Ole Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Through May 26

That’s Weird, Grandma: The Summer Strikes Back, see page 80. with kids 7 and up. Call or check website for schedule. $10-$39.

The Joffrey Ballet Presents Cinderella Joffrey Ballet of Chicago Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University 50 E. Congress Parkway Chicago (312) 902-1500 joffrey.com May 11-22

The classic fairy tale comes to life in this dazzling ballet. Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother and the Fairies of the Four Seasons help her overcome her mean-spirited stepsisters and find her prince. Check website for schedule and cost.

The Tortoise and the Hare Chicago Kids Company 4104 N. Nashville Ave. Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com May 11-July 6

This show features a cast of silly animals—and travels quickly through the County Fair Race. Recom-

mended for families with kids 2-8. 10:30 a.m. weekdays; 1 p.m. May 21. Check website for schedule. $12.

Bri-Ko Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 327-5252 stage773.com May 21

McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage 425 Fawell Blvd.

Glen Ellyn (630) 942-4000 atthemac.org May 22

Filled with audience participation, incredible costumes and mind-blowing props and visuals, Bri-Ko is fun for the whole family.

2-3 p.m. $12, $6 kids 12 and under.

Once Upon a Symphony is designed to introduce children ages 3-5 to the world of classical music and the musicians of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Preconcert activities begin 45 minutes before each concert. 1:30 and 3:15 p.m. $16, $14 kids.

Ben Tatar and the Tatar Tots

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Beat Kitchen 2100 W. Belmont Chicago (773) 281-4444 beatkitchen.com May 22

Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com May 24-29

Ben’s multi-instrumental talents, engaging stage presence and knack for tickling your funnybone make for an interactive, educational and all-around awesome performance.

Noon. $6.

The classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is a prince trapped in a spell. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be trans-

78 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_078.indd 1

Once Upon a Symphony-Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Skippyjon Jones cannonblasts into his imagination and discovers an extraordinary circus world. Upon reuniting with his Chihuahua chums, the gang takes turns performing circus stunts, with Skippyjon to perform the daring final act. Recommended for families with kids 3-8.

Check website for schedule and cost.

A.B.L.E. Twelfth Night Chicago Shakespeare Theater 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier Chicago (312) 595-5600 chicagoshakes.com May 28

Speaking in Shakespeare’s original verse, 20 teenage actors with Down syndrome share roles in scenes, monologues and songs to tell this tale about identity and love—and how things can be different from what they seem.

11 a.m. $15 and up.

Kids Fare: Phabulous Philharmonia Pick-Staiger Concert Hall Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music 50 Arts Circle Drive Evanston (847) 467-4000 pickstaiger.org May 28

Marvel at the magic of combined strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion as the Northwestern University Philharmonic presents a colorful program of orchestral music including Benjamin Britten’s The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 4:49 PM

S TA G E JUNE

Recommended for families with kids 3-8. 10:30 a.m. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids and students.

Chicago Rhythm Fest Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University 50 E. Congress Parkway Chicago (312) 922-2110 auditoriumtheatre.org/wb June 4

Balloonacy Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center 1949 Campus Drive Evanston (847) 491-7282 tic.northwestern.edu May 28-29

The tale of a lonely old man who discovers an unlikely friendship with a bright red balloon. Packed with physical comedy, this award-winning play shows how with a little imagination and acceptance, companionship can come from the most unlikely places.

11 a.m. and 2 p.m. May 28; 2 and 5 p.m. May 29. $10.

Miss Jamie from the Farm Beat Kitchen 2100 W. Belmont Chicago (773) 281-4444 beatkitchen.com May 29

Miss Jamie and her puppet friends from the farm take the kids on a magical barnyard adventure that teaches healthy eating and happy farming in a sing-along, dance-along show that leaves children and parents alike stomping their boots and hollering for more. Noon. $6.

Schoolhouse Rock Live!

Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Through June 5

Through songs such as “Just a Bill” and “Conjunction Junction,” a nervous schoolteacher must discover how to charm his students through imagination and music on the first day of class. Based on the animated series. Check website for schedule and cost.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_079.indd 1

Seedfolks, see page 77.

Mass St. Kids

Three Little Kittens

Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 327-5252 stage773.com Through June 12

Emerald City’s Little Theatre 2933 N. Southport Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Through Aug. 21

Mass Street is a fun place full of characters: a forgetful Queen, a stubborn King, and a silly man with a big beard and a guitar.

When disaster strikes, the people of Mass Street must work together to save the town—and probably learn a lesson. 2 p.m.

May 22, June 12. $12, $6 kids.

The Three Little Pigs Chicago Kids Company 4104 N. Nashville Ave. Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Through Aug. 12

Meet three sisters setting out on an adventure to build their own houses.

Roxanne builds hers out of sticks, Petunia builds hers out of straw, and Babe builds hers out of bricks.

Which will still be standing after the Big Bad Wolf tries blow them all down?

Recommended for families with kids 2-8. 10:30 a.m. weekdays. Check website for schedule. $12.

Three little kittens are on the hunt for their missing mittens, and they need help finding them. Gather the clues and make new discoveries before Mother Cat comes home. This interactive story is the perfect way to introduce little ones to the mystery and excitement of live theater.

Recommended for families with kids 0-5. Call or check website for schedule and cost.

The Adventures of Tapman Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 327-5252 stage773.com Through Sept. 25

The finale performance of the citywide celebration, Stomping Grounds. CHRP’s resident ensemble BAM!, alongside the Trinity Irish Dance Company, Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago, Mexican Folkloric Dance Company of Chicago, and Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater perform original choreography that showcases each company’s unique cultural traditions. 7:30 p.m. $28-$68.

The Laser Comedy Show Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 327-5252 stage773.com June 5

Chris Fair uses Laser Reactive Technology to draw characters and scenery on a glow-in-the-dark screen where the lines fade like a high-tech EtchA-Sketch. Chris brings the characters to life by voicing them, creating sound effects, music and drawing action to open up a 2-D screen into a 3-D world. 2 p.m. $12, $6 kids.

You Better Werk!

Follow Tapman, Chicago’s premiere tap dancing superhero, through various episodes as he battles his arch nemesis, The MADD Tapper. Along the way, Tapman joins forces with The Modern Marvel, a crime-fighting modern dancer, in his quest to defeat the MADD Tapper.

2 p.m. May 28, July 23, Aug. 6, Sept. 25. $12, $6 kids.

Harris Theater for Music and Dance Harris Theatre Box Office 205 E. Randolph Drive in Millennium Park Chicago (312) 334-7777 harristheaterchicago.org June 5

The 2 p.m. show features Mayfair Academy’s younger students (ages 3-7) and the 6 p.m. show features older students

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 79

5/5/16 4:50 PM

S TA G E (8-teen). This year’s show showcases the workplace through dance and music with performances in ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop. $27.50-$47.50.

Wish upon a Star” and “I’ve Got No Strings,” alongside a host of new ones. Join the Blue Fairy, Stromboli and a lively cast of characters as Geppetto journeys beyond the toyshop to discover the meaning of family. 7:30 p.m. June 17; 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. June 18. $9.

The Lion’s Whiskers Ravinia Festival 418 Sheridan Road Highland Park (847) 266-5100 ravinia.org June 5

A delightful musical adaptation of a traditional Ethiopian folktale, this show features a cast of human characters as well as a multitude of masks and puppets and is highlighted with shadow puppetry and original songs. 1 and 4 p.m. $10.

The Sound of Music Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com June 7-19

The spirited, romantic and beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family thrills audiences with its award-winning score. Check website for schedule. $35 and up.

The SpongeBob Musical Oriental Theatre 24 W. Randolph St. Chicago (800) 775-2000 broadwayinchicago.com June 7-July 3

Bikini Bottom is reimagined for the Broadway stage, bringing the spirit of SpongeBob to life with humanity, heart and theatricality. Includes an original score from some of the biggest names in pop and rock. Check website for schedule. $35 and up.

Playdate at Old Town School: Old-Time Family Music with Dona Benkert & Rick Veras Old Town School of Folk Music 4545 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago

Ensemble Español— Flamenco Passion Performances The Tortoise and the Hare, see page 81.

(773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org June 11

Fiddle, mountain dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, autoharp, limberjack, footstomping melodies, lively dances, old-time fiddle tunes, sing-along games, and an Old Time Jam for all. Bring your instrument or borrow one. 10 a.m. $7.

Bound for Broadway MCL Chicago 3110 N. Sheffield Ave. Chicago (773) 610-5930 mclchicago.com June 11-July 2

In this new original musical, join the fictional Craftworks Theater ensemble as they scramble to replace their leading man before sabotage and big corporate money swoop in to take over the space. Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. 8 p.m. $18, $13 student.

Sleeping Beauty Theatre at the Center The Center for Visual and Performing Arts 1040 Ridge Road Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255 theatreatthecenter.com June 12

This original musical retells the story of the classic fairy tale. Will the princess sleep for 100 years

80 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_080.indd 1

or can a handsome prince save her with a kiss? Recommended for families with kids in preschool and up. 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. $9.50; $7.50 students.

That’s Weird, Grandma: The Summer Strikes Back Barrel of Monkeys The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor) 5153 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago (312) 409-1954 barrelofmonkeys.org June 13-Aug. 22

A variety show of short sketches and songs adapted from stories written by kids in Barrel of Monkeys’ arts education programs. The line-up changes each week by audience vote, so no two shows are ever the same. 8 p.m. Mondays. $12; $6 kids under 12.

Disney’s My Son, Pinocchio Jr. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions 210 S. Walnut St. Itasca (630) 250-7518 overshadowedproductions. com June 17-18

This new musical, which retells the classic story from Geppetto’s perspective, features the classic songs, “When You

North Shore Center for the Performing Arts 9501 Skokie Blvd.

Skokie (847) 673-6300 northshorecenter.org June 17-19

Ensemble Español’s popular “Flamenco Passion” live dance and music performances featuring more than 40 dancers, musicians and guest artists in a fusion of classical, traditional, contemporary and Flamenco styles. Recommended for families with kids 5 and up. 7:30 p.m.

June 17-18; 3 p.m. June 19. $26-$46.

Spring Flight Aerial Dance Chicago 4028 W. Irving Park Road Loft A (2nd floor) Chicago (773) 463-4402 aerialdancechicago.org June 18

People of all ages and levels of experience come together to perform in this inspiring community aerial dance event. 5:30 and 8 p.m. $22.

The Second City’s Really Awesome Improv Show UP Comedy Club 230 W. North Ave. 3rd Floor Chicago (312) 662-4562 upcomedyclub.com June 21-July 28

Join the performers of The Second City as they flex their creative muscles to present 60 minutes of

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 4:50 PM

S TA G E Dan Zanes & Friends

Disney’s Newsies

Ravinia Festival 418 Sheridan Road Highland Park (847) 266-5100 ravinia.org July 16

Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com July 28-Aug. 7

Kids’ concert starts at 11 a.m. Gates open at 10 a.m. $15, $5 lawn.

The captivating story of a band of underdogs who become unlikely heroes when they stand up to the most powerful men in New York. Check website for schedule. $25 and up.

Tom Chapin & Friends Ravinia Festival 418 Sheridan Road Highland Park (847) 266-5100 ravinia.org July 17

Kids Fare: Phabulous Philharmonia, see page 78. interactive family-friendly creative exploration. Recommended for families with kids 5-12. 11 a.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays. $11-$35.

JULY The Velveteen Rabbit Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences 10 Marriott Drive Lincolnshire (847) 634-0200 marriotttheatre.com July 8-Aug. 14

Though the most modest toy in the nursery, the Velveteen Rabbit earns the love of a young boy and learns about the joys and pain of becoming “real.”

Margery Williams’ classic book springs to life in this enchanting musical about love, loss and self-esteem.

10 a.m. select days. $17.23.

Schoolhouse Rock Live!

Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place 175 E. Chestnut St. Chicago (800) 775-2000 broadwayinchicago.com July 8-Aug. 28

Through unforgettable songs such as “Just a Bill” and “Conjunction Junction,” a nervous schoolteacher must discover how to charm his students

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_081.indd 1

through imagination and music on the first day of class. Based on the animated series. Check website for schedule. $16-$24.

Family Summer Jamboree Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts 15 E. 60th St. Chicago (773) 241-6080 muntu.com July 13-20

Fun, interactive and energetic hour-long performances, featuring exciting African dancing and drumming, storytelling and audience interaction.

11 a.m. July 13 and 20. $10, $7 kids.

The Tortoise and the Hare Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 111 W. Campbell St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-2121 metropolisarts.com July 16

Join Tortoise, Hare and all their friends as they share their story of determination in a fun and lively music-filled adventure.

Recommended for families with kids in grades PreK-3. 1 p.m. $14, $12 kids 12 and under.

Elf, Jr!

Kids’ concert starts at noon. Gates open at 11 a.m. $10, $5 lawn.

Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks Chicago Shakespeare Theater 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier Chicago (312) 595-5600 chicagoshakes.com July 17-Aug. 16

Chicago Shakespeare Theater brings Shakespeare to community parks across Chicago. Visitors will enjoy a 75-minute, daylight production of Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.”

Check website for schedule and locations. Free.

Opera for the Young presents Mozart’s Magic Flute Ravinia Festival 418 Sheridan Road Highland Park (847) 266-5100 ravinia.org July 23

Sixteen students perform on stage as fanciful space creatures comprising Sarastro and his “Alien Council of Wisdom.” The Magic Flute’s beautiful melodies and comical characters delight youngsters, while thematic points concerning facing challenges and learning to forgive generate thoughtful discussion. 11 a.m.; 10 a.m. gates open. $10.

Elmhurst Children’s Theatre Sandburg Middle School 345 E. St. Charles Road Elmhurst (630) 808-9794 elmhurstchildrenstheatre.com July 29-30

Based on the hilarious movie, this musical is sure to entertain audiences of all ages. 7 p.m. July 29; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. July 30. $8.

Honk!

The Theatre of Western Springs 4384 Hampton Ave. Western Springs (708) 246-4043 (708) 246-3380 theatrewesternsprings.com July 29-31

A delightful musical retelling of “The Ugly Duckling.” This heartwarming celebration of being different is sure to delight audiences of all ages with its sparkling wit and memorable score. Recommended for families with kids 5 and up. 7:30 p.m.

July 29; 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. July 30; 2:30 p.m. July 31. $15.

AUGUST Joyous String Quartet Ravinia Festival 418 Sheridan Road Highland Park (847) 266-5100 ravinia.org Aug. 6

This four-kid string quartet, with musical aptitude way beyond their years,

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 81

5/5/16 11:18 AM

S TA G E can produce a flawless rendition of the Michael Jackson classic “Smooth Criminal” without breaking a sweat. 11 a.m.; gates open at 10 a.m. $10, $5 lawn.

BIG: The Musical The Wilmette Theatre 1122 Central Ave. Wilmette (847) 251-7424 wilmettetheatre.com Aug. 6-7

A coming-of-age story about what happens when the power of wishful thinking and adulthood collide. Based on the 1988 film with Tom Hanks. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up. 1 p.m. Aug. 6; 1 and 4 p.m. Aug. 7. $15, $12 in advance.

Skippyjon Jones in the Cirque de Ole, see page 78.

Justin Roberts & The Not Ready for Naptime Players Ravinia Festival 418 Sheridan Road Highland Park (847) 266-5100 ravinia.org Aug. 20

Grammy-nominated Justin Roberts has been creating the soundtrack to families’ lives for nearly 20 years, helping them navigate the joys and sorrows of growing up and helping parents remember their own childhoods.

11 a.m.; gates open at 10 a.m. $10, $5 lawn.

Laurie Berkner Ravinia Festival 418 Sheridan Road Highland Park (847) 266-5100 ravinia.org Aug. 27

Best-selling, award-winning children’s musician Laurie Berkner’s music speaks to kids without talking down to them, charming youngsters without boring grownups. Noon; 11 a.m. gates open. $15, $5 lawn.

ONGOING Pigpen Bughouse Theater 1910 W. Irving Park Chicago bughousetheater.com

An interactive, musical story time for kids 6 months to 3 years. Coffee is included for parents. 10 a.m. Thursdays. Free.

Hogwash: An Improvised Tall Tale Bughouse Theater 1910 W. Irving Park Chicago bughousetheater.com

Interactive kids’ show where the kids help guide the story from scene to scene and song to song with talented improvisors.

Kids create the backdrop of the story and pick out the costumes. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. $10 kids, free adults.

Storytown Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago

82 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_082.indd 1

(773) 327-5252 stage773.com

Every show begins with the audience choosing a location for the story to take place. Children are invited onstage to decorate the backdrop and start to bring the story to life. As the tale unfolds, graphic artists construct props, paint backdrops, modify costumes, and create an environment as unique as the story. A pianist supplies live music and creates inventive songs in tandem with original lyrics. Recommended for families with kids 3-10. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. $10.

Blue Man Group Briar Street Theatre 3133 N. Halsted St. Chicago (773) 348-4000 blueman.com

A multi-sensory experience that fuses innovative theatrical spectacle and powerful original music with hilarious comedy to create a performance

experience unlike any other. Today’s Blue Man Group is a blend of signature material and newer passages that examine the influence of technology on today’s world with a funny and perceptive look at contemporary communication vehicles.

Recommended for families with kids 3 and up.

Check website for schedule. $49-$99.

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament 2001 N. Roselle Road Schaumburg (888) WE-JOUST medievaltimes.com/chicago. aspx

The live show features two- and four-legged performers with a true medieval utensil-free meal, all in castle-inspired arena.

Guests become part of the action, filling arena seats and cheering for one of six “Knights of the Realm,” named after historic regions of medieval Spain. Reservations are required. $59.95, $35.95 kids 12 and under.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:17 AM

PLAY

P L AY

LIKE A GIRL

C

BY LINDA MARSICANO

Chicago Bandits

hicago summers are synonymous with sports—who doesn’t dream of catching a Cubs or Sox game on a sunny afternoon while noshing on hotdogs and pretzels? But it’s not just about the guys here in Chicago. Summer is the perfect time to introduce your kids to the world of female sports, where the games are just as fun and the athletes are just as competitive. And bonus: You just might spy some of these world-class athletes representing the USA in August at the Olympic games!

Chicago Bandits (softball): Playing at the Ballpark at Rosemont, which has a cozy capacity of 2,000 (Wrigley Field holds more than 40,000!), the Chicago Bandits’ season runs May 29-Aug. 14. With last year’s record of 31-17, they are poised to be a winning team again this year. The Bandits, which have been part of the National Pro Fastpitch League since 2005, hosts special promotional nights throughout the season ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_083.indd 1

such as Special Olympics Night (June 4), Cancer Awareness Night (Aug. 3) and Fan Appreciation Night (Aug. 5). The best part? The price.

Single game tickets start at $7.25 for outfield seats, with an extra $3 discount per ticket for community nights. Even the best seats in the house ouse are only $16.25!

If you’ve got an n aspiring g athlete hlete att home, me,

you might want to consider the Bandits’ “Game Day Experiences,” such as a pregame catch on the field, on-field batting practice, or the chance to be a “Bandit for a Day.” chicagobandits.com.

Chicago Sky (basketball): Th The Chicago Sky is a profession sional basketball team playing in th the Eastern Conference i th in the Women’s National B Ba Basketball Association.

CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 8 4

Summer Summ mer 2016 me 2 • goingplaces 83

5/5/16 4:51 PM

P L AY LIKE A GIRL CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 8 3

Chicago Sky

These extraordinary dunkers, who call the Allstate Arena in Rosemont home, play May 14-Sept. 18. The Sky clinched their first playoff in team history in 2013 and their first WNBA Finals appearance in 2014. Kids love the Sky Guy mascot, and kids 12 and under can join the Sky Guy Kid’s Club for free, which comes with a complimentary ticket to the Sky Guy’s Kid Club Night, a membership card, an e-newsletter and a e-birthday card. Single game tickets start at $16 with specials like the “Me & My Kid” package, which has two tickets and two post-game autographs.

Tuesdays are a bargain at the concession stand, where a small popcorn, pretzel, soda and sugar cookie are each $2.

Unique on-court experiences include taking part in a highfive tunnel, lining up with

The Avery Coonley School

Safari Land

summer program An exciting and educational summer program for children ages 4–14.

Three sessions available: June 20–July1, July5–July 15, July 18–July 29 View the 2016 Summer Program Guide online at www.averycoonley.org/summerprogram

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 Birthday Parties & Group Packages

701 W. North Ave., Villa Park 630•530•4649 www.safarilandfun.com 84 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_084.indd 1

1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois 630-969-0800

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:16 AM

P L AY players during the National Anthem and delivering the game ball to the referee. chicagosky.net.

Chicago Red Stars (soccer): As one of nine teams competing in the National Women’s Soccer League, the Chicago Red Stars kick it at their new field, Toyota Park in Bridgeview, April 16-Sept. 24.

Check out the baller moves of the Red Stars’ superstars, including members of the World Cup-winning U.S. Women’s National Team, Julie Johnston, Alyssa Naeher and Christen Press.

The stadium has a myriad of seating options, including front row seating, a VIP table and fieldside seats, suites, as well as multiple additional levels of grandstand and club seating. Single game tickets start at $20. Look online for special occasions like fan appreciation night with tons of fun and giveaways like

Chicago Red Stars

autographed soccer balls.

Young soccer stars can get in on the action with pregame clinics, and then stick around to see how the pros do it. If last season, where the team

placed second in the league, are any indication, the Red Stars are geared up for a spectacular 2016 season, one that shouldn’t be missed. chicagoredstars.com.

REEDSCANOETRIPS.COM

Offering exciting and memorable trips

Find us on Facebook

is part of your favorite social networks

Join the Twitter party!

Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_085.indd 1

from a few hours to an entire day in length, on the clean and beautiful Kankakee River- some of the best fishing and canoeing waters in Illinois!

Trips available seven days a week.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 85

5/5/16 11:16 AM

P L AY

MORE THAN S

BY MARIBETH PJOSEKDURKIN

W

hat’s summer without an outing (or two, or three...) at the park?

But if your kids want more than swings and slides, then these cool and unusual park district spaces are a must-see.

Chicago Park District’s 606 Trail

Naperville Park District’s Centennial Beach

2.7 miles through Wicker Park, Bucktown, Humboldt Park and Logan Square the606.org This railway-turned-sprawling urban trail gives new meaning to all access. It has more than 15 access points along the trail and fewer usage restrictions.

What’s cool? Four of the entry points are parks, including the green fields of Walsh Park and the spider web playscapes of Julia de Burgos Park. Equally cool? Walkers, bikers, runners, strollers and even skateboarders are welcome. And it’s Fido-friendly too! The 606 is open daily from 6 a.m.-11 p.m.

Plan a visit The 606 is turning 1, and you’re invited! Join in the celebration on June 4, all along the trail. The day-long party includes a street festival on Humboldt Boulevard.

500 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville (630) 848-5092; centennialbeach.org Wouldn’t it be cool to have a beach in your own backyard?

Well, Naperville does! Take an old stone quarry, fill with water and voila—instant beach!

What’s cool? This neighborhood watering hole has tons of amenities, including water play features, diving boards and a slide. You don’t find those at ordinary beaches!

There are different swim zones, too: zero depth, lap lanes and deep water. Kids need to pass a deep water test to swim in the deep water. Opens May 28.

Plan a visit If you’re in need of parental alone time, adult floats take place on Saturday mornings from 9-10:55 a.m. Or if you have family members with special needs, Special Needs Nights are on Sundays in June and July.

86 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_086.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:15 AM

Blackberry Farm

P L AY

SWINGS St. Charles Park District’s Primrose Farm 5N726 Crane Road, St. Charles (630) 513-4370; primrosefarmpark.com Go ahead, get a little bit country. Mosey on over to this working farm for some farmtastic fun. There are cows, corn and chickens aplenty.

What’s cool? Drop-in programs, and lots of ‘em. Roll up your sleeves and become a farm helper.

Kids can milk a cow the oldfashioned way, gather (and take home) freshly laid eggs in the chicken coop or tend to horses.

Check the website for the dropin schedule. Don’t want to get your hands dirty? You can wander the grounds, check out the Summer Kitchen or explore the discovery trail. Open daily, dawn to dusk.

Plan a visit Catch The Wizard of Oz in the company of some cows at Night at the Mooovies (June 25).

Enjoy Oz-themed games, treats fit for the Emerald City and interactive props during the movie. Plus, characters will be on hand for photo ops!

Elk Grove Village Park District’s Pirates’ Cove 901 Leicester Road, Elk Grove (847) 439-COVE; elkgroveparks.org/ Pirates_Cove Ahoy Mateys! Set sail for a fantastically fun afternoon of pirates, pirates and more pirates.

What’s cool? Have we mentioned the pirates? This mini-amusement park is a treasure trove of theme rides and activities, perfect for swashbucklers 9 and under. Kids can captain a pedal boat in Barnacle Bay or take a ship for a spin—literally—on Soarin’ Schooners, the park’s newest ride. Pack a picnic, or pamper your crew with treats at the concession stand. Your little pirates may even dig up some booty at the gift shop! Open Memorial Day through late August.

Plan a visit Got a kid who’s more into Belle or Batman than Blackbeard?

Pirates’ Cove’s theme days take place on Fridays and include Happily Ever After Day (June 24) and Superhero Day (July 29). Kids are welcome to dress up and join the costumed staff in a parade and dance party at the end of the day.

Fox Valley Park District’s Blackberry Farm 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora (630) 892-1550; foxvalleyparkdistrict.org/facilities/ blackberry-farm Load up yer wagon and skedaddle for a peek into pioneer life at this educational—but entertaining—old-timey town.

What’s cool? There’s heaps of fun hidden among the history. Paddle boats, train and a carousel, just to name a few. Hold your horses: The Adventure Playground’s climbing decks, catwalk bridges and ziplines shouldn’t be missed! Reckon you may even meet Olivia the potbelly pig and Tom the turkey who roam the grounds. Open daily May 1-Aug. 28 and weekends in September-October.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_087.indd 1

Plan a visit Step into the past at Civil War Days (Aug. 13-14), where you can see a battle between Union and Confederate troops, try some historical crafts, and maybe even meet Honest Abe himself.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 87

5/5/16 11:14 AM

N AT U R E

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

Rollin’ on the

I

...and lake and reservoir

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER

f you’re an Illinois native, chances are you’ve hit the beaches of Lake Michigan a time or two. This summer, change it up! For a truly fun and memorable aquatic adventure, take your kids for a trip in a canoe, kayak or rowboat on one of the many other waterways in the area. It’s a chance to get a new perspective and connect—with nature and your kids.

Get wet and wild(life) with Chicago River Canoe & Kayak chicagoriverpaddle.com Chicago River Canoe & Kayak is a great choice for wilfdlife fans.

The company welcomes kids 3 and up and offers lots of options, including boat rentals and guided trips. It has a North Side launch on the Chicago River, which can be

Row, row, row your boat in the Western ‘burbs dupageforest.org/Recreation/ Activities_and_Facilities/ Boating.aspx If you’re going to sing the 88 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_088.indd 1

a good place to spot turtles, as well as at Busse Lake in Elk Grove Village, where you may see some egrets, and at the Skokie Lagoons, which has a heron rookery.

“If you’ve never paddled before and you’re bringing young kids, the Lagoons and Busse Lake are a little easier because there is no current, but we get beginners at all three launches and they do well,” advises Ryan Chew, founder of Chicago River Canoe & Kayak. nursery song, you should at least trying rowing your own boat at least once, right? At Silver Lake in Warrenville and Herrick Lake in Wheaton, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County rents rowboats, canoes and kayaks for $10 an hour and $50 per

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

day. If you’d rather not have to rely on your own power (have you been skipping arm day at the gym?), the district also rents rowboats with trolling motors for $15 an hour or $75 per day. Everyone must wear a personal flotation device.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 4:51 PM

Alan Bulava

N AT U R E

Paddle and play at the Monee Reservoir reconnectwithnature.org/ recreation/canoeing-kayaking The most popular site for canoeing and kayaking in the Forest Preserve District of Will County is the Monee Reser-

voir, where canoes, kayaks, pedal boats and row boats are available for rental at a starting cost of $7 an hour, $25 for half-day and $30 per day. On June 28, the district will host the You Too Can Canoe event for ages 7 and up from 6-8:30 p.m. It will include basic canoeing instruction (no canoe experience is nec-

Go west with Fox Riv River Canoe & Kay Kayak ffoxrivercanoe.com Fox River Canoe & KKayak offers three different outings d

farther outside the city.

The 3-mile Batavia trip takes about an hour, and is unsurprisingly the most popular option for young families. It costs $40 per canoe or kayak. If you’re feeling more hardcore, longer trips from St.

essary), an excursion on the water, and making s’mores by the fire. Cost is $12 a person.

Kids 7-17 must be accompanied by a registered adult for the event, and registration is required by June 24. Children are welcome as long as they are with a parent, wearing a life vest and fit the limits of the boat.

Charles and Noth Aurora are available for $60 per canoe or kayak. These trips are more popular with older kids and scout groups. Children of any age and size are welcome with a parent, who must sign a waiver.

Margie Walsh

Enjoy a lovely day on the lake in Libertyville e ge

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_089.indd 1

lcfpd.org/independencegrove-marina/ The Lake County Forest Preserve rents fishing boats, canoes, kayaks and more at the marina at Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville, so families can explore the 115-acre lake.

Kids 11 and under must be accompanied by an adult when on the water, but there are no age restrictions for passengers. Canoe rates start at $10 for the first hour and $5 after that.

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 89

5/5/16 11:14 AM

N AT U R E Yellowstone National Park

AN EPIC

BIRTHDAY

A

PARTY

BY MELISSA SILVERBERG

merica’s national parks are full of adventure, wonder and history. So much history, in fact, that the National Park Service is celebrating a big birthday this year: 100 years of outdoor exploration. 2016 is a year of celebration for the 410 units of the National Park Service, and you’re invited to join in the party at your nearest— or if you’re the road trip type, farthest—National Park, Monument or Historic Site. Visit NPS.gov for more information and special centennial events.

Sleeping Bear Dunes

IN ILLINOIS

Pullman National Monument 11141 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago Chicago is home to only one National Monument, which honors the Pullman Historic Neighborhood originally built to house workers of the Pullman Palace Car Company in the 1870s. President Barack Obama designated the 300-acre neighborhood that remains of the country’s first planned industrial community as a national monument last year. Walk through the historic streets that were home to diverse families trying to survive in a growing Chicago during the Industrial Revolution.

90 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_090.indd 1

Lincoln Home National Historic Site 426 S. Seventh St., Springfield Illinois’ favorite son grew up in Springfield, about 200 miles south of Chicago, and his home has been immortalized as a Lincoln Home historic site where visitors of all ages can learn and explore. See what it was like to live in Central Illinois in the 1800s, with no TV, cellphones or social media!

Tour the home where Abraham Lincoln lived for 17 years and explore the four blocks around his home, which are filled with many other historic homes and exhibits.

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 11:13 AM

THE BIG ONE

Yellowstone National Park Go back to where the Park Service all began with an epic family road trip to America’s first National Park— Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. It may be 1,300 miles from Chicago, but the trip will be well worth it for the whole family. Take in the soaring explosions at Old Faithful, look for bears and bison from the trails, explore the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, enjoy a stagecoach ride through the wilderness that ends with a traditional chuckwagon cookout at the historic Roosevelt Lodge, and much more in this 2 million-acre playground. Along the way, you can stop at Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota, and on the way back, stop for a night to take in the stunning views at Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. It may be a lot of time in the car, but it will be a trip you’ll never forget.

A BIT OF A DRIVE

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

9922 Front St., Empire, Mich.

You’ve seen Lake Michigan from Chicago and from Indiana, but unless you’ve seen it from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in the northeast corner of Michigan, it’s like you’ve never seen it at all. Take in the lake from 400 feet high on a glacial moraine at Pyramid Point or drive through the seven-mile Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive to see the colors change with the seasons surrounding the lake.

Walk through the town of Glen Haven, which has been restored to what it looked like in 1900, including a blacksmith shop and general store.

And of course, you can climb the sand dunes on your own or take a ranger-led hike for more history.

N AT U R E

Mammoth Cave National Park 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, Ky. About 380 miles from Chicago, you’ll feel transported to an entirely different world under the earth at Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest known cave system in the country. With 390 miles of underground caves to explore, the park attracts about 2 million visitors per year. Take a cave tour titled “Frozen Niagara” or “Star Chamber” to learn about the formations growing in every direction in the cave. A special nature walk for kids leaves every weekday at 1 p.m.

Isle Royale National Park 800 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton, Mich.

Who says you can’t take your kids on an island vacation without leaving the Midwest? Drive 465 miles north to the tip of Michigan’s upper peninsula, then leave your car behind. Hop on a boat from one of three departure towns to Isle Royale National Park, an archipelago of a large island and 450 smaller islands so far north you’re nearly in Canada (but you don’t need a passport). Hike through barely touched terrain, kayak, or scuba dive to discover the most intact collection of shipwrecks in the National Park Service.

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 1100 N. Mineral Springs Road, Porter, Ind. Cross off a national park and summer fun all at the same time with a visit to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, which runs along 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan, just an hour from Chicago. There are 15,000 acres filled with 45 miles of hiking trails that will take you through dunes, wetlands, prairies, rivers and forests. Camp under the stars or go for a swim on the far side of the lake for a new perspective.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_091.indd 1

Indiana Dunes

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 91

5/5/16 11:13 AM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Top Schools

Summer Programs and more Alcuin Montessori School Summer camp 2016 324 N. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park (708) 366-1882 alcuin.org

Avery Coonley Summer Program 1400 W. Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org

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

Chicago Grammar School Summer Camp Programs 900 N. Franklin Ste. 104, Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org Celebrating Leonardo’s Notebooks Summer 2016 JK-8th

Intercultural Montessori Language School Spanish, Japanese, or Chinese 301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park 114 S. Racine, Chicago

Queen of Angels School 4520 N. Western, Chicago (773) 769-4211 queenofangelschicago.org

Quest Academy Independent day school, gifted and talented 500 N. Benton, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org

St. Benedict Preparatory School PK-Grade 12 3900 N Leavitt Street, Chicago (773) 463-6797 stbenedict.com Weekly PK and Elementary Tours Call for More Information

Warren W. Cherry Preschool 1418 Lake Street, Evanston

(847) 492-1213 www.cherrypreschool.org A part-day, play-based, preschool welcoming children of all backgrounds and abilities.

(708) 848-6626 interculturalmontessori.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF INTERCULTURAL MONTESSORI SCHOOL

92 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_092.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/6/16 9:35 AM

COUPONS

Open Monday–Sunday10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Offer valid up to 2 free kids with 2 paid adults.

Void with other offers. Valid through 8/30/16.

$1 OFF One (1) child admission

2100 Patriot Boulevard Glenview, IL 60026 (847) 832-6600

NOT VALID VALID WITH WITHANY ANYOTHER OTHEROFFER. OFFER.EXPIRES: EXPIRES:9/14/2015 10/31/2016 NOT OG1

7060

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | (847) 832-6600 | kcmgc.org

3-3-3 Toddler Special: 3 OFF haircuts for children age 3 & under from opening to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays & Wednesdays. $

1-866-KidSnips FREE CHILD’S CLASSIC LAKE TOUR TICKET

with online purchase of adult ticket Coupon code: 2222 • Exp. 10.31.16

Docks at Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue Bridge shorelinesightseeing.com | 312.222.9328

Coupons are also available online at chicagoparent.com/coupons

Adults $36.95 Kids $26.95

*

*

Going Places

(Up to 40% off )

Use Code: CPSUMMER

See Back For Details ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_093.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 93

5/5/16 3:19 PM

COUPONS For museum or lodging information, call 815.963.6769

$1 OFF One (1) child admission

2100 Patriot Boulevard Glenview, IL 60026 (847) 832-6600

NOT VALID VALID WITH WITHANY ANYOTHER OTHEROFFER. OFFER.EXPIRES: EXPIRES:9/14/2015 10/31/2016 NOT OG1

711 N. Main St. Rockford, IL 61103 discoverycentermuseum.org 815.963.6769

2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview | (847) 832-6600 | kcmgc.org

*No coupon needed, just mention the Toddler Special when you check out to get this offer. This offer cannot be combined with other offers.

Offer expires 12/31/2016 For more offers, visit www.kidsnips.com FREE CHILD’S CLASSIC LAKE TOUR TICKET

with online purchase of adult ticket Coupon code: 2222 • Exp. 10.31.16

Expires 8/31/16 CPS16 Docks at Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue Bridge shorelinesightseeing.com | 312.222.9328

• Two-Hour Live Tournament • Four Course feast • Magnificent Pure Spanish Horses • Authentic Sword Fighting & Jousting

1-888-WE-JOUST medievaltimes.com

Coupons are also available online at chicagoparent.com/coupons

Going Places

*Restrictions apply. Offer valid thru 8/31/16.

94 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_094.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

5/6/16 10:42 AM

Our family of family magazines

MAY

138

2016 | FREE

SpecıalParent CHICAGO

reasons to love May

SPRING 2016

Ending the MOMMY WARS

15 spots to play

Take off 10

Ways to spoil mom

SNEAK PEEK Mommy mustread

great escapes

Shhh...

The noise of motherhood

Every month

4/8/16 2:23 PM

The search for answers

…BROUGHT TO YOU BY… ChicagoParent.com

CP_Cover_May_2016.indd 1

FREE | SPRING 2016

AN EMPOWERMENT GUIDE FROM

CLAIM REJECTED? What to do

TEAM MOM:

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

Going Places

WINTER 2016

Spring 2016 • Hey Baby 5

Twice a Year

*Cover HEY BABY 2016.indd 5

3/28/16 3:53 PM

Spring fever

relievers

Families find new paths SP_Cover_Winter2016.indd 5

Twice a Year

2/2/16 1:55 PM

Plot

your Chicago quest

Three Times a Year GP Cover Spring 2016.indd 5

2/29/16 11:39 AM

Online at ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com

GP0516_095.indd 1

Summer 2016 • goingplaces 95

5/6/16 1:26 PM

GOING PLACES

SMOOTH

summer sailing

H

oist the mainsail and scuttle the jib!

No, we haven’t taken up a second career as pirates (and Talk Like a Pirate Day isn’t until September).

But as you can see from the cover, we’re pretty gung-ho about kids and sailing.

It turns out you don’t have to be a blueblood to take advantage of that giant expanse of water we call Lake Michigan. Kids of all ages and backgrounds can learn how to sail, thanks to the flotilla of sailing options across Chicagoland.

The Chicago Yacht Club’s junior sailing program starts at age 5 with the adorablesounding “Dinghy Demons”

96 Summer 2016 • goingplaces

GP0516_096.indd 1

class, an intro to the “sights, sounds and feel of sailing.” As kids age, they learn sailing terms and techniques, safety skills and boat handling.

Older kids (up to age 18) can focus on specific skills, such as racing a 420 or day sailing in a keelboat. Soon enough, they’ll be asking to take a yacht out for a spin, rather than the family car.

Our cover kid, Charlie, got an early start at the Chicago Yacht Club when he was 4.

He says he likes the friends he’s made through sailing, as well as the opportunity to be outside and “learn a lot.”

His dad, Matt, also a sailor, says, “As a parent, I like the independence it fosters in him, as well as that it teaches

him that he has to work to succeed at things.”

Other sailing clubs, such as the Columbia Yacht Club, Chicago Corinthian Yacht Club, The Burnham Park Yacht Club and Sheridan Shore Yacht Club, also offer junior sailing training, as does the Chicago Park District.

So even if your kids don’t know their port from their starboard (and can’t tie their shoes, let alone a boat-worthy knot), your mini-mariners can get a five-star education where they’ll end up a little less Gilligan, a little more Skipper. And maybe they’ll even let you tag along—no tow-rope required.

Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com

5/5/16 12:39 PM

JOANNE NEMEROVSKI JOANNE NEMEROVSKI JOANNE NEMEROVSKI JOANNE JOANNE NEMEROVSKI NEMEROVSKI CONSISTENTLY PRODUCING TOP RESULTS IN CHICAGO’S LUXURY MARKET CONSISTENTLY PRODUCING TOP RESULTS IN CHICAGO’S LUXURY MARKET EC

G

E

OT

D

L ECHICAGO’S I !

IN I N E MARKET CONSISTENTLY PRODUCING TOP RESULTSBLEIN LUXURY RP G N NPLE XG M BN I TE!D T EOM EE!CE U N TLAOT! S O O A N I U ST UCONSISTENTLY C U I N MARKET D F ROLEINGECHICAGO’S LUXURY DN N I E X M HER P E! PRODUCING TOP RESULTS B T! B A M I L U T T ST M E ST UDU P I NG CO U N E D DOF RONIN M A HO P I E C LO ECHICAGO’S !

CONSISTENTLY PRODUCING TOP RESULTS LUXURY E N R !

X G L BI N ! MARKET E N LE U B N TLAOT! ST OMIEECE OMU NNI TED O A ST UDUNP I NXG C P O H D E I M E R E! FUR BLETAG N LE M B I T! ST M E T ST UDU P I NG CO U NN ED DOF RONE LO E! M A HOR PIE!C I N X G L N LE M B I T! U B TA STE M E ST UDU P CO U N DOF RON M A HO

50 E CHESTNUT #601 | $4,195,000

2015 N CLEVELAND | $6,295,000

1111 W DRUMMOND | $2,995,000

1000 N LAKE SHORE DR. #29BC

50 E CHESTNUT #601 | $4,195,000

2015 N CLEVELAND | $6,295,000

1111 W DRUMMOND | $2,995,000

1000 N LAKE SHORE DR. #29BC

T IC Y !

G AC 2015 N CLEVELAND | $6,295,000 1111 W DRUMMOND | $2,995,000 A SUTN I T 6.3 BATHS T R I NGT! 4.1 BATHROOMS I 5NBEDROOMS 8,000 SQFT N TR6TBEDROOM M AC ATAPPROX. C Y! I G A D O A C T F !

N C PWENDRUMMOND S NIT | $6,295,000 1111 | $2,995,000 A G! 50 ELCHESTNUT OA ZI ION #601 | $4,195,000 2015PPNOTCLEVELAND A R T I N 4.1 BATHROOMS 6.3 BATHS 5NBEDROOMS APPROX. 8,000 SQFT U O A N R6TBEDROOM D T A M C AT G F PNO CLEVELAND IC T Y !

COPWENDRUMMOND C T O ZI N N! #601 | $4,195,000 2015 | $6,295,000 1111 | $2,995,000 50 ELCHESTNUT S A OP N TA6 BEDROOM NI A APPROX. 6.3 BATHS 5 BEDROOMS T R NG! 4.1 BATHROOMS IO 8,000 SQFT A ORTSUT ICI T Y! ONN DAI CT! A M C AITNGN! F C P A PNE T R I NG LOA Z IO OFPA N TRT U NIC !

A M C ATNG !

COPEN DACT! P O A S TN I T Y LOA ZI ION P R G O NT TU NT IN A M C AT FAPOR COPEN D LO OP

ACG! SHORE DR. #29BC 1000 N RLAKE

433 N WELLS #201 | $849,000

345 W FULLERTON PKWY #1005

2139 N RACINE | $1,995,000

1715 N WELLS ST #51 | $1,050,000

433 N WELLS #201 | $849,000

345 W FULLERTON PKWY #1005

2139 N RACINE | $1,995,000

1715 N WELLS ST #51 | $1,050,000

433 N WELLS #201 | $849,000

345 W FULLERTON PKWY #1005

2139 N RACINE | $1,995,000

1715 N WELLS ST #51 | $1,050,000

433 N WELLS #201 | $849,000

345 W FULLERTON PKWY #1005

2139 N RACINE | $1,995,000

1715 N WELLS ST #51 | $1,050,000

433 N WELLS #201 | $849,000

345 W FULLERTON PKWY #1005

2139 N RACINE | $1,995,000

1715 N WELLS ST #51 | $1,050,000

1225 GEORGE | $3,995,000

2663 N BURLING | $2,295,000

4516 HERMITAGE | $1,249,000

1225 GEORGE | $3,995,000

2663 N BURLING | $2,295,000

4516 HERMITAGE | $1,249,000

APPROX. 8,000 SQFT APPROX. 8,000 SQFT

6 BEDROOM 6.3 BATHS 6 BEDROOM 6.3 BATHS

5 BEDROOMS 4.1 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 4.1 BATHROOMS

50 E CHESTNUT ZI NON! #601 | $4,195,000

3 BEDROOMS 2.5 BATHROOMS 3 BEDROOMS 2.5 BATHROOMS 3 BEDROOMS 2.5 BATHROOMS 3 BEDROOMS 2.5 BATHROOMS 3 BEDROOMS 2.5 BATHROOMS

5 BEDROOMS 5.5 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 5.5 BATHROOMS

$329,900 | 2 BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS $329,900 | 2 BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS $329,900 | 2 BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS $329,900 | 2 BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS $329,900 | 2 BEDROOMS 2 BATHROOMS

5 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS

5 BEDROOMS 6.1 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 6.1 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 6.1 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 6.1 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 6.1 BATHROOMS

4 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS

$1,995,000 $1,995,000

T N T DI NCT$1,995,000 O C PENNRLAKE 1000 A G! SHORE DR. #29BC N T I N $1,995,000 T COPENN DLAKE 1000 AC ! SHORE DR. #29BC T R I NGT$1,995,000 N COPENRDACG! NT IN COPEN DACT! R G NT IN COPEN D 4 BEDROOMS 3.1 BATHROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 3.1 BATHROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 3.1 BATHROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 3.1 BATHROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 3.1 BATHROOMS

1308 RITCHIE

4 BEDROOMS 4.3 BATHROOMS

1308 RITCHIE

4 BEDROOMS 4.3 BATHROOMS

Joanne Nemerovski Joanne Nemerovski Joanne Nemerovski Joanne Nemerovski experience • integrity • results Joanne Nemerovski experience • integrity • results

1225 GEORGE | $3,995,000

2663 N BURLING | $2,295,000

4516 HERMITAGE | $1,249,000

1225 GEORGE | $3,995,000

2663 N BURLING | $2,295,000

4516 HERMITAGE | $1,249,000

5 BEDROOMS 5.5 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 5.5 BATHROOMS

5 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS

4 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS

BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS 312.720.4505 • 5JoanneSellsChicago@gmail.com 2663 N BURLING | $2,295,000 4516 HERMITAGE | $1,249,000 JoanneSellsChicago.com 5 BEDROOMS 5.5 BATHROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 4.5 BATHROOMS • 312.720.4505 JoanneSellsChicago@gmail.com

1225 GEORGE | $3,995,000

1308 RITCHIE

4 BEDROOMS 4.3 BATHROOMS

1308 RITCHIE

4 BEDROOMS 4.3 BATHROOMS

1308 RITCHIE

4 BEDROOMS 4.3 BATHROOMS

JoanneSellsChicago.com 312.720.4505 • JoanneSellsChicago@gmail.com JoanneSellsChicago.com 312.720.4505 • JoanneSellsChicago@gmail.com

© BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway

HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

JoanneSellsChicago.com *HSF Affiliates LLC Operates Hathaway HomeServices, highest individual GCI, U.S. Midwest, 2014Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway •Berkshire 312.720.4505 JoanneSellsChicago@gmail.com © BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire experience • marks integrity • Equalresults HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Housing Opportunity.

JoanneSellsChicago.com *HSF Affiliates LLC Operates Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, highest individual GCI, U.S. Midwest, 2014

experience • integrity • results

© BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

experience • integrity • results

*HSF Affiliates LLC Operates Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, highest individual GCI, U.S. Midwest, 2014Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway © BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. *HSF Affiliates LLC Operates Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, highest individual GCI, U.S. Midwest, 2014 © BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. *HSF Affiliates LLC Operates Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, highest individual GCI, U.S. Midwest, 2014

GP0516_CV3.indd 1

5/5/16 11:12 AM

LEGO and the LEGO logo are trademarks of the LEGO Group.

Find your inner builder in Brick by Brick, MSI’s new exhibit featuring sensational LEGO® structures and hands-on challenges. msichicago.org

GP0516_CV4.indd 1

5/5/16 11:12 AM