Going Places Fall 2016

Going Places FREE | FALL 2016

Take a hike 9

ROCKIN’ GETAWAYS

Food, football

+

fall fun GP Cover Fall 2016.indd 5

9/1/16 9:38 AM

Your child is our mission.

Celebrating 140 years in Chicago and 200 years around the world Sacred Heart is an independent school, K— 8, rooted in the Catholic tradition. Inspired teaching, personalized learning, and a supportive community combine to ensure our students thrive academically and grow in goodness, self-knowledge, and service to others.

Apply now for Kindergarten 2017-18 and Kindergarten Early Decision 2018-19

Join us for an Admissions Coffee October 14 or 28, November 9 or 18, December 7 9:30-11 am To register call (773) 681-8418 or admissions@shschicago.org 6250 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, Illinois 60660 shschicago.org

Chicago Parent 4.625” x 7.625” GP0916_CV2.indd 1

9/8/16 4:59 PM

GOING PLACES

Underwritten by William and Mary Lane Additional support from the Max and Sunny Howard Memorial Foundation

EXPLORE NATURE’S WAY OF TEACHING. In Kohl Children’s Museum’s newest exhibit Animal Secrets (open through December 30), families can uncover the hidden habitats and secret lives of forest animals to see nature from the point of view of our furry and feathered friends. Let curiosity be your guide as you discover why we’re The Place Where Awesome Lives.

Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview | (847) 832-6600 | kcmgc.org

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_001.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 1

9/8/16 4:04 PM

GOING PLACES

Lakeshore Academy of Artistic Gymnastics Call today to enroll for Fall classes!

Now Accepting Preschoolers ages 12mo to 6 years

Call Us Today!

Downtown Chicago 937 W. Chestnut Street 312.563.9400

Mt. Prospect 520 E. Business Center Drive 847.376.8826

lakeshoreacademy.com 2 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_002.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:27 AM

Going Places FALL 2016

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FAMILY FUN CITY 28 A day out in Ukrainian Village

FEATURES 5 Hikes for every kind of family 8 Fall in love with fall again 10 College football outings

FESTS

30 Best bakeries for every occasion 34 Leaves in the city

TRAVEL 37 Easy treks on Amtrak 39 Explore exotic Iceland

PLAY

12 Get your fall fest fix 15 Listings of parades and festivals

42 Portland: More than just hipsters

STAGE

60 Rock’n roller rinks

22 Go wild at West West Fest

45 Halloween shows worth their weight in candy

NATURE

MUSEUMS 24 Presidential sites in Illinois 27 Free days

57 Places to climb the walls

48 Listings of theater, music and dance

62 Spend the day at Starved Rock State Park

54 Family music experiences

64 Fair Oaks Farm + 3 other dairies

Going ngg PPlaces FREE | FALL 2016

Take a hike 9

ROCKIN’ GETAWAYS

Food, football

+

On the Cover: Dillon “Dilly” Johnston, of Chicago Photographer: Thomas Kubik Design: Claire Innes

fall fun

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 JACQUINETE BALDWIN, JAVIER GOVEA PHOTOGRAPHER THOMAS KUBIK OF TK PHOTOGRAPHY CHICAGO

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_003.indd 1

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MATT BORESI, DANIELLE BRAFF, MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER, CHERYL EUGENIO, KEELY FLYNN, JENNY MUSLIN, MARIBETH PJOSEK-DURKIN, MELISSA SILVERBERG, SHANNAN YOUNGER ADVERTISING SALES ANNETTE COFFEE, CHRISTINE GRIFFITH, LOURDES NICHOLLS, KAREN SKINNER AD PRODUCTION MANAGER PHILIP SOELL AD DESIGN MANAGER ANDREW MEAD

AD DESIGNERS DEBBIE BECKER, MARK MORONEY CIRCULATION MANAGER JILL WAGNER BUSINESS MANAGER JOYCE MINICH PUBLISHER DAN HALEY HOW TO REACH US 141 S. OAK PARK AVE. OAK PARK, IL 60302 (708) 386-5555 CHIPARENT@CHICAGOPARENT.COM © 2016 WEDNESDAY JOURNAL, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 3

9/9/16 10:11 AM

Party for the Preserves Saturday, September 24

Dinner and camping

Join us at one of our five new campgrounds to packages available. celebrate the Forest Preserves’ nearly 70,000 acres of Call 1-855-YES-CAMP public land on National Public Lands Day! Each campground to reserve your will have a variety of fun activities that highlight outdoor adventures, Party for the restoration, nature exploration and cultural discovery. Daytime activities Preserves are free, and a limited number of party packages are available for overnight package now. stay, dinner and evening activities.

More information at: FPDCC.COM/PARTY

fpdcc.com

GP0916_004.indd 1

9/8/16 11:28 AM

Big FOR hikes LITTLE FEET

GOING PLACES

M

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER

ake the most of autumn by heading for the hills ... or prairies or woodlands on a family hike.

Here are some of our favorite hiking destinations for families.

If you have a budding naturalist on your hands, check out Waterfall Glen Where: Darien Hours: Open daily one hour after sunrise until one hour after sunset Waterfall Glen as a park covers a lot of territory—2,492 acres, to be exact. There are a lot of plants on those acres that surround Argonne National Laboratory, and the Forest Preserve of DuPage County says it is home to 740 native plant species and 300 species of mammals. There are 11 miles of limestone- and turfcovered routes and the waterfall is the highlight of the park. It’s actually a dam built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

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

Photo by Thomas Kubik ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_005.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 5

9/8/16 1:26 PM

GOING PLACES HIKING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

If you love hidden gems, stop

by Matthiessen State Park Where: North Utica Hours: 7 a.m.-8 p.m. daily About five minutes down the road from the better-known Starved Rock State Park, this park is less crowded, but every bit as beautiful in its own unique way. The park has five miles of trails for hiking. There is also a restored fort representative of the fortifications the French built in the Midwest during the 1600s and early 1700s at the start of the main trail to the Cascade Falls area.

The mile-long canyon is particularly breathtaking. The geological formations, complete with water seeping out from the rock, feel otherworldly.

If your family dog loves to run off leash, head to Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve

If your kids love horses, canter over too Danada Forest Preserve

Where: St. Charles Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset Man’s best friend should get to join in the fall fun, too. Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve permits owners to have up to three dogs off leash. It’s also a chance to explore the shores of the Fox River and grassland and woodland on a mix of paved and unpaved trails and boardwalk.

Where: Wheaton Hours: Open daily one hour after sunrise until one hour after sunset If you want your hike to be both a yea and a neigh, head to Danada. In addition to walking the trails, you can visit the Danada Equestrian Center, where you may see horses grazing or out on the trails. You can also visit the stables. There are almost three miles of multipurpose trails and they wind through a variety of habitats at the preserve, including prairie, woodland and marsh.

6 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_006.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 1:26 PM

Where: Batavia Hours: Daily from sunrise to sunset Pelicans in Illinois? They are here, and you can find them at the Dick Young Preserve in Kane County, which is named for the late naturalist. There are lots of other birds that inhabit these impressive wetlands, too, so remember to bring your binoculars.

The complete loop is 4.4 miles.

Illustration: Teresa Pankratz

If you’re a little bird-brained, visit the Dick Young Forest Preserve

children’s

If you like to learn as a family, investigate Volo Bog State Natural Area Where: Ingleside Hours: Open daily at 8 a.m., closing hours vary by month (7 p.m. September; 6 p.m. October; 4 p.m. November) Did you know that the only quaking bog in Illinois is located in Lake County at Volo Bog State Natural Area? It’s possible that you don’t even know what a quaking bog is, but the chance to make discoveries and learn together are great reasons to hike as a family.

There are several trail options. The half-mile interpretive loop leads visitors through each stage of bog succession. The boardwalk over the marsh is also stroller-friendly. Tamarack View Trail is a 2.75-mile trail designed for hiking. And there are two additional miles of trails if you want even longer! The visitor center, located in a renovated dairy barn originally built in the early 1900s, features a hands-on discovery area.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_007.indd 1

POEM TIME Wednesdays at 10am 61 W. Superior Street The Poetry Foundation Library welcomes children ages 2–5 to a free storytime event that introduces poetry through fun, interactive readings and crafts.

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 7

9/8/16 1:25 PM

GOING PLACES

Have a fall fling Go Ape

I

BY MARIBETH PJOSEK-DURKIN

t’s not easy to say “so-long” to summer, with its cookouts and fireflies and family time galore. But there’s still plenty of falltastic fun just waiting to be found, from forest hikes to football to fall fests. So grab the kids and explore some new autumn escapes right in your neck of the woods.

Bemis Woods-South, 1100 Ogden Ave., Western Springs goape.com Take a more daring approach to enjoying the fall colors ... topside. Older kids will truly go ape as they swing, zip, balance and climb along 39 suspended crossings.

Tarzan swing, zip lines, rope ladders, spider webs, rail tracks and flying carpets—not the Aladdin type—will surely get your adrenaline pumping. The course is designed for all skill levels, and each section offers “easier” alternatives if the advanced path is too extreme for your taste. You’ll even get a certificate upon completion— bragging rights included! Kids must be 10 years old and 55 inches tall.

County Line Orchard

Maribeth Pjosek-Durkin

8 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_008.indd 1

200 S. County Line Road, Hobart, Ind. countylineorchard.com Pack up your little dumplings and do some apple picking. At County Line Orchard, you can hop a tractor ride to the orchards and pluck fresh, juicy fruits right off the trees. There are corn mazes and a petting zoo, too. You can’t leave without tasting the pumpkin or apple spice doughnuts. Try one, but be prepared to take home a dozen (at least). Fall weekends feature toe-tappin’ live music at the Barnyard Jam. Open through Oct. 30.

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:30 AM

GOING PLACES

Bengtson Pumpkin Fest

Karbers Ridge, Ill. timberridgeoutpost.com Embrace your inner child and head downstate for a treehouse slumber party. We’re not ot talking sleeping bags on a dusty floor; these treehouses take camping to new heights.

They are cabins nestled among towering tree branches, and each one has comfy beds, heat/ AC, fridge, microwave, shower and toilet and more. Not into heights? You can keep your feet planted on the ground in a traditional cabin. During the day, explore nearby Shawnee National Forest. Or try the latest craze, archery golf, which is similar to Frisbee golf, but with a bow and arrow. Advance reservations are a must!

Maribeth Pjosek-Durkin

13341 W. 151st St., Homer Glen pumpkinfarm.com Hello, Halloween! Start your Halloween happenings a little early with a fest that is more fun than fright. There are kiddie carnival rides, a petting zoo, a pumpkin launcher, camel rides, food trucks, hayrides and more. A real treat is the Jimmy Cracked Corn Box; think a giant sandbox filled with corn, perfect for jumping, digging and making “corn angels” (the kids will need to perfect their form for winter). A Haunted Barn awaits those who dare; for those who don’t, check out the Fun Barn and the Halloween Gift Shop.

Open through Oct. 30.

Timber Ridge Outpostt

Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center 9800 Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs fpdcc.com Autumn is rich in gold, bronze and copper—foliage, that is. The Little Red Schoolhouse is a treasure trove of fun every weekend in October, including an Acorn Scavenger Hunt (Oct. 16) and Colorful Fall Hike (Oct. 22.). Need a date night? The New Moon Hike (Oct. 28) and Starry, Starry Night (Nov. 18) are adults-only starlight hikes that end with a toasty campfire. Romance will be in the air, guaranteed.

Registration is required.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_009.indd 1

Soldier Field 1410 S. Museum Campus Drive, Chicago soldierfield.net Are you ready for some football? Then dash on over to Soldier Field for a behind-the-scenes stadium tour. You’ll score big with your kids as they wander the hallowed halls of the famed Chicago Bears. Let your football fans, young and old, charge the field, relax on the sidelines and celebrate in the endzone. Snap a photo with the patriotic Doughboy Statue and catch some bird’s-eye views of the stadium and Chicago lakefront in the Skyline Suite. After the tour, huddle up the team for a walk along the lakefront and museum campus. Check website for details and tour availability.

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 9

9/9/16 2:36 PM

GOING PLACES

SCORE A FAMILY

TOUCHDOWN

F

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER GER

or many people, fall is synonymous ous with football season (da Bears, anyone?). Taking the family amily to a pro football game can cost a small fortune and nd be a bit much for little ones to handle. But college football ball games can be a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Plus, there here are options in and near the Chicago area that offer a wide variety of experiences.

Northwestern University Mascot: Wildcats Home Field: Ryan Field, Evanston Ticket prices start at: $20 Whether you’re a Northwestern alum or one of Chicago’s many residents who graduated from a Big Ten school, you may be able to show your kids your team without traveling very far at all. This year, Northwestern faces conference foes the Nebraska Cornhuskers, the Indiana Hoosiers, the Wisconsin Badgers and the Illinois Fighting Illini at home in Evanston.

You can get to a Northwestern game by taking the CTA or Metra. Take the Purple Line to the Central Street station, which is just two blocks 10 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_010.indd 1

east of Ryan Field. Or, The Central Street Metra station is just two blocks west.

All guests must buy a ticket regardless of age, even babies. For kids 2 and under, a $10 “lap ticket” is available only on the day of the game and can be purchased at any ticket window.

At the game, there are tons of NU traditions kids will love, whether it’s lining Walker Way to greet the team as they arrive, learning “The Growl” when the Wildcats are on defense, or putting your hands in the air, along with a guest conductor, before the fourth quarter starts.

ChicagoParent.com

9/9/16 10:19 AM

GOING PLACES

North Central College Mascot: Cardinals Home Field: Benedetti-Wherli Stadium, Naperville Ticket prices start at: $6 Division III college football may not get a lot of national media attention, but there are 248 Division III college football teams, including the North Central Cardinals, the North Park Vikings and the Elmhurst Blue Jays. This year, North Central plays host to Wheaton College in a match-up known as the Battle for the Little Brass Bell.

North Central games are cost-effective, with tickets costing just $6 and kids 3 and under admitted free. If you’re in the mood to tailgate, you can do so in two designated lots, but it’s also easy to grab a bite to eat in downtown Naperville just a few blocks away from the stadium.

If the kids decide they’re not into the game, you can hit the Riverwalk or, if the weather proves to be a bit too much (for eith either you or the kids), you’re near the DuPage Children’s Museum, which offers climate-controlled fun. climate-c

Northern Illinois University Mascot: Huskies Home Field: Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium, Sta DeKalb Tickets sta start at: $25 With appe appearances in big bowl games the past few years, ye NIU has become a nationally recogni recognized team.

But if yyour kids aren’t that into the game, they’ll still think tthis is a fun outing that’ that’s less than 90 minutes fro from Chicago.

All kids ov over 2 must have a ti ticket. Children withou without tickets must be sea seated in the lap of an adult.

A ffew hours befo before kickoff, che check out The Yar Yard on the ChicagoParent.com Chi hiiccag h aagoPa oP ren reeen ntt..c .co om m

GP0916_011.indd 1

Photo courtesy Sean Su

West Lawn. It’s home to fun pregame festivities, including face painting for little fans in the Kids’ Zone, as well as the bounce house and opportunities to meet athletes from other teams. They may even get a chance to give a high-paw to mascot Victor E. Huskie.

University of Notre Dame Mascot: Fighting Irish Home Field: Notre Dame Stadium, Notre Dame, Ind. Ticket prices start at: $75 Notre Dame is two hours from Chicago, and it’s a mecca for college football fans. It’s definitely an experience, but it is not cheap; tickets are expensive, and every human must have one, regardless of age.

A trip to the Golden Dome, however, doesn’t have to break the bank if you’re willing to forego the game. It may sound blasphemous, but ask yourself if your kids are able to sit on bleachers through a three-and-a-half hour game. If so, go Irish! (Tickets can be found via social media, online sites and local alumni clubs.)

If not, you don’t have to miss all the fun. It’s not unusual for Chicago families to drive down just to experience the pregame pomp and circumstance, including seeing the marching band step off from the Main Building, watching the team walking across after mass, playing catch on the quad and more. Some stay and watch the game televised at different locations on campus.

Others listen to it on the radio on the road home (less traffic!) and are able catch the second half from their couch. One other option: Drive down on Friday night for the pep rally.

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 11

9/9/16 2:36 PM

FESTS

I

BY DANIELLE BRAFF

t’s officially fall, which can only mean one thing: it’s time to do some fall festival hopping. There are plenty of pumpkins to pick, animals to pet and apples to eat. So pull on a sweater, zip up your boots, grab a pumpkin latte and go to town.

Fall for fall

FESTS Fall favorite: Hayrides

Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest They’ve got all things hay here, including a hay mountain and a hayride, plus a corn maze and a pumpkin patch. Don’t leave without trying the Ferris wheel, the giant fun slide and the

bounce house. Of course, the zoo animals will be out, so this will be a full day of fun. The zoo is free, but rides require paid tickets. 10 a.m.6 p.m. Fridays-Sundays, Sept.

30-Oct. 30. 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago. lpzoo.org

Fall favorite: Pumpkins

Fall favorite: Scarecrows

The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival This festival screams “fall bucket list.” One visit, and you’ve just about completed everything: pumpkins galore with pumpkin lighting, pumpkin carving, pie-eating contest, costume contests, petting zoo, hayrides, carnival rides. $2, benefits Make-A-Wish Illinois. Oct. 7-9. 17 Highwood Ave., Highwood. highwood pumpkinfest.com

St. Charles Scarecrow Fest Check out more than 100 hand-crafted scarecrows and vote for your favorite in five categories. Once you’ve voted, get inspired to make your own scarecrow, pet some animals in the petting zoo, play at the carnival, dance to the live entertainment and eat some food. Free. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Oct. 7-8; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 9. 2 E. Main St., St. Charles. scarecrowfest.com

12 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_012.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 1:23 PM

FESTS

Fall favorite: Apples Lincoln Square Apple Fest It’s a Chicago tradition to come here at the beginning of the fall. You can feast on apple pie, apple pizza, apple sausages, candy apples or just a farm-fresh apple.

When you’re thirsty, you can sip apple

cider. They’ll have plenty for the kids to do in the kids’ zone, and don’t forget to dress the kiddos up

for that annual social media pic of them holding an apple sitting in a pile of hay.

It’s a classic. Free. 9

a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 1-2.

Lincoln and Leland avenues, Chicago. lincolnsquare.org/ apple-fest

Fall favorite: Historic harvesting day

Harvest Days at Garfield Farm When you step onto this farm during Harvest Days, you’ll be transported back to a family-friendly farm in the 1840s. Learn about the harvesting days in the 19th century through hands-on demonstrations of farm work, old-fashioned treats and food and period music. Plus, see chickens, turkeys, sheep, hogs and oxen up-close and personal. $6, $3 kids under 12. 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 1. Illinois 38/ Garfield Road, LaFox. garfieldfarm.org

Fall favorite: Ponies Cornucopia at Eugene Field This will be one special day at the park to welcome fall. There will be pony rides, a pumpkin patch, food trucks, a petting zoo and bouncy houses to get out that bottledup energy. And we can bet there will be ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_013.indd 1

plenty of leaf piles that will be even more entertaining to the little ones than anything else that the park district provided. Free. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct 15. Eugene Field Park, 5100 N. Ridgeway Ave., Chicago. chicagopark district.com Fall 2016 • goingplaces 13

9/8/16 1:24 PM

CHICAGO’S #1 HOME FOR FUN & HASSLEFREE BIRTHDAY PARTIES

CHICAGO’S #1 HOME FOR FUN & HASSLE-FREE BIRTHDAY PARTIES

VOT VOT VOT BEST PAED BESVTOPTAEERD BEST PAED D R T T Y RT Y BEUSTFPAVENU VEN VENUE F O E FOR KY RRDT VID KY T ENSUVEEO ID E VOTEDTY OR K S IDS V F - BEST POAR-RKIDS - AR BEST PO TY IDS V K R E N F U E E FOR KID VOTE VENUV S OTEBD EST P - D

- EST VENUE FOARTY B KIDS and VENUE FP-ARTY R Hassle-free OR KIDSconvenient for -

KIDS PA

parents

KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with activities and games organized Hassle-free and convenient and facilitated by for parents WCF event staff Many themed KIDS PLAY TOGETHER with VO parties available TED activities and games B EST PAR including T VEUltimate organized and facilitated NUVEO TERDKY Sports, FO ID B E S T P Mad Science, A

by WCF event staff - EN RTY S V

UETag, FOR KID Laser

SEP 16 & 17

FREE ADMISSION

Kids’ Root Beer Garden Zucchini car races, Ninja obstacle course, Root beer floats, and games and activities.

OCT 15 (11-3)

FREE ADMISSION Eek-O-Friendly, Call Alexis at Healthy Kids’ (773) 486-7416 Halloween Event or email at akniaz@windycityfieldhouse.com

- Build-A-Friend S Many themed parties VO TED ed Animals, available includingStuff BEST PA Scavenger Hunts RT V E NUmore!

Ultimate Sports, and E FOR KY ID Mad Science, - Fun and exciting S LaserTag, for kids of all ages, Animals, 1 to adult Build-A-Friend Stuffed No cleanup Scavenger Hunts and more!and flexible catering

options Fun and exciting for kids of all ages, 1 to adultCALL NOW!

Dates filling fast!

No cleanup and flexibleCall catering Alexisoptions at CALL NOW! (773) 486-7416 akniaz@windycityfi eldhouse.com Dates filling fast!

Chicago's #1 Home for Birthday Parties

WindyCityFieldhouse.com/ WindyCityFieldhouse.com/birthdays birthdays

14 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_014.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:28 PM

R

FESTS games, pony rides, petting zoo, pumpkin train, pumpkin bowling, temporary tattoos, wagon rides, amusement rides and moonwalk require tickets. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; cost varies by activity.

Rogers Park Harvest Celebration Willye B. White Park 1610 W. Howard St., Chicago hellohoward.org Sept. 24

Features hayrides, pumpkins, treats and entertainment. Hours: 1-4 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Edgewater Arts Festival

Long Grove Apple Fest, see page 16.

SEPTEMBER World Music Festival Various locations, including Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington St. Chicago (312) 742-1938 worldmusicfestivalchicago. org/ Sept. 9-25

Concerts presented in museums, parks, cultural centers and music stores.

Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free.

Harvest & Harmony Fest Jens Jensen Park 486 Roger Williams Ave. Highland Park cityhpil.com Sept. 23-24

Features nationally known musical acts. Saturday morning kicks off with a children’s performer. Plus, kids activities and crafts, food and other vendors, wine, craft beer and mule flights, drum circles and percussion gatherings.

Hours: 4-9 p.m. Sept. 23; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 24.

Admission: Free.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_015.indd 1

Huntley Fall Fest

Elim Dutch Festival

12015 Mill St., Huntley huntleyfallfest.com Sept. 23-25

Elim Christian Services 13020 S. Central Ave. Palos Heights (708) 389-0555 elimcs.org Sept. 24

Soar in tethered hot air balloon rides, enjoy carnival rides, car show, beer garden, food vendors, hayrides, ice cream eating contest, puppet show, music, magic show, petting zoo, pony rides, straw maze, scarecrow building, fireworks and more.

Hours: 5-11 p.m. Sept. 23; 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Sept.

24; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept. 25.

Admission: Check website for cost.

Oktoberfest Chicago at St. Alphonsus St. Alphonsus Church Southport and Lincoln avenues, Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com Sept. 23-25

Features food, music and entertainment, arts and crafts, and KinderFest with face paintings, storytelling, inflatables, dance parties and art activities on Saturday and Sunday.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. Sept.

23; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sept.

24; 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept. 25.

Admission: $5.

Features food, gifts and collectibles, entertainment, petting zoo, carnival, magic show, farmers market, and wooden shoe carver. Kids may catch a glimpse of Sinterklaas (Dutch Santa Claus). Proceeds benefit Elim Christian Services. Hours: 7:30 a.m. pancake breakfast; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. fest. Admission: Free; food and some activities cost extra.

Johnny Appleseed Festival

Granville Avenue between Broadway and Kenmore, Chicago edgewaterartists.com/ edgewater-fall-art-fair Sept. 24-25

Features artists, live music and food from local restaurants. Children’s Activity Corner has face painting, finger painting, sidewalk chalk drawing, interactive puppet shows, mask-making workshops, magic, and live storytelling. The Children’s Music Talent Showcase features local elementary school age children.

Plus, a Pet Parade & Costume Contest. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $5 suggested donation.

Farm Heritage Festival

West Crystal Lake Avenue Crystal Lake downtowncl.org Sept. 24

Lakewood Forest Preserve Route 176, west of Fairfield Road, Wauconda (847) 968-3400 lcfpd.org/farmheritage Sept. 24-25

Meet Johnny Appleseed as he strolls the streets, telling his story.

Plus, see demonstrations of an antique apple cider press and apple peelers, enjoy musical groups, dance, gymnastics and martial arts and storytelling and watch a clown create balloon art. Activities such as children’s

Features tractors, cars, engines and other farm machinery. Plus, a tractor parade, sheep herding demonstrations, music, scarecrow making, wagon and barrel train rides, and a petting zoo. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $10, $5 kids 4-17 and seniors 55+, free kids 3 and under.

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 15

9/8/16 2:49 PM

FESTS plays and encampments.

Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept.

24; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 25.

Admission: Check website for cost.

Hyde Park Jazz Festival Throughout Hyde Park neighborhood and Midway Plaisance 59th Street, Chicago (773) 324-8614 hydeparkjazzfestival.org Sept. 24-25

Features local, national and international jazz artists; diverse performance venues; outdoor dance floor; food/beverage vendors; artisan vendors; and activities for kids. Hours: 1 p.m.-midnight Sept. 24; 1-8 p.m. Sept. 25. Admission: $5 donation.

Long Grove Apple Fest Old McHenry Road and Robert Parker Coffin Road Long Grove (847) 634-0888 longgroveonline.com Sept. 24-25

Enjoy the outdoor ambiance and live music throughout the historic village. Get your

16 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_016.indd 1

Barkapalooza Lisle Community Park 1825 Short St., Lisle wshs-dg.org Sept. 25

Oktoberfest-Naper Settlement, see page 17. apple fix on treats like apple pies, apple cider doughnuts, apple cider, caramel apple lattes and more. Plus, participate in family activities, including apple-themed games like the apple pie eating contests. Hours: 11 a.m.11 p.m. Sept. 23; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sept. 24; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 25. Admission: $5, free kids 12 and under; free 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday.

World War II Days Midway Village Museum 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford (815) 397-9112 midwayvillage.com Sept. 24-25

Includes battles complete with tanks, artillery, armored vehicles and pyrotechnic displays.

Battle shows held 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Plus, dis-

Features a Dog Walkathon, Pet Expo, blessing of animals at 10 a.m.

There will be an agility demonstration and vendors. Kids’ activities include clowns, face painting, balloon sculptures and a Kids and Kindness Zone. Food is available.

Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Admission: $20, free kids 12 and under.

Highwood Starving Artists Festival Sheridan & Highwood Avenue, Highwood (847) 926-4300

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:49 PM

FESTS highwoodstarvingartists festival.com Sept. 25-26

(312) 742-2000 lpzoo.org Sept. 30-Oct. 30

Features live music, food and kids’ art activities. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Features a corn maze, hay mountain, 60-foot burlap sack slide and hay wagon rides throughout Farm-inthe-Zoo. Plus, a pumpkin carver, Ferris wheel, inflatable courses and rides, educational activities and live entertainment. Pumpkins will be available for sale. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sept. 30-Oct. 2, Oct. 7-10, 14-16, 21-23, and 28-30.

Admission: Free.

Oktoberfest-Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St., Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.org Sept. 30-Oct. 1

Hear live music and enjoy authentic German cuisine.

Family-friendly activities on Saturday afternoon.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. Sept.

30; noon-10 p.m. Oct. 1.

Admission: $15, $10 kids; $12 in advance, $8 kids in advance; free kids under 4.

Additional cost for food.

West Town Art Walk Chicago Avenue, from Milwaukee to Leavitt and Ogden, Chicago (312) 850-9390 westtownartwalk.com Sept. 30-Oct. 1

Showcases dozens of artists and designers. Every participating location transforms into a gallery, each featuring a specific artist, food, drink and music. Hours: 5-8 p.m.

Sept. 30; noon-6 p.m. Oct. 1. Admission: Free.

St. Benedict’s Oktoberfest 2215 W. Irving Park Road Chicago stbensoktoberfest.com Sept. 30-Oct. 2

Enjoy oom-pah bands, Spaten bier and specialty cuisine under a tented hall. Plus, carnival midway rides, activities and games, the “520 Pool,” a pumpkin patch and more. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free; cost for food and rides.

Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_017.indd 1

OCTOBER Beverly Art Walk West 95th to West 11th Street, from South Western Avenue to South Wood Street Chicago beverlyarts.org Oct. 1

Features works by area artists and artisans displayed in businesses and organizations. Also includes artist studio tours, live music, dance, puppetry, art demonstrations, children’s activities, food trucks, an artisan craft fair and public art. Free trolleys will be available. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Admission: Free.

Lincoln Square Apple Fest 4700 block of North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago lincolnsquareravenswood.org Oct. 1-2

Enjoy all things apple from pies to pizzas, plus apple-themed games for kids. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Admission: $5 suggested donation.

All Fall Color Festival Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53 Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org Oct. 1-31

Enjoy the fall colors and admire nature-themed scarecrows around Meadow Lake. Plus, build-

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 17

9/8/16 2:50 PM

FESTS stages, food and beverage vendors and a Superhero 5K Pumpkin Run/Walk.

All jack-o-lanterns will be placed on walls throughout the festival, with ceremonial lightings Friday and Saturday nights, and the grand lighting on Sunday evening. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: $2.

St. Charles Scarecrow Festival

BatFest, see page 19. your-own taffy apples and sample other food and beverages. Festival kicks off with the Fall Color 5K Run & Walk and Kid’s Dash on Oct. 2 at 8 a.m.

Other events include a Cider & Ale tasting, and a chance to dine and solve a spooky crime during the Mystery at Thornhill Mansion. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free with arboretum admission.

Autumn Harvest Festival Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm 1111 E. Schaumburg Road Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com Oct. 2

Experience life on an 1880s farm by helping with the harvest, cooking over the woodstove or squeezing fresh apple cider. Relive the adventure of the Illinois frontier at an pioneer encampment near the log cabin.

The day include shistorical demonstrations, children’s crafts, haywagon shuttle, live music and fall foods. Hours: Noon-5 p.m.

Admission: $20 family, $5 person, free kids 3 and under.

Grove Folk Fest The Grove 1421 Milwaukee Ave. Glenview

18 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_018.indd 1

(847) 299-6096 glenviewparks.org Oct. 2

Costumed interpreters relive local history while visitors enjoy folk music, square dancing, hay rides and more. Food is available in an outdoor dining hall. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: $4, $1 kids under 12.

Batavia OktoberFest Downtown Batavia downtownbatavia.com/ oktoberfest Oct. 7-8

Features German food, music, entertainment and beer. Family-friendly activities all day Saturday and official Sam Adams stein-hoisting contests on Friday and Saturday night.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. Oct. 7; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Oct. 8. Admission: Free.

Great Highwood Pumpkin Fest 17 Highwood Ave., Highwood highwoodpumpkinfest.com Oct. 7-9

Festival organizers attempt to raise $600,000 for Make-A-Wish Illinois to help grant wishes to kids with life-threatening conditions. Other activities include all-you-cancarve pumpkins, trick-ortreating, costume contests, Pumpkin Parade, hayrides, pony rides, petting zoo, crafts, two entertainment

Downtown at Route 64 and Fox River, St. Charles (630) 377-6161 scarecrowfest.com Oct. 7-9

View more than 150 handcrafted scarecrows and vote for favorites in six categories. Plus live entertainment, arts and crafts show, carnival, petting zoo, canine corner and make-your-own scarecrow.

Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Oct. 7-8; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 9.

Admission: Free.

Cantigny Fall Festival Cantigny Park 1 S. 151 Winfield Road Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org Oct. 8

Features hayrides, entertainment, inflatable jumpers and slides, pumpkin decorating, monster mural and face painting. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; $10 parking.

Fall Festival Corner of Busse and Emerson Mount Prospect (847) 506-4948 Oct. 8

Includes crafts, trick-ortreat candy line, hayrides and food and music in the downtown area. Hours: 1-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

Hobo Night Homewood Rail Park Chestnut and Park avenues

Homewood homesweethomewood.com Oct. 8

Attendees are encouraged to wear hobo costumes and compete for a prize. Everyone receives a goodie bag with all the ingredients for s’mores.

Plus, take tours of the Rail Park’s retired and restored Illinois Central locomotive and caboose. Hours: 6:308:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Midway Village and Museum Scarecrow Harvest Festival 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford (815) 397-9112 midwayvillage.com Oct. 8

Families can build scarecrows with straw. Bring old clothes to stuff, or buy clothes and accessories. Activities include traditional harvest crafts and activities, old-fashioned games, wagon rides around the village, square dancing and demonstrations. Hours: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $7, $5 kids 3-17, free members.

Safety Town Safe Trick-or-Treating at Annual York/Vallette Business Association Family Fall Fest The Depot 511 S. York Road, Elmhurst epd.org Oct. 8

Enjoy early Halloween fun and safe trick-or-treating through a kid-sized village. Dressed-up volunteers will pass out candy and prizes. Plus, face painting, pony rides, petting farm, moon jump, pumpkins, food and more.

Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Columbus Day Parade State Street from Wacker to Van Buren, Chicago jccia.com Oct. 10

The parade celebrates Christopher Columbus’ historic voyage to Amer-

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:50 PM

FESTS 1551 N. Thoreau Drive Schaumburg (847) 972-6521 windycityskiandsnowboard show.com Oct. 21-23

Elim Dutch Festival, see page 15. ica and Italian-American culture. Hours: 12:30 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Pinball Expo The Westin Chicago North Shore 601 N. Milwaukee Ave. Wheeling pinballexpo.com Oct. 12-16

Features exhibitors, seminars and speakers. Plus, tour the Stern Pinball factory and participate in a pinball tournament.

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

Hallows Eve Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St., Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.org Oct. 14-15

Experience two of the darkest nights of the year at this experience that brings some of the scariest literature to life. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Hours: 6:30-10 p.m. Admission: $15, free members.

Halloween Hollow Main Park 10925 La Porte Road, Mokena (708) 390-2401 mokenapark.com Oct. 14-16

Features carnival, food, activities, entertainment,

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_019.indd 1

Scarecrow Laboratory, hayrides, horse rides and contests. Hours: 5-8 p.m. Oct. 14; 1-8 p.m. Oct. 15; 1:30-5:30 p.m. Oct 16. Admission: Check website for cost.

Punkin’ Chuckin Pumpkin Farm 16339 Springfield Road, Pekin (309) 266-5135 mortonmagnet.com Oct. 15-16

Watch as participants use homebuilt machines to hurl pumpkins as far as possible. Hours: Check website for schedule.

Admission: $5 per vehicle.

Rock the Beach for Syd Rocks Fields Infiniti 2100 Frontage Rd., Glencoe (847) 226-1268 sydrocks.com Oct. 16

Includes music from five local high school bands, Syd Rocks necklace making, beach yoga and food trucks. Proceeds benefit Syd Rocks, to fund research for Langerhan’s Cell Histiocytosis, pediatric cancer and blood diseases. Hours: 4-7 p.m.

Admission: $45, $10 kids.

Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org Oct. 20-23

More than 1,000 handcarved pumpkins—some as large as 150 pounds— light up the night. Carved images include Chicago icons, classic Halloween characters, garden “monsters,” and artwork representing Día de los Muertos. Learn about the place of pumpkins in culture, encounter entertaining characters, view the ghostly trains in the Model Railroad Garden: Landmarks of America, and find seasonal light fare for sale.

Hours: 6-10 p.m. Admission: $14, $12 members; $12 kids 3-12, $10 member kids. $2 more at the door.

Art on Harrison Harrison Street in Oak Park Oak Park oakparkartsdistrict.com/ events/art-on-harrison Oct. 21-22

Features events in galleries, shops and restaurants.

Includes art, music, food, dance and hands-on demonstrations. Hours: 6-10 p.m. Oct. 21; noon-8 p.m.

Oct. 22. Admission: Free.

Features prizes and lift ticket giveaways. Meet the top manufacturer reps and local retailers selling new snow gear. Pro skiers and snowboarders will make an appearance and there will be a movie premiere.

Guests receive lift ticket vouchers to Boyne and Indian Head Resort with admission. Hours: 3-10 p.m. Oct. 21; 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Oct. 22; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 23. Admission: $12, free kids under 12.

BatFest Batavia Riverwalk, Batavia (630) 879-5235 downtownbatavia.com Oct. 22

Features trick-or-treating, Mothers’ Club Parade, pumpkin roll, contests and games. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: Free.

The Halloween Gathering Festival and Parade Daytime Festival: Millennium Park and Sir George Solti Garden Spectacle Parade: Columbus Drive from Balbo to Monroe Chicago chicagoculturalmile.org Oct. 22

Event gathers Chicago’s creative communities for an afternoon festival culminating with a nighttime parade. Features the Field Museum, The Art Institute, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, as well as organizations like Louder Than a Bomb, Silent Theatre Company, and guilds of artists. Hours: 2-5 p.m. (daytime activities); 6-8 p.m. (parade). Admission: Free.

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns

Windy City Ski and Snowboard Show

Boo! at the Zoo

Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road

Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center

Brookfield Zoo 8400 31st St., Brookfield

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 19

9/8/16 2:50 PM

FESTS (708) 688-8000 czs.org Oct. 22-30

The not-so-scary and fun-filled event has something for the entire family, including the “Crazy Maize” corn maze, haunted hayrides, the popular “Pumpkin Smasher,” professional pumpkin carving demonstrations, a 1 p.m. Costume Parade followed by the Costume Showcase at 1:30 p.m., scarecrow building, and Zoo Chats about some of the zoo’s creepy critters. Hours: Oct. 22-23 and 29-30. Admission: Free with zoo admission.

Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Sycamore (815) 895-5161 sycamorepumpkinfestival.com Oct. 26-30

Features thousands of pumpkins on display, food booths, carnival, parade,

and Saturday entertainment. The parade kicks off at 1 p.m. Sunday. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free.

A Haunting in the Valley Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com Oct. 28-29

Costumed guides lead groups through the Log Cabin Woods on a trail of Halloween fun, adventure and magic. Also includes refreshments, games, live owl display and a bonfire.

Hours: 6:15-9 p.m. Admission: $8; $6 in advance.

Chicago International Children’s Film Festival Facets Multi-Media 1517 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago

Spooky Pooch Parade, see page 21.

(773) 281-9075 cicff.org Oct. 28-Nov. 6

Features more than 250 films and engages kids of all ages with screening Q&As with filmmakers, interactive workshops with special guests, peer-to-peer dialogues, filmmaker-led seminars, and the CICFF Children’s and Youth Juries. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Check website.

La Grange Halloween Walk & Fall Fest Central Business District La Grange lgba.com Oct. 29

Led by the La Grange YMCA, kids and families line up at Cossitt School parking lot beginning at 9 a.m. Trick-or-treat through the business district until noon, then stay for seasonal activities throughout the afternoon.

Minocqua.org • 800.44.NORTH •

A short drive north, but

worlds away

See colors in a whole new light this autumn in the Minocqua area. Explore hundreds of miles of trails, take a drive down scenic roads, or watch the sun set over one of our 2,300 bodies of water. There’s always more to explore in the Minocqua area.

20 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_020.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:51 PM

FESTS Hours: 10 a.m.-noon.

Admission: Free.

variety of entertainment, crafts and fun. Dress up in costume and come for a day of fun and games.

Hours: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; trickor-treat starts at noon.

Admission: Free.

Spooky Pooch Parade Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org Oct. 29

Scarecrows on Parade and Clark Street Spooktacular

Dogs are allowed in the Botanic Garden for two hours for a canine Halloween costume parade.

Event includes parade, judging and awards. Nonprofits and vendors from a local pet supply shops will share information and sell dog-related products. Hours: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Admission: Check website for cost.

Clark Street between Armitage and Diversey and Diversey from Orchard to Lakeview, Chicago visitclarkstreet.com Oct. 30

Spooky Zoo Spectacular Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago (312) 742-2000 lpzoo.org Oct. 29

A safe alternative to trickor-treating, as well as a

Includes refreshments, crafts and games, plus trick-or-treating to businesses throughout the community. During trickor-treating, there are magicians, balloon artists, jugglers and stilt walkers.

Visitors will enjoy Scarecrows on Parade, costume contests, prizes, special savings at restaurants and outdoor family fun.

Hours: 1-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

NOVEMBER Aquatic Experience Chicago Renaissance Schaumberg Convention Center 1551 N. Thoreau Drive Schaumburg aquaticexperience.org/ Nov. 4-6

In addition to seeing sharks up close as a diver swims and interacts with these awe-inspiring animals, attendees will experience “everything aquatic under one roof” including fish from around the world, educational seminars, a free Kids Aquarium Contest and exhibitors showcasing the latest in aquatic trends and products. New in 2016: Sea Lion Splash.

Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Nov. 4; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 5; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 6. Admission: $10; $25 family pass.

Toy Soldier Show Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org Nov. 6

Toy soldier enthusiasts display collections of small-scale soldiers and armaments. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; $5 parking.

Settlers’ Day Sand Ridge Nature Center 15891 Paxton Ave. South Holland (708) 868-0606 fpdcc.com Nov. 20

Features guided nature/ history hikes, storytelling, pioneer crafts, flag raising ceremony, pioneer living reenactments and Civil War and Revolutionary War encampments. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free; donations of nonperishable food accepted.

A RIOT OF COLOR AND CREATIVITY!

RIBBIT! THE EXHIBIT

PASSPORT EUROPE FESTIVAL

Final Weeks! Through Sunday, September 25

Saturday, September 24 and Sunday, September 25

Find all 23 whimsical copper frogs acting like humans at The Morton Arboretum before they hop away!

Enjoy music, dance, and cuisine from Europe and take a stroll through our collections of European trees and plants.

FALL COLOR FESTIVAL October Enjoy a 5K and Kid’s Dash, Scarecrow Trail, Boo Breakfast, Family Jack-O-Lantern Hikes, and more in the midst of fall color you won’t see anywhere else.

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

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

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_021.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 21

9/8/16 2:51 PM

FESTS

YOUR GUIDE TO THE

WILD WEST L

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CHERYL EUGENIO

onging for a Wild West adventure? Just a 45 minute drive from O’Hare Airport lies our very own Wild West town where old-fashioned family fun awaits. And on weekends during the fall, the cute little amusement park celebrates the season with its Fall Festival. So git along little dogies! Grab your cowboy boots and check out the best parts of this fest.

Get your pumpkin, pumpkin! That’s the whole reason you came, right? Hop aboard the C.P. Huntington Train for a short trip to the pumpkin patch where the chief awaits you. Trade your beads with him and he’ll give you a chance to pick the perfect pumpkin from the patch.

Release your inner artist. Have your pumpkin? Then head to the pumpkin painting station to decorate it! Display your creation, and you might even win a prize. While the paint is drying, take time to explore the rest of the park.

22 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_022.indd 1

Ride the train again. It transforms into a Spooky Train and travels through a tunnel complete with eerie music, skeletons and other creepy things. My 5-year-old didn’t find the tunnel as scary and frightening as my 3-year-old. Fortunately, it’s a short ride!

Take advantage of photo ops. The whole town is decorated in its fall glory and there is no shortage of photo spots. Tip: Don’t miss taking a photo in the jail cell!

Play the games. The park offers tons ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:32 AM

FESTS of games to try. Channel your inner Katniss with archery (no sharp tips, only suction cups, of course) or give the slingshot a try.

Make like a cowboy and rope some cattle or practice your aim at the pop gun gallery.

Go ‘round and ‘round. Kids will get a kick out of cranking the gears in hand-powered cars as they make their way around the track. Just when you think they’re tired, they’ll want to go again ... and again ...

Watch the show. For some slapstick fun, watch the Halloween-themed show that is performed a few times a day. The show is a little more intense than their regular show (think: zombies!) and the gunshots may be a little loud for the youngest of young’uns.

Ride the pony. Everybody enjoys a pony ride, and it’s even better when there’s not a long wait. Giddyup!

Pan for gold. Who doesn’t love gold? Kids will enjoy looking for their very own treasure and stuffing their little pouches full of the shiny stuff.

Grab a treat. Take a break at Clayton’s Saloon and order up a round of sarsaparilla (a root beer-like soda). During the fall fest, the saloon also serves pumpkin pie. If you’re up for ice cream (and who isn’t?), grab a couple scoops at the ice cream parlor.

If you go: Donley’s Wild West Town 8512 S. Union Road, Union wildwesttown.com The Fall Festival starts Sept. 24 and continues from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 30. Admission is $17 per person and includes pumpkins for the kids. Grandparents are free with a coupon from the website.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_023.indd 1

N OCTOBER 29 AT NOO

trick or treat t Sky Pick up a free bag at Brillian stores for k loo and ks Boo & s Toy displaying pumpkin decals. art & FREE face painting, balloon last. s plie sup ile a stilt walker. Wh

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 23

9/8/16 11:33 AM

MUSEUMS

HAIL TO THE

CHIEFS

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

W

BY MELISSA SILVERBERG

ith the election right around the corner, fall is the perfect time to teach your children (and yourself ) about some of the presidential history right here in Illinois.

Illinois was the home of Abraham Lincoln, from whom the state gets its “Land of Lincoln” moniker, and Barack Obama, who celebrated his historic 2008 win in Chicago’s Grant Park, but several other American leaders once lived here as well.

Ronald Reagan has the distinction of being the only U.S. president born in Illinois. You can visit his birthplace in Tampico, about two hours west of Chicago. What was once an apartment above a bakery-turned-bank has become the Ronald Reagan Birthplace and Museum (tampicohistoricalsociety.com). Be sure to visit Reagan Park, where a young Ronnie once played on a cannon with his brother.

When he was a child, Reagan’s family moved to Dixon, where he lived until adulthood (when he moved on to Hollywood and later Washington, D.C.). The Ronald Reagan

24 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_024.indd 1

Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home Boyhood Home, 816 S. Hennepin Ave. (reaganhome.org), has been restored to its 1920s appearance and is a great place to see where the 40th president played as a young man. Kids will love discovering where the famously fiscal conservative used to hide his pennies!

Northwestern Illinois is also the home of Civil War hero, General and President Ulysses S. Grant.

Upon retiring from the military, Grant and his family moved to Galena in 1860. He worked in a store owned by his father until he left to fight in the Civil War. After the war, he was presented with a ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:34 AM

MUSEUMS home for his family on Bouthillier Street, but was elected to be the 18th president. He continued to visit Galena during and after his presidency, and The Grant Home (granthome.com) has been maintained in its original state since.

Galena offers family-friendly events during the fall season, such as Oktoberfest, the Country Fair and an epic Halloween parade (galena.org).

Lincoln If Galena is too far for a history lesson, Museum visit a large outdoor memorial to Grant with a sculpture of the former president atop his horse in Lincoln Park. home of Lincoln’s tomb, where he was Lincoln may be the state’s most buried in 1865 (oakridgecemetery.org). famous president, and tributes to The 117-foot-tall tomb Honest Abe can be contains the bodies of found throughout the Lincoln, his wife Mary and state. three of their children. It’s Start in Chicago at said that rubbing the nose Senn Park, Garfield of the statue out front will bring you good luck.

Park, Lincoln Square, Lincoln Park or Grant For a more modern presidential history lesson, Park—all of which are home to statues of the take a tour around President 16th president.

Obama’s old stomping Then head south to grounds in Chicago.

Springfield, which is home Visit the Baskin Robbins to enough Lincoln-related on East 53rd Street. It’s not sites to fill a whole weekthe exact spot where the end. president took First Lady Start at the Abraham Michelle Obama for their Lincoln Presidential first date in 1989, but it is Library and Museum, just a few doors down. At South Shore Cultural Center 212 N. Sixth St. (illinois. the entrance of Dorchesgov/alplm), to learn all the ter Commons shophistory and lore surrounding ping center (1418 E. 53rd), you’ll find a plaque Lincoln. (You can even try on that iconic stovecommemorating the first couple’s first kiss (talk pipe hat!) Then, head out to see where Lincoln about sweet!). Take in the beauty of the lived with his wife and their four sons with South Shore Cultural Center a stop at The Lincoln Home, which has (chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks/ been designated a National Historic Site South-Shore-Cultural-Center), (nps.gov/liho). where the couple said their vows A visit to the state capitol building just a few years later. Visit the Uniwill bring you to another statue of versity of Chicago’s Lincoln just outside.

Hyde Park campus, End the trip with a stop at where the president Oak Ridge Cemetery, the taught from 19922004 (nearby Midway Grant Memorial Plaisance Park offers ice skating in the winter).

The Obamas still own their home in the Kenwood neighborhood, although when they are back for a visit, the street is blanketed with heavy security.

And while it won’t be built for a few years yet, The Obama Presidential Center will be located in the Jackson Park neighborhood, also home to the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_025.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 25

9/8/16 2:25 PM

MUSEUMS Proud to be

A NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

CELEBRATE AT THE Y Make your event memorable and fun. The Y is available for all of your party rental needs.

Find a location near you at ymcachicago.org/locations

Be a part of something greater.

Photos: Shalimar B Photography

Start your child’s path to great learning and discovery at Northside Catholic Academy. We offer a challenging, diversified curriculum that includes foreign language, music, art, computer science and athletics. Our dedicated and experienced faculty inspire NCA students to grow in faith, intellect and character. Yet, what’s even greater is the sense of belonging you’ll feel when you join our community. Within this nurturing environment, your child and your entire family will thrive.

• Half-Day and Full-Day Preschool • Top-Ranked Academics • Small Class Size • Affordable Extended Care Northside Now Accepting 2017-18 Applications Catholic

Academy

Visit Us at an Open House • Tuesday, October 25, at 9am • Tuesday, December 6, at 9am • Sunday, January 29, 10am-12pm • Tuesday, April 4, at 9am

Northside Catholic Academy For more information call 773-743-6277 or visit www.northsidecatholic.org 26 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_026.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:35 AM

MUSEUMS

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

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive,

Elmhurst Art Museum 150 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202

Free admission: Fridays.

Always free for kids under 5.

Chicago (312) 922-STAR

Free admission: Oct. 10; Nov. 11. Always free for kids 2 and under.

Elmhurst History Museum 120 E. Park Ave., A Elmhurst 833-1457 (630) 833-145

Free admission admission: Always free.

Art Institute of Chic Chicago icag ic ag ago 111 S. Michigan Ave. Ave., ve., ve.

FField ield Mus Museu Museum eum eu

Chicago

1400 S. Lake Shore Drive,

(312) 85 857-7161 57-71 7-7161 61

go o Chicago

Free aadmission: dmissi dmi ssion:: 5ssi 5-88 p.m. p.m.

Thursd rsday rsd ay . Alwa ays ways wa ys fre freee fo ffor or Thursdays.

Always kids 1133 an aand nd und der. under.

9222-9410 2(312) 92 922-9410

Cantigny ntiggny Par Park and nd Fir First st sion Museum Museum m Division 1S151 1 Winfield Road, oad,

Freee adm Fre aadmission: dmission: Sept dm Sept. 19; Oct. Oct 22,, 16, 30-31; Nov. 27.

Joliet Jol iet AArea reaa Historical Museum M useum um

Wheaton ton

204 N. O 20 Ottawa tta a St., Joliet ttaw

(630) 668-5161

(815 8 ) 72 23-5 5201 (815) 723-5201

Free admission: dmission: Al Alway Always wayss way rking is $10, free on free. Parking the first Wednesday of the month.

Free adm Free Fr admission: missi missi ssion: on Oct. 10; Nov. Nov ov.. 25. ov 5

Chicago Children’s Museum 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago (312) 527-1000

Free admission: 5-8 p.m.

Thursdays; first Sunday of every month for kids 15 and under. Always free for kids under 1.

Liz Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art 220 Cottage Hill Ave.,

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

Notebaert Nature Museum

425 W. State St., Sycamore

Chicago (773) 755-5100

Free admission: The first Wednesday and Thursday of every month. Oct. 11-14; Nov. 22-25.

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

Museum of Contemporary Art 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago 60 (312) 280-2660

(630) 833-1616

Free admission: sion: 10 a.m.-88 days. Always ys fr free ee p.m. Tuesdays. for kids 122 and under.

Free admission: Fridays.

McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum

(773) 947-0600

Free admission: Sundays.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_027.indd 1

1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 939-2438

Free admission: Sept. 19-20, 26 Oct. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 26-27; 5 31; Nov. 1, 7-8, 14-15, 24-25, 21-22, 21 2, 28-29.

21-22,

Smart Sma rt Mu Mus Museum eum oof Art

5700 S. Lake Shore Drive Drive, ve,, ve

Chicago o 702-0200 (773)) 702-02 (773 70 2-020 2-02

(312) 977-0227

ago Chicago 3) 684-1414 (773)

Free admission: Sundays.

Free ee admission: n: Se Sept Sept. pt 19 pt.

19-23 19-23, -23,, -23

Freee admi Fre aadmission: dmissi dmi ss Always free. free.

Chicago

5550 0 S. Gr Greenw Greenwood Ave.,

26-30; 30; Oct. 4-6; Nov. 3,, 10 10.

Midway Village Museum

740 E. 56th Place, Chicago

Shedd Aquarium

Museum m of Sc Science cien ence en ce and ry Industry

Free admission: Oct. 10-12.

DuSable Museum of African American History

2430 N. Cannon Drive,

(815) 895-9777

Elmhurst

99 Chicago Riverwalk,

Chicago History Museum

Midwest Museum of Natural History

6799 Guilford Road, Rockford

Free admission: Thursdays in September-November; Tuesdays in November.

National Museum of Mexican Art

Wilmette Historical eum Museum 609 Ridge Road, Wilmette

1852 W. 19th St., Chicago

(847) 853-7666

(312) 738-1503

Free admission: Always free.

Free admission: Always free.

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 27

9/8/16 2:09 PM

CITY

What’s hot in

UKRAINIAN VILLAGE

I

BY EMILY ADAMS

n-the-know Chicagoans have treasured Ukrainian Village for a long time, but this tiny ’hood made headlines when real estate website Redfin named it America’s “Hottest Neighborhood of 2016.” So what’s making this corner of the city sizzle? We have a few guesses.

Black Dog Gelato No hot list for Ukrainian Village would be the right temperature without Black Dog Gelato to cool it down.

This local fave has the goods for every season, with an ever-changing and refreshingly original selection of rich, creamy gelato. 859 N. Damen; blackdogchicago.com

Dollop Bakeshop Whisk Not only is Whisk one of the friendliest brunch spots in the city, but it also hosts the most impressive Ron Swanson memorabilia collection you’ve ever seen (Parks & Rec FTW).

The kids’ menu includes Mickey Mouse Pancakes and sandwiches with kid-appropriate names such as the “I Don’t Care,” the “I Don’t Know” and the “Whatever.” The funky and warm atmosphere, paired with scrumptious comfort food and an old-school soundtrack, is the best way to kickstart your day in the village. As Ron Swanson says, “There has never been a sadness that can’t be cured by breakfast food.” 2018 W. Chicago Ave.; whiskchicago.com 28 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_028.indd 1

Beloved local coffee chain Dollop Coffee Co. has finally opened a bakery where you can eat their soft, flaky, handmade croissants every day, and it’s pretty much perfection. The bakeshop is as light

and airy as the pastries, and it’s an idyllic spot to chill and people-watch while sipping Metropolis Coffee. 1000 N. Damen; dollopcoffee.com

Ukrainian National Museum What better way to get to know the neighborhood than by immersing yourself in its culture and history? Luckily, Chicago has one of the largest Ukrainian museums in the country, and there’s no better time to visit than this fall, when the museum is hosting kid-friendly storytellers and artists. Check website for the event schedule. 2249 W. Superior St.; ukrainiannational museum.org ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 1:33 PM

CITY

Sprout S p San Francisco If you have a babe at home or even know someone with one, you need to check out Sprout. Warning: the precious collection of little clothes, toys and more will completely consume your attention for a while (and maybe give you baby fever).

Fortunately, the store also has a playpen and changing table, so go ahead, lose yourself to cuteness. 1943 W. Division; sproutsanfrancisco.com

Commercial Park Once you’re caffeinated, head to Commercial Park to let the kids stretch their legs at any of the three charming, relaxed playlots that have slides, swings, splash pads, play structures and more.

Check out the website for a park event schedule. 1845 W. Rice St.; commercialpark.org

Komoda This sweet boutique has the perfect gifts for every occasion, and mommas everywhere need to stock up. We won’t blame you for spending some extra time at the jewelry counter for a little something for yourself. 2559 W. Chicago Ave.; shopkomoda.com ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_029.indd 1

Hoosier Mama Pie Company Pie is life, and Hoosier Mama Pie Company is as mouthwatering as a pie shop can be.

Featured on Food Network, the little storefront is lovely, but the pies travel excellently as well, just in case you’re hankering for a picnic or a midnight snack after your day of insane family fun. 1618 1/2 Chicago Ave.; hoosiermama pie.com

Roots Handmade Pizza Finish your day off with a hearty, delicious dinner.

Kids are going to love, and we mean love, Roots. The full menu, including all the topnotch pizza options and the uhh-mazing garlic monkey bread bites, is made in-house.

And parents won’t mind the extensive craft drink menu, either. Win, win, garlic monkey win. 1924 W. Chicago Ave.; rootspizza.com Fall 2016 • goingplaces 29

9/8/16 1:33 PM

GOING PLACES

KUIPERS FAMILY FARM

PUMPKIN FARM

FARMVIEW TRAIN

Located in Maple Park | (815)827-5200

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.

4520 N. Western • Chicago, IL 60625 www.queenofangelschicago.org (773) 769-4211 2016-2017 Enrollment Information Tours - 8:30 am October 5th • November 2nd • December 7th January 11th • February 1st • March 8th April 5th • May 3rd Open House: Sunday, January 29th, 2017 - 10:30am to 1:30am

30 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_030.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 1:45 PM

CITY

Fabiana’s Alliance Bakery Bakery

Let them eat

Cake

L

BY JENNY MUSLIN

ooking to satisfy your sweet tooth (or a bunch of teeny-tiny ones)? These Chicago bakeries are indulgent, kid-friendly and sure to give you a sugar rush when you’re craving a sweet treat.

Dinkel’s 3329 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago dinkels.com Talk about nostalgia! Dinkel’s in Lakeview has been serving up delectable baked goods since 1922. Rows upon rows of beautifully frosted cookies in shapes like butterflies, dinosaurs and ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_031.indd 1

Dinkel’s

cars will grab the attention of your kiddos. The old-fashioned doughnuts have acquired a cult following and pair perfectly with a cup of coffee for the grown-ups.

Sweet Mandy B’s 1208 W. Webster Ave., Chicago sweetmandybs.com A sugar-infused dream for any child (or parent!), this retro bakery is a can’t-miss Lincoln Park hotspot for sweet cupcakes in a variety of flavors, as well as throwback confections like a gooey s’more or classic banana pudding. If your child enjoys baking or has shown a flair for it, Sweet Mandy B’s hosts cupcake-making workshops for littles.

CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 3 2

Fall 2016 6 • goingplac goingplaces aces 31

9/8/16 1:44 PM

CITY BAKERIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

Café Ca fé SSelmarie elma el mari ma riee ri 4729 N. Linc Lincoln oln l Ave., Ch Chicago cafeselmarie.com Although Alth Alt Al l hou hough h thi this his Li LLincoln incoln inc l Squar SSquare quaree cafe popular brunch spot, caffe is i a po pular l b runch h sp ot,t cakes, tortes, cookies cakes, to torte rtes, s, pie pies, s, coo cookie kiess and and pastries take center stage in the bakery. Your kids will probably veer decadent veer towa ttoward rd d th the d ecad dentt

Cafe Selmarie

buns orr ffruit cinnamon i b uns o ruit it ttarts. arts. t Parents appreciate P arents t will ill ap ppre p ciat i te th the plethora patio p ple thora of pat p io seating g during g the nice days y we havee left hav lleft, eft, as as well well as th thee akiest flak kiest croissants aand nd d you’ve bitten scones sco nes yo you’v u vee ever ever bi bitte tten n into.

Cookie Bar

Cookie Co okie k Bar 1746 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago cookiebaronline.com With the abundance of adults and children who can’t tolerate gluten, Cookie Bar reigns supreme. This glutenfree bakery serves up mouthwatering cookies, brownies, bars, cupcakes, doughnuts and more, in addition to many gluten-free vegan options. If your child prefers cookies, the giant cookie pizza makes the perfect special occasion treat and was even featured on The Food Network.

Alliance Bakery 1736 W. Division St., Chicago alliance-bakery.com Beautiful French macarons (consistently named the best in Chicago), savory and sweet croissants, cake pops and cupcakes are just a sampling of what you’ll find at this charming bakery in Wicker Park. The impressive 3-D cakes (in the shape of a beloved book or Disney character, for example) are also worth mentioning for an extra-special birthday cake.

Middle School (Grades 6-8) Middle School (Grades 6-8)

Saturday,October October 2422 Saturday, 1 p.m.

1 p.m.

Upper School (Grades 9-12)

Middle School (Grades 6-8) Upper School (Grades 9-12) Saturday, November 21 Saturday, October 24 10 a.m. November 19 Saturday, 1 p.m.

Apply to Parker 10 Uppera.m.

School (Grades 9-12)

Visit fwparker.org/apply

Saturday, November 21 • Accepting applications for Grades JK-12 Apply to Parker 10 a.m.

Visit fwparker.org/apply

ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE RSVP fwparker.org/openhouse

ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE

Apply to Parker

•Visit Accepting applications fwparker.org/apply Grades JK-12for Grades JK-12 • for Accepting applications

FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL | 330 W. WEBSTER AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60614

RSVP fwparker.org/openhouse FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL 330 W. WEBSTER AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60614

FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL | 330 W. WEBSTER AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60614

32 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_032.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 1:44 PM

CITY

Fabiana’s Bakery 5655 S. University Ave., Chicago fabianasbakery.net This gem in Hyde Park is located inside the University Church on the University of Chicago campus.

You’ll see many students and university staff enjoying lattes and pastries, but kids are welcome and there’s ample seating. Kids will love the banana pudding and cupcakes while grown-ups should try the delicious breads or a slice of the vegan coconut cake.

Don’t Forget About: ✻ More Cupcakes, Sprinkles Cupcakes and Molly’s Cupcakes for (no surprise here!) cupcakes. ✻ Floriole Cafe and Bakery for delicate French pastries and hearty breads sourced from local ingredients. ✻ Hoosier Mama Pie Company and Bang Bang Pie for homemade pies in a rotating array of flavors.

Alliance Bakery

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_033.indd 1

✻ Summer House for the most delicious chocolate chip cookie you’ll ever taste.

✻ Southport Grocery for the best gluten-free cupcakes in the city. ✻ Kingsbury Cafe for oversized meringues, iced sugar cookies and muffins almost too pretty to eat. ✻ Roeser’s Bakery for yummy baked goods including doughnuts worthy of five stars. ✻ Vanille Patisserie for beautiful French pastries and other goodies that will transport you straight to Europe.

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 33

9/8/16 1:44 PM

CITY

As the leaves turn

The Nichols Bridgeway

S

BY ELIZABETH DIFFIN

unglow. Mango Tango. Scarlet. This is the time of year that those colors jump straight out of your kids’ crayon boxes and into the trees, creating striking vistas wherever you go.

But you don’t have to trek out to the ‘burbs to get an eyeful of Mother Nature’s colorful show. Fall foliage can be found right here in Chicago … if you just know where to look.

X The Nichols Bridgeway

(Bonus points if you can find (159 E. Monroe St.), which the painting entitled “Autumn” connects Millennium Park to in the museum’s impressive the Art Institute’s Modern Wing, collection.) offers a clear view You can check of the changing out the fall colors of the colors from park’s poputhe water lar Lurie when you Garden paddle unbelow. Or der falling drop in to leaves at the Ryan Columbus Learning Park (500 S. Center to Central Ave.). see if you can On Oct. 8, famiHotel Lincoln translate those lies can learn how vivid reds, yellows to canoe around and oranges into works of art. the lagoon, plus learn a little bit

X

34 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_034.indd 1

about the natural history of the area at the same time. Or bring along your fishing rod and see if you can catch a fish, city-style (fishing license is required, but is free for kids under 16).

X Squeeze in some leaf-

peeping on a Chicago staycation: Hotel Lincoln (1816 N. Clark St.) boasts stunning views of Lincoln Park in all of its autumnal beauty. It’s an easy jaunt from the hotel to Lincoln Park Zoo, Oz Park and Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.

But if you can find a sitter, you might want to make it an adults-only overnight—the J. Parker bar has a rooftop … and a signature cocktail called Liquid Sunshine.

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:39 AM

CITY

X The leaves in Palmer

Square Park (2200 N. Kedzie Ave.) aren’t just above your head; they’re also on the benches. This park, inspired by classic children’s book The Velveteen Rabbit, features seven acres of green space, which turn a little golden in the fall. It’s also a favorite spot for a picnic—as long as you remember to bring along some extra blankets.

X We honestly didn’t think

we could love Honey Butter Fried Chicken (3361 N. Elston Ave.) more—until we visited its patio in autumn. The climbing ivy changes color the same way the leaves do, giving a seasonal thrill to chowing down on the alreadydelicious fried chicken and waffles. Kids will love playing with the outdoor magnet wall

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_035.indd 1

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

X The manmade peninsula of

Photo courtesy Kelly Ishikawa

while parents sip a cider or bourbon—perfect fall drinks, imho.

Burnham Park’s Promontory Point (5491 S. Shore Drive) juts into Lake Michigan and is home to a number of leafy trees that put on a show come autumn.

Looking to take a memorable family photo for your holiday cards? The castle-like fieldhouse makes for a stunning backdrop/ fairytale-come-to-life.

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 35

9/9/16 2:39 PM

ALWAYS LEGENDARY

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

Like no other destination, Springfield offers the best of Lincoln, the nostalgia of Route 66 and so much more! Exciting family memories are waiting for you in Abraham Lincoln’s hometown.

Plan on Springfield for a legendary family experience.

VISITSPRINGFIELDILLINOIS.COM

800-545-7300

Visit Springfield: Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Right Fit For Your Kids

36 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_036.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/9/16 11:22 AM

4

T R AV E L

EASY AMTRAK TREKS

Photo courtesy Amtrak

S

BY DANIELLE BRAFF

atisfy your child’s train obsession and give yourself a break from the car with these easy Amtrak getaways.

You won’t have to worry about the TSA, overbooked flights or traffic—and your child will be mesmerized by the scenery outside rather than the iPad. Basically, it’s a win-win.

throwback ice cream parlors line the street.

But the best part is the beach, which you can practically spot from the train. It’s got a playground that will stop kids in their tracks as soon as their feet hit the sand, and it has those picture-perfect, Facebook-worthy views that have garnered Michigan its summer vacay reputation.

Train trip from Chicago Galesburg Travel time 2 hours and 30 minutes Enjoy the journey You’re deposited in a tiny town, right next to the Discovery Depot Children’s Museum (discoverydepot.org).

This gem was recently renovated Note: Prices depend on date and and will provide hours of fun time of travel. for toddlers through teens.

Best of all, it doesn’t get too Train trip from Chicago crowded. True train fans will New Buffalo, Mich. never get enough of their Travel time 1 hour and 15 passion, so be sure to check minutes out the Galesburg Railroad Enjoy the journey Amtrak Museum (galesburg drops you across the street from railroadmuseum.org), which The Harbor Grand hotel (harbor is connected to the Amtrak grand.com). Here, no car is necesstation. It’s packed with railroad sary. If it rains, you can stay inside your memorabilia, and kids get to hotel, where you’ve got an indoor pool, Photo courtesy Danielle Braff go through an old Pullman car, a hot tub, a never-ending a mail car, baggage car, steam engine and a supply of fresh coffee and a caboose. It’s perfect for railroad buffs young restaurant open for dinner and old[er]. When it’s time for lunch, walk over (breakfast is a complimentary to Baked (seminarystreet.com/baked.aspx) for delivery to your room). There are pizza or to The Packinghouse Dining Company plenty of restaurants within a block (packinghousedining.com) for sandwiches and of your hotel (we are obsessed some of the best cinnamon buns ever. with The Stray Dog Bar & Grill, thestraydog.com), CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 3 8 and a handful of ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_037.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 37

9/8/16 2:09 PM

T R AV E L AMTRAK

CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 3 7

It’s not school, it’s Quest!

Photo courtesy Blagica Bottigliero

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

Open House Schedule 2016-2017 Thursday, November 3, 2016 Grades K – 8 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, February 15, 2017 Grades K – 8 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Preschool & Pre-K Playdates Saturday, January 21, 2017 Saturday, March 18, 2017 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.

Tours available by appointment, group tours scheduled on Wednesdays.

Schedule a visit today.

Contact our Admission Office at admission@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438

500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067 questacademy.org 38 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_038.indd 1

Train trip from Chicago BloomingtonNormal Travel time 2 hours and 45 minutes Enjoy the journey When you hop off the train, you can’t miss The Children’s Discovery Museum (childrensdiscoverymuseum.net), and you’ll have a hard time getting your kids to leave. It’s like a children’s museum and a science museum in one, with agricultural areas, water exploration centers, interactive health and biology exhibits and of course, a kitchen where kids can pretend to make pizzas. Plus, there are craft rooms, music and theater activities, and glass painting walls. If you can escape, bring a picnic and spread out in the grassy area (technically called Uptown Circle) just outside the museum by the river. There’s also Constitution Trail (constitutiontrail.org), a three-mile walk, if you want to stretch your legs. Not in the mood for a picnic? There are lots of restaurants in walking distance, including Windy City Wieners (windycitywieners.com) and Firehouse Pizza (firehousepizza911.com). The Marriott Hotel and Hyatt hotel are within a few blocks.

Train trip from Chicago St. Louis Travel time 5 hours and 30 minutes Enjoy the journey This trip is for baseball fans. Busch Stadium is walking distance from the Amtrak station, as is the St. Louis City Center Hotel (stlouiscitycenterhotel.com) with the mandatory heated indoor pool for kids who need their vacation-worthy splash, the musttake photo spot Gateway Arch (gatewayarch. com) and tons of restaurants. There’s really no need for a car, since there is also a subway station as soon as you hop off the train. Be sure to make time for the Saint Louis Zoo (stlzoo.org), City Museum, a 600,000-square-foot children’s playground (citymuseum.org) and Grant’s Farm, a nearly 300-acre wildlife preserve that has more than 900 animals (grantsfarm.com).

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:09 PM

T R AV E L

Chill out in Iceland

T

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DANIELLE BRAFF

his summer, my family boarded a plane at O’Hare International Airport, and six hours later, we entered the most magical place in the world. And we were practically the only tourists there.

Icelandair recently began offering direct flights from Chicago to Iceland, which makes it so much easier for families to travel to the land of hot pots, lagoons and the freshest air and water, possibly on earth.

It also happens to be incredibly kid-friendly, thanks to the Icelandic obsession with pools.

Our flight landed at about 6 a.m. Iceland time (there’s a five-hour difference), and my groggy family of myself, my husband and our two girls, ages 4 and 7, took a taxi over to the Blue Lagoon. It’s about halfway between the airport and Reykjavik, so it’s best to do this on your way to or from the airport.

The Blue Lagoon is a natural pool made of 70 percent sea water and 30 percent fresh water, heated by a Svartsengi geothermal plant to a lovely 100 degrees. Before you get

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_039.indd 1

into the water, you have to wash off in a communal shower, and then you can enter. In the center of the lagoon are tubs of mud masks that you can apply to your face (we did this about a dozen times, no joke).

We spent the rest of the day exploring Reykjavik, which is best done with a City Card, giving you unlimited access to the buses, museums and many of the city pools.

Plan to spend a few days in Reykjavik, which is packed with museums about Iceland’s culture and heritage. It’s also home to the zoo and the Family Park. The zoo isn’t too impressive compared to Chicago’s, but the Family Park (connected to the zoo) is extraordinary. Children can get inside gigantic balls and roll onto the water; they can get drive child-sized bulldozers; they can jump on an Icelandic bouncy house, which is essentially a gigantic trampoline. It’s easy to spend a full day there.

CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 4 0

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 39

9/8/16 11:41 AM

T R AV E L ICELAND

CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 3 9

While Reykjavik is Iceland’s “downtown,” you’d miss much of Iceland’s beauty by staying there for your entire trip. Instead, rent a car and head south along the Golden Circle (about an hour away). The entire drive is so breathtakingly beautiful that you’ll want to pull over every few minutes to take pictures. Even the Iceland prison (which holds a whopping 150 people) overlooks mountains and fields because there are no bad views here.

Along the way south, you’ll hit Pingvellir National Park, where the Vikings established their first national parliament.

It’s also a fun spot to take an easy hike with the kids.

Next, you’ll come to Geysir, a hot water spout that’s been active for 800 years. Every few minutes, it shoots water straight up in the air! After all that excitement, super-adventurous

kids—and active parents—can climb a tall mountain and be rewarded with some of the most incredible views in Iceland. Our 4-year-old was able to do it, but I was panting by the time I reached the top.

Be sure to visit Gullfoss, a spectacular waterfall, with just two ropes to separate you from a 100-foot drop. The view is amazing, so of course we posed our children in front of it. (#InstagramMom)

• Lite Brite Wall • Climbing Wall • Water Play • Transportation Station • Engineering Mega Station • Tubes and Tunnels • Toddler area • Dress up Stage • Birthday Parties 4701 Oakton Street, Skokie (847) 674-1500, ext. 2700 40 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_040.indd 1

SkokieParks.org ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:42 AM

T R AV E L

FARM FRESH

FRUITS & VEGETABLES Jams, Jellies, Local Honey, Syrup & Much More!

• U-Pick Peaches in August* • • Apples Starting Late September/Early October • WE GROW 25 VARIETIES OF APPLES, INCLUDING HONEYCRISP! *Availability Dependent on weather. Please call ahead.

Open Daily 9am-6pm May- October

Stop for lunch at Fridheimar, a tomato greenhouse (you get to eat inside the actual 269-429-0596 greenhouse), which specializes in soup made 3151 Niles Road (M-63) from their tomatoes, picked that morning. Next, St. Joseph, MI walk over to the farm’s horse stables to watch a Exit 27 Off I-94 short horse show, where you’ll learn the history of Icelandic horses (they’re different from the American kind!).

If you actually want to ride a horse, you can do this at Eldhestar. Kids younger than 5 aren’t Nye's ESC072015.indd 1 14510 IL Route 176 7/13/15 allowed on a regular horse tour, but you can pay Woodstock, IL a little extra for a private tour if you have smaller 815-338-5637 kids. We now have two budding jockeys on our hands! Our guide taught us how to trot, and allseasonsorchard.com he obliged when our 4-year-old wanted to go faster, faster, faster.

We went to another farm for some dessert. At Efsi Dalur, a dairy farm, we ate ice cream right in front of the cows that provided the cream.

While you’re driving around, you’ll hit plenty of hot pots, or pools. The naturally hot water has made these a main attraction. We stopped OPEN SEPT 3 TO OCT 30 at Fontana in the Southwest (a swanky spa that 10am - 5pm weekdays, had two Jacuzzis and a few smaller pools, steam room and sauna), Laugardalslaug in Reykjavik 10am - 6pm on weekends & holidays (a kid fave with a scary water slide, two kiddie slides and a Jacuzzi), plus the Blue Lagoon. But there’s at least one hot pot in every neighborhood, so keep an eye out.

This is one international trip where you may not learn a single word of the language. But you apple picking • pumpkin patch • corn maze will remember how food tastes when it’s eaten on the farm where it’s produced. You’ll breathe • pig races • apple cider donuts air that’s totally pure. And you’ll come home • fresh pressed cider • caramel apples ready to convince everyone you know that • jumping pillow • petting zoo • pony rides Iceland needs to be on their family’s bucket list.

• Country Kitchen • Farm Market and more ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_041.indd 1

3:12 PM

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 41

9/8/16 11:43 AM

T R AV E L

STOP AND SMELL TH

L

BY EMILY ADAMS

ife is just a little cozier in Portland. And how could it not be, with twinkle lights lining cobblestone streets at every turn, streetcars sliding around town in all their vintage glory and mom-andpop food trucks on every corner? You’ve gotta love a city that has enough indie coffeehouses and artistic prowess to please the hipster homies and Portlandia peeps, but enough breathtaking beauty and adventure to make it a spectacular destination for just about everyone— rose-colored glasses not required.

For the bookworms If there were a bookstore I could actually live in, Powell’s City of Books would be home. Beloved by the entire Portland community, this block-wide piece of heaven has everything, organized by every possible wacky interest area, and is the largest new and used bookstore in the world. Now just try telling me that isn’t sexy. exy. powells.com

For the coffee addicts Say what you will about hipsters, but they do coffee right. Although sipping a cup o’ joe at any of the adorable little shops in town is pure bliss, Stumptown Coffee Roasters is popular enough to be the Starbucks in a why-would-you-ever-go-to-Starbuckswith-all-these-options world. It’s a regular vice for locals. stumptowncoffee.com

42 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_042.indd 1

For the artists at heart In a city where it’s almost the law to be crafty, the Portland Saturday Market is Michigan Avenue. Portland’s largest outdoor arts and crafts market is open every weekend, MarchDecember, and sells local artisan goods that will make your Pinterest boards come to life.

With yummy food trucks, fantastic live music and play are areas for kiddos, it’s pretty much the best bes way to spend an afternoon. portlandsaturdaymarket.com portl

For the foodies F Ask any local where to eat in P Portland, and they’ll direct you tto one (or 10) of the nearly 700 food trucks. You really can’t go fo wrong with any of them, but w Pine Pin State Biscuits (which can be fo found at the Port Portland Farmers Mar Market) is worth the line. Tip: get your drink, appetizer, entree and dessert at different trucks to optimize every mealtime experience.

Which brings me to my next point—the Portland Farmers Market. If the Saturday Market is the perfect afternoon, then the Farmers Market is host to everything that is glorious about a Portland morning.

Last but not least, no trip to Rose City would be complete without a stop at BridgePort Brewing, which claims to be Oregon’s oldest craft brewery. pinestate biscuits.com; portlandfarmersmarket.org; bridgeportbrew.com ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:43 AM

T R AV E L

THE CITY OF ROSES Where to stay Looking for a comfy family hotel to stay in the heart of Portland? Try the Residence Inn by Marriott in the Pearl District, which puts you in walking or biking distance of almost all the major attractions. If you’re going out to the Gorge or Washington Park, just Uber it. marriott.com

For the nature lovers Thought the City of Roses was just a cute nickname? Think again! The International Rose Test Garden is flat-out gorgeous and the prettiest photo op you’re likely to encounter, so bring the selfie sticks. Next door, make sure to walk over to the Portland Japanese Garden for the serenity you’ve been missing in your life. e. Both of these must-sees are in Washington ton Park. When you’re planning yourr vacay, make sure to leave an entire day to explore this gorgeous spot, which includes the Oregon Zoo, Portland Children’s Museum, tons of trails to hike, and more. explorewashingtonpark.org

For the adventurers Speaking of hiking, another day trip that might be one of the coolest things you ever do is a family-friendly hike up Multnomah Falls. Because waterfalls.

While you’re at it, the entire Columbia River Gorge is something to see. Whether you’re hikers, campers, bikers or water sportsmen, you’d be hard-pressed to find more spectacular Northwestern scenery. traveloregon.com

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_043.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 43

9/8/16 11:44 AM

S TA G E

44 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_044.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 4:52 PM

S TA G E

SPOOKY

STAGECRAFT

W

BY KEELY FLYNN

hether you like ‘em spooky or sparkly, Chicago’s bringing you a pillowcase full of Halloween productions this October.

You’ll find more than your fair share of spine-shivering spectaculars … if you dare, that is.

Young Frankenstein Consider it your solemnly sworn parental duty to expose your kids to this classic comedy, adapted from the Oscar-nominated Mel Brooks romp of the same name.

Following in someone’s footsteps is oh-so-hard, and no one knows it better than Dr. Frankenstein, grandson of the original Dr. Frankenstein and his “bring a corpse to life” infamy. The young doc is setting out to complete the life’s work of his g grandfather and, with sidekicks like an eager Igor, a distrac distractingly divine lab assistan and a fiancé who, assistant c frankly, couldn’t give two bolts for anyone else, how can he lose? Performed in a newly renovated th theater in downtown Lake Forest, the show L brings more all-ages b laughs than you can la shake a tap-dancing s monster foot at. m Runs through Oct. 30 R John & Nancy Hughes Theater, Theate 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest Fo lakeforesttheatre.org la ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_045.indd 1

Magic Parlour Halloween is the season for reveling in the otherworldly and the suspension of disbelief; what could be more fitting, then, than an evening of “sophisticated tomfoolery” in an historic hotel as storied as (and dating back to) the Great Chicago Fire itself? Guests arriving at the stunning Palmer House Hilton’s Potter’s Lounge will be led to a private performance venue for an intimate, mind-blowing performance by third generation magician Dennis Watkins. Hot on the heels of his lauded turn as the titular character in The House Theatre’s Death and Harry Houdini, Watkins will showcase his award-winning blend of sleight-of-hand, mentalism and more during this 75-minute performance. Although occurring later in the evening, this show is all-ages friendly. But moms and dads? Your $75 tickets include beer and wine, which is more than you can say for any other shows you’ll take them to this season.

Runs through Nov. 26 Palmer House Hilton Hotel, 17 E. Monroe St., Chicago thehousetheatre.com CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 4 6

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 45

9/8/16 11:44 AM

S TA G E S P O O K Y CO N T I N U E D F R O M PAG E 4 5

Dr. Seward’s Dracula It’s a question as old as Nosferatu: what happened after Bram Stoker’s tale of the Prince of Darkness left off?

Dr. John Seward, administrator of the local insane asylum, has shut out the world after the deaths of his friends and lover at the hands of Dracula.

But when Irish author Bram Stoker persuades Seward to hear his side of the story—and very familiar murders begin anew—he realizes he has a lot of work to do. The gorgeous Mayslake Peabody Estate provides just the right gothic touch for the Chicago premiere

of Joseph Zettelmaier’s spooky production. Have offspring just starting to sink their teeth into all things ings vampiric? This is just what the doctor (or dentist) ordered ordered—and and delivered deliveered in a performance palatable to your m middle-schoolers i le-schoolers idd on up. (Family-friendly (Family-friend dlyy theatrical vampires?

Take that, Twilight!)

Runs through Nov. 6 Mayslake Pea Peabody abody Estate, 1717 W. W 31st St.,, Oak St. O k Bro BBrook ok firstfolio.org

10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse Admit it: you don’t actually know ow what to do in the event of a zombie mbie apocalypse, do you? Never fear, because ecause Theatre-Hikes has your back (but not your brains). Part comedic tour de force, part actual walking tour, this hilarious production gives you helpful hints and strategies—all from the comfort of your very own picnic blanket.

(Concerned about mobility issuess while 46 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_046.indd 1

traipsing from scene to scene? The show features a low-impact performance day for patrons with hiking concerns.) Geared for age ages 8 and up—or those who don’t mind cartoonish gore and zombie makeup—this lighthearted remount will ensure you’ll never be caught unawares by the undead.

Runs weekends in October Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois 53, M Lisle, p plus various Chicago Park District parks theatre-hikes.org theat ChicagoParent.com

9/9/16 10:20 AM

S TA G E

AT LINCOLN PARK ZOO

Rides, Pumpkin Patch, Corn Maze, Music & More Fridays–Sundays, September 30 – October 30 & Monday, October 10 10 a.m.–5 p.m. lpzoo.org/fallfest

One Free Ride AT&T Endangered Species Carousel Offer valid September 30–October 30, 2016 PRESENT THIS COUPON TO REDEEM

is part of your favorite social networks Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party!

Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_047.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 47

9/9/16 2:02 PM

S TA G E SEPTEMBER Saturday Morning Funnies Li’l Buds Theatre Company 5451 N. Broadway Chicago (773) 334-4543 lilbudstheatre.org Sept. 10-Oct. 29

A sketch comedy show for kids, inspired by kids, and performed by kids. Each episode is made up of short plays written by Li’l Buds and inspired by kids they have worked with.

These skits are performed by professional young actors. 10 a.m. Saturdays. $15, $10 kids.

The Explorers!

The Revival 1160 E. 55th St., Chicago (866) 811-4111 the-revival.com Sept. 24

Join the Explorers, a ragtag group of knowledgeseekers, as they adventure to unknown territory in search of learning and laughter. The show is comprised of short scenes, songs and interactive games. Each show centers on a new location and culminates in a short dance party/concert from a local musician. 4 p.m. $10.

Sleeping Beauty AlphaBet Soup Productions P.O. Box 85, Lombard (630) 932-1555 absproductions.com Sept. 28-Nov. 22

In a faraway kingdom, an evil sorceress casts a curse on the beautiful princess, causing her to sleep for 100 years. Sleeping Beauty’s spell can only be broken by true love’s kiss.

Playing at Joliet Junior College, North Central College, Museum of Science & Industry, Tivoli Theatre, Prairie Center for the Arts and more. 10:30 a.m. Check website for schedule. $8.50.

48 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_048.indd 1

Another Snowy Day with Beatrix Potter, see page 52.

Play ’N 90 Workshop Goodman Theatre 170 N. Dearborn St. Chicago (312) 443-3800 goodmantheatre.org Through Oct. 22

An interactive program for kids and parents/guardians to fashion a theatrical creation together—in 90 minutes. Led by actor, artist and educator Paul Whitehouse and teaching artists, participants work as a team to imagine a setting, characters, costumes and storyline, and perform for fellow participants. Recommended for families with kids 5-12. 9 a.m. Sept. 10 and 24; Oct. 8 and 22. Free; reservations required.

That’s Weird Grandma: It Came from the Voting Booth Barrel of Monkeys The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor) 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago (312) 409-1954 barrelofmonkeys.org Through Nov. 28

The new school year brings plenty of new sto-

ries—all conceived and written by Chicago Public School students and adapted and performed by Barrel of Monkeys Company Members. The lineup changes each week by audience vote, so no two shows are ever the same.

8 p.m. Mondays, Aug. 22-Oct. 3 and Oct. 24-Nov. 28. $12, $6 kids under 12.

Bri-Ko Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago (773) 327-5252 stage773.com Through Dec. 17

Blends sketch comedy, clowning, and an incredible array of props, with only a single word spoken in the 60-minute show. 2 p.m. Saturdays. $12, $6 kids 12 and under.

OCTOBER Diary of a Worm, a Spider & a Fly Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre

2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Oct. 1-Jan.7

Enter the world of insects with a cast of creepy crawly characters, and laugh at the trials of being a young bug in school. Through musical genres such as rap, hip-hop, pop, and Broadway standards, this choral comedy humanizes the life cycles of insects to celebrate and accept the passions and differences in every child. Taken from the books by Doreen Cronin. Recommended for ages 3-9. Check website for schedule. $19 and up.

Blue Man Group AutismFriendly Performance 3133 N. Halsted St. Chicago (773) 348-4000 blueman.com Oct. 2

Blue Man Group and Autism Speaks provide individuals with autism a slightly modified performance of the Blue Man Group. Minor changes will be made to the performance including the

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:48 PM

S TA G E reduction of sound levels during the performance.

Headphones also will be available upon request. In addition, there will be a calming environment in the lobby with bean bags, dim lights and quiet corners for anyone seeking a sensory break. 4 p.m. $49 ($5 of every ticket donated to Autism Speaks).

Dan Zanes Song Gusto Hour Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org Oct. 2

A chance for families to gather and sing at the top of their lungs with Grammy award-winning musician Dan Zanes. The atmosphere is loose, communal and festive. Songbooks will be made available in advance online and people are invited to bring instruments. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. $20, $18 members.

Jack and the Beanstalk Theatre at the Center The Center for Visual and Performing Arts 1040 Ridge Road Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255 theatreatthecenter.com Oct. 6-8

A musical following Jack’s adventure with five magic beans. Watch as the Beanstalk grow on stage and meet Jack’s dancing and Spanishspeaking cow Carmelita along with a goose that lays the golden eggs, a beautiful singing harp, a silly giant and his wacky wife. 9:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. weekdays; 10 a.m. and noon Saturdays. $9.50, $7.50 student.

The Kid Who Ran For President Chicago Playworks at DePaul University Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_049.indd 1

(312) 922-1999 theatreschool.depaul.edu Oct. 6-Nov. 12

Based on the books The Kid Who Ran for President and The Kid Who Became President by Dan Gutman. Check website for schedule. $8.

Playdate at Old Town School: The Exceptionals Old Town School of Folk Music 4545 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org Oct. 8

A multi-sensory experience designed to calm, delight and support children with sensitivities and special needs. Centered around the theme of growth and performed by teaching artists experienced and trained in the field of special education, the concert creates a safe, celebratory space. 10 a.m. $7, free members.

2016-2017 Season

Jack and the Beanstalk Oct. 6-8, 2016

The Story of the Nutcracker Dec. 5-17, 2016

Four Score and Seven Years Ago Jan. 17-20, 2017

The Tail of the Little Mermaid April 3-9, 2017 Box Office: 219-836-3255 Group Sales: 219-836-3258

TheatreAtTheCenter.com 1040 Ridge Rd., Munster, IN

Fancy Nancy The Musical Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook (847) 291-2367 northbrooktheatre.org Oct. 8-Nov. 12

Fancy Nancy is excited to be in her first show. When another girl gets the role she wanted, Nancy learns that with a little imagination, anything can be fancy. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Saturdays. $12.

A Light in the Dark: The Story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan Chicago Children’s Theatre The Ruth Page Center for Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago (872) 222-9555 chicagochildrenstheatre.org Oct. 12-23

The critically acclaimed dance story about a caring teacher who helped guide a blind and deaf girl into a life as an internationally acclaimed writer and political activist. Choreographed

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 49

9/8/16 2:48 PM

S TA G E

by Melissa Thodos and Ann Reinking. Recommended for families with kids 6 and up. Check website for schedule and cost.

Elizabeth Mitchell Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org Oct. 15

Critically acclaimed Smithsonian Folkways children’s recording artist returns to the Old Town School stage. 10:30 a.m. $16.

FamilyDance Matinee: The Seldoms Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago 1306 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 369-8330 colum.edu/dancecenter Oct. 15

The Seldoms present a special one-hour familyoriented performance after a free parent/child movement workshop with the artists. 3 p.m.; 2:15 p.m. workshop. $15; free kids under 12.

Shanghai Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China in “Shanghai Nights”

her friends as she travels through the forest to visit her Grandma. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. 10:30 a.m. weekdays; 1 p.m. Nov. 5 and 19. $12.

Billy Elliott The Musical Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook (847) 291-2367 northbrooktheatre.org Oct. 21-Nov. 6

The inspirational story of a young boy’s struggle to make his dreams come true. Contains material that may be unsuitable for younger or more sensitive audience members. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. $22.

Crocodiles, Copper Cups and Cream Puffs: Children’s Stories in Song Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago (773) 327-5252 stage773.com Oct. 22

Two short children’s operas: “The Mouse Deer and the Crocodile,” based on a Malaysian folktale, and “The Rootabaga Sto-

ries,” based on two selections from the Carl Sandburg volume of the same name. 2 p.m. $12, $6 kids 12 and under.

Hans Christian Andersen.

Recommended for families with kids 5 and up. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $15.

Fall Youth Circus

Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells!

The Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St., Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.org Oct. 22-30

This experience pairs professional artists and youth performers to create an original show and includes high-quality training in drama, dance, aerial and circus arts. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. $15, $12.50 kids.

Thumbelina Lifeline Theatre 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com Oct. 22-Nov. 27

Let your imagination soar with Thumbelina as she travels over streams, through forests, and on the wings of majestic birds in a powerful, dance-inspired tale about growing up and finding your own path, based on the story by

Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Oct. 22-Jan. 8

Based on the book series

by Barbara Park, this show explores the challenges of giving selflessly through humor and holiday joy as Junie B. Jones journeys through a Columbus Day school play, a holiday singalong concert, and Secret Santa Day. Recommended for ages 4-10. $19 and up.

Octonauts Live!

Rosemont Theatre 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont (847) 671-5100 rosemonttheatre.com Oct. 23

Features new and favorite songs from the entire crew of beloved underwater explorers, led by the intrepid Captain Barnacles, Lieutenant Kwazii and Medic Peso. Join

McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn (630) 942-4000 atthemac.org Oct. 16

This legendary troupe ranks amongst the best acrobatic teams in the world and has been thrilling audiences for 50 years with gravity-defying acts, contortionists and amazing feats of acrobatics, martial arts and more. 2 and 6 p.m. $47, $27 youth.

Little Red Riding Hood Chicago Kids Company 4104 N. Nashville Ave., Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Oct. 20-Nov. 5

Sing along with Red and

50 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_050.indd 1

The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of Goddesses, see page 53.

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:47 PM

S TA G E

Autumn Fest Saturday October 1 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Gouin Park

2400 Scott Street, Franklin Park

Veterans Park District FREE Family Holiday Events Kids Haunted House • Winterfest

veteransparkdistrict.org That’s Weird Grandma: It Came from the Voting Booth, see page 48. as they embark on an exciting quest through an aquatic world full of adventure, interactive opportunity and “mustsea” surprises. 2 p.m. $25-$43.

Jack and the Beanstalk Chicago Kids Company 4104 N. Nashville Ave., Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Oct. 27-Nov. 23

Jack and his dancing Spanish cow Carmelita try to save their village from the crazy Giant. Recommended for families with kids 2-12. 10:30 a.m. weekdays; 1 p.m. Nov. 12. $12.

Ghost Stories Aerial Dance Chicago 4028 W. Irving Park Road Loft A (2nd floor), Chicago (773) 463-4402 aerialdancechicago.org Oct. 28-30

An evening of kinetic artistry inspired by supernatural phenomenon and expressed through the medium of aerial dance. ADC producers and choreographers col-

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_051.indd 1

laborate to create amazing, otherworldly state sets using aerial fabrics, bungee cords, ropes and flying harnesses. Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. 7 p.m. $35.

Shen Yun Symphony Chicago Symphony Orchestra Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 294-3000 cso.org Oct. 29

Shen Yun Symphony Orchestra blends the spirit of Chinese music with the power of a Western orchestra. All-original compositions draw upon five millennia of culture and legends. Western strings, percussion, woodwinds and brass accentuate the sound of ancient Chinese instruments such as the two-stringed erhu and the plucked pipa. 2:30 p.m. $28-$128.

Early Childhood Classes, Youth Sports, Preschool, Special Recreation

708-343-5270 Follow our fun on Facebook & Twitter

Chicago Parent needs a few good moms and dads.

We are looking for friendly, outgoing readers to staff Chicago Parent booths at events throughout the city and suburbs. Must have a car and flexible schedule. Events are mainly on weekends.

Email Lori Smerz at lori@chicagoparent.com.

Spooky Singalong Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 51

9/8/16 5:00 PM

S TA G E (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org Oct. 29-30

A spooky, but not scary, sing-along. Wear Halloween costumes. Recommended for families with kids 12 and under. 10:30 a.m. $12.

Dia de los Muertos Chicago Sinfonietta (312) 236-3681 ext. 2 chicagosinfonietta.org Oct. 29-31

Chicago Sinfonietta explores feelings of loss, transformation and celebration through evocative music and silent films provided by Chicago Film Archives. In conjunction with this concert, the West Suburban Friends of Chicago Sinfonietta hosts a dinner of Mexican fare, drinks, live music and family-friendly fun including face-painting. 8 p.m. Oct. 29 (Wentz Concert Hall); 7:30 p.m. Oct. 31 (Symphony Center). $10 and up.

Jack’s House Adventure Stage Chicago Vittum Theater 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago (773) 342-4141 adventurestage.org Oct. 29-Nov. 27

Join Jack and Andy on a time-travelling tour-goneawry through Northwestern Settlement’s buildings and history. Witness this Chicago institution’s mission of nurturing, educating and inspiring families in need, meet neighbors past and present and take part in decades-old traditions of service. Recommended for families with kids 8 and up. 2 and 5 p.m.

Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. $17, $12 kids 14 and under.

NOVEMBER Another Snowy Day with Beatrix Potter Chicago Children’s Theatre The Ruth Page Center for Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago

52 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_052.indd 1

Theater Unspeakable’s Moon Shot, see this page.

(872) 222-9555 chicagochildrenstheatre.org Nov. 1-20

Featuring iconic animal characters like Peter Rabbit and celebrating British country life, Beatrix Potter’s beloved stories are told through a series of mechanical suitcase sculptures, which invite visitors to pull levers and turn cranks. Recommended for families with kids 2-6. 9:30 and 11 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $10-$39.

Theater Unspeakable’s Moon Shot Chicago Children’s Theatre The Ruth Page Center for Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago (872) 222-9555 chicagochildrenstheatre.org Nov. 1-20

Seven actors recreate America’s Apollo 11 lunar landing. From the Cold War to Sputnik, from Yuri Gagarin to Neil Armstrong, this action-packed show brings the company’s humor to a whole new atmosphere. Recommended for families with kids 10 and up. Check website for schedule. $10-$39.

Family Matinee: Symphonic Superheroes Chicago Symphony Orchestra Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 294-3000 cso.org Nov. 5

Through the music of Beethoven, Copland, Mussorgsky and more, this program explores the courageous qualities seen and heard onstage by those spirited strings, the valiant woodwinds, the bravura brass and plucky percussion. Recommended for families with kids 5 and up. 11 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. $6-$57.

Laura Doherty & The Heartbeats Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org Nov. 6

Laura Doherty & The Heartbeats acoustically rock kids’ worlds with original folk-pop tunes that get even the shyest wallflower to wiggle across the dance floor.

Recommended for families with kids 7 and under.

11 a.m. $12.

Annie Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com Nov. 9-13

A red-headed girl is selected to leave the orphanage and move in with a rich man. Includes “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street” and “Tomorrow.” Check website for schedule and cost.

Getting to Know... Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-2121 metropolisarts.com Nov. 10-12

The Prince is giving a ball and every girl in the kingdom is hoping to be the one he chooses. Mistreated by her step-mother and step-sisters, Cinderella spends her days wishing for a different life. A visit from her godmother teaches her that if you wish hard enough, dreams come true. Recommended for families with kids in grades K-8. 6 p.m. Thursday and

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:46 PM

S TA G E Friday; 1 p.m. Saturday. $14, $10 kids 12 and under.

The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of Goddesses

The Nutcracker

Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University 50 E. Congress Parkway Chicago (312) 922-2110 auditoriumtheatre.org/wb Nov. 12

Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire (847) 634-0200 marriotttheatre.com Nov. 10-Dec. 30

This classic tale comes to life when Marie receives a beautiful nutcracker for Christmas from her mysterious Uncle Drosselmeyer.

When the Nutcracker comes to life, it’s a magical journey to reach the Sugar Plum fairy before the wicked Mouse King.

Performances are followed by a Q&A session with the cast. $17.23.

Based on one of the most popular video game series of all time, Symphony of the Goddesses features live orchestral performances of theme music from The Legend of Zelda franchise, and a giant screen showing memorable moments of the series.

8 p.m. $38 and up.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn (630) 942-4000 atthemac.org Nov. 12

Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago (800) 775-2000 broadwayinchicago.com Nov. 11-Jan. 8

Celebrate everyone’s Peanuts pals as they dig past the commercialized gimmicks of presents and decorations to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. Recommended for families with kids 3-13. Call or check website for schedule and cost.

Junie B.’s Essential Survival Guide to School

From bus rules to bandaids, carpools to cookies, Junie B. and friends deliver the definitive word on surviving and thriving in style. An all-new musical adventure based on Barbara Park’s book.

Features a post-show meet and greet with the cast.

Recommended for families with kids 5-10. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. $20, $12 kids.

Playdate at Old Town School: Animal Singdom Old Town School of Folk Music 4545 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org Nov. 12

Erin Flynn and Jarod Facknitz present coyote crooning, birds whistling, whales singing, shadows, puppets, paper wings, the animal kingdom in song and a drumming snake dance finale. 10 a.m. $7, free members.

Sleeping Beauty Prairie Center for the Arts 210 Schaumburg Court Schaumburg (847) 895-3600 prairiecenter.org Nov. 15-16

Features a dragon who roars, a princess who snores, a handsome brave knight and swashbuckling sword fights. Recommended for families with kids in PreK-4th grade.

10:30 a.m. $8.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical Chicago Theatre 175 N. State St., Chicago (312) 902-1500 thechicagotheatre.com Nov. 17-20

The tale of Rudolph who, because of his bright,

shining nose, is ousted from the reindeer games in Christmas-town. He flees town, meets up with new friends Hermey and Yukon, and a series of adventures ensue including a visit to The Island of Misfit Toys. Check website for cost and schedule.

ONGOING Pigpen Bughouse Theater 1910 W. Irving Park, Chicago bughousetheater.com

An interactive, musical story time for kids 6 months to 3 years. Free coffee 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 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.

Blue Man Group at Briar Street Theatre 3133 N. Halsted St. Chicago (773) 348-4000 blueman.com

A Light in the Dark: The Story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, see page 49.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_053.indd 1

A multi-sensory experience that fuses innovative theatrical spectacle and powerful original music with hilarious comedy.

Today’s Blue Man Group is a blend of signature material and newer passages that examine the influence of technology with a funny and perceptive look at contemporary communication vehicles.

Recommended for families with kids 3 and up.

Check website for schedule. $49-$99.

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 53

9/8/16 2:46 PM

S TA G E

Tiny

House of Blues

TUNE adventures Y

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER

ou don’t have to look far—the dinner table or the nursery will probably do it—to realize that music is something that everybody in your family can relate to and enjoy. Whether you have a toddler or a teenager at home, here are some great places to hear music as a family.

The Beat Kitchen 2100 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago beatkitchen.com n.com Although most of the concerts rts at Roscoe Village’s Beatt Kitchen are for 21 and over, there is a successful seriess The Beat for families Kitchen that cannot be Dreamtree Shakers certs missed. Concerts h d l d for Kids! are scheduled throughout the school year Old Town School of Folk Music and geared toward families with school-age children.

4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago The Beat Kitchen’s brunch oldtownschool.org menu, which has kidWhile it’s known for its exceptional array of classes, Old Town friendly options, and a full School of Folk Music also is an excellent venue to hear music. bar are available during the The Lincoln Square campus holds concerts that range from concerts, making it an outing children’s artists who engage even the littlest of babies to teenthat mom and dad will enjoy, age open mic nights that allows middle schoolers to express too. Plus, with well-known themselves. In addition to the rotating calendar of talented Chicago performers like Mr. performers, each week Old Town holds a World Music WednesSinger, The Boogers and Mr. day and Global Dance Parties on Friday. It’s a place where Dave, your kids will feel like families with kids of all different ages can find something that rock star groupies. fits their own personalities and music tastes.

54 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_054.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:42 PM

S TA G E

House of Blues 329 N. Dearborn, Chicago houseofblues.com/ chicago If you are looking to expose your kids to different kinds of music, the weekly Gospel Brunch on Sunday mornings at the House of Blues is the perfect outing for families.

Before and during the show, there is an all-you-can-eat buffet that includes House of Blues’ signature chicken and waffles.

The brunch—which features traditional and contemporary Gospel music, natch—will leave your entire family tapping their toes, rejoicing and getting down together.

The Chop Shop

The Hideout and The Chop Shop 1354 W. Wabansia, Chicago hideoutchicago.com 2033 W. North Ave., Chicago chopshopchi.com These two concerts venues are some of the most popular in Chicago for adults, but keep your eye on their calendars for children’s concerts, too. Every month or so, they feature special concerts for families, such as Little Miss Ann and her band. It’s also a great way to engage older kids who are interested in music and want to see different venues in the city.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago cso.org While the CSO often is thought of as a sophisticated adult-only outing, it actually offers a variety of options for families. The Once Upon A Symphony series is geared toward kids 3-5 and introduces the symphony in a small setting with vivid storytelling, music, props, costumes and instruments.

The CSO’s Family Matinee series is intended for kids 5 and up and is an interactive, musical and engaging performance for the entire family. This year’s roster includes “Symphonic Superheroes,” “Don Quixote” and “Peter and the Wolf.” Both of the programs include preconcert activities and are a great option for a cultured and musical outing.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_055.indd 1

CSO’s Family Matinee

Todd Rosenbery Photography

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 55

9/8/16 2:21 PM

‘s

Fall

Playdate

Sunday, Oct, 2 • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sports Thrills • Character Visits • Bounce Houses Train Rides • Obstacle Courses

Max McCook • Athletic & Exposition, McCook

RSVP

at ChicagoParent.com/playdate!

Some of our Sponsors

Avoid Probate®

56 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_056.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/9/16 10:14 AM

P L AY You’ll quickly learn, however, that climbing is low-impact and feasible for all ages, heights and sizes, and that safety is always paramount.

Gyms like these Brooklyn are year-round Boulders ways to get the kids’ wiggles out, get yourself into Stallone-in-“Cliffhanger” shape, and conquer your fear of plummeting. (Don’t worry, you won’t plummet.)

First Ascent

Elizabeth Diffin

First Ascent

MBERS

Kiddie

CL I

A

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MATT BORESI

s the weather gets worse, your kids are inevitably going to start climbing the walls. Why not sanction that behavior by hitting an indoor rock climbing gym with the family? Climbing is a sport/workout/activity that is absurdly fun, spectacularly healthful, social— and picking up steam in Chicagoland. At a glance, you may be intimidated by the idea of you or your loved ones hanging by a thread (actually a very sturdy nylon rope) high above the ground, and you may think you could never manage the strength to motivate upwards in a mountain goat-like fashion.

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_057.indd 1

3516 N. Spaulding Ave., Chicago 4718 N. Broadway, Chicago firstascentclimbing.com First Ascent has an extremely friendly, approachable and enthusiastic staff (not always the case with climbing gyms) and two locations opened by a quartet of college chums who saw an opportunity for expanding and deepening the climbing scene in Chicago. We’re lucky they did! The Avondale location is a bright and airy space that includes a monster 60-foot wall with an intense overhang, a bouldering cave and a unique fitness area.

First Ascent’s Uptown location is a bouldering paradise (bouldering involves challenging no-rope climbing close to the ground) with a neon rock ‘n roll aesthetic after sunset. Once your child is hooked, be sure to check out the camps, classes and youth leagues offered at each location.

Brooklyn Boulders 100 S. Morgan St., Chicago brooklynboulders.com/chicago Don’t let the word “Brooklyn” put up your Chicago defenses. This gym features cool wall art by local artists, and a sunlit, funky layout with an internet cafe and party room. Head to the mezzanine level CO N T I N U E D O N PAG E 5 8

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 57

9/8/16 11:47 AM

P L AY

Safari Land Explore Chicagoland’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park And Experience The Largest Indoor Roller Coaster In Illinois Exhilarating Family Fun filled with adventure, food, games and rides!

Tilt-A-Whirl • 3DMaxFlight Simulator Bumper Cars • Kiddie Go Karts Cosmic Bowling • Soft Play Video Games • Atlantis Restaurant Birthday Parties & Group Packages

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

Funtopia Elizabeth Diffin KIDDIE CLIMBERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 57

so the kids can try “rainbow road”—a wall with plenty of holds they can reach and an autobelay (that’s an automatic pulley system) that’ll have your little one repelling like an action hero in minutes. There are plenty of summer camps and youth programs on offer, and the free street parking is no small perk in the West Loop.

Climb On

Friday & Saturday October 14 & 15 6:30–10 pm 12 acres of haunting creatures, eerie entertainment and must-see horrors.

523 S. Webster St., Naperville 630.420.6010 • napersettlement.org 58 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_058.indd 1

18120 Harwood Ave., Homewood climbon.net Even though the climbing scene seems new to Chicago, Climb On in Homewood has been open for 20 years! (One of the belaying instructors started there as a toddler.) It’s a cozy, cleverly laid-out space literally next door to legendary pizza place Aurelio’s, and the idea of a more perfect afternoon than a couple of hours of climbing followed by pizza is simply madness.

Vertical Endeavors 246 Windy Point Drive, Glendale Heights verticalendeavors.com/glendalee heights Vertical Endeavors’ location in n Glendale Heights is mind-blowing in ng in scale. The 45,000-square-foot facility has three hree bouldering areas, curved walls, vertical walls, overhangs, h cracks, k dozens of auto-belays, and an impressive pro-shop for when you inevitably decide to go all-in with your own gear.

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:47 AM

P L AY

Funtopia 2050 Tower Drive, Glenview funtopiaworld.com/glenview “Climbing gym” might be a bit of a stretch for this Glenview playplace, but the quirky fun walls are no joke. Whether your kid wants to make like Charlotte and scale a spider’s web or become a real-life Jack and the Beanstalk, there are options here for everybody (as long as you weigh 35 pounds). Don’t worry, there are some traditional rock faces to climb for you climbing purists. There’s also a rope course, cave and soft play area, not to mention a super-tall r-tall slide and freefall jump. mp.

It’s a great spot to gett little ones familiar with the look ook and feel of climbing before re moving on to spots that aree a little more hardcore.

It would be hard to design a more fun activity for a family

Vertical Endeavors th han indoor ind than ro ock-clim rock-climbing g aand the ing, tota tot total body worko w workout you’ll get while kkeeping your brain engag engaged and your adrenaline

pumping is an incredible bonus. Give it a shot and you’re likely to cancel your oldfashioned gym membership to sign up at a place where you and the kids can get your Spider-Man on all year long.

12/31/16.

(847) 619-1900

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_059.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 59

9/8/16 11:48 AM

P L AY

READY TO

ROLL

W

BY KEELY FLYNN

hether you’re teaching the next generation one of the greatest ways to zip around a floor, picking up a fast-wheeled trick or two, or simply reliving your own glory days (neon leg warmers, anyone?), here are four Chicagoland rinks definitely worth taking for a spin. Hand-holding is optional.

The Rink Even if you aren’t the sturdiest thing on two wheels, Chicago mainstays like The Rink (now celebrating its 40th anniversary) will make you want to lace up and give it a go. (Especially if you’ve recognized the rink from the 1997 film Soul Food.) Groupons are frequently offered, so keep an eye out! All-ages skating classes are followed up by Saturday afternoon family skates, but if you feel like leaving the kids at home, The Rink features skate times for the 30 and over crowd—the kind who’ll appreciate the Old School Hour and Throwback Tuesday’s hip-hop greatness. (Don’t make me shake my cane.)

1122 E. 87th St., Chicago therinkchicago.com 60 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_060.indd 1

Tinley Park Roller Rink “Family owned and operated” is more than a tagline; it’s a way of life for the Quitter family. Between their two rinks (the other one’s in Glenwood), this family has been in business for more than 50 years.

Day-to-day operations are run by Carey Westberg-Quitter, but his parents Marge and Ray—a famous pairs skating couple, ple, now in their 80s—are still extremely remely emely active in the business, including u uding tearing it up on the rink floor. floor. Many of the rink’s events t and open ts skates are family-focused, f focused, and a strict adherence reence to clean lyrics—even n during Teen Nights—en-sures their stellar reputation will continue for years to come.

17658 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park tinleyrink.com C ChicagoParent.com om

9/8/16 11:48 AM

P L AY

Lynwood S Sport Center While we’re on the topic top of famed movie rinks, LLynwood Sport space took a star Center’s sp turn as the Sweetwater Roller Rink in the ‘70s coming-of-age (and disco-tastic) film Roll Bounce. When your wheels need a break from that beautiful new hardwood floor, take advantage of the 18-hole mini golf course (complete with a waterfall and fountains galore), the rock climbing wall or the sweet birthday party packages.

Whether you’re a little rusty or just starting out, Lynwood’s all-ages skating lessons are taught by national champs. (Not feeling the scrutiny of the public eye? No worries; they offer private lessons, too.)

2030 Glenwood-Dyer Road, Lynwood skatelynwood.com

Orbit Skate Center Don’t even pretend you’re not easily thrilled by black lights. Orbit’s Cosmic Skate every Friday night adds that little something extra to its already terrific roster of family skates almost every single day. (The retro nights feature a blend of music from ‘60s on up, and their DJ takes requests!) Additionally, for about 20 minutes during each Cosmic Skate, participants will be skating in sheer black light and clutching glowsticks like their very lives (or balance) depend on it. No judgments here.

615 S. Consumers Ave., Palatine orbitskate.net

Chi ChicagoParent.com h cagoParent.com

GP0916_061.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 61

9/8/16 11:49 AM

N AT U R E

Kathy Casstevens

DO’S AND DON’TS FOR

STARVED ROCK STATE PARK

T

BY SHANNAN YOUNGER

all bluffs, towering trees and dramatic canyons make Starved Rock State Park feel like it’s worlds away from Chicago.

In reality, though, Starved Rock is less than 100 miles from the city, which makes it a fantastic destination for viewing the colorful show that Mother Nature puts in the fall.

Here are some do’s and don’ts for visiting Starved Rock State Park, the most visited state park in Illinois.

62 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_062.indd 1

Do bring older kids “The park is especially good for tweens and older children,” says Kathy Casstevens, marketing director at Starved Rock Lodge. These ages not only love exploring the canyons and spotting wildlife, but they’re also capable of handling themselves on a hike and carrying all their

Do stay on the trails While this may seem obvious, it’s amazing the number of people who stray away from the trails. Doing so is not only potential grounds for a

own items.

Casstevens notes that hiking with small children can be dangerous, especially when conditions are muddy and trails are slippery. She advises holding their hands and bringing plenty of drinks.

Kerry Novak, superintendent of the park, recommends the French Canyon Trail for families. fine, but it’s also dangerous.

“We want people to be aware of trail safety. Stay on the trail, don’t get off on unauthorized trails and stay behind the safety fences,” Novak says.

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:50 AM

N AT U R E

Don’t expect waterfalls in autumn Word gets around about Starved Rock State Park’s stunning waterfalls. However, word does not always get around that the waterfalls are seasonal. That means that they are usually dry in the fall. Fear not, there are many breathtaking sights to behold and you can always see the Illinois River. But it’s best to have reasonable expectations. (Good advice for any family outing, really.)

Don’t bring strollers

OPEN LABOR DAY LABOR DAY WEEKEND OPENOPEN LABOR DAY WEEKEND WEEKEND OPEN LABOR DAY WEEKEND IL IL N MALTA, IL N MALTA, N MALTA, N MALTA, IL

Fall/Winter Consignment Sale 2016

Offering gently used boutique and designer clothing (sizes newborn - size 16), shoes, toys, accessories and baby gear.

w

s

Do check out special events

¢

f s yl t

o

s

i n g ce

nt

While strollers are not prohibited, the trails aren’t stroller friendly. There are also many steps throughout the park, and lugging a stroller up and down them is challenging, to say the least.

Your Family’s Fall Tradition Your Family’s Tradition Your Family’s FallFall Tradition Your Family’s Fall Tradition Store Hours Apple Picking | Corn Maze Apple Picking | Corn Store Store HoursHours Apple Picking | Corn MazeMaze 9 5:30 9 AM TOPM 5:30 PM Store Hours 9 AM AM TO TO 5:30 PM Apple PickingArea | Corn Maze 7 DAYS DAYS7 A A WEEK DAYS Barn Yard Activity Activity 7 9 WEEK AM A TOWEEK 5:30 PM BarnBarn YardYard Activity AreaArea 7 DAYS A WEEK Barn Yard Activity Area Petting Zoo ||Zoo Cider + Donuts Donuts Petting | Cider + Donuts Petting Zoo Cider + Petting Zoo | Cider + Donuts

e

The Illinois Department off N Naturall R Resources asks that guests take their trash with them when they leave the park.

gro

Do bring a trash bag

Saturday, Oct. 8th 9am-4pm and Sunday, Oct. 9th 10am-2pm Canlan Sportsplex Lake Barrington 28156 W. Northpointe Parkway For additional information visit us at www.growingcentsofstyle.com.

Free Admission & Parking • BYOB (Bring Your Own Bag)

Cash & Credit Cards growing cents of style typeface: sweet sansAccepted medium There’s a lot going on at Starved Rock in autumn, (a professional font that needs to be purchased ... mvbfonts.com/sweet_sans) NO STROLLERS ALLOWED including The Burgoo Festival in Utica, which is right colors: next to Starved Rock, on Oct. 9. Fall Colors weekend is Oct. 15-16, and Oktoberfest dinners take place at the Lodge Oct. 8-9 and 15-16. Listen to stories told by for web: 28638E hex# for web: E34345 talented storytellers on Saturday evenings inhex# October.

Expect a Halloween theme on Oct. 29, with stories r: 227 r: 40 G: 67 G: 99 getting spookier as the night gets later.

B: 142

Do arrive early The park can become crowded and sometimes close when parking lots are full. The earlier you arrive, the more likely you are to avoid the crowds and any closures. Follow the park on social media to get the latest info on closures. Staying overnight at the Lodge is a good way to get an early start on the trails.

Don’t wait too long to book at the Lodge

c: 89% M: 50% Y: 24% K: 5%

If you’re looking to do an overnight visit, book early. Reservations at the Lodge are accepted two years in advance. It’s particularly popular on Thanksgiving weekend.

B: 69

c: 5% M: 89% Y: 75% K: 0%

PUMPKINFEST

SEPTEMBER 24-OCTOBER 31 Come make a Family Memory!

Pig Races Daily • Hayrides & Corn Maze Animal Land Zoo Pumpkin Playland/Mini Tractor Play Area Pony & Camel Rides • Kiddie Rides Gem Mining Sluice Homemade Apple Cider & Pumpkin Donuts Homemade Pies & Fudge

16678 W. Aptakisic Rd. Prairie View/Lincolnshire, IL 60069 847-634-3291 • www.DidierFarms.com ChicagoParent.com Chi Ch C hica hi cag ago ag oPa oP Paaarre P rren een ntt. t.c .co .c om m

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 63 Kathy Casstevens

GP0916_063.indd 1

9/8/16 11:50 AM

N AT U R E

some family y fun

I

BY CHERYL EUGENIO

f you’ve ever driven to Indianapolis from Chicagoland, you’ve probably passed Fair Oaks Farm.

My family has stopped for gas and chocolate milk, each time vowing to return and explore. Well, we finally made the trip, and d I’m happy to report: It’s so worth thee drive!

Located about 75 miles outside Chicago, the huge farm makes for a perfect dayy trip. They’ve managed to make learning about dairy farming educational and fun with a capital F. The Dairy Adventure starts as you board a cow bus to one of the cow barns. We learned cool d facts about the cows, passed literal mountains of poop, peeked into barns where cows were happily chowing down on feed, and saw the e. cutest baby calves of all time.

The highlight of our tour was watching the milking process in action at the dairy-go-

64 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_064.indd 1

Cheryl Eugenio

round.

Our next scheduled activity was The Pig Adventure. It’s similar to The Dairy Adventure,

but the kids especially enjoye enjoyed waiting at Pig Welcome the P Center. The Cen whimsical little wh treehouse (with tr a bacon slide!) happily kept my h little ones enterlit tained, and if we ta had more time, ha the interactive ropes course would been a blast. have b were plenty of There we e-worthy photo spots, selfie-worth could ever want to and all you cou pigs. The trip to know about pig the pig barn itself was another learning experience—we even saw a live birth!

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 2:13 PM

N AT U R E

Cheryl Euge

nio

If you have time to spare or if the kids are getting antsy, they can let loose at Mooville, an outdoor play area with a jumping pillow, rock climbing wall, toddler tractors, and my kids’ favorite, a moo-ving choo-choo train.

Getting hungry? There’s a farm-to-table restaurant, The Farmhouse Restaurant, but we opted for food prepared quickly at the cutely named Cowfe. Don’t miss out on ordering delicious sandwiches made with Fair Oaks Farm cheeses, a chance to buy and sample cheeses, chocolates and, of course, ice cream.

After The Dairy Adventure, The Pig Adventure and Mooville, my kids were beyond pooped. We missed out on The Crop Adventure this time, but will definitely make a stop again in the future. Plus, it gives us an excuse to grab another bottle of chocolate milk and more delicious ice cream!

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_065.indd 1

Oth local Other l l dairy farms: Historic Wagner Farm 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview (847) 657-1506 wagnerfarm.org Free admission

Good to know: One of the last working dairy farms in Cook County, it offers public milking demonstrations daily at 4:30 p.m.

Don’t miss out on a sweet ice cream treat!

Golden Oaks Farm 27730 W. Bonner Road, Wauconda (630) 668-6636 goldenoaksfarm.com Free tours

Good to know: This is one of the last operating dairy farms in Lake County. Schedule a tour to learn more about the dairy cows and a chance to visit the milking parlor.

Cheryl Eugenio

Primrose Farm 5N726 Crane Road, St. Charles (630) 513-4370 primrosefarmpark.com Free admission

Good to know: Sign up to try your hand at milking a cow. The program is offered Wednesdays and Saturdays and costs $8 ($5 resident).

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 65

9/8/16 2:13 PM

GOING PLACES

P

alos Hills Riding Stables, Inc. offers first-class horseback riding lessons tailored to the individual. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a beginner, we have the right program for you.

Palos Hills Riding Stables, Inc. is a family owned business that has been in operation since 1960. We have produced world, national, regional and state champions.

Call us today to schedule your ďŹ rst riding lesson to learn to ride competitively or just for pleasure.

Group and private riding lessons * Boarding and training of horses * Camps, day camps, clinics and shows * Breeding, mare care and horses for sale

10100 SO. KEAN AVENUE, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465

(708) 598-7719

BOOKINGS & INQUIRIES 66 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_066.indd 1

W W W. P H R S I N C . C O M

(708) 598-7718 FARM & STABLES

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 11:51 AM

We are Now Open!

GP0916_067.indd 1

9/9/16 2:31 PM

GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Top Schools for Fall

Francis W. Parker School Serving Junior Kindergarten - 12 Grade 330 W. Webster Ave., Chicago

Queen of Angels School 4520 N. Western, Chicago

Northside Catholic Academy Primary Campus (PreK-4): 6216 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago Middle School Campus (5-8): 7318 N Oakley Ave, Chicago

Middle School 2-16 500 N. Benton, Palatine

(773) 769-4211 queenofangelschicago.org (773) 797-5107 fwparker.org Quest Academy Register for an Open House event at fwparker.org. Preschool & PreK 2-28 & 4-18

Admissions: (773) 743-6277 www.northsidecatholic.org Start your child’s path to great learning and discovery at Northside Catholic Academy. We offer a challenging, diversified curriculum within a nurturing environment for grades PK-8.

(847) 202-8035 questacademy.org

Sacred Heart Schools 6200 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago (773) 681-8420 shschicago.org

St. Benedict Preparatory School 3900 N Leavitt Street, Chicago (773) 509-3814 stbenedict.com Devoted to preparing students for learning, achievement and service.

four days of art, music and play for all ages

free!

every sunday in september

Sponsored by

10am – 2pm | Lincoln & Marshfield

LakeviewSundaySpot.com 68 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_068.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

9/9/16 9:39 AM

GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CHICAGOLAND

Fall & Halloween Fun All Hallows Eve

Fri & Sat, Oct. 14 & 15, 6:30-10:00 pm Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster, Naperville (630) 420-6010 Napersettlement.com

All Seasons Orchard Apple picking, pumpkin patch, corn maze, petting zoo, bakery, restaurant.

14510 IL Route 176, Woodstock (815) 338-5637 allseasonsorchard.com

Apple Holler’s Fall Festival Family Fun for all; pick apples and pumpkins, music, hayrides, pony rides, train rides, pig races, pedal carts, mazes, giant slide, fresh squeezed apple cider, homemade apple pies, caramel apples, apple dumplings.

5006 S. Sylvania Ave., Sturtevant, WI (262) 884-7100 www.appleholler.com

Autumn Fest

Saturday, October 1, 11 am-3pm Gouin Park in Franklin Park (708) 343-5270 veteransparkdistrict.org

Downers Grove Harvest Festival

October 1, 10am-7pm Join us for a day of food, live music, a craft fair, children’s activities, a beer garden and fun for the entire family!

Fishel Park, Downers Grove www.dgparks.org/special-events/ harvest-fest

Downtown Oak Park Oaktoberfest. Kids’ Root Beer Garden.

Green Halloween. Check web for info.

(708) 383-4145 downtownoakpark.net

Deer Park Town Center

Join us on October 29th beginning at noon.

Free trick or treating at Deer Park Town Center.

10530 N. Rand Road, Deer Park shopdeerparktowncenter.com ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_069.indd 1

Didier Farms Pumpkinfest

9/24/16-10/31/16 Hayrides,Corn Maze, Daily Pig Races,Pony Rides, Animal Land, Pumpkin Playland, New Silly String Asylum and Mobile Room Escape!

16678 W. Aptakisic Rd. Prairie View/Lincolnshire (847) 634-3291 www.didierfarms.com

Fall Fest at DesPlaines Park District September 16-18 Lake Park Three Days Family Fun. Free Admission. Free Concerts.

2200 Lee St. Des Plaines FallFestDesPlaines.com

50 Years of ‘Star Trek’

Open: Sept. 3 – Oct. 30, Wednesdays-Sundays, Labor Day, Columbus Day. Cost: $16 ages 13+, $13 ages 4-12, Free under 4.

Explore the world’s largest and most intricate corn maze, plus more than 30 activities: carousel, train ride, wagon rides, petting zoo, pig races.

Richardson Adventure Farm Spring Grove www.RichardsonAdventureFarm.com

Jonamac Orchard Pick-your-own orchard opens Labor Day week end 19412 Shabonna Rd, Malta (815) 825-2158 Jonamacorchard.com

Kuipers Family Farm Pumpkin Farm fun begins Sept. 17. 220-acre farm with apple picking, pumpkin farm, orchard shop, bakery and loads of fall activities. NEW Scenic Farmview Railway.

1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park (815) 827-5200 kuipersfamilyfarm.com

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 69

9/8/16 1:28 PM

GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CHICAGOLAND

Fall & Halloween Fun Lake Geneva Canopy Tours

October 22 & 23: Pumpkin Drop & Fall Festival Food, live music, pumpkin painting and our infamous Pumpkin Drop! Soar through the air down the Dual Racing Zip Line.

Office: (262) 248-9271 www.lakegenevacanopytours.com

Marengo Cave and Cave Country Canoes Select from our easy walking tours, cave exploration trips, gemstone mining, cave simulator, or canoeing adventures on the nearby Blue River.

Marengo, IN (812) 365-2705 MarengoCave.com

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament Charge Into Fall!

Use code: CPFALL for special offer.

(888) WE-JOUST Medievaltimes.com

Minocqua Area Chamber of Commerce Nature’s original water park.

Fun comes NATURALLY. (800) 44-NORTH Minocqua.org

The Morton Arboretum During Fall Color Festival, enjoy special activities every day in October! Try pumpkin crafts, a scarecrow trail, or walks among breath-taking trees.

4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org

NYE’S APPLE BARN Stop by and enjoy the fresh air and fresh fruit!

3151 Niles Rd, St. Joseph, MI (269) 429-0596 Nyesapplebarn.com

70 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_070.indd 1

Odyssey Fun Farm Late Sept - Oct, Odyssey Fun Farm is the place to be! Hay Rides, Pig Races, Pumpkins & More, Open 7 days. Fri/Sat nights check out Odyssey Fun Farm: After Dark, feat Zombie Safari Hayrides!

18900 Oak Park Ave Tinley Park (Across from CarMax and down the street from Odyssey Fun World at I-80 & Harlem Ave) (708) 429-3800 www.odysseyfunfarm.com

Palos Hills Riding Stables, Inc. “Meet the Horse” Open House Saturday, October 15. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: $2/person.

Pony rides, mini-lessons, grooming, leading, demonstrations, driving, photo ops and more.

10100 So. Kean Ave., Palos HIlls (708) 598-7718 www.phrsinc.com

Party for the Preserves

Saturday, September 24 Five new campgrounds will celebrate the Forest Preserves 70,000 acres on National Public Lands Day! Packages available, call: (855) YES-CAMP More information at: FPDCC.com/PARTY

Santa’s Village Azoosment Park Fall Festival on weekends 10/1-10/30, Pumpkins, Scarecrows, Ghosts oh my! October Fables Fright Nights on weekend evenings 9/30-10/30.

601 Dundee Avenue, East Dundee Just No. of I-90 @ the corner of Rt. 25 & Rt. 72 (847) 426-6751 santasvillagedundee.com

Trail of Terror Travel the Spectacular. Come to Northern Illinois Fall Festivals, Haunted Happenings, Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes Illinoistrailofterror.com

Visit Springfield Visit Abraham Lincoln’s hometown for a legendary fall family getaway! Find fun fall festivals, sites & attractions for the whole family!

109 N. 7th St., Springfield 800-545-7300 VisitSpringfieldIllinois.com ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 1:28 PM

GOING PLACES

$1 OFF One (1) child admission NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. EXPIRES: 6/30/2017 OG1

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

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 12/31/16.

7060

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

ChicagoParent.com

GP0916_071.indd 1

Fall 2016 • goingplaces 71

9/8/16 4:06 PM

GOING PLACES For museum or lodging information, call 815.963.6769

711 N. Main St. Rockford, IL 61103 discoverycentermuseum.org 815.963.6769

$1 OFF One (1) child admission NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. EXPIRES: 6/30/2017 OG1

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

Expires 12/31/16 CPS16

72 Fall 2016 • goingplaces

GP0916_072.indd 1

*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

ChicagoParent.com

9/8/16 4:07 PM

GP0916_CV3.indd 1

9/8/16 11:54 AM

INTRODUCING A

New Family Experience AT THE A RT I NSTI TU TE

Set a course through the museum with a tour you create. With JourneyMaker, our new digital interactive, you can build custom guides based on your child’s interests— from superheroes to wild creatures. Try it at the museum or print it at home, and make your next visit to the Art Institute an adventure for the whole family.

KIDS U N D ER 1 4 AR E ALWAYS FR E E .

W W W. ART I C . ED U/J O U R N E YM A KE R

Generous support for JourneyMaker is provided by the Woman’s Board of the Art Institute of Chicago.

GP0916_CV4.indd 1

9/8/16 5:02 PM