Chicago Parent Holiday Going Places 2012 by Chicago Parent

FREE HOLIDAY 2012

GOING PLACES

Rockettes to reindeer, your holiday HQ

101places

GP_Cover_Holiday.indd 3

for winter fun

10/26/12 11:15 AM

CHIPAR1012_CV2.indd 1

10/26/12 12:24 PM

And as he gets older, all he’ll want is your encouragement. Right now is a perfect time to open a Bright Start College Savings Account to let your kids know you’ll always be there.

Today’s a good day. V i s i t

brightstartsavings.com to learn more.

Before investing in the Plan, investors should carefully consider whether their or their designated beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in such state’s qualified tuition program, as well as the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses associated with municipal fund securities. The Program Disclosure Statement and Participation Agreement contain this and other information about the Plan, and may be obtained by visiting brightstartsavings.com or calling 1.877.43.BRIGHT (1.877.432.744). Read them carefully before investing.

CHIPAR1012_001.indd 1

10/26/12 11:48 AM

CHIPAR1012_002.indd 1

10/26/12 11:47 AM

GOING PLACES

A World of Learning

BritishBritish School of Chicago School of Chicago We provide students agesages 3-18 with individualized approach to approach learning, where We provide students 3-18anwith an individualized to student and teacherWe work together toages develop a personalized learning plan. provide students 3-18 with an individualized approach to Our carelearning, student and teacher workwork together develop learning, where student and teacher together toto develop a the a fully craftedwhere international curriculum is recognized and renowned around world. personalized learning plan. personalized learning plan. Opportunities for growth are rich andPreschool varied, with strong- enrichment Open House on November 18 for First Grade. programs and a carefully crafted international curriculum thatenrichment is Opportunities for growth are rich and varied, with strong recognized and renowned around the world.

programs a carefully crafted international curriculum that Visitand our website for more information and to schedule a group tour.is recognized and 773.506.2097 renowned around the world.

admissionsbsc@wclschools.org • www.britishschoolofchicago.org http://britishschoolofchicago.org • admisisonsbsc@wclschools.org • 773.506.2097

773.506.2097 Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 3 ChicagoParent.com admissionsbsc@wclschools.org • www.britishschoolofchicago.org CHIPAR1012_003.indd 1

10/26/12 11:47 AM

rch

nli

G Ma as re k ea a e g if t G s tca i rd ft o !!

GOING PLACES

Swimmers Guaranteed. ®

Feels like you’re learning in a tub!!

We offer 91º warm water, small class sizes, quality standards for adult instructors, specialized facilities and a method that is truly our own. Year-round weekly lessons and Summer Progress Builder® Swim Camps are offered for ages 6 mos. and up. Try it. Learn it! Love it!!® Schedule your FREE!! In-Water Level Assessment today.

www.fossswimschool.com Highland Park • Now Open in Libertyville!!

4 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_004.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:47 AM

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FAMILY FUN HOLIDAY 2012

GOING PLACES

FEATURES

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elizabeth Diffin

6 Backyards on ice: Build your own rink

FIND MORE AT: ChicagoParent.com

ART DIRECTOR Claire Innes

Mark Tatara

FEST 15

■ Christkindlmarket welcomes families ■ Listings by month on parades, fairs and festivals

MUSEUMS 25

■ Not-to-miss exhibits and museum free days ■ Listings on museums, including art, children’s,

historical/regional, science and special interest

MANAGER OF INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY

Graham Johnston AD PRODUCTION MANAGER Philip Soell AD DESIGN MANAGER Andrew Mead AD DESIGNERS Debbie Becker,

Elisha-Rio Apilado, Maggie Acker

DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

and the CTA holiday train ■ Listings on high teas, landmarks and Chicago food hot spots

SALES AND MARKETING COORDINATOR

TRAVEL 49

■ Ski deals for your family ■ Where to ski in Wisconsin ■ Fun on the slopes in Michigan ■ Skiing in Park City, Utah ■ Tweens ski free in Sun Valley, Idaho ■ Listings on places to ski

ON STAGE 61

■ 10 things you didn’t know about the Rockettes ■ Listings by month on dance, music and theater

PLAY 77

Where to pet reindeer ■ Listings on ice rinks, Christmas tree farms and where to snowshoe

Cindy Richards, Kathy Woods, Caitlin Murray Giles, Linda Marsicano

CITY 39

■ Chicago’s holiday trolley

■

DESIGN: Claire Innes

DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Alaina Buzas

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Danielle Braff,

NATURE 95

PHOTO: Erika Hildegard Johnson

8 Top 10 places to play inside 12 The best DIY gifts

EDITORIAL DESIGNERS Luke Baker,

and entertainment centers, classes, creative studios, indoor play centers, water parks and swim schools

COVER KID: Holly Peterson, 11, Naperville

EDITOR Liz DeCarlo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy

■ A day of family fun in La Grange ■ Listings on eat ‘n’ play, arcades

ON THE COVER

GOING PLACES

Walter Burden, Dawn Engelhardt, Adrienne Smith, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner Sandi Pedersen ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Doerr CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden CIRCULATION MANAGER Kathy Hansen DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Alan Majeski CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Mike Braam CREDIT MANAGER Debbie Zari BOOKKEEPER Diane Eggers COLLECTIONS Charlie Kelly PUBLISHER Dan Haley VP/DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Andrew Johnston COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar

advertising@chicagoparent.com CLASSIFIED SALES

classified@chicagoparent.com

CIRCULATION circulation@chicagoparent.com Chicago Parent Going Places is published quarterly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. Our offices are at 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent Going Places, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302. © 2012 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_005.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 5

10/26/12 11:46 AM

Backyards

t’s easy to think of things to do with the kids when the weather is warm and outdoor activities abound, but the winter months can present more of a challenge. This might be a good year to discover the pleasures of building your own ice rink. With a few basic materials and a little know-how, you can turn the backyard into a place the whole family will enjoy. Best of all, with a rink in the backyard, you won’t have to travel far to skate. Chicagoans Paul Carrera and Dennis Wise have been building backyard ice rinks for more than 15 years. Carrera, a Chicago native, grew up helping his father build a rink every winter. Now he and his wife, Liz, are continuing that tradition with their own family. “We had a big yard growing up. I have a postage stamp yard now,” Carrera says laughing, “but the kids love it; we all love it.” He offers this simple method for building a rink. First, wait until the weather has been below freezing for several days. Single digit temperatures are ideal. If there is no snow on the ground, build a perimeter from wood (2-by-4-inch lumber works well) to the desired size. The pieces can be

6 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_006.indd 1

nailed together or laid end to end without fasteners. Buy a piece of heavy plastic several inches larger than the wood frame. The plastic can be purchased from Menards or Home Depot for about $35. Lay the plastic on top of the frame and tuck it down along the inside edge of the wood. It should resemble a shallow pool. Staple the plastic to the frame. Using a garden hose, fill it with about 3 inches of water. Allow the water to freeze solid.

Dennis Wise uses discarded Christmas trees along the edges of his backyard rink. Add additional thin layers of water, one at a time, allowing each to solidify completely. Build up the layers until the ice is 3 to 4 inches thick. If there is snow on the ground, you don’t need to use the perimeter form and plastic. Instead, follow these steps: Using a garden hose, lightly spray the rink area. Pack down the snow/slush until it is smooth and solid. A piece of plywood can be used, or the area can be flattened with a

lawn roller. Or for more fun, have everybody pull on their boots and stomp down the snow together. Cultivate the ice. Spray a thin layer of water on the packeddown area and let it freeze completely. If it is very cold, it should take about 1015 minutes. Add layers one at a time, allowing each to become solid before adding another. Add thin layers until the ice is 3 or more inches thick.

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:46 AM

ICE

Refresh the ice with an extra layer as needed throughout the season. Carrera sometimes adds a playful element to his rink by freezing money between the layers. The kids see the coins and bills as they skate. When spring comes and the ice melts, it’s finders keepers. Wise, a Columbia professor, tucks the rink next to his coach house. Like Carrera, he keeps things simple. “I now do a totally low-tech rink. There is no plastic liner and no perimeter form. I just use snow and water and make

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_007.indd 1

many, many layers of very thin ice,” he says. Wise likes the ice to reach a thickness of 5 to 6 inches. He collects cast-off Christmas trees and anchors them in snow that has been shoveled into banks around the rim. Trimmed with colored lights, the rink has a fairytale quality. If you want a more elaborate rink design, companies like Nice Rink (nicerink.com), Rink Rake (rinkrake.com), and The Ultimate Outdoor Rink (backyardrink.com) offer instructions and pre-assembled kits. Kathy Woods

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 7

10/26/12 11:46 AM

10W GOING PLACES

best indoor places to play in …

CHICAGO inter is getting closer and frolicking at the park for hours is no longer an option. Luckily Chicago is home to a robust variety of indoor spots where kids can play and parents can retain their sanity—and their clean homes. Here are 10 of our favorites:

Kookaburra Play Cafe

Explore and Much More

Make-a-Messterpiece

Why make a mess at home when you can Make-a-Messterpiece elsewhere? And, oh boy, is making a mess at this Glenview gem fun! An enormous painting area houses the necessities a budding Da Vinci desires—yards of paper in every color and design accessories to create the perfect work of art. The Lil Sprouts area helps

budding gardeners hone their green thumbs. The Creative Kitchen gives the next generation of Charlie Trotters hands-on experience making unique edible treats. makeamessterpiece.com; 2050 Tower Drive, Glenview

Kookaburra Play Cafe

Children don various costumes for sliding, coloring and climbing while parents relax with a delightful coffee drink. Snack time options include chocolate pumpkin bread, veggie straws and organic milk boxes. Kookaburra also offers “date nights” where parents can drop the kids for a night of fun while couples rekindle the romance. kookaburraplaycafe.com; 2267 N. Clyborn, Chicago

Explore and Much More

A physician couple with three children of their own founded this unique play space that has quickly become the buzz of the Southport Corridor. Modeled with a children’s museum atmosphere in mind, the two-level venue includes a bouncy house, climbing walls and activities to inspire creativity. Little readers will love lounging in one of the two reading alcoves with a comfy hammock swing. exploreandmuchmore.com; 3827 N. Southport Ave., Chicago

Kid City

Jump Zone

8 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_008.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:46 AM

GOING PLACES

Make-a-Messterpiece

Monkey Island

Jump Zone

Legoland

With locations in Niles, Schaumburg, Buffalo Grove and Chicago Ridge, this is the place to help kids sleep well at bedtime. The themed inflatables—from Dora to superheroes to princesses—will find a fan in every child. Areas for toddlers ensure tots don’t get trampled. jumpzoneparty.com

Every LEGO enthusiast must visit this haven of building adventures. New is the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride featuring a chariot where brave kids set out to defeat the skeletons, vanquish the trolls and rescue a captured princess. legolanddiscoverycenter.com; 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg

Little Beans in Lincoln Park

Legoland

City Little Beans in Lincoln Park Kid This family-run This slice of kiddie heaven resembles a little town with a firehouse, car garage, grocery store and a tiny house perfect for tea parties. Parents will appreciate the option of plugging into the office in the café area while the kids are supervised by the energetic staff. littlebeanscafe.com; 1809 W. Webster, Chicago

Exploritorium

The Exploritorium, part of the Skokie Park District, is a true find: a water area where the kids can “fish,” an elaborate maze of tunnels and slides, a train table, a stage complete with costumes for budding thespians and a separate area with ride-ons and a rope bridge designated for toddlers. skokiepark.org/exploritorium; 4701 Oakton St., Skokie

Monkey Island

Monkey Island claims to be the “largest indoor playground with 40,000 feet of pure fun” and we can’t argue. This immense space ensures no kid could ever get bored—tons of bounce houses, a structure filled with slides and tunnels and other attractions like a hurricane simulator that will thrill with hair standing on end. The attraction for parents? Tons of tables and seating within view of the activities so there is no elbowing for room to keep an eye on the kids. monkeyisland.net; 2100 N. 15th St., Melrose Park

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_009.indd 1

venue welcomes little grocery shoppers with its extensive store. The dressup room will make any child longing to be a princess or fireman ecstatic. Especially appealing to busy moms and dads is the drop-off camp on select afternoons so parents can do errands in peace (or take a nap!). kidcitychicago.com; 1837 W. Grand, Chicago

Lincoln Park Zoo’s Canopy Climbing Adventure

This is still a stealth secret for many parents—and we hate to break the code of silence, but the Lincoln Park Zoo has one of the best indoor play spaces in the city. And it’s free! Within the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo area is a building containing the Canopy Climbing Adventure, a mass of ropes and bridges that keeps kids entertained for hours. And when they tire of climbing, kids can watch through glass windows as the sea otters joyously play in their own environment on one side, or witness beavers hard at work on the other. lpzoo.org Linda Marsicano

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 9

10/26/12 11:44 AM

CHIPAR1012_010.indd 1

10/26/12 5:35 PM

CHIPAR1012_011.indd 1

10/26/12 5:35 PM

The best

DIY gifts E

verybody loves a thoughtful holiday gift. However, often the best gifts aren’t the most expensive or biggest items under the tree. “It’s important to teach kids and families that they don’t have to buy ‘new’ for the holidays to give something special,” says Heather Grance, manager of public programs at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. “They can reuse and renew materials to make fun, oneof-a-kind gifts that recipients will love.” For those who don’t have the time or inclination to make their own gifts, buying handmade items from local artisans is another thoughtful option. With a little time and creativity, families can find gifts that are both economical and sentimental. Here are a few local resources for families looking for DIY or handmade gifts this holiday season. Caitlin Murray Giles

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s Green Family Holiday Fair

everyone (whether you are “crafty” or not). This is an opportunity to create handmade gifts with the help of creative craft experts by your side. Options include: “Kids + Grownups Making Stuff Together,” “Mommy Made Workshops,” “(Little) Hand-Made Gift Workshops” (minimum age is 4) and “(A Little Bigger) Hand-Made Gift Workshops” (minimum age is 7). Projects range from homemade play tents to pendants to picture frames. WEBSITE: growartists.com

WHEN: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 2 WHERE: 2340 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago COST: Admission to the holiday fair is free (museum admission not required for entry) DETAILS: Local vendors will be selling their eco-friendly holiday wares. Many of the items are handmade and one-of-a-kind. WEBSITE: naturemuseum.org

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Gifting Green Workshops WHEN: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 24-25; Dec. 22-23 COST: $3 per project, $5 for two projects DETAILS: Participants can “upcycle” by diverting unwanted materials from the landfills and turning them into handmade gifts. For example, kids can use pieces of felt from thrift shop sweaters to create tree ornaments. WEBSITE: naturemuseum.org

12 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_012.indd 1

7th Annual Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Market Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Wishcraft Workshop WHEN: Classes/workshops are offered in the morning, afterschool and on weekends throughout the holiday season. WHERE: 2312 W. Roscoe, Chicago COST: Varies DETAILS: Throughout the holiday season, Wishcraft Workshop offers a DIY class for

WHEN: Dec. 1-2; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. WHERE: Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk St., Chicago) COST: Admission is free DETAILS: This family-friendly market offers a variety of handmade creations from local indie artists. Get into the holiday spirit while you shop thanks to festive tunes, a free photo booth and a free trolley offering rides to other neighborhood shopping destinations. WEBSITE: renegadecraft.com/chicago

ChicagoParent.com

10/31/12 11:11 AM

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Step inside LEGOLAND® Discovery Center and it's like you have just jumped into the biggest box of LEGO® bricks ever! With over 3 million LEGO® bricks under one roof, rides and LEGO attractions, what will you discover? Factory Tour · 4D Cinema · MINILAND Chicago · LEGO® Rides Group Specials · Birthday Parties · School Field Trips · and more!

Located in Schaumburg at the Streets of Woodﬁeld. For more information visit www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_013.indd 1

Original coupon entitles bearer to one free child admission with each full paying adult admission to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago. Valid only on the day of purchase. Not valid with any other discounts, online ticket purchases, or other o≠ers. No facsimiles or photocopies will be accepted. No cash value. Not for resale. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Additional restrictions may apply. Expires: October 31, 2013. Discount Code: 1538

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 13

10/26/12 11:43 AM

14 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_014.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:40 AM

Always a reason to celebrate

fests

Better than Santa? Daley Plaza is transformed into a German Christmas market, complete with a visit from the Christkind (Christmas Fairy), once again this holiday season. But if you’re looking for good ole Santa, we’ve got plenty of places to see him, too. As the holidays wind down, check out the many winter festivals that celebrate the cold (yes, it’s possible!).

ChicagoParent.com

Fests.indd 15

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 15

11/6/12 10:04 AM

Christkindlmarket welcomes families

common complaint about the holiday season is that it’s become too commercial, too materialistic, simply too much. But one Chicago holiday mainstay is returning to its roots, with a focus on families and tradition. Christkindlmarket, the charming village situated on Daley Plaza, is well known as an open-air market that harkens back to Nuremberg, Germany. And although it’s always been a place for families, the market’s popularity means it can be overwhelming to visit with kids. “We really want it to be focused on the family feeling of the holiday season,” says Morgan Kingsland, assistant manager for German American Services Inc., which puts on the market. “We’d rather not be as big of a commercial event and keep it about history and tradition.” A new Kinder Korner aims to get kids investigating the market and interacting with vendors, many of whom hail from Germany. Kids can pick up a “passport” at the information counter and get it stamped at designated vendors (Kingsland hints there might be prizes at stake). The passport also contains activities, coloring pages and word searches, as well as German translations for items they’ll see around the market.

16 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_016.indd 1

Christkindlmarket Chicago Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago Nov. 21-Dec. 24 ■ 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. Closes at 4 p.m. Nov. 22 and Dec. 24. ■ Free ■ (312) 494-2175; christkindlmarket.com ■ ■

“We want to keep it educational, as well as fun,” Kingsland says. “We’re trying to focus more on getting them to explore the market.” Kingsland says there are many vendors that appeal to kids, including Toy Wonderland, Bear Hands and Buddies, and the three large ornament houses, which are great places to warm up. Plus, the Sweet Castle sells all types of yummy treats, and Dinkel’s Bakery serves up hot chocolate in those famous boot-shaped mugs. She thinks the performances (check website for schedule) are an especially good opportunity to take a break from the shopping. The website also has a Kinder Korner section, with fun scavenger hunts that help direct kids’ exploration and give specific questions to ask vendors. Although there’s no physical “Kinder Korner,” two kid-friendly events take place during the monthlong run: a visit by the regal-looking Christkind (Christmas Fairy) on Nov. 21-22 and the Children’s Lantern Parade on Dec. 5. It all works to achieve Christkindlmarket’s goal, in Kingsland’s words: “We really just wanted to bring it back to focus on families.” Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:39 AM

FESTS Christkindlmarket Chicago

NOVEMBER

Daley Plaza 50 W. Washington St. Chicago (312) 494-2175 christkindlmarket.com Nov. 21-Dec. 24

Long Grove Holiday Festivities Routes 83 and 53 Just north of Lake Cook Road Long Grove (847) 634-0888 longgroveonline.com Nov. 10-Dec. 23

Traditional German winter holiday market features holiday decorations, vendors in stalls and cottages selling German gift items and foods, entertainment and activities for all ages. The annual Children’s Lantern Parade is a highlight for children. Visit website for a detailed schedule. New in 2012, Kinder Korner, a resource for children, teachers and parents, that includes at-market activities. Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Open 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 22 and Dec. 24. Admission: Free.

Features horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Santa and entertainment. Hours: Visit website for schedule. Admission: Visit website.

Symphony In Lights The Promenade Bolingbrook 631 E. Boughton Road Bolingbrook thepromenadebolingbrook.com Nov. 10-Dec. 31 Activities begin at 3 p.m. Saturday with the arrival of Santa and continue throughout the afternoon, including free horse and carriage rides, hot chocolate and cookies, gingerbread contest, holiday crafts for kids, ice sculpture demonstrations, live Nativity scene and ending with the lighting of the Christmas tree and the Symphony in Lights show at dusk. Hours: 3 p.m. Nov. 10. Light show continues through December. Admission: Free.

Christmas in Shipshewana Shipshewana, Ind. (800) 254-8090 shipshewana.com Nov. 10-Dec. 31 Various activities held throughout the holiday season, including light parade and lighting ceremony, entertainment, demonstrations and giveaways. Hours: Visit website for schedule. Admission: Visit website.

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Downtown streets and parks Milwaukee, Wis. (414) 220-4700 milwaukeeholidaylights.com Nov. 15-Dec. 30 The festival kicks off in Pere Marquette Park with live music, fireworks and the ceremonial lighting of the downtown lights. The light festival features thousands of lights and holiday displays. Hours: Festival kick-off: 6 p.m. Nov. 15. Visit website for Jingle Bus schedule. Admission: Free; $1 for Jingle Bus.

Chicago Toy & Game Fair Navy Pier-Festival Hall B 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago (847) 677-8277

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_017.indd 1

Daley Plaza Annual Tree Lighting

Christmas in the Valley, see page 19. chitag.com Nov. 17-18 Fair offers families, teachers, toy and game enthusiasts the chance to preview new toys and games, participate in tournaments, meet toy and game inventors and shop for the holidays. Also features live entertainment and roving characters. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 17; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 18. Admission: $10, $5 kids 3-13.

Santa in the Sky John Hancock Observatory 875 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago hancockobservatory.com Nov. 17-Dec. 24

and Wacker Drive. Hours: Events and performers all day; Lighting Procession at 5:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Winter Lights Night Sunset Hill Farm County Park 775 N. Meridian Road Valparaiso, Ind. (219) 465-3586 porterco.org Nov. 17 Enjoy a fireworks show, the chance to meet Santa, crafts and games, an art show, live music and the light display. Hours: 3-7 p.m. Drive through the park to see the displays. Admission: Visit website.

Santa visits on weekends and there are special activities each weekend. Hours: Open daily. Santa visits 1-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Visit website for additional weekend activities schedule. Admission: Free with admission.

Festival of Trees

The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Weeklong holiday fest features display of holiday trees, wreaths and decorations; numerous special events such as concerts, holiday classic films, performance of the Nutcracker and the Teddy Bear Tea. Hours: Closed Thanksgiving Day. Visit website for a complete schedule. Admission: $7, $5 kids and seniors, free kids 2 and under. Visit website for early bird discount information.

North Michigan Avenue, from Oak Street to Wacker Drive Chicago (312) 409-5560 themagnificentmile.com/events/lightsfestival Nov. 17 The event is held along North Michigan Avenue between Oak Street

Rialto Square Theatre 15 E. Van Buren St. Joliet (815) 726-7171 rialtosquare.com Nov. 19-25

50 W. Washington St. Chicago (312) 744-3315 explorechicago.org/dcase Nov. 21 Watch the Daley Plaza tree lighting, along with live performances and holiday music. Hours: 4:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Historic Holidays at Clarke House Museum 1827 S. Indiana Ave. Chicago (312) 745-0041 clarkehousemuseum.org Nov. 21-Dec. 30 Experience a traditional mid-19th century Christmas. Discover the simple joys of homemade decorations, including pine boughs and a tabletop Christmas tree, which adorned the 1850s Chicago home. Learn about gifts exchanged by families like the Clarkes and pick up a period recipe to try. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free with admission.

Daley Plaza Santa House Washington, Dearborn and Clark streets Chicago (312) 744-3315 explorechicago.org/dcase Nov. 22-Dec. 24 Visit Santa Claus and his friends at Santa’s interactive house on Daley Plaza. Families should plan to come mid-afternoon to avoid crowds. Hours: 6-8 p.m. Nov. 21; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 22; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. FridaySunday Nov. 23-Dec. 16; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily Dec. 17-23; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 24. Admission: Free.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 17

10/26/12 11:39 AM

FESTS McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade State Street (starts on Congress and moves north to Randolph) Chicago chicagofestivals.org Nov. 22 Features live performances, equestrian units, marching bands and sky-high balloons. Hours: 8-11 a.m. Admission: Free.

Wonderland Express Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org Nov. 23-Jan. 6

takes place on the steps at 10 a.m. After the ceremony, visit a drop-in workshop to create small golden embossed relief sculptures inspired by Roman and early Byzantine treasures from the British Museum and the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago and a holiday wreath. Plus, meet Artie the lion. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free; regular admission for inside activities.

Caroling at Cloud Gate Millennium Park

Enjoy indoor and outdoor lighted displays, designer wreaths and trees, a replica English country train platform, and the Model Railroad Garden in seasonal decor. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Visit website.

Wreathing of the Lions 111 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 443-3600 artic.edu Nov. 23

Michigan Avenue between Randolph and Monroe streets Chicago (312) 742-1168 millenniumpark.org Nov. 23-Dec. 21 Hear a variety of choral groups and join them in a holiday singalong at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. Hours: 6 p.m. Fridays. Admission: Free.

Light Up the Holidays Festival and Parade

FP_HolidayWalk_CP.pdf The traditional ceremony of wreathing the Art Institute’s lions

Downtown Joliet jolietdowntown.com 10/6/09 Nov. 23 12:03:52 PM Family activities at several locations

including a tree lighting ceremony, parade and other events throughout the day. Hours: Tree lighting and parade at 5 p.m. Visit website for a complete list of events. Admission: Free.

Dickens of a Christmas Downtown Wheaton 129 W. Front St. Wheaton (630) 682-0633 downtownwheaton.com Nov. 23-Dec. 15

ing, prepare family crafts, and enjoy the animal exhibits. The first 1,000 visitors each night receive a free pair of 3D glasses for a magical light display experience. Hours: 5-9 p.m. Friday-Sunday Nov. 23-Dec. 23; nightly Dec. 26-Jan. 6. Closed Dec. 24 and 25. Admission: Free.

Celebration of Lights Festival

Watch the lighted Christmas parade at 6 p.m. Nov. 23. Then enjoy carriage rides and a visit with Santa Nov. 24-Dec. 15. On Dec. 1, there is a Holiday Open House at downtown merchants. Hours: Visit website for schedule. Admission: Free; minimal charge for some activities.

151 N. Island Ave. and Houston Street Batavia (630) 879-5235 bataviaparks.org Nov. 25 Experience the magic of the holidays with a visit from Santa, hayrides, caroling and entertainment. Hours: 5:30-7 p.m. Admission: Free; $1 or food donation for hayride.

Festival of Lights Phillips Park 615 S. Smith Blvd. Aurora aurorafestivaloflights.com Nov. 26-Dec. 26

ZooLights Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N. Cannon Drive Chicago (312) 742-2000 lpzoo.org Nov. 23-Jan. 6 The zoo becomes a winter wonderland illuminated by more than 2 million lights. Watch live ice carv-

Families can drive through a mile of lighted holiday displays, many of them animated. There is no charge to drive through the park, but donations are requested. Proceeds benefit local charitable organiza-

CMY

f o r e s t

p a r k

Holiday WalK and Festival of Windows FRIDAY, DECEMBER F ri day, Nove m b e r 430 6:00pm-9:00pm

ALONG MADISON STREET

between Harlem Ave. & Des Plaines Ave. Stroll Forest Park’s shopping district and experience live-action window displays, horse-drawn sleigh rides, face painting, Santa and his reindeer and more!

thi s i s a Free e ve nt info@exploreforestpark.com or call The Forest Park Chamber of Commerce and Development at 708.366.2543

exploreforestpark.com

Holiday Walk visit and photo op with Santa • Forest Park National Bank - Madison & Hannah • 6:30 to 8 p.m.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

••• ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

18 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_018.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:39 AM

FESTS tions. Hours: 5-9 p.m. SundayThursday; 5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Admission: Free.

Christmas Walk & Hinsdale’s Storybook Village - A Gingerbread’s Tale Downtown Hinsdale (630) 323-3952 business.hinsdalechamber.com Nov. 30-Dec. 24 Forty giant storybooks at local businesses tell the story of Cookie the Gingerbread Man’s travels. The Christmas Walk includes ice carvers, holiday carolers, annual tree lighting, animated characters, and Santa’s arrival. Stores remain open. On Nov. 30, the streets come alive with Radio Disney, gingerbread men, Santa and more. Merchants stay open late. Hours: Christmas Walk 4-8 p.m. Nov. 30. Storybooks on display through Dec. 24. Admission: Free.

Holiday Market Oak Park Avenue Train Station Parking Lot, 173rd and Oak Park Avenue Tinley Park (708) 444-5678 tinleypark.org Nov. 30-Dec. 2 Features live entertainment, specialty vendors, kids’ crafts and activities, and food. Enjoy tree lighting ceremony, parades, carriage rides and carnival rides. Visit website for schedule. Hours: 6-9 p.m. Nov. 30; noon-6 p.m. Dec. 1; noon-5 p.m. Dec. 2. Admission: Free.

Holiday Walk and Tree Lighting Madison Street, between Des Plaines and Harlem avenues Forest Park (708) 366-2543 exploreforestpark.com Nov. 30

of holiday fun. There are also thousands of glistening lights, holiday décor and holiday trees. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free; $15-$18 activity wristbands.

DECEMBER

Christmas in the Valley Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm 1111 E. Schaumburg Road Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com Dec. 1-2 Features demonstrations of late 19th century German holiday customs, farm life, food preparation on the wood stove, craft activities for children and adults, wagon rides, holiday treats, and visits with Father Christmas in the log cabin. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Admission: $8 family, $2 person, free kids 3 and under.

Brookfield Zoo Annual Holiday Magic First Avenue and 31st Street Brookfield (800) 201-0784 brookfieldzoo.org Dec. 1-31

GET UP AND

GLOW!

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Downtown Milwaukee November 15 – December 31, 2012

Features more than one million twinkling lights illuminating the zoo’s walkways. Enjoy animated light displays, laser light shows, icecarving demonstrations, live musical and dance performances, costumed characters, animal Zoo Chats with keepers and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus (through Dec. 23). Hours: 4-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday Dec. 1-23, daily Dec. 26-31. Admission: Free with zoo admission.

From twinkling streets to magical parks, we’ve set the stage for incredible winter fun. World-class theater and arts, amazing concerts, free family amusements, and oneof-a-kind restaurants and shops – it all adds up to a flurry of activity that’s simply unmatched. See all the festive sights with $1 Jingle Bus rides Thursdays through Sundays. Shuttles depart from 6 pm to 9 pm at The Shops of Grand Avenue – Center Court. Last bus leaves at 8:20 pm.

City of Elgin Tree Lighting Civic Plaza Elgin cityofelgin.org Dec. 1

Features live-action store window displays, horse-drawn sleigh rides, a marshmallow roast, face painting, refreshments and Santa. Hours: Visit website for schedule. Admission: Free.

The mayor, members of the City Council and Santa Claus turn on the holiday tree lights. Hours: 5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier

Lights of Lisle

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago (312) 595-PIER (595-7437) winterwonderfest.com Nov. 30-Jan. 6

Downtown Lisle (630) 769-1000 stayinlisle.com Dec. 1-2

Features indoor ice skating, entertainment, rides and inflatable slides in more than 170,000 square feet

MILWAUKEE HOLIDAY LIGHTS FESTIVAL NOV 15 THRU DEC 31, 2012

Santa Parade kicks off at 3 p.m. on Saturday. The tree lighting ceremony takes place at 6 p.m. at Village Hall on Saturday with holiday music, and community caroling.

w w w.milwauke eholidaylights.com 414.220.470 0

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 19

ChicagoParent.com DM041822-AD4_hlightsChiParentGoingPlace.indd 1 CHIPAR1012_019.indd 1

10/22/12 9:27 AM 10/26/12 11:39 AM

FESTS The event also includes demonstrations, crafts and activities, and cookies and hot chocolate on Saturday and Sunday. Hours: Visit website.

the Gingerbread House. Enjoy carolers, the Great Tree lighting, old fashioned candy cane pull, roasted chestnuts, Swedish cookies and shopping. Call for Santa hours and complimentary horse-drawn carriage ride times/date. Hours: 6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Roscoe Village Winterfest Roscoe and Damen streets Chicago (773) 327-5123 rvcc.biz Dec. 1-2

Breakfast with Santa Lambs Farm 14245 W. Rockland Road Libertyville (847) 362-4636 lambsfarm.org Dec. 8-16

Kick off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting and late night shopping on Saturday. Enjoy kids’ activities on Sunday featuring trolley, choirs and Santa. Hours: 5-9 p.m. Dec. 1; 1-5 p.m. Dec. 2. Admission: Free.

Enjoy brunch with Santa Claus. After brunch, kids will enjoy a variety of crafts and activities, and a photo with Santa. Reservations required. Call (847) 362-5050. Hours: 9 and 10:30 a.m. and noon. Dec. 8-9 and Dec. 15-16. Admission: $15.95, $7.95 kids 23 months and under with activities.

Breakfast with Santa at Hancock Observatory John Hancock Observatory 875 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago (877) 875-6940 hancockobservatory.com Dec. 1-23

Breakfast with Tomten (Santa) Swedish American Museum 5211 N. Clark St. Chicago (773) 728-8111 swedishamericanmuseum.org Dec. 8-9

Have breakfast with Santa on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Building. Call (312) 654-5019 for reservations. Hours: 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Dec. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23. Reservations required. Admission: $45, $35 kids, $15 infants. Includes buffet breakfast, family photo and Observatory admission.

Event includes a Swedish pancake breakfast, traditional crafts, dancing around the Christmas tree, and a special visit with Tomten. Hours: 9 a.m. Dec. 8-9. Admission: $17, $12 members, free kids under 2. Prepaid reservations required.

Breakfast with Santa at Brookfield Zoo First Avenue and 31st Street Brookfield (708) 485-0263 ext.355. czs.org Dec. 2-16 An all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet will be served at 9 and 11 a.m., followed by a photo opportunity with Santa. Afterward, visit the zoo’s animals. Call (708) 688-8355 for reservations. Hours: 9 and 11 a.m. Dec. 2, Dec. 8-9, Dec. 15-16. Admission: $39, $27.50 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under; $29 members, $21.50 member kids.

Chicagoland Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade Dan Ryan Woods 8300 S. Western Ave. Chicago (773) 866-TOYS (8697) chicagolandtft.org Dec. 2 Thousands of motorcyclists ride in Chicago’s biggest motorcycle event to bring toys to underprivileged

20 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_020.indd 1

St. Lucia Festival of Lights, see this page.

children. Bikers start at Dan Ryan Woods at 9:30 a.m. Bikers ride regardless of the weather. Hours: 9:30 a.m. Admission: Free.

Brookfield Zoo Brunch with Santa First Avenue and 31st Street Brookfield (708) 485-0263 ext. 355 brookfieldzoo.org Dec. 2-16 All-you-can-eat brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus, appearances by animal costumed characters and some furry critters from the Children’s Zoo. Call (708) 688-8355 for reservations. Hours: 11 a.m and 1:30 p.m. Dec. 2, 9 and 16. Admission: $49, $35 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under; $39 members, $29 member kids.

Old Fashioned Tree Lighting Wilder Park 175 Prospect Ave. Elmhurst (630) 739-1071 epd.org Dec. 6 Enjoy the tree lighting ceremony, a visit with Santa and live music. Hours: 6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Geneva’s Great Tree Lighting and Christmas Walk Geneva Court House 100 S. Third St. Geneva (630) 232-6060 genevachamber.com Dec. 7 Santa Lucia arrives by horse-drawn carriage and Santa arrives to open

St. Lucia Festival of Lights 5211 N. Clark St. Chicago andersonville.org Dec. 13 Start at the Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark, for the annual candlelit, carol-filled procession down Clark Street. Afterwards, the museum hosts singing, family entertainment and treats. There also is a special St. Lucia service down the street at Ebenezer Lutheran Church starting at 7 p.m. Hours: 4:45 p.m. procession. Admission: Procession is free; admission to the museum is $1 or a canned food item.

Christmas Breakfast with Santa Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe chicagobotanic.org/wonderland Dec. 15-16 Event includes a buffet breakfast,

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:38 AM

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas

t may take a little explaining when your child sees thousands of Santas running along the lakefront this holiday season. Even if you’re not into running, the sight of all those Kris Kringles is worth the trip Dec. 1 to the museum campus, where the 4th Annual Santa Hustle begins. “I think it’s going to be pretty fun to watch 7,000 Santas run on the lakefront,” says Amy Key, president of Variety Children’s Charity, this year’s race beneficiary. “We’ll have music going, so it will be a fun atmosphere.” Runners get a red shirt, white beard and Santa hat when they register, but many take it even further and deck themselves out in full Santa costumes. Holiday music is piped throughout the course, which starts on Museum Campus Drive, heads

south on the trails past McCormick Place, and then loops back to finish on Waldron. A 100-yard dash for kids 12 and under begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by the main 5K race at 9 a.m. In keeping with the holiday spirit, water stations also feature candy and cookies, with candy canes passed out at the finish line. This year, a new wheelchair division and kids’ wheelchair dash have been added to the race. A party with activities for families will take place after the race. If you’re not a runner, but are looking to do some good this holiday season, race organizers are looking for more than 200 volunteers, and families are encouraged to help out. “We want people of all ages. We’ve seen kids be very successful at handing out water,” Key says. “Parents can

To register for the race

definitely come out with kids and consider this one of their giving opportunities.” Money raised from the event will go to Variety’s program to provide mobility equipment for children whose insurance won’t cover a specific item. That includes things such as wheelchairs, sports equipment and adapted bikes, Key says. Liz DeCarlo

■ santahustle.com/Chicago

To volunteer: Email: santahustlevolunteer@ varietyofillinois.org ■ For more about Variety: varietyofillinois.org

Registration still open! Classes begin October 29

4544 & 4545 N. Lincoln 909 W. Armitage 773.728.6000

Classes for kids in Music, Dance, Theater, Art, and

wiggleworms! ®

Wiggleworms now in Lincoln Square, Lincoln Park, Evanston, Hyde Park, Glencoe, Western Springs, Naperville and at Instituto Cervantes.

Call us at 773.728.6000 or visit oldtownschool.org Photo by Dan Kasberger

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_021.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 21

10/31/12 11:12 AM

FESTS visit with Santa, and Wonderland Express exhibition viewing before public hours. Hours: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Dec. 15-16. Admission: Visit website for ticket information.

Christmas Concert Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe chicagobotanic.org/wonderland Dec. 22 Event includes a Christmas Brass Concert featuring festive holiday favorites and Wonderland Express exhibition viewing. Hours: 1 and 3 p.m. Admission: Visit website for ticket information.

Crown Point Annual Grand Finale Crown Point Civic Center 101 N. East St. Crown Point, Ind. (219) 662-3290 crownpoint.in.gov Dec. 31 Kids’ New Year’s Party features prizes, candy and pizza. Call for more information and cost. Hours: 3-6 p.m. Admission: Visit website.

Zoo Years Eve - Brookfield Zoo First Avenue and 31st Street

Brookfield (708) 688-8400 brookfieldzoo.org Dec. 31 Music, games and prizes along with a countdown to the new year at 8 p.m. Hours: 6-8 p.m. Admission: Free with admission.

JANUARY

Celebration of Winter H-F Ice Arena 777 Kedzie Ave. Flossmoor (708) 957-PARK hfparks.com Jan. 5 Enjoy winter activities and games, including a bonfire, cross-country skiing, winter bingo, snowball accuracy throw and dog musher demonstration. Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free.

Progressive Insurance Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show McCormick Place 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago

chicagoboatshow.com Jan. 9-13 Outdoor enthusiasts can find the best deals on hundreds of boats, RVs, marine accessories, camping equipment, fishing gear and travel destinations. Hands-on activities for kids include scuba diving, a trout fishing pond, paddlesports and FloRider, a new feature that simulates wakeboarding. Hours: 2-9 p.m. Jan. 9; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 10-11; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 12; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 13. Admission: $12, $10 seniors, free kids 15 and under.

Winter Carnival Meadowhill Park 1479 Maple Ave. Northbrook (847) 291-2995 nbparks.org Jan. 12 Celebrate the season with carnival games, a snowshoe obstacle course, winter demonstrations, music and a sled decorating contest. Hours: 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Admission: Free.

Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition Sinnissippi Park 1401 N. Second St.

Rockford (815) 987-8800 snowsculpting.org Jan. 16-19 Watch snow-sculpting teams form frozen art from giant blocks of snow. Abstract shapes and whimsical figures take shape under the skilled hands of state and high school teams. Walk or drive the one-mile route through the park to see sculptures. Hours: Sunrise-11 p.m. Jan. 16-19. Admission: Free.

Strictly Sail Chicago Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago strictlysailchicago.com Jan. 24-27 The largest indoor sailboat show in the U.S. has sailboats, gear and accessories, plus educational seminars. The Kids Yacht Club is where junior sailors can play with remote control sailboats, learn the ropes aboard a sailing simulator, enjoy crafting toy sailboats, or meet Skipper, the sailing dolphin. Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 24-25; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 26; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan 27. Admission: $12 weekday, $15 weekend, $25 family pack (online

The

Avery Coonley School

The Avery Coonley School is a pre-K through 8th grade school for academically bright and gifted children.

ACS provides • depth, pace, and complexity of curriculum for gifted learners • a like-minded peer group • comprehensive technology and arts programs • a nurturing faculty that understands the unique needs of highly-capable students

A celebration of books for the whole family! Presented by

Saturday, November 17, 2012 • 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Harold Washington Library Center, 400 South State Street Join us for this celebration of children’s books, featuring story crafts, special performances, storytelling and visits from some of your favorite storybook characters, authors and illustrators.

Visit chicagopubliclibrary.org for more information. Bookamania is made possible by a generous grant from Target Corporation through the Chicago Public Library Foundation.

1400 Maple Avenue • Downers Grove, IL • 60515 www.averycoonley.org • 630.969.0800

22 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_022.indd 1

© Target Stores. The Bullseye Design and Target are registered trademarks of Target Brands, Inc. All rights reserved. 678418 Illustration copyright © 2012 by Tad Hills featuring characters from Rocket Writes a Story and Duck & Goose.

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:38 AM

FESTS only), $24 two-day pass, free kids 15 and under when accompanied by an adult.

Snow Days Chicago Gateway Park Navy Pier Chicago (312) 744-3315 snowdayschicago.us Jan. 25-27 Teams of artists from around the country and the world gather to create sculpting masterpieces out of 10-foot blocks of man-made snow. Other activities include dog sled racing demonstrations and a snowboard rail jam competition. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free.

Annual Aon Step Up for Kids Aon Center 200 E. Randolph St. Chicago luriechildrens.org/stepup Jan. 27 More than 2,000 serious athletes, fitness enthusiasts, families and Lurie Children’s supporters climb 80 floors to the top of the Aon Building. The event benefits fundraising efforts of K.I.D.S.S. for Kids,

an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, and the hospital’s Family Services department, which serves children and families treated at the hospital. Hours: 8 a.m. Admission: Visit website.

FEBRUARY

Japanese Festival at Oak Park River Forest High School 201 N. Scoville Ave. Oak Park (708) 434-3386 oprfhs.org Feb. 2 Annual Japanese Festival includes performances of professional drummers and dancers, and hands-on activities and games. Activities include origami, calligraphy, crafts, chopsticks, Japanese toys and games, writing your name in Japanese, language and culture lessons, food and drinks. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

Progressive International Motorcycle Show Donald E. Stephens Convention Center 5555 N. River Road Rosemont

(800) 331-5706 motorcycleshows.com Feb. 8-10 See sport bikes, dirt bikes and cruisers. The show features stunt shows, seminars and family activities. Hours: 3-9 p.m. Feb. 8; 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Feb. 9; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 10. Admission: $15, $6 kids 6-11, free kids 5 and under; visit website for advance purchase and multiple day rates.

Chicago Auto Show McCormick Place 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago chicagoautoshow.com Feb. 9-18 The nation’s largest and longestrunning auto exposition showcases more than 1,000 domestic and imported vehicles, auto-related exhibits, competition vehicles, and project, antique and collector cars. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Visit website.

Downers Grove Ice Fest: Love Is in the Air Downtown Downers Grove

downtowndg.org/icepage.htm Feb. 11-12 Unique ice sculptures line the streets of downtown while visitors enjoy an array of events. Live ice carving demonstrations on Friday at 6:30 p.m., as well as Saturday and Sunday. Hours: 6:30 p.m. Feb. 10; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Feb 11-12. Admission: Free.

Chicago Maritime Festival Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St. Chicago (773) 575-7244 chicagomaritimefestival.org Feb. 23 Features a taste of almost every aspect of life on or near the water in Chicago through seminars, workshops, and concerts on topics including maritime history, shipwreck diving, battles at sea, water safety, weather forecasting, model ships, commercial shipping, canoes and kayaks, maritime music and marine art. Activities for younger sailors include music, knot tying, and building model boats (which they can take home with them). Hours: Daytime activities 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Evening concert 7 p.m. Admission: Daytime activities $14. Concert $20. Early bird and group discounts available.

Home of U.S. National and Olympic Team Members!

Discover the fun and beauty of Rhythmic Gymnastics Ages 3-16 and all levels beginner to Olympic

Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent

is part of your favorite social networks ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_023.indd 1

On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

10% off

registration to new students by mentioning this ad

For more information or to attend a FREE class call 847-363-1559 or email info@ilrhythmicgymnastics.com ilrhythmicgymnastics.com | email: info@ilrhythmicgymnastics.com 847-363-1559 | 1850 Green Bay Road, Highland Park

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 23

10/31/12 11:13 AM

Travel a billion lighT-years and back in a new space advenTure only aT The adler!

Media Sponsor: The Adler Planetarium gratefully acknowledges The Grainger Foundation for its leadership in transforming the historic Sky Theater.

CHIPAR1012_024.indd 1

10/26/12 11:37 AM

museums Discover the world around you

Gear up for winter

t’s time for some great indoor fun as the weather turns colder. From the DuPage Children’s Museum (pictured here) to the Museum of Contemporary Art, there’s something to appeal to just about every child. We’ve got a list of three exhibits not to miss, including bugs at Notebaert Nature Museum, snow globes at Adler, and good old Charlie Brown at the Museum of Science and Industry. Plus, we’ll give you some tips to visiting the art museums in the area. Each has programming for families and children, often at prices that will fit your budget.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_025.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 25

10/26/12 11:37 AM

Three to see N

ow that Jack Frost has made his merry return to Chicagoland, we’re all looking for new activities to do—preferably inside. Fortunately, local museums are rolling out new programs and exhibits just in time for winter’s chill. Here are three of our favorites. Elizabeth Diffin

Museum of Science and Industry It would hardly feel like the holiday season without a Charlie Brown special popping up on your TV. And now you can experience that yearly tradition in a new way with “Charlie Brown and the Great Exhibit.” The exhibit, created in partnership with the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, Calif., explores the life of the cartoonist and examines the evolution of the characters from the 1950s to the versions of the ‘80s and ‘90s (did you know Charlie didn’t always wear that zigzag shirt?). The exhibit includes largescale, detailed reproductions of Schulz’s work, as well as some of his personal items. But the highlight is a walk-in replica of Snoopy’s doghouse, which was shown in many strips, and occasionally described, but never seen from the inside. Kids also can try out creative projects in an area

called, naturally, “The Peanut Gallery.” There will be the chance to see drawings come to life via a zoetrope, a device that makes pictures seem animated. “Our mission is to inspire inventive genius in all our guests, by highlighting the creativity and inventive genius in Charles Schulz,” Jeff Buonomo, manager of temporary exhibits for the museum, says. Plus, it’s sure to increase appreciation for Schulz’s work when the Peanuts gang reappears on your television screen.

Adler Planetarium We’d have to check the Mars rover footage, but we’re pretty sure they don’t celebrate the holidays in space. Fortunately for us, this year’s earthbound festivities can be enhanced thanks to a celebration called “Season of Wonder.” Adler’s newest offering kicks off Nov. 16 and includes two new shows and special family programming. The “Season of Wonder” show includes an exploration of the winter night sky, including the winter solstice and the Aurora borealis. Plus, there’s a different look at the birth of Jesus that focuses on the Star of Bethlehem, and an exploration of the way different cultures celebrate. Another unusual highlight is the “World’s Largest Snow Globe,” staged in the Grainger Sky Theater. The show morphs to make the audience feel they literally are inside a snow globe, with flakes falling and scenes of places far and near. “This isn’t something people can do anywhere else,” says Molly O’Connell, director of museum communications. “Hopefully it will become a favorite family tradition.”

26 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

Museums.indd 26

10/31/12 1:40 PM

Take a hands on peek of factory floor

I Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Winter doesn’t seem like the time to think about insects. After all, it’s the one season we get to live a bug-free existence. But “Backyard Monsters” aims to increase our appreciation for our six-legged friends, thanks to an “insect’s-eye view of your backyard.” It’s complete with arger-than-life robotic insects, interaclarger-than-life ive elements and lots and lots of bugs, tive oth living and dead. both The exhibit is broken into three main sections: Monters, which focuses on crazy insects like scorpions and taransters, ulas; A Bug’s Life, exploring the ways bugs live; and Up-Close tulas; nd Personal, where kids can see the insects in detail. and Along the way, nine interactive elements let visitors explore ow bugs see, fly and eat. how “Our hope is that theyy realize they’re cool and interesting, ut they’re also doing a lot off th tthings hin ings gs but hat are beneficial and absolutely that ssential to our world as we know essential t,” says Karen Kramer Wilson, living it,” nvertebrates specialist. invertebrates And just because we can’t see bugs ight now, it doesn’t mean they’re not right here. Kids can start thinking about there. where the bugs go when the ground is overed with snow—and then keep an eye covered ut for them when spring finally rolls around. out Maybe at that point, they’ll have a better espect for creepy-crawlers and what they do for respect uss all year long.

f you’re a former Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood fan, you probably remember his videos about how people in factories made things. Those short clips focused not only on the process it took to make a specific item, but also on the people manning the machines. Now a new exhibit at the DuPage Children’s Museum in Naperville will give another generation of children the chance to see how everyday items are made. The How People Make Things exhibit was created by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and the Fred Rogers Company. Exhibit pieces feature items from the iconic show, including the infamous trolley and even Mr. Rogers’ shoes. The interactive stations help kids learn about the machines and creative thinking that go into making everything from baseball bats to golf carts. Plus, there will be information about two local manufacturers: Navistar and Caterpillar. “What’s really exciting about this exhibit is it p expands our audience a little bit more than people might associate with the DuPage C Children’s Museum,” says T.J. Hicks, direc director of integrated marketing. “Kids 7 to 10 or even 12 years old will enjo enjoy the process behind how th things are made... That’s not to say the younger audience won’t also eenjoy it,” he says. “Th “There’s an amazing aamount of color and unique components in the exhibit.” The exhibit runs through Jan. 27. For iinformation, visit du dupagechildrensmu museum.org. Liz DeCarlo

goingplaces 27

CHIPAR1012_027.indd 1

10/26/12 11:36 AM

MUSEUMS ART

INSPIRE. CHALLENGE. NURTURE.

Art Institute of Chicago 159 E. Monroe Chicago (312) 443-3600 artinstituteofchicago.org

KINDERGARTEN OPEN HOUSE

A Parent Playdate

Thursday, Nov. 15th Tours at 6:45 p.m. Program begins at 7:30 p.m.

1ST & 2ND GRADE OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, Dec. 5th at 7:30 p.m. RSVP to Yelena Spector, Director of Admissions (773) 493-8880 • admissions@akibaschechter.org www.akibaschechter.org

The Family Room in the education center includes hands-on activities kids can use to learn about art. Don’t miss the gallery space with changing exhibitions of original illustrations from favorite children’s books. Art-making takes place in the center at selected times on weekends. Food is available at an on-site cafe, bathrooms have changing tables and free strollers are available for use in the museum. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and Friday; 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $18, $12 kids 14 and up, students and seniors 65+, free kids 13 and under. Closed major holidays.

Elmhurst Art Museum 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave. Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 elmhurstartmuseum.org

Governors State University 1 University Parkway University Park (708) 534-4486 govst.edu/sculpture The giant sculptures include Paul Bunyan, a flying saucer and a circular maze. Be prepared for lots of walking, and consider breaking your visits into tours of the north and south parts of the park to make the trip more manageable with kids. There is plenty of free parking and a cafeteria which is open Monday-Friday (hours vary, call the cafeteria directly at 708-534-4496). Hours: Dawn to dusk daily. Admission: Free; fees for some activities.

National Museum of Mexican Art 1852 W. 19th St. Chicago (312) 738-1503 nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org The museum showcases authentic Mexican art and culture. It also is committed to educating children and youth through arts programs. Staff are on hand to guide visitors. Follow up your visit with lunch at La Cebollita (1723 S. Ashland Ave.), where you can enjoy traditional Mexican food at affordable prices. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySunday. Closed on major holidays. Admission: Free; performance festivals and tours are ticketed. Donations are accepted.

Museum of Contemporary Art

Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park

Exhibit halls are filled with brightly colored artwork and sculptures even young kids will enjoy. Family Days are held on the second Saturdays of the month (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) and include hands-on art activities, scavenger hunts and Look ‘n’ Learn stations. Admission is free for families with children 12 and under, and activities are appropriate for all ages. Stroller Tours are held the first Wednesday of the month (11:30 a.m.). Puck’s is a full-service restaurant on-site that offers lunch daily, as well as a Sunday brunch. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.

CHIPAR1012_028.indd 1

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park

See No Rules: Contemporary Clay, an exhibition that expands and challenge traditional perceptions of what clay can and should do. Museum also offers tours, art classes and free Friday night events. Families enjoy Art on the Run, a free art drop-in activity every Saturday. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday. Admission: $5, $3 seniors & students, free kids under 5. Free Friday and to members.

220 E. Chicago Ave. Chicago (312) 280-2660 mcachicago.org

28 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

Closed Monday and major holidays. Admission: $12, $7 students with ID and seniors, free kids 12 and under, members and military personnel. Free Tuesday for Illinois residents.

McCormick Boulevard between Dempster and Touhy avenues Skokie (847) 679-4265 sculpturepark.org This is a great place to bike, jog or walk, even with a stroller or a few kids on training wheels in tow. Two miles of landscaped park are studded with more than 60 sculptures. Visit the website before you visit and download a family guide filled with clues, questions and information that serves as an interactive introduction to the sculptures. Hours: Open daily year-round. Admission: Free.

Smart Museum of Art University of Chicago

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:36 AM

MUSEUMS 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Chicago (773) 702-0200 smartmuseum.uchicago.edu Family guides are available at the front desk and will lead you through the museum’s galleries of modern, Asian and contemporary art. Kids are drawn to the outdoor sculpture garden. Drop-in family days with free hands-on activities are held the first Saturday of each month. There is a cafe on-site that is open daily. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday. Admission: Free.

CHILDREN’S

Bronzeville Children’s Museum 9301 S. Stony Island Ave. Chicago (773) 721-9301 bronzevillechildrensmuseum.com The museum makes African-American history interesting and accessible. Children learn how to conserve energy in each room of a life-sized house. Little ones will love the teller windows and ATM, the stethoscopes and the heart model they can take apart and put together and the pretend grocery store. Hours:

Discovery Center Museum, see page 33.

Join Us For Holiday Fun At

CELEBRATE THE SEASON

Visit www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org for a complete calendar of special seasonal events and activities ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_029.indd 1

WITH US

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 29

10/31/12 11:57 AM

MUSEUMS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday. Tours: 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 1 and 2 p.m. Admission: $5.

Chicago Children’s Museum 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org This Navy Pier museum is three stories high and filled with engaging, educational exhibits including a dinosaur dig and a water play area (bring a change of clothes—kids will get wet). Kids also enjoy the big backyard and treehouse exhibits. Older kids will love climbing on the museum’s climbing schooner: Three stories of ship’s rigging from cargo hold to crow’s nest. Through Jan. 6, build a snow fort, throw snowballs, dress up a snowman and ice skate—all inside—at Snow Much Fun. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Wednesday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday. Admission: $12, $11 seniors, free kids under 1 and members. Visit website for free admission days.

Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn 5100 Museum Drive Oak Lawn (708) 423-6709 cmoaklawn.org The 9,000-square-feet of exhibit space on two floors includes the new exhibit, “We the People…” which has two beam pieces from the World Trade Center Towers on display with a theme of patriotism, helping, friendship and unity. There is a water area, a treehouse, Dreama-Dream theater for plays, Safe Haven Animal Shelter for animal care and the Construction House where kids can use real tools to build. Separate area is available for infants, and art projects are available for all kids in the art studio. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday (member hours 9 a.m.-5 p.m.); noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6, $5 seniors, free kids under 1. Free parking is available on the fifth floor of the Parking Tower.

DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington St. Naperville (630) 637-8000 dupagechildrensmuseum.org The Build It carpentry exhibit lets kids experiment with real (not plastic) tools. Blow a bubble or splash at the water tables, then dry off in the Air Works wind tunnel. On the second floor, Trains-All Aboard Art!

30 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_030.indd 1

Chicago Children’s Museum, see this page. is an interactive art exhibit focusing on the wonders of train transportation. Parents can take care of babies while keeping an eye on older kids from the three Young Explorers areas, which are padded and stocked with infant toys. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday (open until 8 p.m. every third Thursday of the month); 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $9.50, $8.50 seniors 60+, free kids under 1.

Exploration Station 459 N. Kennedy Drive Bourbonnais (815) 933-9905 ext. 2 exploration-station.org Explore 10,000 square feet of exhibit spaces, including Wreck Resort, Soda Shop, Invention Center, Market, Postal Office, Safety Place, My House, Exploralot Castle and Illumination. New Exploratot Toddler Area opens in November. Visit the live animal room ($1 admission is used to care for animals). Check website for other activities, including Tech it Apart, Cultural Celebrations, Reading with the Dogs, Krisit’s Craft Corner, and Special Families. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday (excluding some holidays). Admission: $6.

KidsWork Children’s Museum 11 S. White St. (inside the trolley barn in downtown Frankfort) Frankfort (815) 469-1199 kidsworkchildrensmuseum.org Features a pet vet exhibit, tot spot, imagine theater, light exhibit and an artworks area that always has art projects for kids to do. Explore Weaving Around the World and try your hand at the loom. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. TuesdayFriday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Extended hours some Thursdays. Closed on Monday except some Monday holidays. Admission: $6 adults and kids, $5 seniors.

Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd. Glenview (847) 832-6600 kohlchildrensmuseum.org Seventeen interactive exhibits for children birth to 8, including Car Care, Dominick’s, Pet Vet, and Water Works. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz exhibit (through Jan. 6) features the illustrations of W. W. Denslow, a Chicago resident whose illustrations helped inspire the design of the classic 1939 film starring Judy Garland. Admission: $9.50, $8.50 seniors, free kids under 12 months and members.

Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration 5211 N. Clark St. Chicago (773) 728-8111 swedishamericanmuseum.org Kids can climb aboard a 20-foot immigration steamer or tour a 100-year-old Swedish farmhouse for a first-hand immigration experience. Family nights and afterschool programs offered. Hours: Museum Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Children’s Museum Hours: 1-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $4, $3 students and seniors, free kids under 1.

Wonder Works 6445 W. North Ave. Oak Park (708) 383-4815 wonder-works.org Kids 6 months to 8 can create in a learning environment, experience the sights and sounds of the Great Outdoors, dress up and perform onstage, engineer a building, create a work of art, pick and sell fruit and explore the organic garden. Art, music, science and creative play classes offered year-round. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6, free kids under 1.

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:35 AM

MUSEUMS HISTORICAL/REGIONAL

Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org Visit the First Division military museum, which takes visitors on an interactive tour of the nation’s wars. The highlight of the visit for most kids is climbing and pretending on the many real tanks and other military equipment parked outside the museum. Cantigny Park has many events for families including art shows and military re-enactments. Hours: November, December and February hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. museum; 9 a.m.-sunset grounds. Closed January. February open weekends only. Admission: Free. Parking (per car): $5, $2 off peak.

Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St. Chicago (312) 642-4600 chicagohistory.org In the Sensing Chicago exhibit, children can explore the city’s history through their five senses. Families can also explore the city’s first ‘L’ Car and the first steam-powered locomotive to come through Chicago. The Facing Freedom exhibit depicts the struggles Americans have had over freedom both past and present. Through Jan. 6, visit the “Magic” exhibit to take a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the world of magic and its historic roots in Chicago. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $14, $12 seniors (65+) and students, free museum members and kids under 12. Call or check website for free day schedule.

Des Plaines History Center 781 Pearson St.

Chicago History Museum, see this page. Des Plaines (847) 391-5399 desplaineshistory.org Kids can see the newest exhibits on display in the Visitor Center and play in the Children’s Room which is filled with games and classic toys. One building is stroller accessible, and the other has stairs. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. Admission: Free, donations accepted.

DuPage County Historical Museum 102 E. Wesley St. Wheaton (630) 510-4941 dupagemuseum.org Journey through 150 years of history, from the settlement of DuPage County through the celebration of the 1989 sesquicentennial year. HO gauge model train display runs 1:30-3:30 p.m. on the third and fifth Saturday of each month. Programs are offered each month for all ages. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; noon-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Closed holidays. Admission: Free, donations welcome.

Elmhurst Historical Museum 120 E. Park Ave. Elmhurst (630) 833-1457 elmhursthistory.org Explore this family-friendly history museum in the Glos Mansion featuring a wide range of exhibits and family activities. Centuries of Progress exhibit documents the spectacle and wonder of U.S. World Fairs, with a special feature on Chicago’s 1893 Columbian Exposition. Hours: 1-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Admission: Free, nominal fee for programs.

Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest 217 Home Ave. (inside Pleasant Home) Oak Park (708) 848-6755 oprfhistory.org Focused on Oak Park and River Forest History, some exhibits may interest kids. The Children’s Room is furnished with “hands-on” toys and gizmos from days of yore. Visit website for event information. A special exhibit on the history of

Girl Scouting, with special focus on Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park is at the museum until Dec. 31. Hours: November: 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. December-February: 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. Admission: $10, $8 students with ID and seniors, $5 kids under 17, free kids under 5. Free Friday, donations appreciated.

Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center 9603 Woods Drive Skokie (847) 967-4800 ilholocaustmuseum.org Explore games, multimedia, and interactive exhibits in Make a Difference, where kids 8-11 can have fun discovering ways to respect differences, address bullying, and take a stand on issues that matter to them. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Closed some holidays. Admission: $12, $8 students 12-22 and seniors, $6 kids 5-11, free members.

SPANISH TUTORING All Ages MARIA LOPEZ MA in Spanish - Certified Teacher - Native speaker Much success with AP review 32 yrs HS experience

708.528.9240

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_031.indd 1

and Prehistoric Life Museum HOLIDAY HOURS: Friday November 23rd through December 31st Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 10:30am - 5:30pm Thursdays 10:30am - 7pm | Saturdays 10am - 5pm | Sundays Noon - 4pm Closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day

704 Main Street Evanston, IL 60202

t 847/866-7374 www.davesrockshop.com Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 31

10/26/12 12:07 PM

MUSEUMS Isle a la Cache Museum

The Grove

501 E. 135th St. (Romeo Road) Romeoville (815) 886-1467 reconnectwithnature.org

1421 Milwaukee Ave. Glenview (847) 299-6096 glenviewparks.org

Explore exhibits of the French fur trade. Find out about a voyager’s day on the river, examine a real birch bark canoe, see the trade items of metal, beads, and cloth that changed the Native American’s lifestyle. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday. Admission: Free.

Peek into a tank full of turtles, touch a fossil, and learn about pioneer and Native American life. The 123-acre grounds have wetland, woodland and prairie areas. Tour the log cabin, longhouse and schoolhouse with costumed guides. Hours: The Interpretive Center and grounds are open to the public year-round, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Admission: Free; some programs and events cost extra.

Joliet Area Historical Museum 204 N. Ottawa St. Joliet (815) 723-5201 jolietmuseum.org Take an interactive journey through time. See the “Route 66 Experience” and “War Heroes Gallery.” Explore outer space in the permanent exhibit, “The Soaring Achievements of John C. Houbolt.” Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6, $5 seniors, $4 students 18 and up, $3 kids 4-17, free kids 3 and under and members.

Lemont Area Historical Society & Museum 306 Lemont St. Lemont (630) 257-2972 lemonthistorical.org This museum is in the Old Stone Church, a recruiting station for the Union Army during the Civil War. Inside see artifacts from the early 1800s, a general store, a medical office, an early 19th-century schoolroom and period toys. There also is a Civil War exhibit on the lower level. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Call ahead on weekends to verify hours. Admission: $2, $1 kids.

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum, see page 35.

Wilmette Historical Museum

Mitchell Museum of the American Indian

609 Ridge Road Wilmette (847) 853-7666 wilmettehistory.org

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

Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St. Naperville

(630) 420-6010 (630) 305-5555 (Event hotline) napersettlement.museum This outdoor history museum tells the story of daily life in Naperville as it changed from a simple frontier outpost to a bustling turn-of-the-century community. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. Admission: $5.25, $4.75 seniors, $4 kids 4-12, free members and kids 3 and under.

Raupp Memorial Museum 901 Dunham Lane Buffalo Grove (847) 459-2318 bgparkdistrict.org/museum Experience a day in the life of an 1830s Native American kid or a 1910 pioneer child. Museum features interactive exhibits where visitors can learn what grew in a Potawatomi garden, sit on a porch of an 1890s farmhouse, peek into an old-fashioned general store, try a water pump, and see farm tools. Hours: 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MondayThursday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Closed Friday-Saturday. Admission: Free.

The museum is located in the former Gross Point Village Hall, built in 1896. Stop in to explore more than six exhibit areas covering Wilmette and North Shore history. Kids especially love getting “locked up” in the original jail cell dating back to when the police department was housed in this building. Hours: 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday. Closed holidays. Admission: Free.

SCIENCE

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 922-7827 adlerplanetarium.org Visit the new Grainger Sky Theater. See the stars and planets and discover the thrills and dangers of being a space explorer. Sky Shows are 360-degree shows featuring outer space themes. Planet Explorers is a hands-on exhibition created just for families. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4

Camp 2013

ChiCago Parent’s annual CamP guide

Coming in January For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com 32 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_032.indd 1

February 2012 FREE

Cabin fever B

Real. Happy. Families.

Find your kids’ camp now

Stand-up parents

4 of Chicago’s funniest

When your neighbor HATES your kids

Caught in the act THE

SEX

ISSUE

Plus liking, loving and dating your spouse

ChicagoParent.com

10/31/12 11:22 AM

p.m. Monday-Friday; 9:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Visit website for special holiday hours. Admission: $12, $10 seniors, $8 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under. Discounts for Chicago residents. Shows cost extra. Check website for more information.

Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 N. Main St. Rockford (815) 965-3433 burpee.org Burpee is a small and manageable museum with “Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur” on the first floor, rocks and geoscience on the second, and environmental and American Indian exhibits on the third. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Closed holidays (open New Year’s Eve). Admission: $10, $9 kids 4-12, free kids under 4.

Cernan Earth and Space Center at Triton College

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

(312) 922-9410 Free admission: Nov. 15, 26, 29; Dec. 2, 3, 6, 7, 11, 14, 16.

Adler Planetarium

Museum of Contemporary Art

1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-STAR Free admission: Nov. 13-14; Jan. 8-9, 14-17, 22-23, 28-31; Feb. 5-6, 11-14, 19-20, 25-28.

220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago (312) 280-2660 Free admission: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Children 12 and under are always free.

Art Institute of Chicago

Museum of Science and Industry

111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 857-7161 Free admission: Jan. 2-Feb. 8. First and second Wednesdays of the month. Children 13 and under are always free.

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

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

Chicago Children’s Museum

2131 Tech Drive Evanston (847) 491-7650 ciera.northwestern.edu

Shedd Aquarium

Chicago History Museum

Field Museum

1601 N. Clark St., Chicago

1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago

Discovery Center Museum

Field Museum

711 N. Main St. Rockford (815) 963-6769 discoverycentermuseum.org

1400 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 922-9410 fieldmuseum.org

Kids can see what it’s like to be a farmer, a news anchor or an ath-

From ancient mummies to endangered plants to a complete T. rex,

1852 W. 19th St., Chicago (312) 738-1503 Free admission: Always free.

Notebaert Nature Museum (312) 642-4600 Free admission: Jan. 21, Feb. 4-28.

lete as they explore more than 250 exhibits at this science-themed museum. The expanded spaces include a new Tot Spot and a Baby Spot. Be sure to check out the permanent exhibit on agriculture with a real tractor to drive and cows to milk. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $7 kids and adults, free kids 1 and under.

CHIPAR1012_033.indd 1

National Museum of Mexican Art

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. Children under 1 are always free.

Young eyes can roam the skies every Friday night. Gaze through an 18.5-inch telescope, see planets and star formations, ask questions and get answers. Great for kids to spark an interest in science. Please note that the building does not have an elevator and the dome is not heated. Hours: 8-10 p.m. Friday by reservation, 10-11 p.m. Friday walkin. Admission: Free.

ChicagoParent.com

5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (773) 684-1414 Free admission: Dec. 3; Jan. 7-11, 14-18, 21-25, 28-31; Feb. 6, 13, 20, 27.

Cantigny Park and First Division Museum

2000 Fifth Ave. River Grove (708) 583-3100 (public show info) (708) 456-0300 ext. 3372 triton.edu/cernan

Dearborn Observatory at Northwestern University

MUSEUMS

Elmhurst Art Museum 150 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 Free admission: Fridays.

the museum boasts a treasury of 24 million specimens. The Crown Family PlayLab has six themed play areas and is perfect for younger kids. Kids can dig up dinosaur bones, grind corn in a pueblo and put on an animal costume. Many other areas of the museum also offer interactive elements for children, who can find out what their name looks like in Egyptian hieroglyphs, put together a huge floor map of Africa, or dissect an owl pellet to find out what the bird ate. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Last admission at 4 p.m. Admission: $10-$29; visit website for pricing structure. Discounts available to Chicago residents.

2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago (773) 755-5100 Free admission: Thursdays. Children under 3 are always free.

Shedd Aquarium 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 939-2438 Free admission: Nov. 12-13, 19-20, 26-27.

John G. Shedd Aquarium 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 939-2438 sheddaquarium.org Visitors can discover the dolphins and whales in the Oceanarium and get a view from below after watching the aquatic show. In the Polar Play Zone, kids can get a diver’s eye view of all kinds of sea creatures, including otters, dolphins and beluga whales, plus they can touch a live sea star. Sharks swim around visitors and stingrays swim below their feet in Wild Reef. For an extra fee, take a behind-the-scenes tour or join an overnight at the aquar-

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 33

10/26/12 12:06 PM

MUSEUMS ium. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayFriday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. SaturdaySunday and holidays. Admission: General Admission (original galleries only): $8, $6 kids. Total Experience pass: $34.95, $25.95 kids.

Lederman Science Center at Fermilab Kirk Road and Pine Street (The science center is the second building as you go east on Pine Street) Batavia (630) 840-8258 ed.fnal.gov Explore Fermilab science from a kid’s point of view. Designed for student field trips, the hands-on exhibits at the Lederman Science Center are available to the general public as well. Visit the Cosmic Ray Shower where the shower detects particles passing through the person standing beneath it, then traces the paths of the particles with an array of low-powered laser lights. A counter on the shower wall measures the frequency of particles passing through the body. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. Visit website for holiday hours. Admission: Free; classes cost extra.

Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (773) 684-1414 msichicago.org Answer your kids’ questions about how the world works through the museum’s interactive exhibits. Step aboard real planes, trains and submarines, take a peek inside the human body, be engulfed by a 40-foot indoor tornado, watch real baby chicks hatch or explore a working coal mine. Visit new exhibits including YOU! The Experience. The Idea Factory is designed for the 10 and under crowd and has hands-on activities, including water tables and building blocks. During the holiday season, check out Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Lights (through Jan. 6) as well as Charlie Brown and the Great Exhibit (through Feb. 18). Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. Extended hours, until 5:30 p.m., are offered on select dates; check website for full schedule. Admission: $15, $14 seniors, $10 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under. Discount for Chicago residents. Parking $20. Omnimax films and certain special exhibitions are not included in general admission; check website

for show times and pricing. Check website for a list of free days for Illinois residents.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum 2430 N. Cannon Drive Chicago (773) 755-5100 naturemuseum.org The highlight for most children is the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven where butterflies from around the world fly free. There are also exhibits to climb in, splash in and explore an extreme green house. The museum offers a variety of daily events for children and adults, including animal feedings and butterfly releases. The Backyard Monsters exhibit (through Jan. 22) challenges guests to communicate, move and live like bugs at interactive stations. Live insects are featured throughout, plus larger-thanlife robotic creatures that allow visitors to observe the often-overlooked beauty and complexity of the insect world. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $9, $7 seniors and students, $6 kids 3-12, free kids under 3. Thursday is suggested donation day for Illinois residents.

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

SciTech Hands-On Museum 18 W. Benton St. Aurora (630) 859-3434 scitechmuseum.org Learn about math and science with more than 200 interactive exhibits. Kids can make a big bubble, ride a giant yo-yo and stand inside a tornado. Birthday parties with a crazy science twist available. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; closed SundayMonday, except Jan. 21 and Feb. 18. Admission: $8, $7 seniors 60+, free kids under 3 and members.

Xtreme Trampolines is the place for fun. Whether you are looking to have a party, play dodgeball, exercise or just have some good bouncy fun, we’ve got you covered.

BUFFALO GROVE | 224-676-0660 CAROL STREAM | 630-752-1400 www.xtremetrampolines.com 34 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_034.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 3:10 PM

MUSEUMS SPECIAL INTEREST

(630) 833-1616 lizzadromuseum.org

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum

Rocks are hot here, from meteorites to gemstones. See more than 200 pieces of jade and the Castle Lizzadro, which is carved out of gold. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday and major holidays. Admission: $4, $3 seniors 60+, $2 students and teens, $1 kids 7-12, free kids under 7. Free Friday.

212 N. Sixth St. Springfield (800) 610-2094 presidentlincoln.org Follow Abraham Lincoln through his boyhood years, the White House, the Civil War and his assassination. The museum immerses your family in Lincoln’s world and time. Mrs. Lincoln’s Attic is a great place for the kids where they can try on period clothing, build a log cabin and do old-fashioned chores. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily with last admission at 4 p.m. Admission: $12, $9 seniors and students, $7 military, $6 kids 5-15, free kids under 5.

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

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

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_035.indd 1

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, see this page. fire horse stalls and turn on a fire alarm, complete with ringing bells and a ticker-tape. See and hear how modern fire apparatus clears the streets with sirens, air horns, and devices that change traffic lights

green. Hours: 1-4 p.m. ThursdaySaturday. Admission: $5, $3 kids.

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park) Elmhurst

See the Midwest’s largest allindoor vintage, collector and Hollywood car collection. This multimillion dollar display includes the Batmobile, Ghostbusters Ecto-1, Flintstones-mobile, Bugs Bunny, Ninja Turtle Van, Herbie, Lightning McQueen, and a car from Transformers. Expansive military museum included with admission. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $11.95, $9.95 seniors 65+ and veterans/military with ID, $6.95 kids 5-12, free kids under 5 and military in uniform.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 35

10/26/12 12:05 PM

ids are natural artists, and one way to celebrate their creativity and spark some new avenues for exploration is to visit a local art museum. Chicago is lucky enough to have four great places to see art, ranging from the well-known Art Institute to the perfect-for-younger-kids Elmhurst Art Museum. All four offer opportunities for kids to join interactive art-making programs and to learn more about famous works of art. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find at each.

36 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_036.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:04 PM

National Museum of Mexican Art PARENTS WILL LOVE: The museum’s small enough for preschoolers, but still big enough to keep elementary school kids entertained. Always free, so it’s a great way to see colorful artwork and educate kids on another culture.

KIDS WILL LOVE: All the skeletons and skulls in the Day of the Dead artwork. Nothing scary here—the celebration of the dead is done with ofrendas, altars honoring those who’ve died, filled with items special to their loved ones. Grab a family guide for the exhibition at the front desk.

DON’T MISS: The gift shop, with its sculptures and masks, which is almost as fun as the museum itself. WHILE YOU’RE THERE: Visit one of the nearby Mexican restaurants where you’ll find great food at low prices. There are also several Mexican candy stores and colorful murals within walking distance of the museum.

Museum of Contemporary Art PARENTS WILL LOVE: The stroller tours offered the first Wednesday of every month. It’s a great chance for parents to learn about art without having to try to corral energetic toddlers. Also worth noting— kids 12 and under are always free. KIDS WILL LOVE: Free family days the second Saturday of every month where they can

learn about contemporary art through hands-on art activities, scavenger hunts and look and learn stations. Even better, kids 12 and under eat free at Puck’s on Family Day with the purchase of one adult entrée. DON’T MISS: The current exhibition by some really cool French designers that runs through Jan. 20. There are lots of bright colors, large pieces

of art and no questionable content. (Yes, there are other areas where you might be covering up little ones’ eyes if you don’t want them to look at colorful paintings of private body parts.) WHILE YOU’RE THERE: Visit the nearby American Girl or LEGO stores. Plus, there are plenty of fun restaurants within walking distance.

Elmhurst Art Museum PARENTS WILL LOVE: How easy and inexpensive it is to visit this museum—no fussing with downtown Chicago parking! Admission is only $5 adults, $3 kids, and free for kids 4 and under. Fridays are free for all visitors.

Art Institute PARENTS WILL LOVE: The chance to expose kids to fine art. The Art Institute has been in our city for more than 130 years, and it’s considered one of the country’s finest. With 27 exhibitions ranging from architecture to armor, from India to France, and from Impressionism to cuttingedge Modern, there’s sure to be something to catch your child’s interest. KIDS WILL LOVE: The free Ryan Education Center offers drop-in studios for kids to test their creativity,

CHIPAR1012_037.indd 1

often tied into one of the exhibitions on display. The Family Room is a chance for parents and kids to think about what they’ve learned and put it into practice. And the Told and Retold rotating exhibit takes favorite picture books and invites kids to try their hand at drawing with directives like “Draw your pet” or “What’s your favorite toy?” DON’T MISS: Tucked in the basement are the Thorne Rooms, 68 miniature dioramas that show how interiors in America and Europe have changed over the past 600 years or so.

KIDS WILL LOVE: Making their own art at free drop-in programs on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. On other days, grab an activity guide when you visit the museum to help guide kids through the exhibits with games, questions and scavenger hunts. Kids get a free prize for completing the activities. DON’T MISS: The current exhibition “No Rules: Contemporary Clay,” which uses clay in unique ways. Check out the

It might not sound all that interesting, but boys and girls alike are intrigued by the perfectly sized-for-them details, including a step that allows them to peer in a bit more easily. WHILE YOU’RE THERE: The Art Institute is right in the middle of the city, so there’s lots to see and do without pushing little feet to the max. Head across Monroe Street to Millennium Park, where kids can check out their reflection in the Bean, or just get their wiggles out. And don’t leave without a stop by the museum’s famous lions.

life-size tree with a tree house made from porcelain or artist Teri Frame’s video performance where she creates different faces on herself from clay. Kids and adults will love this exhibit that goes beyond playdough. WHILE YOU’RE THERE: This is a small museum easily combined with a visit to the nearby Elmhurst Historical Museum and the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, where kids can learn about rocks and gemstones.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces a 37

10/26/12 12:04 PM

Now acceptiNg applicatioNs for fall 2013

not all great minds think alike At the Montessori Academy of Chicago, we are proud to provide a foundation for academic and personal excellence year-round. Our program seeks to inspire the love of learning inherent in every student: today, tomorrow, and for the rest of their lives. LEARN MORE ABOUT US:

2012 - 2013 SESSION DATES:

So whether you think you are ready for your child to start now, or three years from now, come for a coffee to learn more, it’s never too early to begin your child’s educational Journey. Contact us and reserve your spot today. 312.243.0977

• November 13 • November 27 • December 18 • January 8 • January 29 • February 26

phone: 312.243.0977

38 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_038.indd 1

• March 12 • April 16 • May 21 • June 18 • July 23

web: www.montessoriacademychicago.org

OUR PROGRAMS Nursery: { Birth – Age 3 } Comprised of Infant, Toddler, and Pre-Primary classrooms, the Nursery program is focused on fostering basic trust, development of movement, and independence in the child.

Primary: { Ages 3 – 6 } Grouped in a three-year cycle, our Primary environments reinforce leadership skills and encourage mentoring in a structured “learn by doing” classroom.

Elementary: { Grades 1 – 6 } Our Elementary community is designed to encourage the growth of the curious mind, to develop empathy, imagination, and powers of reason, through an integrated and intellectually challenging curriculum.

1335 west randolph street, chicago illinois, 60607

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:04 PM

city

Family-friendly urban adventures

A spot of tea? In Chicago, the holidays mean it’s time for tea parties, fancy dresses and yummy treats. We’ve compiled a list of where to go if you’re ready to make this part of your holiday tradition. If you’re looking for a more casual beverage, our hot cocoa hot spots give you the inside scoop on where to go for a tasty drink in the city.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_039.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 39

10/26/12 12:04 PM

Chicago lights up the town Chicago Trolley Holiday C Lights Tour hicago at the holidays: Is there anything more beautiful? For many families, checking out the holiday lights has become a tradition. But what if you could see all the twinkles without having to guard yourself against Jack Frost’s fury? That’s where the Chicago Trolley Holiday Lights Tour comes in. Guests board the festive-looking trolleys for a tour through our very own winter wonderland, complete with stops at Lincoln Park Zoo and Christkindlmarket, where guests can get off and explore. The two-and-a-halfhour tours begin on Michigan Avenue and hit all the holiday hot spots, including Buckingham

The

Fountain, Navy Pier and, of course, Macy’s on State Street. Along the way, a tour guide “lightly narrates” the ride, doling out fun facts about the Zoo Lights, the iconic Marshall Field’s windows and the general history of Christmas in Chicago. “Not many people think of coming to Chicago in November or December, but it’s really pretty,” says Trisha Carey, marketing manager for Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co. “You get to sit in a trolley and stay warm and still see everything.” She says trolleys provide a cozy space for sightseeing. You’ll still want to dress for winter, though, if you plan on getting off at either of the stops.

Carey also says guests will receive coupons for wintertime treats like brownies and hot chocolate. The holiday lights tour began last year but has expanded in 2012 with five trolleys departing at each of the pick-up times. And Carey promises that even if you took one of last year’s tours, it’s still worth doing again—and could even become a new holiday tradition. “It definitely won’t be the same tour guide each year, and everyone has their own take on Christmas in Chicago,” Carey says. “We’re going to try and switch it up a bit. … It’s a fun, different season.” And a beautiful one at that. Elizabeth Diffin

6, 6:30 and 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday Nov. 23-Dec. 26; daily Dec. 26-31 $26, $19 kids 3-11 chicagotrolley.com

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

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, our program sparks children’s curiosity, enabling them to experience the world purposefully, acquire social skills and build the necessary foundation for a successful and joyful academic journey. Northwestern University employees receive reduced tuition. Details at chicagogrammar.org Follow us on Facebook

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610 40 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_040.indd 1

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

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 3:11 PM

Holiday Train tradition rolls on

s a Chicagoan, you’ve likely had the opportunity to ride the El. But for just a few weeks each year, the Chicago Transist Authority transforms one regular train into the Holiday Train—a truly one-of-a-kind holiday opportunity for Chicagoans of all ages. The six-car passenger train features an open rail car carrying Santa along with his sleigh, reindeer and other festive decor. The train is wrapped with a winter holiday scene and colored lights outline the doors and window. Each rail car also features illuminated signs with holiday messages. Car interiors are decked out with bows, garland, red and green lighting. Hand poles are wrapped to look like candy canes. CTA employees

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_041.indd 1

pass out candy canes while holiday tunes blare in the background. Customers look forward to this time of year, and thousands have made it a part of their annual holiday traditions to take a ride on the festive train, says CTA spokeswoman Catherine Hosinski. The Holiday Train tradition began in 1992 when a Season’s Greetings sign was placed on the front of an outof-service O’Hare train that was used to deliver food to charities. A flatcar with Santa and his reindeer was added in 1995. As the Holiday Train grew in popularity, the schedule was expanded to have the train run more frequently during December on all eight lines. Caitlin Murray Giles

Tips to try The CTA offers the following tips to families taking part in the Holiday Train tradition for the first time: Traveling light. Many families make the Holiday Train a part of their holiday traditions and the cars get crowded. The CTA suggests that families use collapsible strollers. Boarding. Because the train will become more crowded as it travels down the rail line, the CTA recommends that families board at a station close to the beginning of the route. Note that rail cars toward the front or back of the train will be less crowded compared to those immediately adjacent to Santa’s sleigh. Taking photos. The Holiday Train is an in-service train and has to stay on schedule, so it can’t dwell in stations. Don’t miss your

opportunity to board because you are trying to grab a photo! Board the train first and then take photos of Santa or the train when exiting at your destination. Photos with Santa. On select Saturdays, families can take photos with Santa at rail line terminals. Check the website for dates and specific times. Visit transitchicago.com/ holidaytrain for the full Holiday Train Schedule. Normal CTA fares apply.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 41

10/26/12 11:56 AM

Fine dining for kids at Crosby’s

hicago foodie parents rejoice. A new restaurant has arrived, and it’s done what few others in the area have achieved: It’s a kid-friendly fine dining restaurant. It’s not Alinea-level fine dining, but in the world of kid-friendly restaurants, Crosby’s Kitchen is about as close to Alinea as we’ll ever get. And that’s fine with us. Crosby’s, which is owned by the same company that brought us D.O.C. Wine Bar and The Smoke Daddy, took over the spot on Southport that was formerly Leo’s Coney Island. And on a street plastered with stores for the young stroller-pushing mom—Lululemon, Anthropologie and Athletica—Crosby’s hit home with the perfect niche idea. They appeal to that mom and to her kids. The menu consists of upscale contemporary food, such as the lobster deviled egg appetizer ($9), the seared ahi tuna ($23) and the NY strip ($26). But the

Pièce de résistance is the rotisserie menu. Crosby’s has its own custom rotisserie, where they fire up half of a wood-roasted chicken seasoned with a signature spice blend daily ($15), pork chop ($19 on Thursdays), prime rib ($28 on Fridays and Saturdays) and leg of lamb ($18 on Sundays). While the full bar, chic interior, sports-ready TVs and fancy food may appeal to the parents, kids aren’t left out here. Even the kids can get in on part of the fancy food action since the rotisserie chicken makes its appearance on their menu. By the way, kids eat free every night from 4-6 p.m. If they don’t feel like eating, they can wander over to the kid-sized communal sink to wash their hands (my 3-year-old spent the majority of her evening fascinated by the sink that remarkably came in her size), they can color with crayons, or they can manage the ticket for their stroller valet (no joke—they actually valet your "Within the child lies the fate of the future" - Maria Montessori

Now enrolling children 2½-6 programs offered; morning, extended day, all day, organic hot lunch

1501 W Fullerton Ave. 773-348-7340 MontessoriLincolnPark.com

stroller and give you a ticket for it). And while my Ukrainian husband snidely remarked, “Only in America would they have a stroller valet,” I totally see the need now that I’ve used it. I’m hoping that trend catches on quickly. Danielle Braff

Crosby’s Kitchen 3455 N. Southport Ave., Chicago (773) 883-2525 crosbyschicago.com

Watch your Child’s World Get Bigger! Now enrolling for Academic Year and Summer programs! Call 866-55-STARS to hear about special discounts and enroll.

• Foreign Language Immersion in Spanish, Mandarin, French, German and Italian

• Our FunImmersion® play based curriculum featuring games, activities, music and more

• Dynamic native speaking teachers from around the globe

• Progress tracking and tailored instruction

Twelve classes each week for infants, toddlers, kids, teens and families First class is always free! Ganesha Yoga and Adventures in Fitness 3113 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago 773.904.7870 ganeshayogachicago.com

42 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_042.indd 1

Bring the World to Your Child

Enrol anytim l e!

Call 866-55-STARS or visit languagestars.com/chicagoparent

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 2:40 PM

Soup’s on! W

inter and soup go hand-in-hand. And since Chicago is so good at delivering nice cold winters, we knew it would be great at bringing us nice hot soups. Here are a few of our favorite spots in the city. Danielle Braff

Lobster-chicken-rice soup

Matzoh Ball soup

Lentil soup

Find it here Soupbox Why it’s so yummy It’s thick, creamy and rich—almost like the savory soup version of ice cream. We love combining two of our favorite soups, and they’re more than happy to mix them together to make one extraordinary soup. Kids will love it Most of the flavors were meant to mix together, but it’s a little like a science experiment. Choose two of your faves, and see if they work well together. A bowl will cost $7.09 for the regular and $9.14 for the bread bowl While you’re there, try this too Get the soup in a bread bowl, and have fun eating your bowl when you’re done. Details 50 E. Chicago Ave., (312) 9515900; 2943 Broadway, (773) 935-9800

Find it here Manny’s Why it’s so yummy The salty, comforting soup comes with the biggest matzoh ball you’ll ever see. It’s soft, warm and tastes like home. Kids will love it Pop the soup onto a tray, cafeteria-style, just like school. And it’s a challenge to finish the entire matzoh ball. A bowl will cost $3.75 While you’re there, try this too Their corned beef sandwiches are so massive, you’ll have problems taking a bite. So be prepared to make a mess—and have leftovers that’ll take you through at least one more meal. Details 1141 S. Jefferson, (312) 939-2855

Find it here Taste of Lebanon Restaurant Why it’s so yummy This thick lentil soup is a bowl of savory goodness, and it’s enhanced with some mild spices and lemon. Even if you don’t think you like lentils, you’ll like this soup. Kids will love it They’ll be able to dip their warm piece of pita bread into the soup—it’s almost like playing with your food. A bowl will cost $2.49 While you’re there, try this too The falafel wrap is one of their signature items, and it’s huge, crunchy and messy. Details 1509 Foster Ave., (773) 334-1600

Tomato soup Find it here Spicy Monkey Soup Company Why it’s so yummy It’s made from scratch daily and starts with a homemade vegetable stock base. Then the tomatoes and fresh ingredients are added (no sugar or cream in this yummy, healthy concoction) to become the perfect frosty weather soup. Kids will love it It’s a DIY soup. Add the following at no additional cost: chicken, meatballs, broccoli, peppers, pasta and rice. A bowl will cost $5.50 While you’re there, try this too You can’t have tomato soup without grilled cheese. Get the apple pie grilled cheese sandwich, which comes stuffed with cheddar, bacon, brown sugar and granny smith apples. Details French Market, 131 N. Clinton St., (312) 454-2991

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_043.indd 1

Holiday H Ho Holi olida daay 2012 d 201 20 12 2 • ggo goingplaces oin ingpl pla lace ces 4 43 3

10/26/12 11:54 AM

CITY

Back to their roots

Inspiration begins here.

Catherine Cook School inspires children for life in a nurturing learning environment. Focused on the formative years of preschool through Grade 8, CCS offers challenging academics supported by leading-edge technology to give students the skills to be hardworking, curious, and adaptive.

he dynamic duo behind the new Roots Handmade Pizza wants families to feel at home in their trendy East Village restaurant. From kidfriendly food to fresh dough for the little ones to play with, Roots is the perfect place for a family dinner that will satisfy the whole clan. Co-owners Greg Mohr and Scott Weiner are the pair behind Wicker Park’s popular Fifty/50 restaurant. When they started to think about their next project, Mohr decided Chicago needed a taste of the one-of-a-kind pizza he loved growing up in the Quad Cities. “Greg, being a transplant to Chicago, recognized an opportunity to showcase something different from deep dish or New York-style pizza, and ultimately that was the major reason for us bringing Quad Cities-style pizza to Chicago,” says Weiner. And Roots’ pizza definitely delivers. The pies have a chewy malt crust, hand-tossed dough, and sauce made from scratch. With the toppings first, then cheese on top and cut into scissor-cut strips, it’s a delicious new take on pizza in Chicago. There even is a glass-walled kitchen where the kids can get a front-row view of their pizzas being tossed and decorated.

Roots Pizza 1924 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago (773) 645-4949 rootspizza.com

The menu doesn’t just stop at pizza. The appetizers alone make your mouth water with the cannot-be-missed mozzarella sticks. These thick sticks with homemade mozzarella and garlic-herb bread crumbs are reason enough to keep coming back to Roots. Beyond the pizzas, there are fresh-bread sandwiches, pastas, huge salads and house-made sausages. Both the pizzas and salads have an extensive build-your-own option with practically every ingredient you could imagine. While they welcome your kiddos, there is plenty for just the adults, such as the 70 Midwestern craft beers and spiked sodas. “What we’ve always wanted was a place for families and kids to come after school or after a Little League game or for ‘Sunday Pizza Day,’ which is what we both grew up doing,” Weiner says. Megan Murray Elsener

Visit us online or in person. 226 W. Schiller St. | Chicago, IL 60610 312.266.3381 | www.catherinecookschool.org

Like us!

facebook.com/catherinecookschool

44 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_044.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:54 AM

CITY

Please join us for a Winter Open House Sunday, Jan 13th 12:30-3:00 p.m.

Photo by Meredith Gregory

RSVP to molly.arnoldt@brickton.org

Peninsula Hotel, the Lobby, see this page.

Allium at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago 120 E. Delaware Place Chicago (312) 649-2349 fourseasons.com/chicagofs

pastries, frittatas, paninis and light salads. Hours: Vary by location. Admission: Varies.

Atwood Cafe Mad Hatter’s Tea 1 W. Washington St. Chicago (312) 762-3521

New Coffee, Cake and Tea menu is a fun concept with a tower of sweets like cupcakes, homemade “Oreos” and peanut butter sandwich cookies that kids can share with parents. Premium French press coffee from Metropolis Coffee Company, blended teas from Rare Tea Cellars and house-made ice cream with traditional and unexpected toppings are included. Hours: Seatings begin at 3 p.m. Admission: $29 per person.

The menu features house-made tea sandwiches, scones and mini pastries, and assorted teas. Reservations are required. Groups of 10 maximum. Hours: 2:30-4 p.m. Nov. 23-Dec. 31. Reservations required. Admission: $25, $18 kids.

Argo Tea

Moira’s Afternoon Tea features a traditional tea service of sandwiches, scones, sweets and choice of tea. Reservations are recommended. Parties for more than 10 also available. Hours: 2-4 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday. Admission: $16.99, $8.99 kids.

Various locations argotea.com Several locations around the city; visit website for complete list. Featuring tea-based Signature Drinks and loose leaf teas that are all fresh, healthy and distinctive. High-quality loose leaf teas, 100 percent natural fruit juices and flavorings, and cane sugar are blended together to create Mojitea (mint tea and lime juice), Tea Squeeze (iced hibiscus tea and lemon), and Maté Laté (South American Mate with almond and milk). Also features fresh baked

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_045.indd 1

Celtic Knot Pub 626 Church St. Evanston (847) 864-1679 celticknotpub.com

Peninsula Hotel, the Lobby 108 E. Superior St. Chicago (312) 337-2888 peninsula.com Not your ordinary English tea. Offerings vary but might include

Redefining Smart. At Brickton Montessori School we measure our students’ abilities to THINK critically, MAKE responsible decisions, and SOLVE problems creatively.

Photo by Meredith Gregory

HIGH TEA

Call 773.714.0646 today or visit www.brickton.org.

Redefining Smart.

Ages 2-14. Fully accredited by the Independent Schools At Brickton Montessori SchoolStates we measure our students' Association of the Central and the abilities to THINK critically, MAKE responsible decisions, American Montessori Society. and SOLVE problems creatively.

Located just South oftoday I-90 between Call 773.714.0646 or visit www.brickton.org. Cumberland and East River Road Ages 2-14. Fully accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States and the American Montessori Society.

8622 West Catalpa Avenue in Chicago

Located just South of I-90 between Cumberland and East River Road

8622 West Catalpa Avenue in Chicago

Good Thinking

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 45

10/26/12 11:54 AM

CITY Russian Tea Time 77 E. Adams St. Chicago (312) 360-0000 russianteatime.com Salmon and cream cheese tea bites with fresh dill, crunchy spring crepes infused with a delicate peanut sauce and other minisandwiches accompany the usual scones, cookies and tortes at Russian Tea Time. There is a wide selection of teas to choose from, including the popular house tea with a hint of black currant. Hours: 2:30-4:30 p.m. daily. Reservations recommended. Admission: $29.95, $8.50-$12.50 a la carte.

Suzette’s Creperie 211 W. Front St. Wheaton (630) 462-0898 suzettescreperie.com

Hot Chocolate, see page 47. goodies such as Toasted Almond Pot de Crème or Bavarian Cheesecake between scones, sweets and tea. The Children’s Tea menu includes PB&J and mini cheeseburgers. Hours:

2:30 and 3 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $45, $55 with glass of champagne, $18 kids’ (under 12) menu, $25 with Peninsula Teddy bear.

This isn’t just tea, it’s a meal—each person gets six to eight sandwiches, scones with Devonshire cream and lemon curd and selections from the dessert menu. Try a classic three-course English tea or replace your tea sandwiches with spinach or chicken crepes or quiche. The peanut butter and jelly crepe, decorated to look like a clown, is a

kid favorite. Annual Christmas Tea runs 2:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Sunday from Nov. 23-Dec. 31 and features a sweets buffet of Christmas cookies, candies and cakes. Hours: Pastry shop: 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday; 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Restaurant: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. TuesdayThursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. FridaySaturday; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $27.50, $12.50 kids 9 and under.

The Drake, Palm Court 140 E. Walton Place Chicago (312) 787-2200 thedrakehotel.com Live harp music drifts in the background during a traditional English afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, fruit, breads, scones and jams. PB&J sandwiches available. Reservations recommended. Holiday Tea Party takes place from Nov. 25-Jan. 1. For reservations, call (312) 787-2200 or email Shaun. Rajah@hilton.com. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; holiday hours vary. Admission: $38, $20 kids 4-12.

BUY ACTIVITY WRISTBANDS IN ADVANCE ONLINE & SAVE NO SERVICE FEES AT

NAVYPIER.COM

NOVEMBER 30 - JANUARY 6 170,000 SQUARE FEET AND OVER 20 GREAT ATTRACTIONS ALL INDOORS • ICE SKATING RINK • MUSICAL CAROUSEL PEPSI® CREATE-A-COOKIE COTTAGE • INFLATABLE SLIDES STUNNING DECORATIONS • LIVE MUSIC • & MUCH MORE

FOR DETAILS, DISCOUNTS, AND ADVANCE WRISTBAND PURCHASE VISIT NAVYPIER.COM FREE ADMISSION (ACTIVITY WRISTBAND PURCHASE REQUIRED FOR RIDES) SPECIAL PARKING SAVINGS PRESENTED BY BANK OF AMERICA: • FREE PARKING PACKS (WITH PURCHASE OF FOUR WRISTBANDS) • 25% - 58% OFF PARKING RATES

46 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_046.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:53 AM

CITY the public. Hours: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-midnight Friday; 9 a.m.-midnight Saturday; 9 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday. Cup will cost: $3.50-$4.95.

Hot Chocolate 1747 N. Damen Ave. Chicago (773) 489-1747 hotchocolatechicago.com With flavors ranging from kidfriendly cocoa nib to the more adult cayenne-spiced Mexican and coffee blends, there’s lots of variety here. And each cup is topped with a house-made marshmallow. This restaurant turns more lounge-like in the evenings, so for those with kids, it’s best to aim for brunch, lunch or an afternoon treat. Hours: Brunch: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday-Friday; Dinner and Dessert: 5:30-10 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday and Sunday, 5:30-11 p.m. Thursday, 5:30-midnight Friday-Saturday. Cup will cost: $6.

Navy Pier, see this page. The Ritz-Carlton Chicago deca Restaurant 160 E. Pearson St. Chicago (312) 573-5160 fourseasons.com/chicagorc Bask in the attentive service and upscale atmosphere, with views of Michigan Avenue, the airy hotel lobby and the fountain’s bronze sculptures. The yummy kids’ plate includes PB&J, cookies and ham and cheese sandwiches. Adult tea fare includes traditional scones, sandwiches and pastries. Hours: Seatings 2:30-4:30 p.m. MondayFriday; 3-4:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Reservations recommended.

HOT COCOA HOTSPOTS

Angel Food Bakery 1636 W. Montrose Ave. Chicago (773) 728-1512 angelfoodltd.com The first sign this isn’t your ordinary restaurant is all the vintage Easy Bake Ovens. The second is the hot cocoa, called the Barthelona, made from chocolate imported from Spain. The top half-inch of the cup is covered with housemade vanilla bean whipped cream that perfectly counters the decadent sweetness of the chocolate. Smaller appetites may want to try the “Shorty,” a shot-glass sized serving that soothes the sweet tooth. Hours: 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_047.indd 1

Friday; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. Cup will cost: Prices vary.

Bittersweet 1114 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 929-1100 bittersweetpastry.com Kids will enjoy the sophistication of serving themselves (with mom or dad’s help), since the cocoa is brought to the table on individual trays, complete with cup, teapot and a dollop of fresh whipped cream. Grab a treat on the way in to this airy cafe, where tantalizing treats line the pastry case. Hours: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday; closed Monday. Cup will cost: $3.

Ghirardelli 830 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 337-9330 ghirardelli.com In this ice cream parlor-styled cafe, chocolate is everywhere. Sweetand-salt fans will love the Sea Salt Caramel Hot Cocoa, while traditionalists will crave the Classic Ghirardelli Hot Cocoa. Only the truest chocoholics will go for the Decadent Drinking Chocolate, which tastes like a candybar-in-acup. With a primo location right on the Mag Mile, Ghirardelli stays busy and there’s no bathroom for

Pierrot Gourmet 108 E. Superior St. Chicago (312) 573-6749 peninsula.com For those craving a taste of Europe, Pierrot Gourmet, the street-level café at The Peninsula Chicago, is a great place to start. The hot chocolate comes in two varieties—dark chocolate and white—topped with lots of whipped cream. While only the sweetest of sweet tooths will likely enjoy the white chocolate, all of the hot chocolate can be customized with flavor shots, so each cup is made-to-order. Hours: 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Cup will cost: $6.50.

LANDMARKS

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago (312) 595-7437 navypier.com More than 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, restaurants and attractions, as well as an array of family-oriented events and attractions. Enjoy year-round free entertainment with musical and theatrical performances by jugglers, magicians and costumed characters. The pier is also home to the Chicago Children’s Museum and Amazing Chicago, a 4,000-square-foot

maze. Navy Pier is free, but parking and many attractions charge a fee. Open year-round. Hours: Vary by season; check website. Admission: Free; fees for attractions vary.

John Hancock Observatory 875 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago (888) 875-VIEW (8439) jhochicago.com Along with breathtaking 94thfloor views and an open-air skywalk 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile, the Observatory boasts the world’s tallest café. Breakfast with Santa takes place at 8:30 and 11 a.m. Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23. Cost is $45, $35 kids, $15 infants and includes buffet breakfast, family photo and Observatory admission. Call (312) 654-5019. Santa in the Sky runs Nov. 17-Dec. 24 and includes Santa visits from 1-5 p.m. on weekends, as well as family activities. Skating in the Sky begins Jan. 1. A 25-minute skating session is $5, plus standard admission. Skaters are welcome to bring their own skates or can rent them for $1. The rink will be open to the public from 9 a.m.-10:30 p.m. every day through the end of March. Hours: 9 a.m.-11 p.m. (Last ticket sold at 10:30 p.m.) The best time to visit is 9-11 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to catch sunsets and starry skylines. Admission: $17.50 ages 12 and up, $11.50 kids 3-11, free kids under 3.

Skydeck Chicago 233 S. Wacker Drive Enter on Jackson Boulevard (south side of building), between Wacker Drive and Franklin Street Chicago (312) 875-9696 theskydeck.com Step out onto The Ledge, glass balconies that extend more than four feet outside of Willis Tower. Chicago is literally at your feet, 1,353 feet below. Watch the trains, expressways and river traffic from 103 floors above the Loop. Print out a kids’ scavenger hunt from the website and see if your family can spot Lincoln Park Zoo, Wrigley Field and other landmarks. “KneeHigh Chicago” exhibits are also geared toward kids. The elevators travel at 1,600 feet per minute, so chew gum to help your ears pop. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing. Admission: $17.50, $11 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 47

10/26/12 11:53 AM

� Tubing, Downhill & Cross Country Skiing at Whitetail Ridge Recreation Area only 9 miles from Tomah

� 270 miles of snowmobile trails - local motels right on the trails � Easy central location just hours from Chicago on I-94 � Kid-friendly dining opportunities � Unique shopping that includes antiques, Amish and cranberry specialty items

� Area motels offering more than 700 rooms (indoor pools available)

� Beautiful recreation trail winds through the city � Trophy Ice fishing on Lake Tomah � Tomah Rotary Club's Freeze Fest and Motorcycle Ice Racing � Romantic Package Getaways available � Snowshoeing at the Necedah Wildlife Refuge

� � �

Plan Your Family Winter Weekend Get-A-Way Today!

Call or visit our website today for your personal area guide 48 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_048.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:03 PM

Day trips to week-long getaways

travel

Hit the slopes

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_049.indd 1

Best deals for skiing

Where to ski in Wisconsin

Northern Michigan not-to-miss

Park City, Utah

Sun Valley, Idaho

Holiday 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ goingplaces 49

10/26/12 11:52 AM

Ski deals for your family

50 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

Travel.indd 50

aking a family to the slopes can be a pricey endeavor. Check out these deals at ski resorts across the country. Cindy Richards

COLORADO

free daily breakfast for two at 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill, and a 2 p.m. checkout to give guests an extra day of skiing. Beaver Creek lift tickets also can be used at the nearby Vail Ski Resort. beavercreek.hyatt.com

Keystone Kids under 12 ski free all winter at Keystone Resort as long as your family stays two or more nights at one of the resort properties, which range from luxury hotels to cozy condos. There is no limit on the number of children per adult and no blackout dates—the free skiing deal includes weekends and holidays, a rarity in the ski industry. keystoneresort.com

Four Seasons Resort In Vail, the Four Seasons Resort & Residences has a buy one night, get one free deal, along with a Ski Free Package that includes three-day lift tickets for up to two adults and two children, three-day ski or snowboard rentals for up to two adults and two children, and kids 5 and under eat free. fourseasons.com/vail

UTAH

Beaver Creek and Vail Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa, with ski-in, ski-out access to Beaver Creek’s 146 runs on 1,805 acres of skiable terrain, is offering a fourth night free to travelers who book a three-night stay before Nov. 30. Deal includes

Park City With a host of affordable, direct flights from Chicago to Salt Lake City, the ski areas of Park City might be the easiest ski destination to reach from Chicago. The St. Regis

ChicagoParent.com

10/31/12 12:17 PM

Deer Valley, ranked the No. 1 hotel for families in the U.S. by Travel+Leisure, is fun just to get to—guests arrive via a European-style funicular that transports them 230 vertical feet in just 90 seconds. Rates at this high-end resort start at $629 per night. Kids get a St. Regis tote bag, SkullCandy earbuds, a water bottle and a stuffed animal. Kids who don’t ski can build igloos, snow forts and play snow games with St. Regis staff or take a falconry class. Or they can join an “Apre-Kids” movie, arts and crafts and snack night while their parents head off to an adult dinner. stregisdeervalley.com

NEW MEXICO

Santa Fe La Posada de Santa Fe, 16 miles north of Sante Fe in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, is offering a ski package that includes a room for two, two lift tickets to Ski Santa Fe and a breakfast credit of $40. Rates

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_051.indd 1

start at $199 for a weekday and $219 for a weekend with a twonight minimum. laposadadesantafe.com

CALIFORNIA

Lake Tahoe Up to two children 12 and under per guest room at the Resort at Squaw Creek can ski, skate and sled for free Jan. 6-April 6. Prices start at $299 per night for a deluxe forest view room. Use promo code KIDPLAYRSC when booking. The Kids Ski, Skate, Sled Free package includes lift tickets to Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows, skate rentals and ice skating on the resort’s ice rink, and sledding on the resort’s groomed sled hill. visitsquawcreek.com

VERMONT

Smugglers Notch The family-friendly Smugglers Notch resort in Vermont has several winter deals that include mountainside condominium

lodging, lift tickets, snow tubing, use of the indoor pool and hot tub, Nordic and snowshoe terrain, indoor FunZone with climbing inflatables, and teen centers for nightly prices starting at $85 for children and $115 for adults. Add daily ski instruction for kids 3-17 and the price is $105 for kids. Or add the “Snow Sport University” instructional programs for the entire family, which includes all-day ski or snowboard camp for kids 3-5 and two-hour group lessons for ages 6 and up, and the price is $105 for kids and $145 for adults per night. smuggs.com

Woodstock The Woodstock Inn & Resort in Woodstock offers free skiing at the Inn’s Nordic Center and free lift tickets to the Suicide Six Family Ski Area for all guests who stay Sunday-Thursday. Kids 14 and under ski free all of the time. Rates at the 142-room resort start at $240 per night. woodstockinn.com

The Mountain Top Ski Area at Grand Geneva Resort in Wisconsin also offers some great ski packages.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 51

10/26/12 11:52 AM

Wisconsin: short drive, good skiing T

he Midwest is wellequipped when it comes to snow. Mountains? Not so much. Despite that, Wisconsin boasts 30 downhill ski and snowboard areas, the fourth largest number in the country, according to the state’s tourism agency. Six are within a few hours’ drive of Chicago. ■ Alpine Valley Resort in Elkhorn is the largest ski area in southern Wisconsin. It offers 20 trails ranging from bunny hills to mogul runs, 11 lifts, a terrain park for snowboarders and a ski school for newbies. The longest run is 2,500 feet and the vertical drop is 388 feet. Weekday lift tickets are $41 for beginners and $48 for access to all areas. Weekend and holiday rates are $52 and $58. Season passes are $858 for a family of two, and $150 for each additional family member. (800) 227-9395 alpinevalleyresort.com

52 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_052.indd 1

Cascade Mountain Ski Area in Portage boasts 34 trails ranging from steep and challenging to long and relaxing. The ski area has 10 lifts, including a high-speed Mountain Express quad chairlift. The 30-acre terrain park has the only superpipe in the Midwest, according to TravelWisconsin.com. (Check the website for 2012-2013 lift ticket prices, which were not available at press time.) (800) 992-2754 cascademountain.com ■ Devil’s Head Resort near Baraboo is listed as one of the Midwest’s 10 Best Ski Destinations by Ski Magazine. The area has 28 trails, a half-pipe, terrain park, 16 lifts, and a program for skiers with disabilities. Weekday lift tickets are $37 for kids 6-12 and $44 for ages 13 and up. Weekend and holiday lift tickets are $42 and $49. Season passes are $399 for kids 6-12, $449 for ages 13-59 and $175 for ages 60 and over. Kids 5 and under ski free with a paying adult. (800) 429-0154 devilsheadresort.com

Mountain Top Ski Area at Grand Geneva Resort has 18 runs, a terrain park, 10 kilometers of cross country trails and snowshoeing. A season pass for a family (two parents and up to four children, including full-time college students) is $1,199. Each additional child is $99. Friday-Monday and holiday lift tickets are $38 for kids 7-11 and $47 ages 12 and older. TuesdayThursday lift tickets are $23 and $28. Seniors 65 and up pay half price and kids 6 and under ski free with a paid adult. (800) 620-1773 grandgeneva.com

Wilmot Mountain is the closest ski area to Chicago, located just west of Kenosha. It has 25 trails, a half-pipe, terrain park and 11 lifts. For kids 4-8, Wilmot offers the Pied Piper Children’s Program. (Check the website for 2012-2013 lift ticket prices, which were not available at press time.) (262) 862-2301 wilmotmountain.com Cindy Richards

■ Tyrol Basin, just west of Madison, is known nationally for its world-class half-pipe. The area has added a second half-pipe in addition to its 16 downhill runs supported by six lifts. Weekday lift tickets are just $12 for skiing from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. All-dayy lift tickets on weekends and holidays are $37 for kids 6-12 and 60 and over and $42 for ages 13-59. Kids 5 and under are free. (608) 437-4135 tyrolbasin.com

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:51 AM

Fun in all forms in Michigan N orthern Michigan is a picturesque summer destination with its stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes and blue Lake Michigan waters. The area is equally picturesque dressed in winter white. Two of my favorite resorts, Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville and Traverse City’s Shanty Creek Resort, offer skiing and plenty of other family fun in the snow—snow tubing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, snow biking, paintball, even dog sledding—at rates much more affordable than you’ll find in Colorado. Best of all, both places understand that fun comes in lots of forms. At Crystal Mountain, we’ve had a great time just relaxing with friends in one of the townhouses. The gorgeous spot was voted one of the 50 best places to stay and ski in North America by Condé Nast Travelers in North America in 2011. Ski and stay packages this winter start at $122 per adult.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_053.indd 1

TRAVEL

At Shanty Creek, visitors can ski free with Santa on Christmas Day and several days will feature “sardine specials”: one price per carload for as many people as you can cram into the car. The Traverse ■ shantycreek.com City area also ■ crystalmountain.com celebrates all things snow with two national events this winter. On Feb. 8-9, Traverse City’s Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel hosts the U.S. 27 Motorsports Snocross National—that’s motocross on highperformance snowmobiles. The same weekend features the North American Vasa Festival of Races, a cross country ski race. If all of that outdoor activity gets to be too much, head indoors to the History Center of Traverse City between Dec. 15 and Jan. 1 for the Festival of Trains, a collection of model train layouts that fills several rooms of the center. Cindy Richards

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 53

10/26/12 11:51 AM

WINTER hOLDs jusT As MANy MEMORIEs As suMMER.

WATERFRONT LODGING AND DINING IN MIchIGAN’s hARbOR cOuNTRy Luxury accommodations with a modern, easy vibe. Highly personal service and unexpected touches.

only 70 miles from Chicago New Buffalo, MI • 877.945.8600 • marinagrandresort.com

Experience winter on Lake Michigan! Majestic scenery, awesome sledding, cozy dinners and s’mores by the fire.

CHIPAR1012_054.indd 1

10/26/12 11:51 AM

Have mountains of fun in Park City, Utah

ife in the Midwest has a lot to offer, but mountains aren’t one of them. Yet my 12- and 14-year-old boys are avid skiers. Each Saturday they board a ski club bus and travel 90 minutes just to reach a 250foot vertical drop. Last winter we finally headed for the hills—the BIG hills out west in Park City, Utah. Park City is perfect for a long ski weekend with plenty of direct flights to Salt Lake City from Chicago and an easy 35-minute drive to the slopes. To show just how easy, Park City came up with the Quick Start promotion—trade in your boarding pass for a lift ticket, good for that day at any of the major ski resorts. You can fly in the morning and be on the slopes in the afternoon. There are 11 ski resorts in Park City. The Canyons is the largest and has heated gondolas. Deer Valley is the fanciest and limits daily ticket sales, so the slopes never get too crowded. We headed for Park City Mountain Resort, which hosted our family, and made the budget-friendly ski in/ski out Snow Flower Condos home base. Park City Mountain Resort is well known for its terrain park

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_055.indd 1

with the largest half-pipe in the country. It also has a great ski school. My 3-year-old spent her days skiing in a group limited to three students. World-class restaurants are on the menu as well. You can ski into downtown Park City, leave your skis at a rack and march into the High West Distillery wearing your ski pants and boots. After finishing what was, by unanimous vote, the best burger of our lives, we took the Town Lift back up the mountain. Want to treat yourself after a few days of skiing? Spend an afternoon at the super swank Montage Deer Valley Spa. Before we knew it, the long weekend was over and it was time to head back to Chicago with fond memories of our mountain adventure. Andrea Guthmann

Snow Flower Condos snowflowerparkcity.com Rates start at $110 Quick Start promotion: visitparkcity.com/quickstart

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 55

10/26/12 11:50 AM

Tweens ski for free in Idaho G

ot a fifth- or sixth-grader? It might be time to try skiing. Ski areas across the country know they need to hook kids on skiing early to create customers who will return to their resorts again and again over a lifetime. So ski destinations, including the resorts in Idaho, offer free skiing for kids in late elementary grades. Idaho ski resorts allow fifthgraders to ski free three times and sixth-graders to ski free two times. Depending on where you ski and when, that deal could save you as much as $70 a day. Fill out the application at skiidaho.us now—the deal is not available once you arrive in Idaho and it

takes at least two weeks for the pass to be delivered. There’s a $20 processing fee, but most resorts include deals on equipment rentals and specials for parents and siblings. ■ skiidaho.us The kids’ ■ sunvalley.com ski free deal is available at most of the state’s 18 ski areas (see the website for the full list), including the state’s premier resort, Sun Valley. This gorgeous resort is not for those afraid of heights or prone to altitude sickness. Its peaks rise to 9,150 feet with a vertical drop of 3,400 feet. The longest of its 80 runs stretches 1.2 miles. The views—from the ski runs as well as the gondola and lodge—are breathtaking. When you’re done skiing, head to the Sun Valley Lodge bowling alley. The 1950s-style six-lane bowling alley is one of the oldest in the Pacific North-

Idaho is a great place to learn to ski. west. Or, if it’s snowing, head to one of the heated outdoor pools for a swim. Few things are quite as fun as swimming when snowflakes start falling. Deals at the Sun Valley Lodge

this winter include a $139 per person rate for lodging and skiing from Jan. 3-March 31 and a $79.50 per person rate after April 1. Cindy Richards

this winter, make

LAUGHTER the soundtrack of your vacation Much Family Fun

Explore the variety of outdoor and indoor activities Lake Geneva and beyond is offering this winter!

order your free winter coupon book at 800.395.8687 www.visitwalworthcounty.com

PetoskeyArea.com 800.845.2828 Free Brochure Boyne Mountain

Boyne Highlands

56 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

BCV 3407 Chicago Parent Winter Ad.indd 1

CHIPAR1012_056.indd 1

Nub’s Nob

10/19/12 12:59:33 PM

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:50 AM

Kids Ski Free!

AFFORDABLE. FUN. NEARBY. Nothing brings a family together like skiing, and at Cascade Mountain kids 12 and under ski free when accompanied by a paid adult. Cascade is an easy drive, and is just a few minutes from the indoor water parks and hotels of Wisconsin Dells. Make this a winter well spent! T 36 trails and 4 terrain parks T 6 lanes of snow tubing, with Magic Carpet lift T On I-90/94, 15 minutes from Wisconsin Dells T Call us at toll-free at 800-992-2SKI

CASCADE MOUNTAIN

w ww. cas cademountai n. com ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_057.indd 1

Holiday 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ goingplaces 57

10/26/12 11:50 AM

TRAVEL SKIING

Arrowhead Golf Club 26w121 Butterfield Road Wheaton (630) 510-5136 arrowheadgolfclub.org Miles of cross-country skiing trails are available during the winter season (weather permitting). An equipment rental package is available for $15 on a first come, first served basis. Visit website for information. Hours: 9 a.m.-dusk. Admission: Free.

Boyne Highlands Resort 600 Highland Drive Harbor Springs, Mich. (800) 462-6963 (231) 526-3000 boyne.com Lower Michigan’s highest vertical skiing and snowboarding with 55 trails and 435 skiable acres, plus four terrain parks and a half pipe, Zipline Adventures, dog sledding, tubing, ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowshoeing, 35 kilometers of cross country skiing and the Aonach Mor Moonlight mountaintop dinner. The resort offers learn to ski and snowboard programs for kids as young as 3, plus winter horseback trail rides, ski and race camps, and is also a Burton Learn to Ride center. Lift tickets are interchangeable at Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls. Hours: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday-Tuesday; 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. Admission: Visit website or call.

Boyne Mountain Resort One Boyne Mountain Road Boyne Falls, Mich. (800) 462-6963 (231) 549-6000 boyne.com Offers 60 trails of downhill and 35 kilometers of cross country, as well as exclusive snowshoe trails, Zipline Adventures, tubing, ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides and groomer rides. There is also Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark and the Solace Spa and Salon. Also offers SnowSports Academy with child and adult instruction, learn to ski and ride programs and family adventure lessons, plus winter horseback trail rides. Hours: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday-Tuesday; 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. Admission: Visit website or call.

Cascade Mountain 30 miles north of Madison on Interstate 90/94. Use exit 106.

58 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_058.indd 1

Cascade Mountain, see this page. Portage, Wis. (800) 992-2754 cascademountain.com Offers 36 ski runs of varying difficulty and snow tubing. Half-day learning programs for kids 4-12 are available. Because this is a bit of a drive from Chicago, ask about Cascade’s lodging packages at the nearby Wisconsin Dells. You might get to go skiing and use the indoor water parks all in one weekend. The mountain will be open Thanksgiving through March, depending on snow conditions. Hours: 9 a.m.10 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. weekdays. Open until midnight on New Year’s Eve for late night skiing. Admission: Lift ticket is $47, free kids 12 and under. Equipment rentals are $32.

Chestnut Mountain Resort 8700 W. Chestnut Road Galena (815) 777-1320 chestnutmtn.com High above the Mississippi, tucked nicely in the hills near historic Galena, Chestnut Mountain is a premier Illinois resort that offers 19 trails that span 220 rolling acres with a total vertical drop of 475 feet. Hours: Vary. Admission: Varies, call or visit website.

Christie Mountain

Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa

W13755 County Road O Bruce, Wis. (715) 868-7800 christiemountain.com

12500 Crystal Mountain Drive Thompsonville, Mich. (800) 968-7686 (231) 378-2000 crystalmountain.com

Features 25 trails, four terrain parks and a tubing park. It also has a kinderschool. Hours: 5-9 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday; 5-10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Tubing hours are 5-10 p.m. Friday; noon-10 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Call or visit website for ticket cost and availability; kids 8 and under are free with purchase of an adult lift ticket.

Christmas Mountain Village S944 Christmas Mountain Road Wisconsin Dells, Wis. (608) 254-3971 christmasmountainvillage.com A big focus here is on teaching guests how to ski with its 16 runs, some of which are used for snow tubing, plus a snow tube park. The snow tube hill has a tow rope. Hours: Opening Nov. 23, but call or check website to confirm. Noon-9 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. weekends and holidays. Admission: Visit website. Season passes available.

Offers 45 downhill slopes and three terrain parks with many offslope activities like dog sled rides, paintball, horse-drawn surrey rides, snowshoe tours, snowman search winter scavenger hunt and bead bonanza. There are also family events like the Holiday Trail Celebration (Nov. 23) and World Snow Day (Jan. 20). See the website for a complete listing of events, including live birds of prey programs, ice skating, and new snow bike rental. Hours: Open yearround; skiing offered NovemberMarch, weather permitting; check website. Admission: Call or visit website.

Four Lakes 5790 Lakeside Drive, Lisle (630) 964-2551 Reservations (630) 964-2550 Snow Hotline skifourlakes.com Features five runs, a beginner’s hill and a terrain park. It offers private, semi-private and group skiing and snowboarding lessons for everyone, including kids 4 and

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 11:49 AM

TRAVEL Hoy offers snow tubing and, new this year, snowshoeing on weekends and school holidays December through February. For snow conditions and details, call the Outdoor Report at (630) 871-6422. Hours: Weekends and school holidays December through February, weather permitting. Admission: Snow tube rental $5 per tube per day; snowshoe rentals $5 for two hours or $10 per day.

Nordic Mountain W5806 County Road W Wild Rose, Wis. (800) 253-7266 nordicmountain.com Nordic Mountain has 16 runs of varying difficulty—from green to double black diamond. It also has a snow tubing facility and progression terrain park, so beginners can still try using rails and jumps, and more advanced athletes can use the medium and large-sized parks. Hours: 4:30-9:30 p.m. MondayThursday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. FridaySaturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Visit website to confirm and for holiday hours. Admission: Varies. Call or visit website. Kids 6 and under are free with a paid adult.

Pine Mountain Resorts

Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa, see page 58. up. Hours: 4-10 p.m. MondayFriday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Opens midDecember (check website). Admission: $25 daily; $20 Tuesdays; $15 Fridays.

Granite Peak 3605 N. Mountain Road Wausau, Wis. (715) 845 2846 skigranitepeak.com The highest skiable mountain in Wisconsin, Granite Peak is 700 feet tall and offers 74 runs. Check the website for information about Family Fun Festival weekends in January, February and March, which offer reduced rates and activities like horse wagon rides, cookouts, fireworks, bonfires and night skiing. Granite Peak offers lessons for kids and adults. Hours: Call or check website for opening dates and hours. Admission: Call or visit website.

Lutsen, Minn. (218) 663-7281 lutsen.com Lutsen is home to 92 runs of varied difficulty, a 1,000-acre ski area spread over four mountains and 60 acres of tree skiing. Book a sleigh ride or dog sledding trip or take the family out snowshoeing. Skiing lessons are available for adults and kids 3 and up. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Hours may vary. Opening weekend Nov. 17-18; visit website for schedule. Admission: Lift tickets (tax not included): $63, $53 kids 6-12, kids 5 and under free with a paid adult. See website for packages.

Mount Hoy

Lutsen Mountains Ski Area

Blackwell Forest Preserve Main entrance on Butterfield Road one mile east of Route 59 Warrenville (630) 933-7200 dupageforest.org

County Road 5 and U.S. 61 P.O. Box 129

When at least 3 inches of natural snow covers the hill, Mount

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_059.indd 1

N3332 Pine Mountain Road Iron Mountain, Mich. (906) 774-2747 pinemountainresort.com Pine Mountain has trails from bunny hills to black diamonds and two terrain parks. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Visit website.

Sunburst Ski Resort 8355 Prospect Drive Kewaskum, Wis. (262) 626-8404 skisunburst.com Offers 12 slopes, including three terrain parks, one for beginners and one for advanced skiers. There are runs for all abilities and a snow tubing hill with a magic carpet lift. Sunburst also has up to 20 chutes. New in 2012: magic carpet in beginner area and second rope tow in terrain park. Hours: Visit website; opens at Thanksgiving, weather permitting. Admission: Visit website.

Sundown Mountain 16991 Asbury Road Dubuque, Iowa (888) 747-3872 sundownmtn.com Features 21 scenic trails and two terrain parks carved out of

a century old cedar forest reminiscent of Colorado. Offers lessons and kids park. Hours: Visit website or call; regular season opens Dec. 17. Admission: Visit website.

The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort Grand Geneva Resort & Spa 7036 Grand Geneva Way at highways 50 East and 12 Lake Geneva, Wis. (262) 249-4726 (800) 558-3417 grandgeneva.com Eighteen runs for skiing or snowboarding up to a quarter mile in length, a terrain park, kids’ programs, six scenic miles of crosscountry and snow shoe trails, and group ski lessons. The Annual Winter Carnival Celebration takes place the first weekend in February and offers many family-friendly activities like ski competitions, kids’ activities and fireworks. Hours: Season starts Dec. 1, weather permitting. Call or visit website. Admission: Varies. Call or visit website.

Tyrol Basin 3487 Bohn Road Mount Horeb, Wis. (608) 437-4135 tyrolbasin.com Features 17 trails, three triple chair lifts and two surface tows. There are three different terrain parks for any freestyle skiers or snowboarders and a chalet with a food service and bar area. Lesson packages offered for kids 4-10 on Saturdays and Sundays. Hours: Open mid-December to mid-March. Visit website for hours. Admission: Visit website for rates and pass information.

Wilmot Mountain 1/2 mile south of Wilmot on the east side of Fox River Road Wilmot, Wis. (262) 862-2301 wilmotmountain.com Twenty-five runs ranging from bunny slopes to black diamonds as well as eight chair lifts. In 2012, new snow tubing facility features more than 1,000 feet of multiple tubing lanes and a people-mover conveyor lift so you don’t have to hike back up the hill. Hours: November-March, depending on weather. Call or visit website for information. Admission: Varies; visit website.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 59

10/26/12 11:49 AM

“ grown-ups as entertained as their youngsters!” –nJ star Ledger

on saLe now!

December 5–16•

800-775-2000 •

Ti c k e Ts a v a i l a b l e aT a l l b r o a d w ay i n c h i c a g o b o x o f f i c e s a n d Ti c k e Tm a sTe r r e Ta i l l o c aTi o n s • g r o u p s 15+: 312-977-1710

60 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_060.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 2:31 PM

Spotlight on our favorite shows

on stage

Nutty for Nutcrackers From traditional Nutcrackers like the one by Performing Arts Limited (pictured here) to the canine version performed by a cast of dogs, we’ve got a great list of places to see this holiday favorite. See pages 72-73 for more details. While you’re at it, check out all the other holiday and children’s performances planned for the winter at local theaters. You’re sure to find something for kids of any age.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_061.pdf 61

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 61

11/7/12 3:19 PM

10 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT THE

his Dec. 14, a New York institution descends on Chicago. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular brings its glitz, glamour and very high kicks to the Akoo Theatre for a two-week holiday run. To celebrate, we talked to two local Rockettes, Kristina Larson-Hauk of Yorkville and Gabrielle Del Re Ashley of Pingree Grove, to get the behind-the-scenes scoop.

They’re tall, but not too tall Rockettes have to be between 5’ 6” and 5’ 10 1/2” tall (not counting those ultra-high heels). In kick lines, they stand with the tallest women in the middle, moving down to the shortest on the ends, which creates the illusion that they’re doing everything in unison.

It’s not just about out the kicks us kicks have a name— Those famous —but they’re not the only “eye-high kicks”—but thing a Rockette has to do. Their style of cision dance, actually dance, called precision is a combination of ballet, jazz, tap and modern dance.

There’s a lot of bling es have eight costume The Rockettes changes (some ass short as 90 seconds!) how. The favorite throughout the show. he Rockettes? The costume among the al number, “Let gowns for the final Christmas Shine,”” which are festooned ,000 crystals. with more than 3,000

They’re not as young as you think ave to be at least 18 to Rockettes have audition, and theyy must re-audition each een kicking for 13 years, year. Hauk has been while Del Re has been with the Rockettes an dancers teach the for 14. And veteran ette ropes. rookies the Rockette

They’re beauty gurus You might think there’s an army of stylists backstage poised to give the girls their signature look. But the Rockettes actually have to do their own hair—everyone wears a French twist—and makeup— that bright red lipstick that can be seen from the cheap seats.

They don’t actually touch From the audience, it looks like the Rockettes link arms or at least hold on to each other during those famous kick lines. But they aren’t allowed to touch each other; they “feel the fabric” of their neighbors’ costumes and rely on their core strength to stay upright.

They don’t take the rest of the year off During the holiday season, they average two shows a day, but they can’t just sit back and relax afterward. Many of the Rockettes are professional dancers and/ or actors, so they stay busy throughout the year. Plus, they do charity work, such as visiting children’s hospitals, supporting the troops and putting on benefit shows.

Living Nativity” (including live animals!) remain audience highlights.

It’s not the same old, same old This year’s show has been spiced up with three new numbers: kid-friendly “Here Comes Santa Claus” and “Magic is There,” and “New York at Christmas,” featuring a life-size double-decker bus and a 50-foot LED screen that transports the audience right to the Big Apple.

Chicagoans will feel right at home The Christmas Spectacular might be an iconic New York production, but this year’s show also will be staged in Nashville, St. Louis, Dallas … and Chicago. It hasn’t stopped in the Windy City since 2008, though, making this year a great time to start a new holiday tradition. Elizabeth Diffin

What’s old is new again The Radio City Christmas Spectacular kicked off in 1933, and two of the original numbers still light up the stage. Perennial favorites “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “The

62 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_062.indd 1

10/26/12 12:22 PM

ON STAGE Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Dragons

NOVEMBER

Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells

Allstate Arena 6920 N. Mannheim Road Rosemont (847) 635-6601 allstatearena.com Runs through Nov. 25

Theatre and Interpretation Center at Northwestern University Mussetter-Struble Theater 1949 Campus Drive Evanston (847) 491-7282 tic.northwestern.edu Runs through Nov. 18

Circus performers from the farthest reaches of the earth showcase their acts of bravery and athleticism. Performances run through Nov. 11 at Allstate Arena and Nov. 14-25 at United Center. $90 (circus celebrity), $50 (VIP), $25, $19 and $13.

Junie B. celebrates Christmas. 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday; 2 and 5 p.m. Sunday. Recommended for families with kids 5-10. $10, $8 kids.

Chicago’s Weird, Grandma Barrel of Monkeys The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor) 5153 N. Ashland Ave. Chicago (312) 409-1954 barrelofmonkeys.org Runs through Dec. 17

Mary Poppins Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences 10 Marriott Drive Lincolnshire (847) 634-0200 MarriottTheatre.com Runs through Jan. 5

Duck for President, see this page.

The world’s favorite nanny takes the stage. $40-$48, extra for dinner packages.

of control, it’s time for a charismatic young Duck to run for office. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $15.

rabbit down his hole and finds herself in a magical world. $16, $13 kids, limited number of $10 tickets available for all performances.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Dance Chicago

The Tortoise and The Hare

Northbrook Musical Theatre for Young Audiences 3323 Walters Ave. Northbrook (847) 291-2367 northbrooktheatre.org Runs through Nov. 24

Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 327-5252 stage773.com Runs through Dec. 1

Chicago Kids Company 4104 N. Nashville Ave. Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Runs through Nov. 21

Hip-hop, ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary and more. The festival showcases dancers and choreographers from some of Chicago’s best dance companies. Check website for schedule. 7:30 p.m. $17-$30.

Performances are at the Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago. Weekday performances at 10:30 a.m., with an additional performance at noon on select weekdays. $12.

Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical

A Wrinkle in Time

The classic fairy tale takes a modern twist. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. $10 online and at the door, $8 in advance.

The Borrowers The Theatre of Western Springs 4384 Hampton Ave. Western Springs (708) 246-4043 theatrewesternsprings.com Runs through Nov. 18 The story of young Arietty and her family: tiny people who live in people’s homes and “borrow” things to survive while keeping their existence unknown. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16; 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10 and 17; 2:30 p.m. Nov. 11 and 18. $12, $6 kids.

Duck for President

Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Runs through Jan. 6 Story about Trixie and her beloved bunny. $16, $13 kids, limited number of $10 tickets available for all performances.

Alice in Wonderland

Lifeline Theatre 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com Runs through Nov. 25

Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Runs through Dec. 29

When life on the farm gets out

Practical Alice follows a peculiar

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_063.indd 1

Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University 60 E. Balbo Drive Chicago (312) 922-1999 theatreschool.depaul.edu Runs through Dec. 1 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 2 p.m. Saturdays (except Nov. 20-24). $10.

Cinderella Chicago Kids Company 4104 N. Nashville Ave. Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Runs through Nov. 21 Performances at Stahl Family Theater (located at St. Patrick’s High School), 5900 W. Belmont Ave, Chicago. Geared for ages 2-12. Weekday performances at 10:30 a.m. $12.

From the powerhouse theater of Steppenwolf to the experimental dance of BONEdanse to the quirky stylings of Noah Ginex Puppet Company, BOM brings children’s stories to life. Performances are 8 p.m. Mondays. $12, $6 kids.

Alice and Wonderland AlphaBet Soup Productions P.O. Box 85 Lombard (630) 932-1555 absproductions.com Runs through Jan. 18 Performances are at Lewis University in Romeoville from Nov. 19-21, Jan. 7-11 and Jan. 14-18; at the Museum of Science and Industry from Dec. 11-13; and Prairie Center for the Arts from Nov. 15-16. Call for cost.

Babes in Toyland AlphaBet Soup Productions P.O. Box 85 Lombard (630) 932-1555 absproductions.com Runs through Dec. 7 Humorous twist on a fairytale classic. Performances are Nov. 10-21 at Lewis University in Romeoville; Nov. 29-30 at North Central College in Naperville; and Dec. 5-7 at the Museum of Science and Industry. Call for cost.

Bri-Ko Presents: Purple Fluffy Butter Bubbles Stage 773 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 63

10/26/12 12:22 PM

ON STAGE (773) 327-5252 stage773.com Runs through Dec. 30 Three performers combine sketch, acting and clowning to enact silent scenes in which easy processes are made as difficult, elaborate and entertaining as possible. 3-4 p.m. Sundays. $18.

Fall Youth Circus The Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St. Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.com Nov. 10-18 Physical theater that combines circus spectacle and narrative drama. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10 and 17; 3 p.m. Nov. 11 and 18. Call for cost.

Dr. Astronaut: Rock and Roll Superstar Corn Productions Cornservatory 4210 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 650-1331 cornservatory.com Nov. 10-16 The tale of Freddie, who longs to

transform into his fantasy alter-ego, Dr. Astronaut: Rock and Roll Superstar. 11 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $10, $5, kids 12 and under.

Six Stories Tall Adventure Stage Chicago Vittum Theater 1012 N. Noble St. Chicago (773) 342-4141 adventurestage.org Nov. 13-Dec. 8 Incorporating a mix of narrative influences—including comic books, video games, hip-hop music, Hispanic folklore and urban mythology—six tall tales comprise this play for families. $25, $15 kids.

Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place 175 E. Chestnut St. Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com Nov. 13-Dec. 18 The play takes on the challenge of condensing, or “potting,” all seven Harry Potter books into 70 madcap minutes. Show is appropriate for all ages. Call for cost.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Winnetka Theatre Especially for Kids Winnetka Community House 620 Lincoln Winnetka (847) 446-0537 childrenstheatrewinnetka.com Nov. 15-18 The story of Ariel is performed at 7 p.m. Nov. 15; 5 and 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16; 1 and 3:30 p.m. Nov. 17-18. $10.

Golden Dragon Acrobats Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St. Crystal Lake (815) 356-9212 rauecenter.org Nov. 16 Death-defying acrobatics, traditional dance and spectacular costumes. 8 p.m. $31-$37.

Cinderella Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences 10 Marriott Drive Lincolnshire (847) 634-0200 MarriottTheatre.com Nov. 17-Dec. 31 Join Cinderella, her Fairy God-

mother, a handsome prince, and two selfish stepsisters. $15.

The Gifts of the Magi Porchlight Music Theatre Theatre Building Chicago 1225 W. Belmont Chicago (773) 327-5252 porchlighttheatre.com Nov. 17-Dec. 23 In 1905, newlyweds Jim and Della lovingly sacrifice their greatest possessions and find a holiday treasure in this family-friendly show. Call for cost.

A Christmas Carol Goodman Theatre 170 N. Dearborn St. Chicago (312) 443-3800 goodmantheatre.org Nov. 17-Dec. 29 Dickens Christmas classic. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, by phone, or on the website. Call for cost.

Once Upon a Symphony-Goldilocks and the Three Bears Chicago Symphony Orchestra

nov 21 - dec 30 64 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_064.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:21 PM

ON STAGE

Night at the opera something to sing about

f you’re like most parents, you probably haven’t considered a night at the opera for your next family outing. But the Lyric Opera of Chicago wants to change your mind about that. On Dec. 2, Lyric is hosting “Popcorn & Pasquale,” its first family event for kids 5-12 and their parents. “I’d love to encourage people to give us a try, and Popcorn & Pasquale is the perfect opportunity to find out what opera’s all about,” says Anthony Freud, general director for the Lyric Opera. “What I’m really excited about is that the event gives them not only a taste, but the real thing.” The 70-minute show will be the fully staged Don Pasquale opera in the opera house, complete with the cast, costumes, orchestra and set. But the performance will be an abridged version, narrated by Chicago actor Ross Lehman. “It’s going to be a guided tour,” Freud says. “Ross will talk to the audience about what the singers do, what the technicians do, and really introduce them to the experience of opera in all sorts of ways.” The family event is part of the new Lyric Unlimited program to reach new audiences, Freud says. “I’m very passionate about ensuring that the cultural service Lyric

Popcorn & Pasquale provides is as broad and deep as possible. I want us to work tirelessly to reach new audiences, new ages, new people from different walks of life.” Lyric also has collaborated with another Chicago cultural institution—Second City— to create “The Second City Guide to the Opera,” a show Freud says could make a great date night for parents.

“It’s an unexpected partnership,” he says. “It’s going to catch people’s imaginations. It’s very humorous, irreverent, but also meaningful. Hopefully it will introduce people to the art form, entertain, and make them laugh at the same time.” For more information and to buy tickets, visit lyricopera.org. Liz DeCarlo

chicago parent’s annual gift guide

Jingle Bell, Jingle Buy

Great Opera, Made Affordable! Presents Gian Carlo Menotti’s

December 2011 FREE

Eat, drink and be merry

(but don’t overdo it)

Real. Happy. Families.

Fire up FRIDAY NIGHTS

Our six difference makers

Finding

TinyTim Backstage at the Goodman

Coming in December For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_065.indd 1

Don’t miss this treasured Chicago holiday tradition, perfect for all ages! Directed by Francis Menotti, son of Gian Carlo, based on his father’s original 1951 production Sung in English with a full orchestra and featuring dancers from Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater along with singers from a children’s chorus. December 1-2, 2012 • 2:00 PM both days Harold Washington Library Center, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium 400 South State Street, Chicago, IL GENERAL ADMISSION SEATING: Adults: $25 • Seniors (65+) and Students: $20 Children: $10, 12 and under

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! (312) 951-7944 www.chamberoperachicago.org

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 65

10/26/12 12:21 PM

ON STAGE Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 294-3000 cso.org Nov. 17 Designed to introduce kids 3-5 to the world of classical music and the musicians of the CSO. Preconcert activities begin 45 minutes before each concert. Performances at 10 and 11:45 a.m. $20, $10 kids.

Sing Along with Santa Steel Beam Children’s Theatre 111 W. Main St. St. Charles (630) 587-8521 steelbeamtheatre.com Nov. 17-Dec. 23 A festive event with Santa and his friends. $15, $10 kids.

Kids Fare: All About Brass Pick-Staiger Concert Hall Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music 50 Arts Circle Drive Evanston (847) 467-4000 pickstaiger.org Nov. 17 Northwestern University Brass Ensemble showcases this family of instruments in an interactive program. Kids Fare concerts are onehour programs appropriate for ages 3-8. 10:30 a.m. $6, $4 kids.

Tiny Great Performance: ChiKoto Taiko DuPage Children’s Museum Washington Jr. High School 201 N. Washington St. Naperville (630) 637-8000 dupagechildrensmuseum.org Nov. 17 Specializing in rhythm-based percussion, the talented, three-person group performs traditional and contemporary Japanese pieces. 2 and 2:45 p.m. Free with admission.

Annie Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre 23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora (630) 896-6666 paramountaurora.com Nov. 21-Dec. 30 Join Annie and her pint-sized cohorts on this musical adventure. $34.90-$46.90.

66 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_066.indd 1

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey Provision Theater Company 1001 W. Roosevelt Road Chicago (866) 811-4111 provisiontheater.org. Nov. 21-Dec. 23 When a broken-hearted boy loses the treasured wooden nativity set that links him to his dead father, his mother persuades a lonely illtempered woodcarver to create a replacement. 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. Also a select number of Wednesday matinees at 10 a.m. Recommended for families with kids 4 and older. $32, $15 student, $10 kids 11 and under.

It’s A Wonderful Life: A Radio Play Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St. Crystal Lake. (815) 356-9212 rauecenter.org Nov. 23-Dec. 15 Inspired by the classic holiday film, this production is presented as a 1940’s live radio broadcast in front of a live audience. 8 p.m. Nov. 23, 24, 30; Dec. 1, 14, 15; 3 p.m. Dec. 1. $22-$28.

Little Women: The Musical Overshadowed Theatrical Productions 210 S. Walnut St. Itasca (630) 250-7518 overshadowedproductions.com Nov. 23-Dec. 15 The story of the March sisters— Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they grow up in Civil War America. 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday from Nov. 23-Dec. 15. The last three Saturdays also have a matinee at 2 p.m. Recommended for families with kids 6 and older. $14, $12 students.

Cinderella Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place 175 E. Chestnut St. Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com Nov. 23-Jan. 6 Emerald City’s adaptation of this favorite tale. Recommended for families with kids 3-10. Call for cost.

Disney’s Fantasia Chicago Symphony Orchestra Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago

(312) 294-3000 cso.org Nov. 23-25 Performance of Disney’s combination of symphonic music and animation. 8 p.m. Nov. 23-24; 3 p.m. Nov. 25. Recommended for families with kids 8 and older. $69-$267.

The Christmas Schooner Mercury Theater 3745 N. Southport Chicago (773) 325-1700 mercurytheaterchicago.com Nov. 23-Dec. 30 The story of the first Christmas tree ship, and the families who risked their lives to fill Chicago with the Christmas spirit. Performances are Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 1 p.m. $29-$59.

A Christmas Carol Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace 100 Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace (630) 530-8300 drurylaneoakbrook.com Nov. 23-Dec. 12 Families can have breakfast with Santa Claus on select performance dates. 10 a.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays; 1 p.m. on Sundays. $12.

Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s Global Rhythms 8 Chicago Human Rhythm Project 2936 N. Southport Ave. Chicago (773) 281-1825 chicagotap.org Nov. 24-25 Chicago debut of ScrapArtsMusic, an earth-friendly, Vancouver-based company that creates percussion performances using instruments crafted from industrial scraps. 8 p.m. Nov. 24 and 3 p.m. Nov. 25. $15-$55.

Mrs. Claus, a Holiday Musical Chicago Kids Company Beverly Arts Center 111th and Western Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Nov. 24-Dec. 21 Join the Elf Class as they try to find the missing list in time for Christmas in this musical show. Performances at Stahl Theater from Nov. 24-Dec. 21 and from Nov. 28-Dec. 21 at the Beverly Arts Center. Fami-

lies with kids 2-12. $12. Visit the website for schedule.

Skippyjon Jones Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre 23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora (630) 896-6666 paramountaurora.com Nov. 27 He’s the coolest Chihuahua-looking Siamese kitten you’ll ever meet. For grades K-3. Performances at 9:30 a.m. and noon Nov. 27. $8.50.

Madeline’s Christmas The Theatre of Western Springs 4384 Hampton Ave. Western Springs (708) 246-4043 theatrewesternsprings.com Nov. 30-Dec. 9 Madeline saves Christmas from disaster. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 30 and Dec. 7; 4 p.m. Dec. 1 and 8; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 2 and 9. Families with kids 4 and older. $15, $7 kids 18 and under.

DECEMBER

A Mark Twain Christmas Driehaus Museum 40 E. Erie St. Chicago (312) 482-8933 Dec. 1 Some of Twain’s best holiday material, including “The Ice Storm,” “A Letter from Santa Claus,” and “Jim Wolfe and the Cats.” This is a family-friendly event. 3 and 5 p.m. $30, $20 members.

A Christmas Carol Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University 1 University Parkway University Park (708) 235-2222 centertickets.net Dec. 1 A Christmas Carol captures the classic story with fresh new songs. 11 a.m. $12-$17.

Twas The Night Before Christmas Theatre at the Center The Center for Visual and Performing Arts 1040 Ridge Road Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255 theatreatthecenter.com Dec. 1-15 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Dec. 1, 8 and 15. Audience members can join

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:21 PM

ON STAGE wilmettetheatre.com Dec. 8 and 15

in a sing-along to popular holiday melodies. Santa and his friends make a surprise visit. $9.50, $7.50 children.

10 a.m. and noon. Recommended for families with kids 5 and older. $12, $10 in advance.

Amahl and the Night Visitors

Magic at the Mansion

Chicago Chamber Orchestra (312) 351-1551 chicagochamberorchestra.org Dec. 1-2

Driehaus Museum 40 E. Erie St. Chicago (312) 482-8933 Dec. 8-16

The story of how a crippled young shepherd boy’s life changes forever when he sees an amazing star. 2 p.m. at the Harold Washington Library Center, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St., Chicago. $25, $20 students, $10 kids 12 and under.

Master magician Sean Masterson uses stories and audience participation to transport guests back to an earlier Gilded Age holiday. This 45-minute performance is suitable for kids 8 and older. Tickets include general admission to the museum. 3 p.m. Dec. 8-9 and 15-16. $12, $8 kids.

Leahy A Family Christmas Dominican University Performing Arts Center 7900 W. Division St. River Forest (708) 488-5000 dom.edu/pac Dec. 1

Peter and Paul in the Land of Nod Chicago Folks Operetta 512 S. Scoville Ave. Oak Park chicagofolksoperetta.org Dec. 8-9

Holiday show for family. 7:30 p.m. Check website for cost.

Children’s Christmas operetta performed at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 8 and 2 and 5 p.m. Dec. 9. Performances are at the 19th Century Club, 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park. $15, $12 seniors, $10 kids.

Popcorn & Pasquale–An Opera Adventure for Kids and Families Lyric Opera of Chicago 20 N. Wacker Drive Chicago (312) 827-5912 lyricopera.org Dec. 2 An afternoon designed to introduce kids 5-12 and their families to the opera. The 70-minute opera adventure features scenes from Lyric’s production of Donizetti’s comedy Don Pasquale, a sing-along, interviews with the opera characters, watching a scene change, and more. 2 p.m. $20-$40, $10-$20 kids 12 and under.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com Dec. 5-16 Max the Dog narrates this classic holiday tale. Call for cost and performance schedule.

A Christmas Carol Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 111 W. Campbell St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-2121

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_067.indd 1

Cinderella Fox Valley Repertory 4051 E. Main St. St. Charles (630) 584-6342 foxvalleyrep.org Dec. 8-22

The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey, see page 66. metropolisarts.com Dec. 5-21 The story of old, grumpy Mr. Scrooge and his employee Bob Cratchit. $28.50, $15.50 kids 12 and under.

Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops Concert Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St. Crystal Lake (815) 356-9212 rauecenter.org Dec. 7 Holiday concert. 8 p.m. $43-$49.

It’s Time to Play Symphony Center

220 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 294-3000 cso.org Dec. 8 Members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra demonstrate how orchestras capture the beauty, drama and excitement of music. The concert uses magnification technology to give the audience an up-close look at all the instruments and musicians. 11 a.m. or 12:45 p.m. Call for cost.

10:30 a.m. Saturdays and 7 p.m. Sundays. Recommended for families with kids 3 and older. $15.

Santa Deux Greenhouse Theater Center 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 404-7336 greenhousetheater.org Dec. 8-30 Santa hires the highly ambitious New Elf who promises a faster, more efficient Christmas. 1 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday. Also performances at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12. For information, visit lilbudstheatre.org. $18, $12 kids.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Holiday Magic

The Wilmette Theatre 1122 Central Ave. Wilmette (847) 251-7424

Naperville Park District Barn Recreation Center main floor 421 W. Martin Ave. Naperville

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 67

10/26/12 12:20 PM

ON STAGE (630) 848-5000 napervilleparks.org Dec. 10

dramatic lighting effects, and a 50-foot LED screen. Call for cost.

Magic Matt performs some of his favorite tricks. Families with kids age 2 and up. 6:30-7:15 p.m. $8, $5 resident.

Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Goose Raven Theatre 6157 N. Clark St. Chicago (773) 338-2177 raventheatre.com Dec. 14-30

Christmas concert Evanston Children’s Choir Alice Millar Chapel 1870 Sheridan Road Evanston (847) 733-0814 evanstonchildrenschoir.org Dec. 16 The annual Holiday Concert celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. 3 p.m. Free.

Tsukasa Taiko: Taiko Legacy Museum of Contemporary Art 220 E. Chicago Ave. Chicago (312) 280-2660 mcachicago.org Dec. 21

Live, radio-style performance includes musician accompaniment, humorous commercials and a closing sing-along. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. $20, $15 students/ seniors.

Features taiko drumming, stylized kimono dance, and improvisations bridging jazz and Japanese court music. Call for times. Free kids 12 and under.

Radio City Christmas Spectacular Akoo Theatre 5400 N. River Road Rosemont (847) 671-5100 rosemonttheatre.com Dec. 14-30 The Rockettes dance their way through new scenes, new costumes,

Presto! Holiday Concert

oldtownschool.org Dec. 22 The story of the Boy kidnapped by the alluring Snow Queen and the Girl who travels to the end of the world to save her friend. 7 p.m. Recommended for families with kids 6 and older. $20, $16 children and seniors.

Christmas Concert Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe chicagobotanic.org/wonderland Dec. 22 Event includes a Christmas brass concert, featuring festive holiday favorites, and Wonderland Express exhibition viewing. 1 and 3 p.m. Visit website for ticket information.

Oliver

Snow Queen

Light Opera Works 927 Noyes St. Evanston (847) 869-6300 light-opera-works.org Dec. 22-31

Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 728-6000

The 1960 musical version of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. $32-$92; ages 21 and under are half price on Dec. 26, 27 and 29.

Prairie Center for the Arts 210 Schaumburg Court Schaumburg (847) 895-3600 prairiecenter.org Dec. 22 Classical and popular music of the season performed by the Schaumburg Youth Symphony Orchestra. 3:30 and 7:30 p.m. $24, $15 kids.

Have You Seen My Daddy? eta Creative Arts Foundation 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. Chicago (773) 752-3955 etacreativearts.org Dec. 26-June 1 Musical that chronicles the sociological effects on youth from fatherless homes and how they manage to lift themselves up. Kwanzaa week holiday performances are Dec. 26, 27, 28. Regular run is Jan. 12-June 1. 2 p.m. Recommended for families with kids in kindergarten and older. $6.

JANUARY

The Adventures of Rose Red Steel Beam Children’s Theatre

Tune-filled Broadway musical on stage with full 26-piece orchestra!

Ballet Legere 28th Annual Performance THE

Featuring Guest Artists Kelsey Coventry Jace Coronado

Dominican University Performing Arts Center - Lund Auditorium

7900 W. Division River Forest, IL Sat. December 15, 2pm & 7pm Sun. December 16, 2pm

Spectacular Special Effects

Adults: $25

Back stage tour Dec. 15th, $6.00 per person

Seniors/Children under 12: $20.00

Family Matinees: Kids 1/2 price! Meet the cast: Wed, Dec. 26, 2 pm Thu, Dec. 27, 2 pm Sat, Dec. 29, 2 pm Suitable for ages 8 and older Regular performances Dec. 22–31 Cahn Auditorium 600 Emerson (at Sheridan), Evanston

(Add $2 to tickets purchased at door)

For Information and Ticket Prices, Group Rates, Fieldtrip Opportunities (December 13th-14th) and

Backstage Tour With The Nutcracker Call: 773-237-1874 Fax: 773-237-1181 Email: balletlegere@yahoo.com

68 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_068.indd 1

Order now (847)

920-5360 • Online: LightOperaWorks.com ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:20 PM

ON STAGE 111 W. Main St. St. Charles (630) 587-8521 steelbeamtheatre.com Jan. 6-26 The story of Snow White’s lessfamous sister is performed. $15, $10 kids.

Shrek the Musical Coronado Performing Arts Center 314 N. Main St. Rockford (815) 968-CPAC (2722) coronadopac.org Jan. 12 In a faraway kingdom, things get ugly when an unseemly ogre— not a handsome prince—shows up to rescue a feisty princess. 8 p.m. $29.50-$54.50.

The Mystery of the Pirate Ghost Lifeline Theatre 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com Jan. 12-Feb. 17 Hungry for adventure, young Otto and his Uncle Tooth set out to capture a mischievous thief and recover stolen goods. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. One hour before each performance, for an extra $10, kids can participate in Stories Come Alive! Hour, an interactive storytelling session followed by theater games to explore the characters, plot, and themes of the book. $15.

Bud, Not Buddy Chicago Children’s Theatre The Ruth Page Center for Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St. Chicago (872) 222-9555 chicagochildrenstheatre.org Jan. 12-Feb. 24 The journey of a young AfricanAmerican orphan as he searches for his father. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Call for cost and performance times.

Freedom Train Theatre at the Center The Center for Visual and Performing Arts 1040 Ridge Road Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255 theatreatthecenter.com Jan. 14-18 The story of Harriet Tubman, a slave off a Maryland plantation whose bravery took her across the lands to freedom. $9.50, $7.50 kids.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_069.indd 1

The Music Man

RevelryHUMBUG!

Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre 23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora (630) 896-6666 paramountaurora.com Jan. 16-Feb. 3

CHEER

UNDERSTANDING

Revelry beauty

One of the most iconic musicals comes to life. $34.90-$46.90.

SCROOGE

GOODWILL

delight

Tiny Tim

excitment

Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy

WONDER

HUMBUG!

Merriment

Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University 60 E. Balbo Drive Chicago (312) 922-1999 theatreschool.depaul.edu Jan. 19-March 2

friends

redemption

CELEBRATION

family PEACE

Based on the book by Gary D. Schmidt. 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays (no performances Jan. 26-Feb. 2). Recommended for kids 9 and older. $10.

GHOSTS

Annual Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Chicago Sinfonietta Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 236-3681 ext. 2 chicagosinfonietta.org Jan. 20-21 Performances are 3 p.m. Jan. 20 at Wentz Concert Hall of North Central College, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville, and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 21 at Orchestra Hall of Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Chicago Sinfonietta or through its website. Tickets range from $40$50 for concert at Wentz Concert Hall and $26-$50 for concerts at Symphony Center, with special $10 pricing available for students.

Snow White Northbrook Musical Theatre for Young Audiences 3323 Walters Ave. Northbrook (847) 291-2367 northbrooktheatre.org Jan. 20-Feb. 23 This fresh version of the timeless tale contains songs, dances and puppetry. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. Reserved seats are $8 in advance or $10 online and at the door.

FamilyDance Matinee: Double Edge Theatre

CHARLES DICKENS’

ADAPtED by

tom CREAmER

DIRECtED by

StEvE SCott

mAKINg HoLIDAy DREAmS ComE tRuE foR 35 yEARS NovEmbER 17 – DECEmbER 29, 2012

312.443.3800 GoodmanTheatre.org Groups of 15 or more: 312.443.3820 or GoodmanTheatre.org/Groups THE MELTING POT Promotional Partner

major Corporate sponsor

Corporate sponsor partners

exclusive Airline of Goodman Theatre

KIMPTON CHICAGO HOTELS Preferred Hotel

Dance Center of Columbia College

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 69

10/26/12 12:20 PM

ON STAGE Chicago 1306 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 369-8330 colum.edu/dancecenter Jan. 19

Winnetka Community House 620 Lincoln Winnetka (847) 446-0537 childrenstheatrewinnetka.com Feb. 7-9

One-hour family-oriented performances follow free parent/child movement workshops with the artists. Call for cost and time.

What happens when some teenagers get magically trapped in TV Land? 7 p.m. Feb. 7-8; 10:30 a.m. Feb. 9. Recommended for families with kids 5-14. $8.

Cinderella

The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley

Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St. Joliet (815) 726-6600 rialtosquare.com Jan. 22 The State Ballet Theatre of Russia brings Cinderella to life. 7:30 p.m. $38-$48; $28 kids 12 and under.

The Frog Prince Continued Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Jan. 26-June 9 When happily ever after isn’t what he expected, the Frog Prince heads out for a new adventure. $16, $13 kids, limited number of $10 tickets available for all performances.

Cinderella Genesee Theatre 203 N. Genesee St. Waukegan (847) 263-6300 geneseetheatre.com Jan. 26 Cinderella is presented by The State Ballet Theatre of Russia. 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the Theatre Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, at (800) 982-2787 or ticketmaster.com. $32.50-$52.50.

Kids Fare: Band Illusions Pick-Staiger Concert Hall Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music 50 Arts Circle Drive Evanston (847) 467-4000 pickstaiger.org Jan. 26 The Northwestern University Symphonic Band celebrates a variety of music in this concert for kids. 10:30 a.m. $6, $4 kids.

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat Emerald City Theatre Company

70 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_070.indd 1

Mrs. Claus, a Holiday Musical, see page 66.

Theatre and Interpretation Center at Northwestern University 1949 Campus Drive Evanston (847) 491-7282 tic.northwestern.edu Feb. 8-17

Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Jan. 26-June 9

4-8, 11-15; 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Feb. 9. Recommended for families with kids in grades 4-8. $14, $12 for kids 12 and under.

Stanley is having the adventures of his life. 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday; 2 and 5 p.m. Sunday. Recommended for families with kids 5-10. $10, $8 kids.

Laura Ingalls Wilder

Air Raid

The Cat in the Hat is the perfect friend for a boring rainy afternoon. $16, $13 kids, limited number of $10 tickets available for all performances.

Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre 23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora (630) 896-6666 paramountaurora.com Feb. 5

Pick-Staiger Concert Hall Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music 50 Arts Circle Drive Evanston (847) 467-4000 pickstaiger.org Feb. 16

Tomas Kubinek: Certified Lunatic and Master of the Impossible Fermilab, Kirk Road at Pine Street Batavia (630) 840-ARTS (2787) fnal.gov/culture Jan. 26 One-man show for families. 7 p.m. $22, $11 kids age 18 and under.

Peter Pan Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com Jan. 30-Feb. 10 Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all new production. Check website for cost and performance schedule.

FEBRUARY

Frindle Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 111 W. Campbell St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-2121 metropolisarts.com Feb. 4-9 The story of Nick and his new word. 9:45 and 11:30 a.m. Feb.

The adventures of Laura and her family as they push westward is brought to life in this familyfriendly musical production. For grades 2-6. Performances at 9:30 a.m. and noon. $8.50.

Walk On: The Story of Rosa Parks Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St. Crystal Lake (815) 356-9212 rauecenter.org Feb. 5 Rosa Parks’ story unfolds. 12:15 p.m. $20, $10 kids.

Muntu Paramount Arts Centre and Theatre 23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora (630) 896-6666 paramountaurora.com Feb. 7 Contemporary and ancient African and African-American dance, music and folklore. Performances at 9:30 a.m., noon and 7 p.m. $8.50.

Remote Control: A Musical Journey Through TV Land Winnetka Theatre Especially for Kids

Wind-generated sounds are the focus as Bienen School musicians demonstrate applying air to a blade of grass, kazoo, harmonica, slide whistle, trombone, garden hose, flute, seashell, oboe reed, pan pipe and other objects. 10:30 a.m. Recommended for families with kids 3-8. $6, $4 kids.

James & the Giant Peach Steel Beam Children’s Theatre 111 W. Main St. St. Charles (630) 587-8521 steelbeamtheatre.com Feb. 17-March 10 Based on the popular book. $15, $10 kids

Winter Circus The Actors Gymnasium, Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St. Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.com Feb. 17-March 23 Show features professionals from the Chicago circus and physical theater communities alongside the

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:20 PM

ON STAGE teen ensemble and advanced students. Performances are Saturdays and Sundays. Call for cost.

Disney’s Beauty & The Beast Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St. Joliet (815) 726-6600 rialtosquare.com Feb. 18

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 111 W. Campbell St. Arlington Heights (847) 577-2121 metropolisarts.com Feb. 19-23 The story of the Logan family in 1930s Mississippi. 9:45 and 11:30 a.m. Feb. 19-22, 25-28; 1 p.m. Feb. 23. Recommended for grades 5-12. $14, $12 kids 12 and under.

Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St. Crystal Lake (815) 356-9212

Performances by the Crystal Lake Strikers’ All Star Drumline, comprised of talented adult and high school drummers. 7 p.m. $12, $5 kids 8 and older, free kids 7 and under.

ONGOING

This classic musical love story is performed at 7 p.m. Call for cost.

An Evening of Percussion

rauecenter.org Feb. 23

That’s Weird Grandma Barrel of Monkeys The Neo-Futurarium Theater (2nd Floor) 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago (312) 409-1954 barrelofmonkeys.org A series of sketches and songs written by Chicago Public School students in grades 3-6 and performed by the Barrel of Monkeys troupe of actors. The program changes each week. Performances are 8 p.m. Mondays. $10, $5 kids 12 and under.

ComedySportz Show ComedySportz Theatre 929 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago (773) 549-8080 comedysportzchicago.com All-ages appropriate improv show.

The 6 p.m. Saturday show is recommended for families. Call or check website for schedule. Recommended for families with kids 7 and up. 8 p.m. Thursday; 8 and 10 p.m. Friday; 6, 8 and 10 p.m. Saturday. $22.

Storytown iO Theater 3541 N. Clark St. Chicago (773) 880-0199 ioimprov.com Storytown takes children on an interactive, improvised adventure. The actors use kids’ suggestions and ideas to create a different story each week. Kids design the setting and help shape the story. 10:30 a.m. $5.

The Second City’s Improv Extravaganza Explosion UP Comedy Club 230 W. North Ave., 3rd Floor Chicago (312) 662-4562 upcomedyclub.com Family-friendly improvisation and sketch comedy where actors pull ideas straight from the audience and make it all up on the spot.

Performances are at noon Saturdays. Lunch is available before and during the performance. Families with kids 5 and older. Noon Saturday. $11.

Hip-Hop Aesop III: Jazzed, Bopped and Beat-Boxed eta Creative Arts Foundation 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. Chicago (773) 752-3955 etacreativearts.org Ongoing Kids will be introduced to blues concepts along with other contemporary music. 10 a.m. and noon Monday-Friday. Recommended for grades K-12. $6.

It Shoudda Been Me eta Creative Arts Foundation 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. Chicago (773) 752-3955 etacreativearts.org Runs through June 14 Teenage DeShawn goes from making exceptional to poor grades due to the violent death of his best friend and the break-up of his family. 10 a.m. and noon MondayFriday. $6.

Featuring Internationally Recognized Guest Artists

Hinsdale Central

Auditorium ______________ Sat. 11/24, 1:00 pm Sun. 11/25, 1:00pm with Sugar Plum Party 630.769.1199

The Center for Performing Arts _____________ University Park Sat. 12/8 1:00pm & 5:00 pm 708.235.2222

North Shore Center

for Performing Arts ________________ Skokie Sat. 12/15 1:00pm & 5:00 pm Sun. 12/16, 2:00pm 847.673.6300

saltcreekballet.org Salt Creek Ballet is a not-for-profit Illinois corporation supported in part by the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency, The Grover Hermann Foundation and The MacArthur Fund for Arts and Culture at The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_071.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 71

10/26/12 12:19 PM

ON STAGE

State Street Dance Studio, see page 73.

A sweet holiday tradition The Nutcracker

Ballet performs. 2 p.m. $30-$38, $20.50 kids under 12.

Midwest Ballet Tivoli Theatre 5021 Highland Ave. Downers Grove (630) 971-9751 midwestballet.org Nov. 10-18

The Nutcracker Barrington Youth Dance Ensemble Barrington Dance Academy 758 W. Northwest Highway Barrington (847) 382-6333 byde.org Nov. 30-Dec. 2

Performances are at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 10, 11, 17 and 18 at the Tivoli Theatre in downtown Downers Grove. Guest artists Mauro Villanueva and April Daly, principal dancers with Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, perform. 1:30 p.m. $14-$16.

Canine Version of The Nutcracker Herrick Middle School 4435 Middaugh Downers Grove pawsitivetherapy.com Nov. 17-18 Come and see talented therapy dogs of the PAWsitive Therapy Troupe as they perform this classic ballet. More than 20 dogs perform both solo and group numbers in costume. Performances at 1 and 4 p.m. Nov. 17 and 1 p.m. Nov. 18 at Herrick Middle School. Check website to buy tickets. $5.

The Nutcracker Salt Creek Ballet (630) 769-1199

72 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_072.indd 1

Canine Version of the Nutcracker, see this page. saltcreekballet.org Nov. 24-Dec. 16 Salt Creek performs at Hinsdale Central Auditorium, 55th and Grant Street, Hinsdale, at 1 p.m. Nov. 24 and 25. The Nov. 25 includes the Sugar Plum Party. They will perform at 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 8 at The Center for Performing Arts, One University Parkway, University Park. Performances at 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 15 and 2 p.m. Dec. 16 are at the

Performances are at 7 p.m. Nov. 30, 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 1 and 2 p.m. Dec. 2 at Barrington High School, 616 W. Main St., Barrington. Tickets are available through the website, by phone or in person at the Barrington Dance Academy. $28 preferred seating, $25 adults, $22 seniors and kids. $15 balcony seats for Friday and Saturday evenings.

The Nutcracker North Shore Center for Performing Arts. Price varies by location. Check website for details.

The Nutcracker Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St. Joliet (815) 726-6600 rialtosquare.com Nov. 25 Von Heideckeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chicago Festival

Schaumburg Dance Ensemble 201 Schaumburg Court Schaumburg (847) 895-3600 ci.schaumburg.il.us/schaumburgdance Nov. 30-Dec. 9 Professional dancers join the ensemble for performances at 7:30 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 1 and 5 p.m. Sunday from Nov. 30-Dec. 9. $26, $18 kids and seniors.

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:18 PM

ON STAGE The Nutcracker Coronado Performing Arts Center 314 N. Main St. Rockford (815) 968-CPAC (2722) coronadopac.org Dec. 1-2 Guest dancers from nationally renowned dance companies join the Rockford orchestra and the local talent of the Rockford Dance Company to present this holiday tradition. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1 and 3 p.m. Dec. 2. $20-$46; call for prices for 12 and under.

The Nutcracker North Shore School of Dance Lake Forest High School 1285 N. McKinley Road Lake Forest (847) 432-2060 northshoredance.com Dec. 1-2 The holiday ballet is performed at Lake Forest High School Raymond Moore Auditorium at 2 p.m. Dec. 1 and 2. Tickets available through the North Shore School of Dance. $22, $15 kids, seniors and military.

The Nutcracker Joffrey Ballet of Chicago Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University 50 E. Congress Parkway Chicago (312) 902-1500 joffrey.com Dec. 7-27 Performances at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Tickets available at (800) 982-2787 or ticketmaster.com. $31-$132.

Salt Creek Ballet’s The Nutcracker Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University 1 University Parkway University Park (708) 235-2222 centertickets.net Dec. 8 Salt Creek Ballet performs the traditional favorite, with accompaniment by the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra. 1 and 5 p.m. Recommended for families with kids 6 and older. $15-$50.

The Nutcracker Elgin Community College Visual & Performing Arts Center 1700 Spartan Drive Elgin (847) 622-0300 elgin.edu/arts Dec. 8-9

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_073.indd 1

Full-length holiday classic features eight guest artists in feature and solo performances, plus more than a dozen company dancers from Chicago and surrounding suburbs. Clara’s Christmas Tea Parties at 1:30 p.m. prior to the show for an additional fee. Performances at 3 p.m. $27, $15 kids 12 and under. Tickets to the pre-show Clara’s Christmas Tea Parties are $18 adults, $15 kids 12 and under.

The Nutcracker Judith Svalander School of Ballet 83 E. Woodstock St. Crystal Lake (815) 455-2055 jsvalander.com Dec. 8-16 Tchaikovsky’s world renowned music is brought to life through the Svalander’s ballet company. $23, $16 students.

The Magic of the Nutcracker Dancenter North 540 N. Milwaukee Ave. Libertyville (847) 367-7970 dancenter-north.com Dec. 8-16 Performances at 3 p.m. Dec. 8 and 9 at Libertyville High School; 3 p.m. Dec. 15 and 16 at Genesee Theatre. For tickets for the Libertyville High School performances, call (847) 367-7970. Tickets for the Genesee Theatre performances are available at their box office at 203 N. Genesee St., or by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787. On Dec. 8 at 10:30 a.m., “Clara’s Dream: A Storybook Ballet” will be performed. The one-hour performance is geared to 3-5 year olds. Tickets can be purchased by calling (847) 367-7970 or visit themagicofthenutcracker.com. Call for cost.

The Nutcracker Performing Arts Limited Northside College Prep 5501 N. Kedzie Ave. Chicago (773) 262-3262 performingartslimited.com Dec. 8-9 Holiday classic with special guest appearances by Leonard Perez and the McDancers. Nutcracker Tea held before the Sunday performance. Guests will enjoy sweet treats and meet the cast, with preferential seating at the performance. Performances are 2 p.m. Dec. 8-9. Recommended for families with kids 3 and older. $7-$30.

Judith Svalander School of Ballet, see this page. The Nutcracker DanceWest Ballet Pfeiffer Hall 310 E. Benton Naperville (630) 778-1303 dancewestballet.com Dec. 14-16 This production features guest artists and members of Naperville’s DanceWest Ballet Company. The performance lasts about two hours. Call (630) 637-SHOW for tickets. Performances are 7 p.m. Dec. 14; 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 15; 1 p.m. Dec. 16. 7 p.m. Dec. 17, 1 and 5 p.m. Dec. 18 and 19. Call for cost.

The Nutcracker Ballet Chicago 17 N. State St., 19th floor Chicago (312) 251-8838 balletchicago.org Dec. 15-23 Peformances are at 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 15 and 22; 2:30 p.m. Dec. 16 and 23; and 7 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, Chicago. Tickets are available at athenaeumtheatre.org, by phone at (773) 935-6875, or by visiting the Athenaeum box office. $24-$30, $16-$24 seniors, $14 kids 14 and under.

The Nutcracker State Street Dance 9 N. Fourth St., Suite E Geneva (630) 232-0444 statestreetdancestudio.com Dec. 15-16 Performances at 6 p.m. Dec. 15 and 2 p.m. Dec. 16. Performances

take place at the Batavia Fine Arts Center in Batavia. $28, $23 kids 10 and under.

The Nutcracker Hyde Park School of Dance Mandel Hall 1131 E. 57th St. Chicago (773) 493-8498 hydeparkschoolofballet.org Dec. 15-16 Performances at 2 and 7 p.m. at Mandel Hall, (57th and University Avenue). $20, $10 students and seniors, free kids 4 and under.

The Nutcracker Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St. Crystal Lake (815) 356-9212 rauecenter.org Dec. 22-23 This production is in conjunction with The Berkshire Ballet Theatre. Performances are 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 22 and 3 p.m. Dec. 23. $22-$28.

The Nutcracker Ballet Legere The Chodl Auditorium at Morton East High School 2423 S. Austin Cicero (773) 237-1874 Dec. 13-16 Performances at Dominican University Performing Arts Center Lund Auditorium, 7900 W. Division St., River Forest. Performances are 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 15, 2 p.m. Dec. 16. Weekday performances Dec. 13-14. $25, $20 seniors and kids 11 and under.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 73

10/26/12 12:17 PM

ON STAGE

Urban issues take center stage A s a longtime physician in a community health clinic on Chicago’s South Side, Doriane Miller says she began seeing a disturbing trait among her young patients. Many of them had either been victims of gunfire or knew someone who had been shot. The impact she saw was devastating. Children growing up and living in poverty-stricken neighborhoods in the third-largest U.S. city were exhibiting signs of post-traumatic stress disorder—not unlike combat veterans fighting wars thousands of miles away. “One would think that being shot would be a significant, life-changing event,” Miller says. But what has become too common in some of the city’s hardest-hit areas also has gone a long way in normalizing what many others would consider anomalous in their lives. “I’ve had patients brush it off,” she says. Still, victims of violent crime struggle to fully recover and younger crime victims fall behind in school and engage in risky behaviors, like unpro-

74 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_074.indd 1

tected sex and drug and alcohol abuse. After receiving a grant in 2010 to organize health seminars on the topic, Miller wrote a play, “It Shoudda Been Me,” which followss a er fictional character, DeShawn, after his friend is killed in a drive-by. Tiombe Eiland, a retired CPS teacher who now is working in a Catholic school in the Roseland neighborhood, says the play has nts. had a major impact on her students. Many students related to the play’s main character and, much to Eiland’s surprise, bared their “vulnerabilities.” “They would open up in front off nts adults and in front of other students that they didn’t necessarily know,”” she says. “It Shoudda Been Me” is being he presented in collaboration with the th University of Chicago Urban Health Initiative and will be performed byy the youth theater at Chicago’s eta Creative Arts Foundation, located at 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. erThe youth theater also is premiering “Have You Seen My Daddy?” a musical that chronicles the impactt of a single-parent upbringing. Written and directed by eta a’s eta’s

artistic director, Runako Jahi, the performance premieres Dec. 26 and runs through June 1. Inspired by his work with teenagers during his weekly Saturday theater workshop, Jahi set out to write an episodic musical that tackles major urban issues borne from fatherless homes. But from a “sense of hopelessness,” Jahi says, “you can survive regardless of the situation you’re in. ... This play is to benefit young people by not preaching at them, but by showing examples of different situations.” General admission tickets are $6 for adults and children and $5 for groups of 25 or more. For reservations, call (773) 752-3955.

Dimitrios Kalantzis

ChicagoParent.com Ch C hic hic i ag goP Pa arren ren ent. t.c .cco om

10/26/12 12:17 PM

FREE with paid admission! *applies to general admission only. must enter or mention code 36Gp to receive discount. not valid for prior purchases. may not be combined with any other discount offer. Upgrade packages are additional. some restrictions apply. offer valid at schaumburg castle only. Expires 11/25/12.

CHIPAR1012_075.indd 1

Knight training begins 1 hour prior to the first show on most sundays. princess training begins 1 hour prior to the first show on most saturdays. Children must be 5-12 Closed toe and heel shoes required. Visit our website for dates and times.

*applies to general admission only. must enter or mention code 1510Gp to receive discount. not valid for prior purchases. may not be combined with any other discount offer. Upgrade packages are additional. some restrictions apply. offer valid at schaumburg castle only. not valid at the 9:30 show on new Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve. Expires 2/28/13.

10/26/12 12:17 PM

k! o r “ i ce ” r i n o d n i r u o ✶ Ska te o n a f r i e nd ! t a ” ll a b w s no ✶ Toss a “ n t e r fo r t ! i w a ionista! ld h i s u a f ✶B n a m t ou r s no w ✶ D e c k ou

W N S H C U M ! N U F 6 . n a J 7 . v Open No

Come skate in your socks!

Activities vary daily. See our website for schedule and details.

ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org

AT NAVY PIER • Open Daily: 10 am-5 pm • (312) 527-1000

Where kids transform ordinary cardboard into extraordinary things.

Let’s play!

CHIPAR1012_076.indd 1

10/26/12 12:17 PM

Make the most of your day

play

Have a ball!

Hey baby, it’s cold outside—so now’s the perfect time to find some indoor fun for the kids. Luckily, the Chicago area offers everything from cafes with play areas to indoor trampoline parks. The Paintbrush, featured on page 85, combines music and art to inspire children. If you’re looking to burn some energy, we’ve got a roundup of local swim schools and water parks. And if you just want a good, entertaining lunch out, try the healthier fare at 2Toots Train Whistle Grill, reviewed on page 86.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_077.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 77

10/26/12 12:16 PM

PLAY

A DAY OF FAMILY FUN

here always is something to do in downtown La Grange. With free parking, restaurants for every taste and budget and plenty of shops and activities, it’s a great place for a family to spend the day. If you want to start with brunch, you can’t do better than local favorite Blueberry Hill Breakfast Cafe. Park in the garage behind City Hall and head across the street for all the classic breakfast and lunch fare you could want. Don’t be discouraged by the folks waiting outside—tables turn quickly and once you’re seated, your order will arrive fast, delicious and piping hot. Blueberry Hill is particularly familyfriendly, with a big after-church crowd on Sundays. Just up La Grange Road, make a stop at the La Grange Hobby Center. Ask the staff to recommend a model or project. They can even set you up with the latest radio-controlled plane, helicopter or a Lionel train. A little further up the street is Chimera’s Comics. Whether you already have a comics collector in your family or are just learning about them, the friendly staff will have great suggestions for you. For the main event, everyone will enjoy a trip to the La Grange Theatre. Built in 1925, the theater was converted to a movie theater in the late 1940s. A renovation in 2004 modernized the space, while keeping all of its old-time charm. Second-run movies and matinee prices all day and evening make it an entertainment bargain. If you want to pick up dinner before or after your show, downtown La Grange iss he full of options. One of the mpabest is the Hot Dog Company. Crispy hand-cut friess and style hot dogs from Chicago-style ogs are to hand-dipped corn dogs just a few of the treats. The re a chili cheese tater tots are

78 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_078.indd 1

Tate’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shop local favorite. Before you leave, check out the wall of specialty sodas and customize a four-pack to take home. For a sweet treat, take a short walk over to Tate’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shop, a neighborhood tradition for decades. Fa Family owned, they make all of the ice cr cream in the shop. Try the unique flavors su such as peach cobbler, hazelnut and peppe permint mocha, or grab a hot chocolate ice cream soda. There are board games if tthe kids get restless and a huge shelf of old old-time candies and sweets. A sh short walk back to the car through the quiet, leaf-shaded streets and you can be on you your way after an easy, fun-filled day in downt downtown La Grange. Bronwyn Soell

Blueberry Breakfast Cafe blueberrybreakfastcafe.com (708) 352-4900

La Grange Theatre lagrangetheatre.com (708) 469-7096

(708) 354-1220

Tate’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shop

Chimera’s Comics

tatesicecreamshop.com (708) 352-4848

La Grange Hobby Center

chimerascomics.com (708) 352-1230

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:16 PM

PLAY EAT ‘N’ PLAY

Cafe N Play 1767 W. Ogden Ave. Suite 155, Naperville (630) 995-3101 cafenplay.com Indoor playground with a pirate clubhouse, princess castle, wooden play structure and dress-up clothes. Parents can relax with a cup of coffee. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $9, $5 crawlers.

Family Grounds Cafe 3652 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 281-0785 familygroundscafe.com The cafe is a fun, urban setting with delicious pastries and coffee and plenty of comfy couches. But the biggest appeal for families is the indoor play space, where kids can role play onstage, in the kitchen or in the market. One corner of the space is specifically designed for babies and toddlers and is a great space for nursing moms. Staff members keep an eye on the kids at play, clean and replenish materials and rotate toys. Hours: Cafe: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Play space hours vary. Admission: $6 crawlers and up (and adults).

Growth Spurts 404 Linden Ave., Wilmette (847) 850-9059 agrowthspurt.com Indoor play space and family cafe with an emphasis on early childhood education, offering block building, playdough, music enrichment, and art. The cafe serves natural and organic snacks, coffee and tea. Hours: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. MondayFriday. Admission: $10.95 first child, $5.95 siblings, free adults.

Kookaburra Play Cafe 2267 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago (773) 281 5400 kookaburraplaycafe.com Kids can play, create, explore, listen to stories, have a play date, and celebrate a birthday. There are arts and crafts, afterschool programs and yoga classes. All ages are welcome. Parents can have a meet up, host a baby shower or relax and watch children play. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday; closed Sunday. Admission: $12, $7 siblings.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_079.indd 1

Bubbles Academy, see page 84. Little Beans Cafe

and Thursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $8 walkers, $5 crawlers.

Pickle’s Playroom

Play areas include a village with a grocery store, firehouse, playhouse, school and service station. Other play areas include spaces for puzzles, books and games, a toddler area, a ride-on Thomas the Train and a soft touch area for crawlers. Parents can relax while Little Beans’ caretakers keep a safe and fun environment. There is also a cafe. Little Beans also runs an adjoining ice cream shop. Visit website for event and class information. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $12 daily pass, $8 siblings.

Nibbles Play Cafe

Little Monkey Bizness

Olly Olly Play Cafe

This play center in Lincoln Square lets kids burn off some energy in the play area, but there’s also a fullservice cafe and a kids’ hair salon. The play space is designed for kids 6 months-5 and has a crawlers-only space. Kids receive free admission to the play space with each haircut. While kids play, parents can supervise from the clean and cozy cafe space. Other offerings include dropin art classes, music classes and birthday party packages. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; closed Sunday for birthday parties. Admission: $12 first child for two hours of open play, $9 siblings (crawlers and up), free adults.

1809 W. Webster, Chicago (773) 251-1025 littlebeanscafe.com

4700 Gilbert Ave., Suite 51 Western Springs (708) 246-9600 229 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton (630) 384-2300 littlemonkeybizness.com Parents can enjoy a relaxed setting with a full-service coffee bar while watching their kids, infant-7, play in a 3,500-square-foot play area. Arts and crafts, open play times, walled off infant/crawler area, supervised play area and birthday party packages available. Healthy food also available. Hours: Open Play: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday

13 Huntington Lane, Wheeling (847) 229-0400 nibblesplaycafe.com Family-friendly restaurant with indoor play areas designed for kids 0-7, games and arts/crafts available for older children. There is frequent live entertainment and character appearances; check website for information. Specializes in first birthday parties and other family events. Hours: Check website. Admission: $7.50 first child, $3.75 siblings. Prices subject to change.

321 Park Ave., Glencoe (847) 835-2004 ollyollyplaycafe.com A castle stands at the entrance to a number of rooms filled with games, toys, costumes and a pirate ship. Dress as an Elizabethan queen, read a book, “cook” up a meal or play your own music. Also offers classes and special events. Snacks and drinks available for purchase. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. MondayFriday; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday for private parties. Admission: $12 first child, $6 siblings.

2315 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago (773) 293-7747 picklesplayroom.com

Stay 2 Play Cafe 1475 Dilleys Road #6, Gurnee (847) 336-4727 stay2playcafe.com Offers drop-in care where kids can play, paint, play dress-up or build a fort while parents work or relax with a cup of coffee in the cafe. Children 2-6 have total freedom in the main play areas, which are visible through cafe windows. An early walker room for younger children is planned. Staff members who supervise the children are certified

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 79

10/26/12 12:16 PM

PLAY in child care. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $12 first child, $6 siblings.

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

INDOOR PLAY CENTERS

Airtastic Playland 850 S. Frontenac St., Aurora (630) 851-7525 airtastic.com Features 10 gigantic inflatable play structures and two age appropriate play areas. Birthday parties and classes available. Every Monday is music-free for visitors who don’t like the noise. Also offers Social Skills Classes by Stepping Stones Therapy. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $8.50 for one hour, $9.50 for one and half hours, $10.50 for two hours. Find coupons online.

Bouncin Bonkers 1801 Knapp Drive , Crest Hill (815) 741-4543 bouncinbonkers.com Inflatable playground. Offers open bounce, private parties and special events. Call ahead for open bounce hours or check events calendar on website. Hours: 4-8 p.m. MondayFriday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Admission: $6 per child. No time limit and allowed to come

Legoland Discovery Center, see page 81. and go throughout open bounce hours.

C & A Robot Factory Inc. 326 Peterson Road, Libertyville (847) 996-0123 carobotfactory.com Kids 1-14 create projects during open play. Offers LEGO-themed birthday parties, day play camps and STEM enrichment classes based on the LEGO Education programs about science, engineering and robotics for kids 3-12. Hours: 3:307:30 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m.4:30 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Call or visit website for extended holiday hours. Admission: $5; free kids 1 and under.

Edufun Play Center 16102 S. Park Ave., South Holland

Great Birthday Celebrations Without the Work!

VE our River Forest Community Center Kids LO layland!!! P 8020 W. Madison, River Forest Indoor Private Birthday Parties in our Indoor Playland or Gymnasium! Three affordable packages to choose from, including a Deluxe Pizza Party Stop in and see why Chicagoland Parents give our Birthday Parties “Two Thumbs Up” Call Our Party Coordinator for more information

(708) 771-6159

Mention our ad and receive 10% off your party package

80 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_080.indd 1

(708) 527-3082 Edufunplaycenter.com Kids cook in the kitchen, go shopping in the grocery store, own a restaurant, operate on a stuffed animal or baby doll, build an airplane and crawl through it. They can slide down a tunnel, climb a rock wall, paint and read. Hours: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Admission: $5.

Exploritorium 4701 Oakton St., Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 2700 skokieparkdistrict.org Features an expanded water play area, a Lite Brite wall, music walls, stage and dress-up area, climbing wall, transportation station, coloring area, book nook, toddler zone and two-and-a-half story tubes and tunnels structure. Socks required in tubes and tunnels. Hours: 9 a.m.-5

p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday; noon-5 p.m. Wednesday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; closed Thursday and Sunday. Admission: $5 or less, depending on age and residency.

Gather 602 Davis St., Evanston (847) 859-2312 meetatgather.com Drop in Monday through Saturday for arts and crafts (all ages) and open play (birth to 8 years). Parents with pre-walkers can relax in the private quiet room with comfy couches, soft toys, books and puzzles. Admission includes complimentary coffee, tea and water. Guest artist exhibits feature the work of Illinois artists. Visit website for calendar of classes and events. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; Sundays and evenings are for special events and birthday par-

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

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

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:16 PM

PLAY ties. Admission: $12 daily drop in, $100 10-visit pass, $75 monthly membership.

Go Bananas 4516 N. Harlem Ave., Norridge (708) 669-7120 gobananasfun.com At this jungle-themed indoor family entertainment center, there are six amusement park rides, including two roller coasters, bumper cars and a train. Kids can climb in a maze of tubes and slides, play games, bowl and jump in an inflatable bouncer. Food is available in the Rhino Diner. Free parking. Birthday parties accommodated. Hours: Noon-8:30 p.m. MondayThursday; noon-9:30 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free; pay per attraction or buy an unlimited ride pass.

Jump Zone Multiple locations jumpzoneparty.com Indoor play centers feature inflatables. Offer open jump and birthday parties. Free parking. Hours: Check website for locations and open play hours. Admission: $8, $10 weekends.

Jumps ‘N’ Jiggles and Carousel

Kid City

Pavilion, 1000 Wellington Ave. Elk Grove Village (847) 437-9494 elkgroveparks.org

1837 W. Grand Ave., Chicago (312) 829-6775 KidCityChicago.com

The Carousel stands 28 feet high, features 18 hand-painted jumping horses and is open to all ages. The indoor playground includes a maze of tunnels and climbing features, toys and a slide. Hours: 10 a.m.-noon Monday-Friday; 1-3 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. Admission: $3.50, free kids 12 months and under.

Creative play space features a grocery store, train tables, costume boutique and playhouse. Available for private birthday parties. Field trips and play events also available. Check events page on website for details. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon first Saturday of the month. Admission: $14, $10 siblings.

Kidstown Play & Party

Kaitlin’s Hideout for Kids with Autism

1141 Butterfield Road, Wheaton (630) 260-8545 kidstownplayandparty.com

526 Crescent Blvd., Glen Ellyn (630) 460-0878 kaitlinshideout.com Features play areas and quiet areas, including a pillow and blanket-filled spot with a black light that avoids overwhelming the senses. Parents are welcome to play with their child or sit on the couch and talk with other parents. Regular social play groups, parent support groups and teen/tween supports and events are available. Hours: 10:15 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $10 donation.

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

Legoland Discovery Center The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall)

601 N. Martingale Road Schaumburg (847) 592-9700 Legolanddiscoverycenter.com/chicago More than 3 million LEGO bricks and nine attractions including: Model Builder Workshop, Jungle Expedition, Kingdom Quest Laser Ride, City Construction Site Play Zone, Technicycle Ride, 4-D Cinema; Build and Test; LEGO Factory Tour; and Miniland featuring iconic Chicago landmarks. Merlin’s Magic Wand Days are designed exclusively for children with special needs, disabilities and serious illnesses. Check website for dates. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $19, $15 kids 3-12, free kids 2 and under; annual pass and ticket discounts available online.

Monkey Island 2100 N. 15th Ave., Melrose Park (708) 344-4803 playmonkeyisland.net This indoor playground includes a maze, pedal cars, inflatable toys, indoor soccer field, bouncing and jumping obstacle course, and toddler area. Birthday, field trip and play group packages available.

Holiday Workshops Winter Wonderland Activities

November 16 – January 6 Create a one of a kind gift! Treat your little elves to something special!

December 4 – January 6 Free parking garage!

Hang up your mittens and warm up your nose! There’s winter fun from our heads to our toes!

Adults always free!

Paint With Colored Bubbles In Bubble’ology • Experimentation Station Offering Daily Science Experiments Free-style Art At The Splat’tacular Art Tables • Cooking Projects in Kids’ Creative Kitchen Li’l Sprouts DIY Craft Station • Drumroll, The Splashing Drum Studio The Glen Town Center • 2050 Tower Dr., Glenview, IL 60026 • Phone: 847-730-5275 • makeamessterpiece.com Hours: Mon. Closed, Tues.-Sat. 10am-5pm, Sun. 11am-5pm

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_081.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 81

10/26/12 3:20 PM

PLAY Hours: Noon-8 p.m. Monday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. FridaySaturday. Call for holiday hours. Admission: $4.20, $8.40 kids.

(847) 801-5867 Nap.JumpSkyHigh.com

Pump It Up

Trampoline parks in Naperville and Niles. Hours: Vary; check website. Admission: Varies; check website.

Various locations pumpitupparty.com

My Corner Playroom

Indoor arenas with inflatable slides, bounce houses and obstacle courses. Birthday parties available. Hours: Check website by location. Admission: Varies.

2121 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago (773) 388-2121 mycornerplayroom.com This indoor drop-in playground features a kitchen area, dress-up, slides, dolls and puzzles for kids 6 months-5 years while caregivers watch. Admission includes free enrichment classes. Visit website for class and event information. Hours: Open Play: 8 a.m.-9 a.m. and 1-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday. Admission: $15, $25 family.

Purple Monkey Playroom 2040 N. Western Ave., Chicago (773) 772-8411 purplemonkeyplayroom.com Playroom includes a plush alcove dedicated to lap babies and crawlers with age-appropriate toys. Older kids can bounce, climb, build, read, color and engage in imaginative play. Plus, new life-sized Tiki Hut. Hours: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MondayFriday; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Admission: $12 one child, $22 for up to three children, $6 lap babies.

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

ARCADES AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS

$10, free adults. No time limit for play.

Sky High Sports 2244 Corporate Lane (just north of I-88 and just east of Route 59), Naperville (630) 717-JUMP (5867) 6424 W. Howard (behind Fibrecraft), Niles

Xtreme Trampolines 485 Mission St., Carol Stream (630) 752-1400 xtremetrampolines.com Indoor trampoline park offers dropin jump times and birthday party packages. New location in Buffalo Grove. Hours: Check website. Admission: $11 first hour, $6 each additional hour.

Yu Kids Island Woodfield Mall, next to Sears, 5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg (847) 969-9000 yukidschicago.com Playground inside the mall for kids under 48 inches tall. Offers party packages and drop-off fun while parents shop for an extra charge. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. MondaySaturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $10, $9 for additional sibling Monday-Thursday; $12, $11 siblings Friday-Sunday; after 4 p.m. (Monday-Friday): $8, $7 siblings.

Amazing Chicago Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (between Riva Chicago Restaurant and the Shakespeare Theater) Chicago (312) 595-5375 amazingchicago.com Part funhouse, part maze. Visitors navigate through 4,000 square feet of tunnels and mazes for a full sensory experience. School group outings and birthday parties available. Hours: Open every day at 10 a.m.; check website for closing times by season. Admission: $9.95 per person; $2 Time Freak; free kids 4 and under.

Dads Slot Cars 700 Lee St., Des Plaines (847) 298-0688 dadsslotcars.com Slot car racing on two tracks with eight lanes each. Old-fashioned ice cream parlor on site. Birthday party packages available; check website for party package information. Hours: Noon-8:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday. Admission: $10 for half hour of racing (includes car and controller).

THE ULTIMATE VIDEO GAME PARTY™ BIRTHDAY PARTIES CORPORATE EVENTS SCHOOL FUNCTIONS XBOX360®

NEW!

Nintendo Wii

™

PlayStation3®

On campus field trip.

Fall 2012

Get your groove back

888-602-4263 All trademarks are owned by their respective owners.

Patented. Reliable. Fun. Fun.™

www.gametruckparty.com

CHIPAR1012_082.indd 1

Chicago Baby

MOM

Now available

MOM

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

tO Tips for baby’s first year

GameTruck, a proud sponsor of Untitled-1 7

82 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

A RESOURCE GUIDE FOR NEW MOMS AND MOMS TO BE

10/9/12 1:02 PM

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:15 PM

PLAY eSkape Entertainment

Gameworks Schaumburg

350 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove (847) 821-9000 eskapeonline.com

601 N. Martingale, Suite 115 Schaumburg (847) 330-9675 gameworks.com

Sixty thousand square feet of entertainment space includes bowling, a brand-new laser tag arena and a video arcade. Food available in the full-service restaurant and private rooms available for event rental. Call or check website for birthday packages. Hours: 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Friday-Saturday. Admission: Free, pay per attraction; see website for rates.

Funway Ultimate Entertainment Center 1335 S. River St., Batavia (630) 879-8730 funway.com This 5-acre facility features a roller rink, game arcade, spin zone bumper cars, lazer frenzy and a 20-lane bowling center inside. Hours: Open 365 days a year. Hours per attraction vary, check website. Admission: Free, pricing varies by attraction.

Galloping Ghost Arcade 9415 Ogden Ave., Brookfield (708) 485-4700 gallopingghostarcade.com More than 350 restored arcade games, including classic games like Asteroids and Tron and current games like Mortal Kombat and Dodonpachi Daioujou. Hours: 1 p.m.-2 a.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $15. Passes available.

Game Pazzo 2011 63rd St., Downers Grove (630) 541-8719 gamepazzo.com Thirteen thousand square feet of nothing but video games, with dozens of enormous, flat-screens, all the latest releases, surround sound gaming chair, banks of video monitors and all the latest controllers. Pay by the hour to rent a gaming station and you can switch to something new for a $1 charge at any time. The cafe offers snacks and sandwiches. Hours: Closed Monday; visit website for hours. Admission: $7 per hour, $5 per hour after 8 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; $15 all day (Tuesday-Friday), $18 all day (Saturday-Sunday); $1 game charge (per game).

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_083.indd 1

More than 250 games for all ages, a redemption center, restaurant and more than 40 TVs for sports viewing. Located in the Streets of Woodfield in Schaumburg. Birthday parties available. Hours: 11 a.m.-midnight Monday-Wednesday; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Thursday; 11 a.m-2 a.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-2 a.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-midnight Sunday; 21 and older after 9 p.m. Admission: Free; must buy game cards to play.

Mt. Prospect Park District has the BEST birthday parties!

Hidden Cove Sportsplex 70 Ken Hayes Drive (I-57 and Route 50 behind Northfield Square Mall) Bourbonnais (815) 933-9150 hcsportsplex.com Year-round family entertainment center and Sportsplex featuring four indoor basketball/volleyball courts, an indoor turf arena, a climbing wall, indoor and outdoor batting cages and two miniature golf courses. Also features go-karts, bumper cars, inflatables, giant slide, an arcade, redemption center and Perky’s Pizza. Hours: 4-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 4-10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; noon-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free, activities cost extra.

Book your party NOW! 847-255-5380 www.mppd.org

Laser Quest Multiple locations laserquest.com Interactive game featuring a multilevel maze with 30 players in a game. Birthday packages available. Hours: Vary, check website; Monday open only for private events. Admission: $8.50 per person for one game; $6.50 member per game.

Luigi’s Pizza and Fun Center 732 Prairie St., Aurora (630) 896-9861 luigispizzaandfuncenter.com Features restaurant, game room and laser tag. Birthday parties available. Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Call or visit website for game room/laser tag hours. Admission: Free; pay per activity.

Nickel City Family Entertainment Center Brookside Plaza

“

I can trace my endless curiosity and love of learning directly back to my teachers at LFCDS. They made the world seem full of possibility and excitement—and they were right.

”

—Michael Caruso, Editor-in-Chief, Smithsonian magazine

Open House

Thursday, November 15, 9 a.m. 145 South Green Bay Road | Lake Forest, IL 60045 | (847) 615-6151 | www.lfcds.org

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 83

10/26/12 12:13 PM

PLAY 555 Waukegan Road, Northbrook (847) 559-8727 nickelcitygames.com

over 44 inches tall to ride. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free; rides and activities cost extra.

Open seven days a week, 365 days a year. Affordable family entertainment, including more than 100 arcade games operated by nickels; 30 games on free play. Party packages available. Hours: 2-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-1 a.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $2, plus about 1-4 nickel(s) per game.

CLASSES

Bubbles Academy 1504 N. Fremont St., Chicago (312) 944-7677 bubblesacademy.com Enrichment classes include music, creative movement, art, yoga, swimming, cooking and dance. The educational program is a progressive series: preschool preparation, gentle separation and an alternative preschool option. First time trial classes are free. New location in Lake Forest. Hours: Open play: 1-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; call or visit website for class times. Admission: Open play: $12 single child per day, $20 multiple child (family) per day. Class prices vary; visit website.

Odyssey Fun World 3440 Odyssey Court, Naperville (630) 416-2222 odysseyfunworld.com Four-level soft playland with a maze of tubes and ball pits, laser tag, video games, bowling, paint ball and indoor family thrill rides. Also features bumper boats, mini-golf, paddle boats, go-karts and batting cages outdoors. Birthday and group packages available. Additional location in Tinley Park. Hours: Noon-8 p.m. Sunday, Monday and Thursday; noon-10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.10 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Pay per attraction or buy wristbands or game tokens.

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

Little Bits Workshop, see page 85. People’s Choice Family Fun Center 2411 Grand Ave., Waukegan (847) 336-5700 funwithrocky.com Video games, a large variety of redemption games and Rocky’s Funhouse glow-in-the-dark miniature golf. Available for parties. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday, including all holidays. Admission: Free; activities cost extra.

Rink Side Ice Arena & Family Entertainment Center Gurnee Mills Mall 6152 W. Grand Ave., Gurnee (847) 856-1064 rink-side.com Ice skating, laser tag, video arcade and 18 holes of blacklight miniature golf. Restaurant serves homemade

pizza. Birthday party packages available. Hours: Open year-round, including holidays. Hours vary by attraction; check website. Admission: Ice skating: $6, $5 kids 12 and under, free kids 3 and under. Skate rentals $5. Helmet rental $5. Golf $6, Laser Tag $6; $20.95 family special on holidays.

CircEsteem & The Chicago Youth Circus 4730 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago (312) 731-HAHA (4242) circesteem.org Offers circus arts afterschool programs, workshops and birthday parties on and off site. Hours: Vary. Admission: Call or visit website.

Safari Land Indoor Amusement Park

Gymboree Play & Music

701 W. North Ave., Villa Park (630) 530-4649 safarilandfun.com

Early childhood developmental play, music and art classes for kids age 0-5 and their parents or other adult caregivers. Gymboree operates numerous locations throughout Chicago and the suburbs. Hours: Check website by location. Admission: Varies by class.

This safari-themed amusement park features go-karts, bumper cars, TiltA-Whirl, bowling alley, Tiger Terror roller coaster, Max Flight Simulator, a video arcade, billiards and darts. Younger kids can visit the merry-go-round, monkey jump and soft play area. Many rides require

gymboreeclasses.com

Kids Science Labs 1500 N. Kingsbury Ave., Chicago

Face Painting for all occasions

Discover the simple power of learning by doing. 312-493-6554 cheekythingdesigns.com 84 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_084.indd 1

425 Dempster, Evanston, IL www.chiaravalle.org (847) 864-2190

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:13 PM

PLAY (312) 846-1426 kslchicago.com Interactive learning center offers hands-on science, problem solving and creative design classes for kids 2-12. Also offers birthday parties for children 4-12 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Co-located with Whole Foods Lincoln Park; indoor parking with a private elevator directly into the center. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday; special events on Sunday. Admission: Average class price $30.

My Gym multiple locations mygym.com Age-appropriate fitness classes, birthday party packages and camps. Free trial classes offered at all locations. Hours: Vary by location. Admission: Varies; check website.

CREATIVE STUDIOS

Beauty and Brawn Art Gallery and Think Space 3501 W. Fullerton, Chicago (773) 772-9808 beautyandbrawngallery.com Multimedia gallery and arts education facility in Chicago’s Logan Square. The space offers art exhibitions, along with art classes and birthday parties for kids 3-18, seminars, workshops and affordable open studio gatherings. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; Saturday and Sunday by appointment. Admission: Class fees vary; free gallery.

Beverly Arts Center 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago (773) 445-3838 beverlyartcenter.org Exhibits, education, productions and programming in art, computers, music, theater and dance for kids as young as 2. Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free; charge for classes and special events.

Bughouse Studio 4845 Oakton St., Skokie (847) 674-3774 bughouseartstudio.com All artwork is made from scratch, starting with a fresh slab of clay, blank piece of paper or sheet of glass. Offers a variety of classes to artists of all ages, along with summer camps and birthday parties every weekend. Hours: 11 a.m.-9

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_085.indd 1

p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, noon-4:30 p.m. birthday parties Saturday; birthday parties Sunday. Admission: Varies.

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

Constructive Chaos 349 Ashland Ave., River Forest (708) 613-0444 constructive-chaos.com Fine art and culinary center for kids 5-18. Offers art and culinary classes along with themed birthday parties. Parents can sign kids up for classes in advance or walk into any class on the schedule. Hours: 3-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday.

Lillstreet Art Center 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago (773) 769-4226 lillstreet.com Classes and camps for kids 18 months to 18 years featuring clay, painting, drawing, metalsmithing, printmaking, sewing, movie making, cartooning and digital arts and photography. Also offers birthday parties. Hours: 10 a.m-7:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Varies by activity.

Little Bits Workshop 411 Park Ave., River Forest 630-309-1606 thelittlebitsworkshop.com Learn the art of upcycling through the classic skills of sewing, knitting, crochet, bookbinding, collage, jewelry-making, fiber and paper arts. Offers workshops for all ages and abilities, plus birthday parties, camps, afterschool workshops and adult workshops. Hours: Visit website for schedule. Admission: $15-$40.

Magical Minds Studio 343 Harrison St., Oak Park

Art + music = The Paintbrush M

elanie Apel found something missing at mom-and-tot classes offered when her son was a toddler: an art class experience that exposed kids to artists and techniques in a structured environment. Her sister, Mindy, a former kindergarten teacher, found that playing music during art time inspired children. So the siblings combined those concepts and created The Paintbrush, an art studio with classes for kids 18 months to teens. “I thought it would The Paintbrush be a really smart idea to teach kids 2856 N. Halsted, Chicago about real art while Need a little mommy-time? they listened to realDrop-off classes and camps are world music,” says available for kids 4 and up. Apel. “Art, music and creativity are so thepaintbrush.net important to young children’s development. We just love One of our favorite projit when kids recognize art ects was dipping tiny toy styles and artists when they cars into paint, then racing are out with their parents.” them over thick cardboard My twin girls and I stumto create swirls of color. bled upon The Paintbrush So much more interesting when they were 2. I was than a plain-old paint brush looking for a fun activity or fingerpainting! What is we could do together that so amazing about The Paintwould introduce them to brush is each project brings a classroom setting where something unexpected. they had to follow instrucI loved the pride the girls tions (not their forte at had in taking home projects that age). The Paintbrush to show Daddy and the offered that and more. self-confidence it inspired. With different sound Learning to sit quietly tracks serenading us in the and listen to instructions background each week, we and participate in a group started out the class with setting definitely helped story time or a game that prepare them for school. related to that day’s project. Oh, and this not-so-artisThe featured artist or type tic mom learned a thing or of art was introduced and two, as well. then off we’d go to create a Linda Marsicano masterpiece.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 85

10/26/12 12:12 PM

PLAY

Getting on board with healthier fare

e might as well admit it: the food isn’t really the focus at most of Chicagoland’s choo-choo restaurants. We go for the ambiance, the transportationinspired décor, the model trains delivering food to the tables. And for kids, that’s enough. But wouldn’t it be great if a choo-choo restaurant actually tried to provide healthier food along with the train-themed fun? That’s the new emphasis at 2Toots Train Whistle Grill (locations in Glen Ellyn and Bartlett), which recently introduced hamburgers, hot dogs and chili made with meat from the Tallgrass Beef Company. Tallgrass, founded by newsman Bill Kurtis, produces beef that is 100 percent grass-fed, all-natural, and preservative and hormone free. I took my nephew, a choochoo fanatic, to test out the

86 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_086.indd 1

2Toots Train Whistle Grill 450 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn, (630) 858-4300 203 S. Main St., Bartlett, (630) 213-6700 2toots.com new food. In addition to his healthier hot dog, he was able to select a fruit cup instead of the normal fries and organic milk to go along with it. Gluten-free buns also are on the menu.

My cheeseburger was perfectly grilled and crispy around the edges, exactly what you’d expect from a place styled after a ‘50s lunch counter. But there also are several meatless options, like the spring garden salad, that sounded tempting to the modern girl in me. Of course the highlight of the visit was watching the train zip by with customers’ orders throughout the meal—every table is along the track—although it kept my nephew too distracted to completely clear his plate. Of course, like any good aunt, I couldn’t forget about dessert. Aidan thoroughly enjoyed a train whistle cupcake (and blew the whistle through the icing), while I indulged in one of the delicious handdipped strawberry shakes. But those extra calories were probably counteracted by our healthier dinner … right?? Elizabeth Diffin

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:12 PM

PLAY (708) 948-7934 magicalmindsstudio.com Currently offers comic book drawing classes and art workshops for kids 7 and up. In art classes, children work on everything from water painting to sculpting clay. Hours: Open daily, but hours vary by class; call ahead. Birthday parties Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $10 per hour, per child; $90 for 10-class punch card.

Make A Messterpiece 2050 Tower Drive The Glen Town Center, Glenview (847) 730-5275 makeamessterpiece.com Kids can make a mess with everything from paint to cookie dough to musical instruments. Activities include paint-filled drums, an oversized bubble machine, kids’ kitchen and volcano experiments. Staff works interactively with children. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $15 Messy Package; $22 Messiest Package; $160 Annual Family Membership; a la carte pricing available.

Rumble Arts Center 3413 W. North Ave., Chicago (773) 278-4441 rumblearts.com An all-ages, not-for-profit multicultural community-based arts organization serving Chicago’s Humboldt Park neighborhood that provides visual arts and exhibition programs. Hours: Vary; visit website. Admission: Donations appreciated.

Starland Creativity Center 710 Robert York Road, Suite D Deerfield (847) 914-9100 starlandkids.com Focuses on creativity and furthering children’s development while helping kids tap into their inner musician, actor, dancer, and improv performer through programs, camps and activities. Hours: Call or check website for class schedule. Admission: Varies by class.

Terra Incognito 246 Chicago Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-6228 terraincognitostudios.com Features classrooms with gas, electric, Raku, wood and soda firing kilns, artists’ studios (semi-private and private), a fully equipped fabrication studio for silver and other metal working classes, multi-pur-

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_087.indd 1

The Water Works, see page 88. pose/party rooms, and galleries. Offers classes in ceramics (wheel throwing, hand building, tile making), silver jewelry, mosaics and basket making. Hours: Gallery 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; classes as scheduled. Admission: Free; prices vary for classes.

3-9, free kids 2 and under. Residents: $6, $5 kids 3-9.

CoCo Key Water Resort Rockford 7801 E. State St., Rockford (815) 398-6000 cocokeyrockford.com

kids 3-17 and seniors 55+.

Park Place Cool Pool Streamwood Park District 550 S. Park Blvd., Streamwood (630) 372-PARK (7275) ext. 3010 streamwoodparkdistrict.org

Features the Shark Slam, Gator Gush and Barracuda Blast water slides along with the Coral Reef Cavern Activity pool, Coconut Grove adventure river, Palm Grotto indoor/outdoor spa and Parrot’s Perch interactive play island. Snack bar, private cabanas and birthday party rooms are available. Resort is connected to the Best Western Clock Tower Resort and Conference Center. Hours: Vary; visit website. Admission: $15 and up.

Features a lap pool, a zero-depth entry activity pool, water slides and other features. Hours: All ages open swim: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 4-6 p.m. Friday; 1-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $7, $5 kids 3-17, college students and seniors (55 and over), free kids 2 and under. Resident discount available. $3 Tuesday and Thursday.

Arctic Splash

Oak Brook Park District Family Aquatics Center

Wheeling Park District 327 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling (847) 465-7674 wheelingparkdistrict.com

Oak Brook Park District 1450 Forest Gate Road, Oak Brook (630) 990-4233 obparks.org

Bolingbrook Park District 200 S. Lindsey Lane, Bolingbrook (630) 739-1700, (630) 739-0272 bolingbrookparks.org

Amenities include a zero-depth leisure pool, four-lane lap pool, Petie the Polar Bear toddler slide, interactive water play structures, mini frosty lazy river, deck observation area and a family locker room. Swim lessons are available. Parent/ Tot Swim Time offered 10-11 a.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday for $3 for parent and child. Hours: Vary by month/season; check website. Admission: $7.50, $6.50 kids

Leisure pool with 105-foot spiral water slide, gradual beach-like entry with maximum depth of four feet, zero-depth pool, water slide and vending machines. Separate program area offers ample space for tot programs and youth swim lessons. Hours: 6-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 4-9:30 p.m. Friday; noon-5:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $12, $8 kids 3-17 and seniors 55+. Residents: $10, $6

The Wishcraft Workshop 2312 W. Roscoe St., Chicago (773) 348-WISH (9474) wishcraftworkshop.com Art and craft classes, afterschool programs, camps, workshops and parties. New Pincushion Social Club offers drop-in afterschool classes for grades 4-8. Hours: Varies; check website. Admission: Check website.

INDOOR WATER PARKS

Pelican Harbor Aquatic Park

Features an enclosed water slide, tumble buckets, Parkie the Pelican slide, drop slide, Green Monster water slide, indoor lap pool, 10-person whirlpool tub, and zerodepth entry pool. Swim lessons available. Hours: 6-8 p.m. Monday and Wednesday; 4-8 p.m. Friday; noon-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $8, $6 resident.

Splash Landings Park Center 2400 Chestnut Ave., Glenview

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 87

10/26/12 12:12 PM

PLAY (847) 486-5372 glenviewparks.org Four-pool indoor aquatic center includes an air traffic control tower-themed water slide, interactive water play and a zero-depth pool. Also features family changing room, childcare services and aqua shop. Hours: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; 4-8 p.m. Friday; 1-5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6, free kids under 2. Free parking.

The Water Works Schaumburg Park District 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg (847) 490-2505 parkfun.com Features three water slides, a rapid water channel, water playground, zero depth pool, dive well, whirlpool and family changing room. Birthday parties, group outings and private pool rentals available. Hours: 5:30-8 pm Monday-Thursday; 4-8 pm Friday; noon-5 pm Saturday-Sunday; check website for holiday hours. Admission: $9, $7 kids. Residents: $7, $5 kids, free kids 2 and under.

FAMILY SPORTS

Scuba Emporium

seasonally; check website. Admission: Per game, or buy a game card or monthly membership.

16336 S. 104th Ave., Orland Park (708) 226-1614 scubaemporium.com

Vertical Endeavors

Offers swim and snorkeling lessons, Scuba birthday parties for kids 8 and up that include scuba in the indoor, heated pool, SASY program for 5-7 years old (kids use scuba equipment in the pool but do not submerge), certification programs for kids 10 and older, and an ongoing scuba program called PADI Seal for kids 8 and up. Call or check website for information. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Varies by activity.

There is a wall designed specifically for families and children that offers whimsically shaped holds for kids. Parties, kids and family programs, and rock climbing day camps are offered. Call or check website for special events. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $15 to climb all day; rental gear extra.

TopGolf 699 W. Thorndale Ave., Wood Dale (630) 595-4653 topgolf.com Features computerized microchips in every golf ball that track your shots’ accuracy and distance while awarding points by hitting targets from 20 to 250 yards away. Hitting areas are outside but sheltered and heated in winter. Also has restaurant, rooftop terrace and 18-hole miniature golf course. Hours: Vary

28141 Diehl Road, Warrenville (630) 836-0122 verticalendeavors.com/warrenville

SPORTS TO WATCH

tions: Fosco Park Community Center, 1312 S. Racine, Chicago and South Suburban College, 15800 S. State, South Holland. Season runs November through March. Hours: Weekends. Admission: $10, $5 students/ seniors, free kids 12 and under.

Chicago Steel Edge Ice Arena 735 E. Jefferson St., Bensenville (630) 594-1162 chicagosteelhockeyteam.com The United States Hockey League season runs through April. Check website for ticket information and family events. Hours: Check website. Admission: $8, $6.50 in advance. Family packs start at $32. Check website for birthday and kids’ packages.

Chicago Steam Basketball

Chicago Wolves

30 E. Adams, Suite 600A Chicago (312) 419-1307 chicagosteambasketball.com

Allstate Arena 6920 N. Mannheim Road Rosemont (800) THE-WOLVES chicagowolves.com

This is a developmental league that prepares players to move on to teams in Europe, Asia and the NBA’s developmental teams. Games include lots of activities for kids and a baby night is held in December. Home games are played at two loca-

The American Hockey League season runs through April. Check the website for information on family packages, which include tickets, food and souvenirs. Hours: Check website. Admission: $9 and up.

Bring in this coupon & get

$ IN

FREE TOYS

Fun Haircuts & Toys Too!

with $30 service or merchandise purchase Not valid with other offers. CP-1111 Exp. 3/15/13

Naperville Wheaton Oak Brook Lincoln Park Deerfield Vernon Hills Edens Plaza Arlington Heights S. Barrington

866-kidsnips 88 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_088.indd 1

www. KidSnips .com ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:12 PM

Explore & Soar

Don’t Wait until Summer to be Safe in the Water!

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn Come Learn & Play With Us this Winter! Two floors of hands hands-on exhibits that spark the imagination and play of our guests. Every program and every exhibit at the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is created with the Illinois Learning Standards at their core. This enables the Children’s Museum to be a true extension of hands on learning.

Quality Inn and Conference Center 300 South Frontage Road Burr Ridge, IL, 60527

Swim Lessons! Oﬀered Tues, Thurs, Sat, or Sunday Mornings & NOW Tuesday Afternoons! Lessons for ALL ages welcome!

Safari Land Exhilarating Family Fun

Plan Your Visit Today

www.CMOakLawn.org 5100 Museum Drive in Oak Lawn | Phone (708) 423-6709

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_089.indd 1

Explore Chicagoland's largest indoor amusement park! A world filled with adventure, food, games and rides! Ages 2 - 90 Tilt a whirl • roller coaster • bumper cars • go karts • bowling • soft play • video games • Atlantis Restaurant Birthday Parties & group packages! Ideal for camp field trips!

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

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 89

10/31/12 11:50 AM

PLAY

Goldfish Swim School 2630 W. Bradley Road, Chicago (773) 844-2547 goldfishswimschool.com

Goldfish Swim School

Make a splash A

s the chill of winter sets in, get a taste of summer by signing your kids up for indoor swim lessons. Whether you are looking for classes for your grade schooler or your infant, there are multiple options out there to meet your specific swim needs and each one offers a slightly different approach. One of the newest schools in the area, the Goldfish Swim School, has lessons for chilChicago Blue Dolphins dren starting as young as four months old and goes through 12 years old with the goal of making swim lessons easy for families. With features like multiple classes occurring simultaneously, family-friendly changing cabanas and 90 degree water, Goldfish’s owner Kathy Ryan wants to make swim lessons accessible and successful for kids. There also is open swim for the entire family and options for birthday parties, even if you aren’t enrolled in lessons. This new pool is sure to make a splash with families. At British Swim School, the motto is “survival of the littlest,” director David Moroney says. Lessons focus on safety and the required water survival skills such as floating on your back. With multiple

90 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_090.indd 1

locations in Chicago and the suburbs, British Swim School teaches the basic swimming skills for kids starting at just three months old. They rent pools within fitness centers or hotels and offer private, semi-private and small group lessons that can start at any time. If your goal is learning to swim in a fun and gentle way, it’s a great way to get your kids’ feet wet and comfortable in the water. For a unique approach to the swimming pool, check out the Chicago Blue Dolphins. From learning the basics to competitive swimming, Chicago Blue Dolphins offers classes for all skill levels and ages six months and up. Owner John Fitzpatrick says the use of a small endless pool gives classes a less intimidating feeling as well as the option to swim against a current. Chicago Blue Dolphins encourages consistency with lessons throughout the year, rather than just a few months before summer comes around. In addition to lessons in the endless pool, there are classes offered throughout the city at local school pools. Megan Murray Elsener

Dolphin Swim Club Crystal Lake, Schaumburg, Skokie, (847) 854-1300 dolphinswimclub.com

British Swim School Locations in downtown Chicago and the western suburbs (630) 833-8145 britishswimschool.com

Chicago Blue Dolphins 2222 N. Elston Ave., Chicago (773) 342-7250 chicagobluedolphins.com

Clover Swimming Quality Inn & Conference 300 S. Frontage Road Burr Ridge cloverswimming.com (847) 266-3677

Foss Swim School 1927 Skokie Valley Road Highland Park (847) 266-3677 Red Top Plaza 1360 S. Milwaukee Ave. Libertyville (847) 680-7946

ChicagoParent.com

10/31/12 11:19 AM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Take a Closer Look at Your Park District Bolingbrook Park District 201 Recreation Dr., Bolingbrook (630) 739-0272 www.bolingbrookparks.org

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

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

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 www.SkokieParks.com

FAMILYFUN! ENDLESS

Indoor Heated Year-‐Round

(630) 833 – 8145 www.Bri=shSwimSchool.com Franchise Opportuni=es

Year-round programs and events events

Here at the Bolingbrook Park District, we strive to deliver the things that matter - sharing memories, playing, learning, laughing. Experience the joy of living “Where the Fun Is!”

We Feature •

Special events at our outstanding facilities such as Pelican Harbor Aquatic Park, Ashbury’s, Boughton Ridge Golf Course and Hidden Oaks Nature Center.

•

Specialized birthday party packages at any of our sites.

•

Fitness programming for the whole family at LifeStyles Fitness Center.

•

FREE fun. Summer concerts, Visit Your Local Park, Summer’s Last Blast, Winterfest, Octoberfest and more!

•

Preschool, dance, gymnastics, athletics, martial arts, climbing wall, programs for seniors, cooking classes and so much more.

Visit us at www.bolingbrookparks.org and see all we have to offer. (630) 739-0272 l 201 Recreation Drive Bolingbrook, IL 60440

GoingPlacesAd.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_091.indd 1

2/15/12 1:27 PM

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 91

10/31/12 11:47 AM

PLAY

Get a kick out of martial arts M

Resources ■

onepointcenteraikido.com

■ (708) 383-4711

■ master-sh-yu.com ■ (708) 383-3456 ■ iskc.com

■ (847) 359-0666

92 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_092.indd 1

artial arts can instill good habits that will last a lifetime: concentration, self-responsibility, selfdiscipline and respect. But with different martial arts—Judo, aikido, tae kwon do, karate, mixed martial arts—and approaches to teaching, how to choose the correct art for your child? The best way, watch classes at different schools and investigate. For instance, aikido is a very traditional Japanese martial art. “We teach students how to neutralize an attack, how to protect oneself without hurting the other person. Instead of kicking and punching, aikido stresses joint locks and throws,” says Dianne Costanzo, sensei (teacher) at One Point Center Aikido Dojo in Oak Park. “Because of its nature, aikido teaches students actually to get out of the way of an attack and not to engage more than necessary. In many ways, aikido is a very subtle art,” Costanzo says. “Also because we are cooperative rather than competitive, we do not give out trophies. We feel that becoming the best person possible is the prize.” Another direction is to choose a martial arts school that combines several styles. “We

teach an integrated discipline of a variety of martial arts known as Mu Yae Do, or Total Martial Arts,” says Master E. Wilson, the early childhood and beginning student instructor of Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts. “Grand Master Yu, our founder, teaches students to build a healthy foundation of basics: stances, flexibility, blocks and kicks. Once the foundation is built, the mind and muscles are more receptive to more advanced combinations.” If your child is competitive and wants to challenge him/ herself against others, a good option can be trying karate through the Illinois Shotokan Karate Clubs, which hold classes through park districts and other venues throughout the state, as well as sponsoring competitions both local and worldwide. Most schools will allow you and your child to watch classes or even to take a free class before committing or buying any expensive equipment or uniforms. Some schools start children as young as 4 or 5, with very basic exercises, while others wait until age 6 or 7 to be sure children can focus enough to absorb the specifics of the art. Bronwyn Soell

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:28 PM

Celebrating ov

er 55 years in bu

siness est. 1957

KinderKarate Amazing Skills for Young Minds & Bodies - Start Today.

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park

708-383-3456

www.master-sh-yu.com

• Admission to Rink • skAte RentAl • decoRAted cAke • PizzA & soft dRink

• bAlloon bouquet • biRthdAy host & mic Announcement • Gift foR biRthdAy PeRson • fRee PAss on youR next visit ($8 vAlue)

Putting the

Art

Back Into

Martial Arts

Ballet Makkai Presents

THE NUTCRACKER December 1 & 2, 4:00 PM Elm Place Middle School AUDITORIUM Highland Park IL 60035

For Tickets Call 847.433.1449 or go online to: www.balletmakkai.com ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_093.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 93

10/31/12 4:13 PM

RIDE LIKE A CHAMPION New Traditions Riding Academy, LLC located at the Palos Hills Riding Stables, 10100 S. Kean Avenue, Palos Hills, IL 60465

www.newtraditionsridingacademy.com

Winter Lesson Schedule/ Holiday Camp Riding in the new traditions of world class instructors

GROUP AND PRIVATE LESSONS….GIFTCERTIFICATES…..SCOUT GROUPS….PARTIES

boarding/training/professional care (708)598-7718 NTRidingAcademy@aol.com

94 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_094.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:28 PM

nature

Your guide to the outside

The best of winter So ome m ti t mees th thee be b stt way a to hand nd ndle dl win i ter’s colld ld and d snow iss to get outside and enjoyy it. t If you’ve wantted d to tr tr y sn now wshoe sh oein ing g, we have g, ave som ome id ome dea eas of where here the he bes estt trrai a ls l are and wh her e e to to ren nt eq equ uipm ui pmeen ent. Ska ent katters er rs wi will ll lov o e tth he lo local icee ri r nk ks,, many freee, ma e, thaat ca can be fou und ttu uck c ed d awa way in paar way arks throu hrou hr ough gh g hout Ch out ou C icag cag a o and th he su sub bu b urb bs. s. An nd, d, of co cou urse, cold weather also so o mea eans n Chr ns h istm mas a treees and d Saant S nta’ ta’ a s re r indeer. Turn the page for mo fo m re r inf n orma maati tion on o n on where to fin i d bo both h of these holiday favorites.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_095.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 95

10/26/12 12:30 PM

NATURE

Running with

Rudolph and his buds E

verybody knows Santa wouldn’t be able to make his many deliveries without the help of his loyal team of reindeer. However, you don’t need to travel all the way to the North Pole to learn about how reindeer really live. At Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch in Rantoul, visitors can get up close and personal with the animals on the “reindeer tour.” For $3 per person, visitors can feed the reindeer and even lean in for a “reindeer kiss.” Owner Julie Hardy swears that this magical moment makes for a wonderful photo opportunity. Hardy says reindeer love people. “The reindeer are obnoxiously friendly,” says Hardy. The highlight of the reindeer tour is the three babies born on the ranch this year. Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch, reindeerranch.com/reindeer.html, also offers Christmas trees, a cafe and a gift shop packed with reindeerthemed items. If you can’t make it down to the ranch to visit the reindeer this year, check out one of these local opportunities to see them in action. Caitlin Murray Giles

Petting places

Trump Hotel in Chicago brings reindeer into the city for the holidays.

“Reindeer on the River”

Calumet City Tree Lighting Ceremony

Where: Trump International Hotel Chicago When: 3-8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 17 Where: The River Walk at Trump International Hotel Chicago (676 N. St Clair St., Chicago) Details: This family-friendly event is held annually in conjunction with the Magnificent Mile Festival of Lights. Families can escape the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue and meet Santa and his reindeer while enjoying holiday goodies along the River Walk. This event is free to all visitors. Guests can take photos and kids go home with a reindeer-themed takeaway. In conjunction with this event, Trump International Hotel Chicago offers a special package for families interested in spending the weekend at the hotel. Call (312) 5888000 for details.

When: 5:30-8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 7 Where: Calumet City City Hall (204 Pulaski Road, Calumet City) Details: Visit for Tree Lighting Ceremony in front of City Hall at 5:30 and then walk across the street to check out the reindeer in Pulaski Park.

96 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_096.indd 1

10/26/12 12:30 PM

NATURE Rink at Wrigley

OUTDOOR ICE SKATING RINKS

Addison and Clark streets Chicago (312) 617-7017 rinkatwrigley.com

BMO Harris Winter Wonderland 320 S. Wyman St. Rockford (815) 987-8800 rockfordparkdistrict.org

Full-size skating rink finds a home in the Cubs parking lot at the corner of Clark and Waveland. Schedules and fees are subject to change. Hours: 2-9 p.m. MondayThursday; 2-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: FridaysSundays: $10, $6 kids 12 and under; skate rental $10. Admission and skate rentals are half-price Monday-Thursday.

This outdoor, synthetic ice center includes a rink that is 140 feet long and 24 feet wide, and an ice skating trail that is about 12 feet wide and 850 feet long. The trail runs along the scenery of the Rock River. There is an indoor warming center and concessions. Hours: After Thanksgiving through January. Check website for hours and special events. Admission: Check website.

Roosevelt Park 2200 Grove St. Glenview Hotline: (847) 724-3337 glenviewparks.org

Cole Park Ice Rink 1031 Kenilworth Lane Glenview Hotline: (847) 724-3337 glenviewparks.org There is no supervision or warming facilities. Hours: Call for rink/sled hill conditions or log on to the park district website. Open/closed signs will be posted when rink is open for skating. Admission: Free.

Deerfield Outdoor Ice Skating Rink Jewett Park 836 Jewett Drive Deerfield (847) 945-0650 dfpd.org Weather permitting, outdoor ice rinks are provided at Jewett Park, 836 Jewett Drive, and Jaycee Park, 1026 Wilmot Road. Hours: Check website for dates and hours. Admission: Free.

Flick Park Ice Rink and Sledding 3600 Glenview Road Glenview Hotline: (847) 724-3337 glenviewparks.org Outdoor ice rink and sledding hill. No warming facility or supervision. Hours: Call the hotline after 10:30 a.m. for rink/sled hill conditions or visit the website. Sled hill and ice skating rink are lighted and close at 10 p.m. Admission: Free.

Johns Park Ice Skating and Sledding 2101 Central Road Glenview Hotline: (847) 724-3337 glenviewparks.org Outdoor ice rink and sledding hill.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_097.indd 1

There is no supervision or warming facility. Hours: Call the hotline after 10:30 a.m. for current rink/ sled hill conditions or visit website. All sled hills and ice skating rinks are lighted and close nightly at 10 p.m. Admission: Free.

Williams Tree Farm, see page 102. No supervision or warming facilities. Hours: Call the update hotline after 10:30 a.m. for current rink/ sled hill conditions or visit website. Sled hills and ice skating rink are lighted and close at 10 p.m. Admission: Free.

McCormick Tribune Plaza and Ice Rink (Millennium Park) 11 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago (312) 742-5222 millenniumpark.org Outdoor rink with warming facilities and concession stand. Hours: Open Nov. 16-March 10; weather permitting. Visit website for hours. Admission: Free; $10 skate rental.

McKinley Park 2210 W. Pershing Road Chicago (312) 747-5992 chicagoparkdistrict.com No food concessions available. Schedules and fees are subject to change. Hours: 12:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission: Free; $6 skate rental.

Midway Plaisance Park Ice Rink 1130 Midway Plaisance North (east 59th

Rowan Park Street at Woodlawn) Chicago (312) 745-2470 chicagoparkdistrict.com Food concessions are available. Schedules and fees are subject to change. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 1-9 p.m. Saturday; noon-7 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free; $6 skate rental.

Mt. Greenwood Park 3721 W. 111th St. Chicago (312) 747-3690 chicagoparkdistrict.com No food concessions are available. Schedules and fees are subject to change. Hours: 12:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission: Free; $6 skate rental.

Riis Park 6100 W. Fullerton Ave. Chicago (312) 746-5735 chicagoparkdistrict.com No food concessions are available. Schedules and fees are subject to change. Hours: 12:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission: Free; $6 skate rental.

11546 S. Avenue L Chicago (773) 646-1967 chicagoparkdistrict.com Food concessions are available. Schedules and fees subject to change. Hours: 12:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission: Free; $6 skate rental.

Skating in the Park at Rosemont Just west of River Road between Bryn Mawr and Balmoral next to Muvico 18 Theaters Rosemont Outdoor ice skating rink with free parking. Hours: 4-9 p.m. MondayThursday; 4-10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. From Dec. 21-Jan. 6, the ice rink will be open daily from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: Free; $8 skate rental.

Warren Park 6601 N. Western Ave. Chicago (312) 742-7529 (Chicago Park District) (773) 761-8663 chicagoparkdistrict.com No food concessions are available. Schedules and fees are subject to change. Hours: 12:30-2:30 p.m., 3-5 p.m., 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednes-

Holiday 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ goingplaces 97

10/26/12 12:32 PM

Chicago Grammar School â&#x20AC;Śexperience the richness of a classical curriculum.

Opening 8th Grade Fall 2013 Information Night: December 12. Call to make a reservation.

Congratulations to our students! On the Iowa Test of Basic Skills May 2012, the CGS class scores ranged from 92nd99th percentiles.

900 N. Franklin, Chicago, IL 60610

312-944-5600

www.chicagogrammar.org

Weekly Newsletters Be in the know about family events, coupons and great giveaways! Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent

98 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_098.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 3:18 PM

NATURE day-Saturday. Admission: Free; $6 skate rental.

TREE FARMS

Ben’s Christmas Tree Farm 7720 Ryan Road Harvard (630) 279-0216 benstreefarm.com Cut your own 6- to 13-foot organic trees including Fraser fir and 10 other varieties. Take a free horsedrawn wagon ride or warm up with some free hot chocolate or coffee in the warming barn. Visit with Santa and the farm animals and shop in the craft shop. Wreaths, garland, boughs and pre-cut trees also for sale. Saws, twine and restrooms available. Farm is dog friendly. Hours: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Nov. 23 and Saturday-Sunday; 11 a.m.4:30 p.m. Friday through Dec. 16. Admission: Prices vary.

Bentz Road Farm Christmas Trees and Wreaths 6109 85th St. (Bentz Road) Pleasant Prairie, Wis. (262) 620-4636 bentzroadfarm.com Choose a pre-cut tree or cut your

own including white pine, spruce, Balsam fir, Canaan fir and Fraser fir. Wreaths, swags, garlands and kissing balls are also available along with local artisan-made gifts. Features pictures with Santa and horse-drawn hayrides on weekends. Saws, twine and restroom available. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily Nov. 23-Dec. 21. Contact Theresa for an earlier visit. Admission: Choose and cut trees $8-$14 per foot depending on tree type. Special orders and mail orders available.

Bill’s Christmas Tree Farm 5102 N. Elizabeth-Scales Mound Road Scales Mound (815) 845-2609 This is a choose and cut farm with seven different species of trees. There is a warming house with a wood burning fireplace and holiday store with local handmade crafts. Wreaths and roping are also available. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 23-25, Dec. 1-2, Dec. 8-9. Other times available by appointment. Admission: $25-$57 depending on tree species.

Borzynski’s Farm & Floral 11600 Hwy. 20 Racine, Wis.

Williams Tree Farm, see page 102.

SHE SNORES MOREMORE SHE SNORES THAN THAN I DO, BUT I DO,I STILL BUT I STILL LOVE MY LOVEHUMAN. MY HUMAN. — BANDIT — BANDIT adopted 11-26-09 adopted 11-26-09

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_099.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 99

10/26/12 3:13 PM

(262) 886-2235 borzynskis.com

fir and spruce.

Features fresh-cut Frasier firs, handmade wreaths, made to order gift baskets and a gift shop. Children’s events, including Christmas with Mrs. Claus and Breakfast with Santa, take place on weekends. Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Trees available for sale starting midNovember; call for date. Admission: $25 and up.

Gengel Tree Farm 38614 N. Fairfield Road Lake Villa (847) 356-5661 Employees can help cut down the tree or secure it to your car. Wreaths, greens, pre-cut balsam firs and restrooms available. Cookies available for purchase. Saws, netting and rope provided. Hours: 9 a.m.-dark Nov. 23 and weekends until trees sell out. Admission: Prices start at $35 and vary by height and variety. Call for more information.

Cupola House Tree Farm 4030 N. 3000W Road Bourbonnais (815) 932-6635 cupolahousetrees.com Choose and cut from among 24,000 trees, including Fraser fir, Douglas fir, balsam fir, Concolor fir, blue spruce, Norway spruce, Scotch pine, and white pine. Pick out a small potted tree for the table top or a burlap-wrapped evergreen to plant in your yard after Christmas. Wreaths, garland, stands and decorations available. Sip free hot spiced cider and warm your hands on a wood fire when you’re done. Hay rides, saws, tree carts, twine, shaking and baling are included. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Also enjoy

Green Garden Christmas Tree Farm 11615 Pauling Road Manhattan (815) 735-2372, (815) 735-2371 greengardenchristmastreefarm.com

Kuiper’s Family Farm, see this page. hiking in the adjoining Kankakee River State Park. Hours: 8:30 a.m.dark daily, Nov. 17-Dec. 23. Open on Thanksgiving Day. Admission: $4.25/foot for pine, $6.50/foot for

Cut down a Scotch or white pine. Hayrides to the field on weekends. Warming house with coffee, hot chocolate and cookies. Shaking and baling free. Saws and restrooms available. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Nov. 23 until trees sell out. Admission: $46.

Ide Christmas Trees 1500 83rd St. Downers Grove (630) 743-4032 (recorded message) idechristmastrees.com Pick from seven different kinds of spruce and pine at this 30-acre suburban tree farm. Saws and restrooms provided. There are tree hauler wagons available. No pre-cut trees this year. Call recorded message or visit website for more information. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 23 and weekends, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Admission: Prices vary.

Kuiper’s Family Farm 1N318 Watson Road Maple Park (815) 827-5200 kuipersfamilyfarm.com Cut your own tree or choose a fresh, pre-cut tree. Visit the Orchard Shop & Bakery for freshly pressed cider, apple cider doughnuts, home baked pies, fudge, handspun caramel apples, wreaths, Christmas decorations, gift ideas and unique food items. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, Nov. 23-Dec. 23. Admission: Choose and cut $49 pines, $84 firs; pre-cut prices vary.

· an uncommon educational experience ·

Immaculate Conception School 7263 W Talcott Chicago, Il. 60631 www.iccowboys.net 773-7775-0545

Us Out! Open House December 6th, 7-9 p.m.

· an uncommon educational experience ·

an uncommon educational experience · an uncommon educational experience

100 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_100.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:38 PM

Your rt to passpo g the reachin ea o ar Chicag family !! market

The Big

TRAVEL ISSUE Chicago area families are looking for adventure • Weekend Jaunts • Day Trips • Exotic Locations for families • Traveling with Baby • Traveling on a Budget • and more!

FREE SPRING 2012

Spring

Available to Readers March 11

FUN in Chi-town and out of town

travel the BIG

ISSUE

gp_spring_2.indd

2/28/12 10:32 AM

Contact your Sales Rep by February 11 to reserve ad space! ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_101.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 101

10/31/12 11:46 AM

NATURE Oney’s Tree Farm & Nursery 16608 Route 14 Woodstock (815) 338-4108 oneystreefarm.com There’s plenty to do after cutting your tree. On weekends, Mrs. Claus visits in her North Pole House (10 a.m.-3 p.m.), and horse-drawn wagon rides or pony rides (10 a.m.-3 p.m.) are available, weather permitting. Hot lunch available on weekends and bakery is open daily. There is a gift shop in a historic barn with homemade wreaths, garland and centerpieces. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, Nov. 23-Dec. 14. Admission: Free; cut your own pines 5’-9’ $52; spruces 5’-8’ $62. Includes free shaking and netting. Trees 10’ and over $150-$200.

Pinecrest Christmas Tree Farm 4403 Spring Creek Road Galien, Mich. (269) 545-8125 pinecrestchristmastreefarm.com Offering a variety of U-cut and precut trees including Fraser fir, blue spruce, Scotch pine, Concolor fir, Norway spruce and Douglas fir. Horse-drawn wagon takes you to the field on the weekends. Saws provided. Christmas shop offers

wreaths, roping and other products. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (EST) daily. Nov. 23-Dec. 23. Admission: Prices vary by tree variety and height. Call for more information.

ing your hands over a blazing fire. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 23-25, Dec. 1-2 and Dec. 8-9. Admission: $50-$55 per tree.

Pioneer Tree Farm

37131 Essex Road Wilmington (800) 892-5989, (815) 458-6264 tammentreeberryfarm.net

4614 Pioneer Road McHenry (815) 385-8512 pioneertreefarm.com Take a wagon ride to the evergreen forest to pick out your tree. All trees are organically grown. Shaking, baling and saws provided. Drink complimentary coffee and cocoa at the warming house. Holiday items also for sale. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 23-25, Dec. 1-2 and 8-9. Admission: $45/any size.

Spring Bluff Nursery

Tammen Treeberry Farm

Williams Tree Farm

Choose from 160 acres of trees on this farm. Saws and restrooms provided. Shaking and baling for an additional charge. Hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily starting Nov. 23. Admission: $50 per tree.

Valley View Tree Farm

41W130 Norris Road Sugar Grove (630) 466-4278 springbluffnursery.com Take a hayride to the tree fields and pick from Scotch, White and Austrian pines. Be prepared to cut your own tree, but workers will help bale it and tie it on top of the car. Saws provided. Check out the fresh handmade wreaths, roping and swags and sip hot chocolate while warm-

p.m. Monday-Friday. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 23-Dec. 23. Admission: $30 u-cut pines, $49 u-cut spruces. Pre-cut trees: Fraser fir $7-$8 a foot, Balsam $5-$6 a foot.

6440 Belvidere Road Roscoe (815) 623-2730, (815) 494-3707 valleyviewtreefarm.com Cut down your own tree at this 100-year-old farm. Then sift through the wreaths, roping and greens and visit the gift shop in the barn. Saws, pick-up, baling and shaking provided. Hours: 9 a.m.-8

4661 Yale Bridge Road Rockton (815) 624-7579, (800) 423-NOEL (6635) williamstreefarm.com Hop on the horse-drawn hayride that takes you to the tree fields where you can cut down your tree. Enjoy the Children’s Farm where you can visit with Bernard the reindeer, Amos the Camel, Bunnyville and other animal friends, ride the kiddie train or visit with Santa on the weekends. Cafe, gift shop and Candy Corner with handmade fudge along with wreaths, roping and holiday decor. Hours: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily, Nov. 10-Dec. 24. Closes at 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. Admission: $16 under 4’; $32 4’-8’; $49 9’ and over; $8 per foot for u-cut spruces and firs. Pre-cut prices vary.

35,000 square feet of family fun! fall Hours FrIdAy & sAturdAy 10Am-8pm sundAy 10Am-6pm

visit our website for HoliDay oPen Play Hours 8 Great Party rooms

oPen Play GrouP events

Play Dates

ArcAde FAntAsy cAFe

InFlAtAbles clImbIng WAll

toddler AreA go KArts

all aGes welcome! WI-FI prIvAte events

Book Your PartY todaY! Party Fantasy | 342 townline road, Mundelein | (847) 837-0010 | www.PartyFantasy.net 102 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_102.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/31/12 11:20 AM

GOING PLACES

Can you walk? You can snowshoe!

ny snowshoe enthusiast will say if you can walk, you can snowshoe. It’s that simple. This winter might be the perfect time for you and your family to strap on some snowshoes and step into the woods. It’s inexpensive, fun and a great way to get outdoor exercise. And we know a few good places to get started. Kathy Woods

Downtown

Northerly Island is a manmade peninsula projecting into Lake Michigan near the Museum Campus. The 90-plus acres of parkland offer a nice blend of nature and city. Snowshoe rental is $5 for two hours and is available on weekends, December through February, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The park is occasionally closed due to special events in the city. Call ahead for up-to-date information at (312) 745-2910.

North

Crabtree Nature Center in Barrington is open for snowshoeing every day, except Friday, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. It offers three miles of woodland trails and snowshoe rental is free. Call ahead (847) 381-6592 to check weather conditions and snowshoe availability. The Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe allows snowshoeing on designated trails 8 a.m.-sunset. Snowshoes can be rented from the nearby REI store in Northbrook. Admission is free, although parking is $20 per car for non-members. Visit chicagobotanicgardens.org for more information. Glacial Park, just south of Richmond, is 3,300 acres belonging to the McHenry County Conservation District. There are five miles of trails, and the park is open from sunrise to sunset. Snowshoes can be rented from

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_103.indd 1

2K Adventure Gear in Richmond. Check mccdistrict.org for up-to-date trail conditions and special programs.

West

Lyman Woods in Downers Grove offers 2½ miles of trails and snowshoe rental is $6 for three hours. It is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fridays 9 a.m.-noon; and Sundays 1-4 p.m. Closed on Mondays. Lyman offers free guided snowshoe hikes on select days that last about an hour and are great for beginners. Check dgparks.org for a schedule of guided hikes. Springbrook Nature Center in Itasca features three trails winding through prairie, woods and marsh, available for snowshoeing on Saturdays and Sundays between noon and 4:30 p.m. The cost of snowshoe rental is $5 for two hours. Call ahead to confirm availability (630) 773-5572. Morton Arboretum in Lisle invites visitors to snowshoe the grounds 7 a.m.-sunset every day. Snowshoe rental is available on site 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Parking is free, but there is an admission fee to enter the park. Check mortonarb.org for fee and program information.

South

Monee Reservoir is a 195-acre forest preserve in Will County with 2½ miles

Are you brand new to snowshoeing? Helpful tutorials for beginners can be found at snowshoemag.com/first-timers and rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ snowshoeing-first-steps.html. of wooded trails. Snowshoe rentals are $10 per day with a $10 deposit and valid driver’s license. Monee offers a number of guided snowshoe programs, such as “Snowshoe Under the Stars,” featuring information

about planets and constellations. The fee is $3 and includes snowshoes at no extra charge. To check dates and times and pre-register, visit reconnectwithnature.org.

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 103

10/26/12 12:34 PM

GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Top Schools

Winter Open Houses

Akiba-Schechter Jewish Day School PreK-8th Grade

5235 S. Cornell, Chicago (773) 493-8880 RSVP with Yelena Spector admissions@akibaschechter.org to RSVP www.akibaschechter.org Kindergarten Open House: Thurs., Nov. 15. Tours at 6:45pm, program begins at 7:30pm. 1st and 2nd Grade Open House: Wed., Dec. 5. Programs begins at 7:30pm.

The Ancona School

The Catherine Cook School Co-ed, Preschool - 8th Grade

226 W. Schiller, Chicago (312) 266-3381 www.catherinecookschool.org

Nurturing, technology-rich environment inspiring personal excellence and community values. See the website for our Parent Tour Schedule.

Chiaravalle Montessori

425 Dempster Street, Evanston (847) 864-2190 www.chiaravalle.org

Prospective Parent Tours Tours run 9-11 am and include a brief classroom observation, school tour, and question-and-answer session. RSVP required. Adults only, please. Ancona’s powerful and complex curriculum nurtures children’s love for learning and equips Dec. 4, 13, 18; Jan. 8, 10; Feb. 12 them for the 21st century. Ancona’s whole child Chicago Grammar School approach teaches students for life. Call for a PreK - 8th grade tour.

Ages 3 through 8th Grade

4770 South Dorchester Ave., Chicago (773) 924-2356 www.anconaschool.org

The Avery Coonley School Gifted students, PreK-8th grade

1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 www.averycoonley.org

We place a high premium on developing the desire in our students to become critical thinkers and independent, life-long learners. Wed., Nov. 7; Wed., Dec. 5; Wed., Jan. 9; Wed., Jan. 23

900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 www.chicagogrammar.org

A classical curriculum fully integrated with the arts for the 21st century. Information Nights Nov. 13 and Dec. 12 or call for a private tour..

Immaculate Conception School

Informed Academically. Involved Athletically. Inspired through Faith. Invested in the Future.

7263 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago (773) 775-0545 www.iccowboys.net Email Bernadette Felicione at felicione@ iccowboys.net to arrange a personal tour.

Lake Forest Country Day School Co-ed Day, Age 2 through Grade 8

145 S. Green Bay Road, Lake Forest (847) 615-6151 www.lfcds.org

Open House Schedule: Thursday, November 15 (age 2 through grade 8), 9 a.m.; Sunday, December 2 (family program for ages 2—6), 3 p.m.; Wednesday, January 16 (age 2 through grade 8), 9 a.m.; Tuesday, February 12 (age 2 through grade 8), 9 a.m.; Tuesday, March 12 (age 2 through grade 8), 9 a.m.

Lakefront Children’s Academy Pre-K through 12

59 W. North Blvd. Chicago (312) 582-6000

www.latinschool.org A co-educational independent day school on the near north side of Chicago.

Brickton Montessori School Grades served: pre K (2-3yr.Old)-8th

8622 W. Catalpa, Chicago (773) 714-0646 www.brickton.org

Open House: Sun., Jan. 13 from 12:30-3pm

British School of Chicago PreK-12th Grade

814 W. Eastman St., Chicago (773) 506-2097 www.britishschoolofchicago.org

A personalized, progressive education offering the IB Diploma program. Please call the admissions office to schedule a tour and confirm our upcoming Open House date (see website for details). PHOTO COURTESY OF RESURRECTION COLLEGE PREP HIGH SCHOOL

104 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_104.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/31/12 11:11 AM

GOING PLACES

Top Schools

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Winter Open Houses Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Academy A Catholic School Educating Children Preschool to 8th Grade

720 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago (773) 525-8779 www.olmca.org

2012 Open House Dates: Thurs., Dec. 6, 8:30 am –10:30 am 2013 Open House Dates: Sun., Jan. 27, 10:30 am –1:30 pm; Thurs., Feb. 7 and Mar. 14, 8:30 am –10:30 am

Resurrection College Prep High School

Educating Young Women Since 1922

7500 W. Talcott Ave, Chicago (773) 775-6616 Ext. 129 www.reshs.org/

Shadow opportunities are available for girls in 7th and 8th grade. Entrance Exam Sat., Jan. 12, 2013

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools Nursery – 12th grade PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKE FOREST COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

Latin School of Chicago

Montessori Academy of Chicago

59 W. North Blvd., Chicago (312) 582-6060 www.latinschool.org

1335 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 243-0997 www.montessoriacademychicago.org

PreK – 12th

A rigorous, innovative educational program in a community that embraces diversity of people, cultures and ideas. Applications for the 20132014 school year are available. Check website for details.

6 weeks- 12 years old

Montessori of Lincoln Park

118 South Ashland Ave., Chicago Accepting waitlist applications at 3111 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago (312) 492-9876 www.littlegreentreehouse.com

1501 W. Fullerton, Chicago (773) 348-7340 www.montessorilincolnpark.com

Year –round enrollment for all age groups. A unique early childhood education center that offers an eco-friendly environment, building healthy relationships with each other and our world.

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_105.indd 1

An experience-centered, rigorous and wellrounded education for a diverse community while recognizing that students learning in different ways. Please visit website for details.

The Academy’s curriculum develops a student’s love of learning driven by an innate desire to understand and explain the world around us. Contact us to RSVP for an Informational Coffee/tour.

Little Green Tree House 6wks to 5 years old

1362 E. 59th St., Chicago (773) 702-9451 www.ucls.uchicago.edu

Now enrolling children ages 2½ -6

The “whole child” approach to learning which allows each child to reach their full potential at their own pace and level. Call for Open House info.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ANCONA SCHOOL

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 105

10/31/12 11:11 AM

GOING PLACES

One of a Kind Gifts For One of a Kind People! Mabel’s Labels are perfect for everyone on your list, from babies to grandparents. Personalize and identify look-alike clothes, craft supplies, toys and much more with a gift that sticks!

Order today online or by phone www.mabelslabels.com | 1.866.30.MABEL (62235)

106 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_106.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/26/12 12:32 PM

GOING PLACES

Savings Courtesy of

$2 Child off

ChicagoParent.com

27277 N. Forest Preserve Road, Wauconda, IL 847-968-3400 | LCFPD.org/Dickens

$1 OFF MUSEUM ADMISSION WITH THIS COUPON

10% OFF

registration to new students ilrhythmicgymnastics.com | 847-363-1559 1850 Green Bay Road, Highland Park

'$" ($$ (#%&

Something for Everyone!

Gurnee Mills Mall (Parking lots â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hâ&#x20AC;? & â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jâ&#x20AC;?)

www.rink-side.com â&#x20AC;˘ 847-856-1064

Coupons are also available online at chicagoparent.com/coupons

with paid adult admission

5606

Void with other offers. Valid through 2/28/13

ChicagoParent.com

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

$ OUR GIFT TO YOU,

A COZY FLEECE BLANKET Savings Courtesy of

WITH EVERY WEEKDAY STAY.

ChicagoParent.com

Savings Courtesy of

â&#x20AC;˘ Ice Skating â&#x20AC;˘ Laser Tag â&#x20AC;˘ 18 holes of Glow Golf Open 365 days a year...The Coolest Place in Town!

Admission

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

Sundays-Thursdays through March 2013. Code CHPA01.

waterfront lodging in Michiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor Country marinagrandresort.com

BuyÂ oneÂ trainÂ ticketÂ getÂ oneÂ FREE

ChicagoParent.com

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

Highland & Butterfield www.yorktowncenter.com

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

$ ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_107.indd 1

Holiday 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ goingplaces 107

10/31/12 11:17 AM

GOING PLACES LOCATION: Riverfront Museum Park 711 N. Main St. Rockford, IL 61103

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

Through feb 24 Celebrate the holidays with Charles Dickens. Stroll through a mid-1800s street

Savings Courtesy of

HOURS: Now open 7 days a week from 10 am to 5 pm

to learn how Dickens influenced the look and feel of the holiday season. View a private collection of vintage cards, calendars, figurines and more inspired by A Christmas Carol, The Pickwick Papers and other stories. This special exhibition introduces Dickens as the first international celebrity of the modern age. Hundreds of objects and documents from an exclusive private collection, together

ChicagoParent.com

For museum or lodging information, call 815.963.6769

with a rare collection of first editions of his most famous works, tell the story of how Charles Dickens and his characters became enduring cultural icons. MEDIA SPONSOR

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

$1 OFF Museum Admission! Not valid with any other offers. Valid for up to six admissions. Expires 3/31/2013 301 N. Washington St. â&#x20AC;˘ Naperville, IL 60540 w w w. d u p a g e c h i l d r e n s m u s e u m . o r g

ChicagoParent.com

registration to new students

ChicagoParent.com

ilrhythmicgymnastics.com | 847-363-1559 1850 Green Bay Road, Highland Park

OUR GIFT TO YOU,

WITH EVERY WEEKDAY STAY.

10% OFF

Savings Courtesy of

A COZY FLEECE BLANKET Savings Courtesy of

Sophisticated Business and Commercial Litigation

SPONSORED IN PART BY THE FRIENDS OF THE LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM

GPWIN13

EXHIBIT SPONSOR

Savings Courtesy of

'$" ($$ (#%&

ChicagoParent.com

Sundays-Thursdays through March 2013. Code CHPA01.

waterfront lodging in Michiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor Country marinagrandresort.com

A Step Above the Ordinary! Savings Courtesy of

BringÂ thisÂ couponÂ toÂ YorktownÂ CenterÂ GuestÂ ServicesÂ toÂ redeemÂ thisÂ offer.Â Â ExpiresÂ 12/31/12.Â Â OneÂ perÂ person.Â Â SomeÂ restrictionsÂ mayÂ apply.Â VisitÂ YorktownÂ GuestÂ ServicesÂ forÂ moreÂ info.Â

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

www.yorktowncenter.com

Savings Courtesy of

Birthday Parties Public Skating Rental skates available

Gurnee Mills Mall

Daily Skating & Hockey Lessons

Parking lots â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hâ&#x20AC;? & â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jâ&#x20AC;? 6152 W. Grand Ave. Gurnee, IL 60031 847-856-1064 www.rink-side.com

By Certified & Experienced Professionals

Video Games & Rides Prize redemption games, too!

Laser Tag Area 2,000 square feet

Black Light Golf 18-hole mini golf

Pizzeria and cafe Full-service restaurant

Birthday Child is FREE at Rink Side!

â&#x20AC;&#x153;skate SHOP and playâ&#x20AC;? on Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday Bring this coupon to redeem our $20.95 special. Get a large pizza, pitcher of soda, unlimited public ice skating, unlimited laser tag and unlimited glow in the dark golf for four people. Good only on 11/22/12 and/or 11/23/12.

Bring this coupon when you book your party and the birthday child is FREE. Party package must be reserved with a minimum of ten people. Expires 12/2/12

Coupons are also available online at chicagoparent.com/coupons

ChicagoParent.com

$ 108 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_108.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/31/12 11:18 AM

DOSC-12160_CL_CPGoingPlacesCouponFront.pdf

10/19/12

12:24 PM

GOING PLACES

Free Slice of Pizza from the cafe

with paid admission

Party Fantasy

GO KARTS, ROCK CLIMBING, GIANT INFLATABLES, TODDLER AREA, ARCADE, FANTASY CAFE, DISCO DANCE FLOOR Expires 2/24/13 Code: cp One Coupon per child, per visit. Not valid on parties 342 TOWNLINE ROAD, MUNDELEIN (847) 837-0010 | PARTYFANTASY.NET

Museum $20 Birthday Party off Call (847) 832-6923 to redeem.

Savings Courtesy of CM

*Coupon must be presented at time of registration. Some restrictions apply.

ChicagoParent.com

CMY

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

2100 Patriot Boulevard, Glenview (847) 832-6600 www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org

Savings Courtesy of

GP_coupsSpr12.qxd:Layout 1

10/22/12

4:47 PM

*With the purchase of one full paying adult admission, the brithday celebrant is free. Applies to general admission only. Not valid for prior purchases. May not be combined with any other discount offer. Use discount code BFGEN at time of purchase to receive discount. Upgrades are additional. Some restrictions may apply. Valid at the Schaumburg Castle only. Not valid at the 9:30pm show on New Year’s Eve. Valid thru 6/30/2013 only.

Page

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. EXPIRES: 3/31/2013 CP1

Explore & Soar The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn

Enjoy $1 off any single admission to The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn. (Offer expires 3/30/13. Coupon not valid with any other offer, promotion, or discount. Not valid with birthday parties or field trips.)

Plan Your Visit Today

www.CMOakLawn.org

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

Savings Courtesy of

New Traditions Riding Academy, LLC 10100 So. Kean Avenue

ChicagoParent.com

708-598-7718

www.newtraditionsridingacademy.com

chicago parent’s annual gift guide

Jingle Bell, Jingle Buy December 2011 FREE

Eat, drink and be merry

(but don’t overdo it)

Real. Happy. Families.

Fire up FRIDAY NIGHTS

Our six difference makers

Finding

Coming in December

TinyTim Backstage at the Goodman

For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_109.indd 1

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 109

10/31/12 11:58 AM

GOING PLACES

Free Slice of Pizza Savings Courtesy of

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

GP_coupsSpr12.qxd:Layout 1

Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

10/22/12

4:47 PM

*Applies to general admission price only. Upgrade packages are additional. Must mention or enter discount code 1510GP at time of purchase. May not be combined with any other discount, special offer or group rate. Some restrictions may apply. Not valid on prior purchases. Not valid for the 9:30 show New Year’s Eve. Valid for shows thru 1/31/2013.

Page

Savings Courtesy of

from the cafe

with paid admission

Party Fantasy

Museum $20 Birthday Party off Call (847) 832-6923 to redeem.

ChicagoParent.com

2100 Patriot Boulevard, Glenview (847) 832-6600 www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. EXPIRES: 3/31/2013 CP1

Explore & Soar The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn Savings Courtesy of

ChicagoParent.com

Savings Courtesy of

New Traditions Riding Academy, LLC 10100 So. Kean Avenue

ChicagoParent.com

708-598-7718

www.newtraditionsridingacademy.com

Plan Your Visit Today

www.CMOakLawn.org

Making theGrade Chicago Parent’s annual resource guide for Chicago area schools.

Coming in January

Making theGrade

Education Guide

January 2012 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT

For more information, call (708) 386-5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com 110 goingplaces • Holiday 2012

CHIPAR1012_110.indd 1

ChicagoParent.com

10/31/12 11:58 AM

GOING PLACES

going places advertiser index Adler Planetarium ...........................................24

Downtown Hammond ........................Inside Back

Maria Lopez (Spanish Tutoring) ......................31

Akiba Schechter Jewish Day School.................28

Downtown Oak Park ........................................35

Marina Grand Resort ...............................54, 107

Avery Coonley School .......................................22

DuPage Children’s Museum ......................2, 107

Master S.H. YU Martial Arts ............................93

Ballet Legere’s Nutcracker ..............................68

Fleetwood Skating Rink ...................................93

Medieval Times .......................................75, 109

Bolingbrook Park District ................................91

Forest Park Chamber of Commerce .................18

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival ..................19

Brickton Montessori School .............................45

Foss Swim School..............................................4

Montessori Academy of Chicago .....................38

Bright Start College Savings .............................1

Game Truck .....................................................82

Montessori of Lincoln Park ..............................42

British School of Chicago ..................................3

Game Works ....................................................88

Mt. Prospect Park District ...............................83

British Swim School ................................91, 107

Ganesha Yoga .................................................42

Naperville Park District ...................................91

Broadway in Chicago (The Grinch) ..................60

Goodman Theatre ............................................69

Navy Pier .........................................................46

Cascade Mountain ..........................................57

Illinois Rhythmic Gymnastics Center ......23, 107

New Traditions Riding Academy ..............94, 109

Catherine Cook School ....................................44

Immaculate Conception School .....................100

Old Town School of Folk Music ........................21

Chamber Opera Chicago .................................65

Joffrey Ballet Nutcracker ...........................10, 11

Cheeky Thing...................................................84

Kenosha CVB...................................................55

Chiaravalle Montessori ...................................84

Kid Snips .........................................................88

Chicago Children’s Museum............................76

Kohl Children’s Museum..........................29, 109

Paramount Theatre .........................................64

Chicago Grammar School..........................40, 98

Lake Forest Country Day School ......................83

Party Fantasy ........................................102, 109

Chicago Public Library ....................................22

Lake Geneva Area CVB ....................................53

Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau .........................56

Children’s Museum of Oak Lawn .............89, 109

Lakeshore Learning ........................................86

Prairie Center for the Arts’ Nutcracker ............71

The Choo-Choo ................................................84

Language Stars...............................................42

Rink Side Sports............................................107

City of Chicago Tree Lighting ..........................13

Legoland .........................................................13

River Forest Community Center .......................80

Clover Swimming ............................................89

Leonas.......................................................28, 93

Safari Land .....................................................89

Dad’s Slot Cars ...............................................80

Lifeline Theatre ...............................................64

Salt Creek Ballet’s Nutcracker.........................71

Dave’s Rock Shop ............................................31

Light Opera Works ...........................................68

TOMAH Wisconsin............................................48

Discovery Center Museum .............................107

Little Gems International, Lincoln Park ...........89

Walworth County, WI Visitors Bureau ..............56

Discovery Museum ........................................107

Mabel’s Labels ..............................................106

Xtreme Trampolines ........................................34

Dolphin Swim Club.................... 109, Back Cover

Make-A-Messterpiece ......................................81

Yorktown Center ......................................14, 107

ChicagoParent.com

CHIPAR1012_111.indd 1

Olly Olly Play Café .........................................107 Our Lady of Mount Carmel Academy ................ Inside Front

Holiday 2012 • goingplaces 111

10/31/12 11:45 AM

THE DOWNTOWN HAMMOND COUNCIL PRESENTS

HAMMOND HOLIDAY KICKOFF CELEBRATION: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17 10am-4pm

DOWNTOWN HAMMOND

(Hohman/Sibley/Fayette) Conveniently located just 25 minutes from Chicago, and without all the hassle!

Held Annually the Saturday before Thanksgiving

Make this Downtown Hammond event your favorite new holiday tradition that is filled with nostalgia! Enjoy INDOOR & OUTDOOR events and activities for every member of the familyl O View the movie “A Christmas Story” at the Towle Theater: 1:15pm & 3:30 pm O Visit with Santa & his elves (even the “mean” elf!) on Ice Mountain O Horse Drawn Carriage Rides O Arts & Crafts and Garage Sale Vendors (Parker Family “Cellar”) Treasures O Yummy Food Vendors

JOIN OR VOLUNTEER TODAY! 501 (C)(3) Not-for-Profit Organization comprised of Volunteers whose mission is to REVITALIZE BEAUTIFY, and PROMOTE our downtown!

O Reading Class with “Mrs. Shields”/ Children receive one free book O Letters to Santa with “Mrs. Shields” O Turkey Bowling sponsored by Strack & Van Til & Stardust Bowl O Cabela’s Shoot Your Eye Out Contest O Create your very own “Leg Lamp” Lamp Shade art project O Tire Changing Contest

O Kids Games O Holiday Music/Carrollers O Adopt a “Bumpus Hound” O Holiday Cookie Baking Contest O Pink Bunny (not white elephant) Gift Exchange O South Shore Arts “A Christmas Story” art project O The Parker Family Look-a-Like Contest (Dress up as your favorite character from the moviel)

Media Sponsor

MEDIA Connecting with families

Hammond IS Happening! downtownhammond.org or call 219.512.4298 Downtown Hammond offers one-of-a-kind shopping, theatre, dining and nightlife! Shop/Support LOCAL: visit downtownhammond.org for ideas!

CHIPAR1012_CV3.indd 1

10/26/12 12:23 PM

Look inside for your

FREE Trial Coupon!

Any time is a good time for

SWIM LESSONS! No matter what the season, ANY time is the perfect time for swim lessons! Our pool is always warm, our teachers are always professionally trained, and our classe sizes are always small. We offer professional, year-round lessons for all abilities and ages.

Learn how, sign up now with a FREE TRIAL LESSON!â&#x201E;˘

New! Now with locations in Crystal Lake, Loves Park, Rockford, Skokie and Schaumburg! CHIPAR1012_CV4.indd 1

10/26/12 12:23 PM