Chicago Parent Spring Going Places 2014 by Chicago Parent

FREE

SPRING 2014

GOING PLACES

Great gas tank getaways

HOT ’HOODS

Sweet eats

The big TRAVEL issue

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The Subaru Forester Forester. Motor Trend’s 2014 Spor Sport/Utility of the Year. ®

The 2014 Subaru Forester® has done it again, winning the coveted 2014 Motor Trend Sport/ Utility of the Year® award. Subaru is the only three-time winner of this prestigious award and the only brand with four consecutive years of record-breaking sales. Come see why there’s a whole lot to love about Subaru. Love. It’s what makes a Subaru, a Subaru.

Forester. Well-equipped at $21,995* ®

Subaru and Forester are registered trademarks. *MSRP excludes destination and delivery chargers, tax, title, and registration fees. Dealer sets actual price. 2014 Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring pictured has an MSRP of $35,395.

Roto Subaru Arlington Heights RotoSubaru.com

Autobarn Subaru Countryside AutobarnSubaruofCountryside.com

Liberty Subaru Libertyville LibertyAutoCitySubaru.com

Gerald North Aurora Subaru North Aurora GeraldSubaruNorthAurora.com

Evanston Subaru Skokie EvanstonSubaru.com

Grand Subaru Bensenville GrandSubaru.com

Muller Subaru Highland Park MullerSubaru.com

Gary Lang Subaru McHenry GaryLangSubaru.com

Napleton Subaru Rockford NapletonRockfordSubaru.com

International Subaru Tinley Park SubaruofOrlandPark.com

Mid City Subaru Chicago SubaruChicago.com

Bill Jacobs Subaru Joliet BillJacobsSubaru.com

Gerald Subaru Naperville GeraldSubaruNaperville.com

Napleton’s Schaumburg Subaru Schaumburg NapletonsSchaumburgSubaru.com

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GOING PLACES

JOIN THE FUN YMCA Summer Camp and Programs

Enroll your child in a YMCA camp today! • Programs offered for preschoolers, kindergarteners, school age youth and teens • Professionally trained Staff • ACA accredited

Learn more at ymcachicago.org/camp 2014 DayCamp_ResidentCamp_Ad_ChicagoParent.indd 1

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• Healthy kids focus • Financial assistance available • Extended care available • Fun field trips /YMCAChicago @YMCAChicago

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GOING PLACES

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ChicagoParent.com

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

ART DIRECTOR Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNER Sky Hatter DIGITAL EDITOR

SPRING 2014

FEATURES 4 6

Gas tank getaways Around the world

Graham Johnston DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER

Jackie McGoey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Danielle Braff,

Megan Murray Elsener, Linda Marsicano, Kristy MacKaben, Kathy Woods AD PRODUCTION MANAGER Philip Soell AD DESIGN MANAGER Andrew Mead AD DESIGNERS Debbie Becker,

Maggie Acker DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden, Dawn Engelhardt, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner, Adrienne Smith CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING SALES

Walter Burden ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT NT

Jessica Doerr CIRCULATION MANAGER

Kathy Hansen

TRAVEL 9

■ Dollywood ■ Have baby? Will travel ■ Riviera Maya ■ 48 hours in Harbor Springs

FESTS 23

■ Listings by month on parades, fairs and festivals

MUSEUMS 311

■ Listings on museums, ms, including art, children’s, pecial interest, and free days historical, science, special

CITY 41

■ The Chop Shop op ■ 4 spots for or Mexican food ■ Lincoln Square ■ Eatalyy ■ Listings ngs on tours

ndmarks and landmarks

DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Alan Majeski

STAGE GE 55

CREDIT MANAGER

Debbie Zari COLLECTIONS Charlie Kellyy PUBLISHER Dan Haley VP/DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Andrew Johnston COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar

advertising@chicagoparent.com CLASSIFIED SALES

classified@chicagoparent.com CIRCULATION

circulation@chicagoparent.com

■R Redmoon’s n’s new indoor

space ■ Listings by month on dance,

music and theater

PLAY 65

■ Family fun in Rosemont mont ■ Listings on creative e studios,

lay centers eat ‘n’ play, indoor play and water parks, andd sports to watch

NATURE 79

■ Listings on botanic c

ries, gardens, conservatories, farms and ranches, and zoos

ON THE COVER ER

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

COVER KID: Daniel Karsbaek, 4, Hoffman Estates

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent Going Places, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302.

DESIGN: Claire Innes

ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elizabeth Diffin

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FAMILY FUN

PHOTO: Liz DeCarlo

FIND MORE E AT: ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

Fun and relaxation just a gas tank away

orget the mad dash to the airport, the travel delays, and the TSA pat-downs. Instead, take these easy, breezy gas tank getaways to semilocal destinations. Danielle Braff

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Blue Harbor Resort & Spa. This is the perfect weekend away with kids (or even better—as a family reunion with tons of cousins) because once you settle into your room, you never need to leave the resort for anything. The water park has enough to occupy the big kids (they’ve got four big-kid slides and interesting waterapparatus equipment which is great for kids 5-10), a large splash area for babies and even a small pool with two slides for toddlers and younger children. The resort also has an arcade, a kids club with activities scheduled throughout the day (usually for a minimal fee), storytime at night and s’mores during the summer. There is a spa, plus plenty of restaurants within a 5-mile radius of the resort, but if you don’t want to leave, you don’t have to. There’s

a snack area by the pool, and restaurants that serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. The hotel rooms themselves are nicer than your average waterpark hotel— and they’ve got everything from lofted to aquarium-themed suites. Location: 725 Blue Harbor Drive, Sheboygan, Wis. Miles from Chicago: 145 More info: blueharborresort. com Giant City Lodge. For the outdoorsy family, this is the perfect vacation. You’ll be staying in a cabin in the woods, and it’s incredibly peaceful. Out here, they’ve got great trails for hiking, rock formations for rappelling, gorgeous lakes, stunning natural bridges and tons of other outdoor activities for families. It’s similar in style to Starved Rock, but it’s less

of a tourist destination—so it’s quieter and calmer, rustic and peaceful. They’ve got a restaurant where fried chicken is the specialty, and everything is made from scratch. Location: 460 Giant City Lodge Road, Makanda, Ill. Miles from Chicago: 350 More info: giantcitylodge.com Pentwater. Visit this cute little town on the water, which has an adorable downtown, complete with a town center sporting classic ice-cream parlors, independent stores and mom-and-pop restaurants. Pentwater may be small, but it’s got lots going on in terms of parades, gallery strolls, pancake breakfasts and other community events that are open to the public. We’re especially partial to the annual Memorial Weekend Amateur Salmon & Trout Fish-

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GOING PLACES

ing Derby (May 24-26), where fishermen young and old gather to try to win more than $3,500 in prizes. For more information about their community events, check the website. Pentwater has some bed-and-breakfasts (Hexagon House Bed & Breakfast is one of the best) and a few hotels, but families would have better luck renting a little house or a cottage on the water for a more relaxed, spacious vacation. Location: Pentwater, Mich. Miles from Chicago: 230 More info: pentwater.org New Glarus. Otherwise known as America’s Little Switzerland, this exotic village in Wisconsin will make you feel as if you’ve actually left the country sans jetlag. Founded by the Swiss, it has plenty of Swiss festivals, restaurants, shops, music and events that keep its heritage alive. The Swiss

Historical Village & Museum is a 14-building compound that allows visitors to learn more about the founding of the area in 1845. Glarner Stube, a Swiss restaurant, is the perfect spot to grab lunch or dinner with the family. They’ve got tons on the menu kids will gobble up, such as fried cheese curds, real cinnamon sticks and cheese fondue. Parents will appreciate the selection of drafts from the local New Glarus brewing company. The New Glarus Bakery is always a hit for dessert, and it serves—no surprise here—Swiss fresh baked goodness including butter cookies, fancy Swiss pastries and apple fritters. While you’re there, you really should stay in one of their traditional Swiss hotels, such as the Chalet Landhaus. Location: New Glarus, Wis. Miles from Chicago: 145 More info: swisstown.com

Blue Harbor Resort Water Park

Rock formation at Giant City Lodge

Pentwater, Mich.

New Glarus, Wis. ChicagoParent.com C Ch hic icHarbor agoP ag oPResort aren ar ent. t.co .co com com Blue

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GOING PLACES

West Ridge/Rogers Park

Little India

University Village/Little Italy Chinatown

Passport to vacation fun without leaving Chicago

he legendary Phileas Fogg circumnavigated the globe in 80 days with his personal valet Passepartout. Few of us possess Fogg’s wealth and even fewer can claim a quaint French servant with whom to travel; but because we live in Chicago, it’s still possible to have an around-the-world travel experience. Chicago families have long enjoyed exploring the ethnic neighborhoods of the city. With spring and summer vacations just around the corner, it could be the perfect time to add a new

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twist to a familiar pastime. One summer, my son and I, along with another family, planned a travel adventure in the city that we dubbed “Around the World in Eighty Days,” after the famous Jules Verne novel. Throughout our weeks of travel, we read the book aloud and watched the funny movie version starring Jackie Chan. We made all our excursions on Fridays and managed to visit five or six different neighborhoods for a memorable summer that combined both learning and fun. It’s easy to plan your own trip, tailored to the needs of

your family. Whether you decide to visit one or two neighborhoods, or make it your spring or summer vacation theme, it can be an entertaining and enriching experience for everyone in the family. Here’s how to get started. Sit down with a list of countries and their corresponding neighborhoods and decide which of them you would most like to visit. Use a globe and a Chicago neighborhood map, marking possibilities with sticky notes or pins. Make as many choices as you think you will have time for. Here are a few suggestions:

Devon Ave.

China – Chinatown Greece – West Loop India – West Ridge/ Rogers Park Italy – University Village/ Little Italy Mexico – Little Village and Pilsen Poland – Avondale Sweden – Andersonville Vietnam – Uptown

To lend a touch of reality, it is fun to have passport photos taken at a nearby Walgreens or CVS. They cost about $12 (there are often coupons available online). Make a mock passport out of construction paper and glue the photo in-

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GOING PLACES

West Loop

Avondale

Andersonville

Little Village and Pilsen

side. Plan to have the children carry their passports with them and date or stamp the pages after each trip. Prior to the day of travel, try to learn something about the country you will be visit-

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ing. Make use of books, magazines and the Internet to gather information. If you are acquainted with a person whose ethnic background reflects the country you are interested in, or know someone who has visited the country, set up an interview by phone or in person and let the kids ask questions. Drive only if you must. It is much more fun to take trains and buses, and most neighborhoods are easily accessible by

public transportation. Plan to have lunch, or at least a snack, that includes something native to the country you are visiting. Be prepared for a variety of reactions. For example, our children quickly gobbled up the basket of warm, chewy naan the waiter brought to our table at a restaurant on Devon Avenue; but when he showed up with bubble tea, they stared at the milky substance and tapioca pearls at the bottom of the glass with apprehension. The first sweet sip was greeted with tentative smiles. The second taste brought some of the pearls up through the straws and into

their mouths. My son’s eyes opened wide as he pushed the glass in my direction. Consider allowing your children to purchase a small souvenir at one of the shops. Buy a postcard and mail it to a friend. Encourage them to keep a journal in which they can write about or draw some of the highlights of their trip. It is also fun to take photos and put them into small keepsake albums to remind the children of their travels. For help in planning peruse Lonely Planet’s new Chicago edition (February 2014) in print or e-book at lonelyplanet.com (free at the public library). Maps and pamphlets are free at the Chicago Cultural Center and excellent, detailed information is available at choosechicago.com (click on neighborhoods). Kathy Woods

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GOING PLACES

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Day trips to week-long getaways

travel

In this section 10 Dollywood 13 Have baby? Will travel 16 Riviera Maya 19 Harbor Springs

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Dollywood: TRAVEL

Good, clean, kitschy, affordable fun

ollywood. For most Chicagoans, the name conjures up images of good ol’ boys wearin’ overalls and chewin’ straw with a mouth that’s missing a few teeth. But the reality is that this amusement park in east Tennessee is more charming than tacky and it has something for everyone, from the mini-coaster for preschoolers to the steel loop-to-loop coaster for thrill-seekers to a chapel that offers Sunday services for the Bible belters. The theme here is definitely country, with gospel performers and bluegrass bands, rides named the “Tennessee Tornado” and food sold at Dogs N Taters. It’s country in another way, too: the prices are reasonable. An all-you-can eat meal (and there is PLENTY to eat) sells for $15.99 for adults and $8.99 for kids. Unlike many other theme parks that push their products at every opportunity, there is no over-selling of Dolly Parton here. The legendary country music singer whose name adorns the park is not omnipresent once you get inside. The loud speakers do not blare her music and Dolly Parton CDs are not on sale everywhere. There is

a replica of the one-room cabin where she grew up and the notto-be-missed Chasing Rainbows Museum, which tells the story of her life in words, pictures, music and costume displays. If you’re looking for kitsch, buy a ticket to Dolly’s other Pigeon Forge attraction, Dixie Stampede. This is a sort-of country-themed Medieval Times. Instead of knights jousting, you’ll see some talented horses and their trick riding humans. And there’s a whole lot of country silliness, including pig races and ostrich races, and a baffling magic trick that had us talking the whole way home trying to figure out how they

got that woman from one barrel into another. If you go to Dixie Stampede, go hungry. The Tennesseesized meal at the show includes soup, a yummy biscuit, a whole roasted chicken (really), half an ear of corn on the cob, a side of roast pork, half a baked potato and a huge apple turnover for dessert. Drinks are unlimited and alcohol-free. (No alcohol is served anywhere on Dolly’s property. Guns are banned too, in case you were wondering.) There’s also plenty of kitschiness to be found in the towns of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, both of which are reminiscent of the neon sights of the

Dollywood, dollywood.com Vacation Rentals, wyndhamvacationrentals.com

■

■ Wyndham

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Wisconsin Dells strip. There are plenty of hotels to be found, but if you prefer to give your kids a taste of nature in this beautiful country, opt to rent a cabin instead. They’re available all over the area, from condos in town to mountainside lodges that are more mansion than cabin. I visited as a guest of Wyndham Rentals, a branch of the Wyndham hotel chain that manages private homes for short-term rentals. Wyndham is new to east Tennessee, but it has a wealth of rental options, from studios to places with 12+ bedrooms and baths. The house where I stayed, Majestic Overlook, has 12 bedrooms and a killer view of the Smoky Mountains. Best of all, all Wyndham properties have full kitchens and a washer and dryer—two features that make traveling with kids so much easier. The nine-plus hour drive from Chicago to the Gatlinburg area of east Tennessee is doable in a long day of driving, but I don’t recommend it if you’re planning to stay in a cabin in the woods. The roads are narrow, dark and twisty, which can be a challenge. Cindy Richards

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GOING PLACES

Camp

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Naturally

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WISCONSIN’S CRANBERRY COUNTRY

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GOING PLACES

USE YOUR

E D I S T OU VOICE R –

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Harbor Springs

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GOING PLACES

Have baby?

o often new moms find that vacationing with a infant isn’t worth the hassle: dragging tons an o equipment, kids’ clubs where children have of to be potty-trained to participate and issues to w feeding young ones who aren’t quite with d ffor finger food. There’s no reason to miss out just ready because you have a baby in tow; these hotels have you covered.

Will travel

Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa This Saint Lucia all-inclusive property has an onsite nursery staffed by CPR-certified nannies and a special family-friendly wing with mini-fridges in each room perfect for storing breast milk and formula. At mealtime, chefs happily puree fruits and veggies per mom’s specifications for spoon-fed babies. The shallow, zero-entry splash pool has small fountains and waterfalls

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for tots to crawl around and cool off. New moms can head to the spa while baby naps to experience the mommy massage, which improves circulation and decreases swelling. Another bonus: The resort is just five minutes from Hewanorra Airport, so families have just a quick jaunt before putting fussy ones down for a nap. cbay resort.com

Generations Resort Leave the gear at home! This resort on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico provides the essentials: stroller, pack-n-play and crib, bottle warmer and sterilizer, made-to-order baby food, baby monitor, changing table

with bathtub and pint-sized bathrobes. No parent wants a bored baby while hanging in the room, so borrow toys and books at no fee for 24 hours. The Baby CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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The Original Western Vacation Bar W Guest Ranch Whitefish, MT 866-828-2900

With over three thousand acres available for horseback riding and year-round outdoor activities, the Bar W is ready to treat you with true Montana hospitality.

www.thebarw.com C Lazy U Ranch Granby, CO 970-887-3344

C Lazy U is Colorado’s premier guest ranch perfect for families. The Ranch features luxurious accommodations, ﬁne dining a full-service spa and 8,500 acres of adventure.

www.clazyu.com Colorado Trails Ranch Durango, CO 800-323-3833

Fun-ﬁlled adventures await you at Colorado Trails Ranch near Durango. Enjoy horseback riding, ﬁshing, rafting & children/teen programs.

www.coloradotrails.com Elkhorn Ranch Tucson, AZ • 520-822-1040

Go guest ranching this spring! Riding and relaxation for all ages. Book for spring 2014 by 12/10/13 and mention ERSTOCKINGSTUFFER to receive Elkhorn T-shirts for your family, while supplies last!

www.elkhornranch.com Lazy L&B Ranch Dubois, WY 800-453-9488

Voted “Top Ranch for Kids & Teens” in 2013 we promise a memorable family vacation. Great riding, pool, hot tub, riﬂe range, petting zoo and more! Where kids can run free and parents can relax.

www.lazylb.com

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The Historic UXU Ranch Wapiti, WY 307-587-2143

The Historic UXU Ranch is an exclusive Family Dude Ranch, our priority is providing our guests with what they want. A stunning setting, we have 9 historic log cabins within 15 minutes of Yellowstone National Park.

www.uxuranch.com Horseshoe Canyon Ranch Jasper, AR 800-480-9635

H.C.R provides a central location, longer seasons, and activities including Horseback riding, Rock Climbing, River trips, and one of the longest zip lines in the U.S

www.horseshoecanyonduderanch.com Western Pleasure Guest Ranch Sandpoint, ID 888-863-9066

Riding into the future with roots from a solid past! This ﬁfth generation family ranch offers true western hospitality surrounded by the scenic beauty of Northern Idaho.

www.westernpleasureranch.com The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch Shell, WY • 800-354-8637

This 100-year old, 300,000 acre upscale working cattle, riding & adventure ranch East of Cody and Yellowstone National Park. Is great for families.

www.thehideout.com Rancho de los Caballeros Wickenburg, AZ 800-684-5030

Saddle up the whole family and head to Rancho de los Caballeros in sunny Wickenburg, AZ, where guests young and old can enjoy a wide range of western activities and traditional resort amenities.

www.ranchodeloscaballeros.com

866-399-2339 3/7/14 3:58 PM

HAVE BABY? WILL TRAVEL

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

New to Chicagoland!

Sports + Hero Training + Yoga The Hard Rock Hotel Chicago Beach Lounge, staffed with a high ratio of nannies to infants, provides a shady area to enjoy the beach, climb, slide and dig with pails and shovels. And Generations will never leave baby hungry. Suites come with fully-equipped kitchens and 24-hour room service delivers milk or food any time of day or night. Also parents needn’t travel home with clothes covered in spit-up: Generations will dry clean up to five items per person 24 hours before check out gratis.

The Hard Rock Hotel Chicago

Why go far from home? The Hard Rock’s Nursing Mothers Amenity Program makes it easier for breastfeeding mothers to spend a well-deserved night

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Overnight & day camp options for 2nd-9th graders downtown. For $30, essentials such as a hospital grade pump, disposable bra pads, a mini-fridge to store milk, ice packs for transportation and a microwave to steam clean pump parts will be delivered to the guest room. Proceeds from the program benefit local families of children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. hardrockhotelchicago. com. Heading somewhere not on the list? Not to worry. Babies Travel Lite will provide every convenience a family needs. From diapers to safety gates to medical supplies, this service delivers to destinations worldwide so your baby can, in fact, “travel lite.” babiestravellite.com Linda Marsicano

Personalized 3-sport curriculum with 15+ choices Focus on physical, mental, and emotional talents Archery - Badminton - Baseball - Basketball Cheerleading - Fencing - Football - Golf Lacrosse - Rugby - Soccer - Softball - Swimming Track & Field - Volleyball - Wrestling In Carol Stream at Glenbard North High School Session 1:July 25-28 and Session 2: July 28-Aug 1 Camp meals are organic and unprocessed

matrixsportscamp.com Enter GOING50 for $50 off camp tuition Spring 2014 • goingplaces 15

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GOING PLACES

he Riviera Maya section of Mexico is an astounding stretch of land that runs 75 miles along the Mexican Caribbean coastline and ends just south of Tulum, where breathtaking ocean views meet ancient Mayan ruins. While the world-class beach is enough entertainment in itself, a family vacation to this picturesque destination can be so much more than a sunny getaway—it abounds with cultural and ecological wonders that children (and adults) of all ages will find fascinating. The following resorts offer the best of both worlds: beachy, family-friendly fun along with on-site or close access to opportunities for cultural enrichment:

Dreams Riviera Cancun caters to families, and it’s easy to see why plenty of guests never leave this gorgeous, allinclusive pampering property. Yet a leisurely 40-minute stroll down the spectacular beach leads to Puerto Morelos, where local artists and musicians gather in the traditional Mexican town square and authentic fare awaits. At its sister resort Dreams Tulum, Mayan ruins are but five minutes away and a must-see. Most prominent among the archaic structures is the Castillo, or castle, perched on the edge of a 40-foot limestone cliff overlooking the water. dreamsresorts. com The Occidental Grand Xcaret, which boasts a rare saltwater pool among four others, is adjacent to Xcaret, an eco-archeological park that includes replicas of ancient Mayan villages and performances that relive

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Most prominent among the archaic structures is the Castillo, or castle, perched on the edge of a 40-foot limestone cliff overlooking the water. the history of Mexico. Since just one visit isn’t enough to experience the 40 cultural attractions the park has to offer, choose Occidental’s Unlimited Xcaret Xperience. occidentalhotels.com; xcaret.com. Discerning luxury travelers opt for one of the several five-star resorts that share the Mayakoba complex: the Fairmont, Rosewood and Banyan Tree. Join the interactive scavenger hunt along the Mayakoba

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GOING PLACES

More than fun in the sun at

Riviera Maya

Nature Trail to search for more than 200 species of indigenous wildlife or tour six miles of waterways with Mayakoba’s on-site biologists to learn about the native wildlife and environmental conservation efforts. mayakoba.com Known for their over-sized Fisher-Price Family Suites and swim-up rooms accessible from the pool, the three Azul Hotels by Karisma in the Riviera Maya—Azul Beach, Azul Sensatori and Azul Fives—also are home to the Mini-Mayan educational program. The program immerses children in the culture by offering Mayan cooking and music classes and encourages kids to tell stories through painting on tiles just as the ancient Mayans did. Spanish lessons are included for visitors of all ages. karisma hotels.com Linda Marsicano

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GOING PLACES

Bluffdale

Vacation Farm Family resort An action filled vacation for the whole family. Set along the majestic bluffs overlooking the Illinois river valley, historic Bluffdale Farm features activities from riding horses, boating, canoes & kayaks to fishing trips, exotic animal farm to hayrides, bonfires and gathering eggs and harvesting fresh fruit & vegetables. Meals are served family style with bountiful country cooking. www.bluffdalevacationfarm.com bluffdale@irtc.net 217.983-2854 R.R.#1 Box 145 Eldred, IL 62027

Girlfriend Getaway

Grab the girls and get out of town for a girlfriend getaway that will leave you reconnected, relaxed and asking to return.

GIRLFRIEND GETAWAY

S TA R T I N G AT

119

PER NIGHT

To book your escape, call (800) 709 - 1323 theabbeyresort.com | 269 Fontana Blvd. Fontana, WI 53125 18 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 2014

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TRAVEL

48 hours in Harbor Springs

f you haven’t been to the 100-year-old waterfront resort town of Harbor Springs, Mich., start planning your trip now—even if you only have a weekend to spare. This quaint, family-friendly spot is loaded with charm and activities that make for a lively yet relaxing vacation. My family, including 5-year-old twins, visited for just 48 hours and recommend the following itinerary:

Friday

7 a.m.: Up and at ‘em! Get on the road bright and early for the nearly six-hour drive, which you’ll find totally worth it upon arrival. 1 p.m.: Arrive at Boyne Highlands Resort (boyne.com), easily the most kid-friendly hotel in the vicinity, with family suites and a bevy of things to do for all ages. Take a scenic ride on the chair lift to get a good lay of the land, then head toward downtown Harbor Springs. 2 p.m.: Grab lunch to go (try the Trainwreck sandwich) at Gurney’s Harbor Bottle Shop—a liquor store also known for its exquisite sandwiches—and head to the downtown public beach to catch some sun. 4 p.m.: After lounging on the white sand, browse the unique shops featuring Michigan-made products such as: The American Spoon, specializing in preserves, sauces and salsas; Tom’s Mom’s Cookies, with 17 varieties of soft, chewy cookies weighing in at 3 ounces each; and the beautiful Boyer Glassworks Studio and Gallery. 6 p.m.: Dine at The New York Restaurant overlooking Little Traverse Bay for dinner, then stop for dessert at Yummies, which has more than 50 flavors of ice cream and gelato. Dusk: It’s Family Movie Night at Boyne on the Main Lodge lawn, where families enjoy kidfriendly flicks and free popcorn.

Saturday

9 a.m.: Hit downtown Harbor Springs again for breakfast at Mustang Wendy’s, a classic serving up Tex-Mex and Western fare. The chili braised beef short

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caption, see page xx.

rib hash and breakfast burrito are both gems. Noon: Lunch at the Garden Café at Pondhill Farm where farm-to-plate food is served in a historic barn overlooking the gorgeous property. Afterward the kids can feed pigs, cows, chicken and geese in the Livestock Barn. Don’t leave without trying out the Squash Rocket, a giant slingshot, to sling squash out into the fields. 2 p.m.: Cool off at the Boyne pool and chill out at the resort. Practice shooting hoops on the basketball courts, take a tennis lesson or tour the resort by bike

or horse. 6:30 p.m.: If your visit is in July or August and the family enjoys live musical shows, The Young Americans Dinner Theatre, featuring hand-picked talent from across the country, is on site at Boyne and an absolute must-see. Or get ready for a fabulous view and dinner on the water at Stafford’s Pier Restaurant, built on original pilings over the harbor. Dusk: Enjoy dessert and cocktails on the patio of the Slopeside Lounge at the resort while the kids roast marshmal-

lows and make s’mores by the bonfire on the adjacent lawn.

Sunday

9 a.m.: Breakfast is at Mary Ellen’s Place, where locals and tourists peruse their newspaper of choice (they sell out-of-town papers) and munch on hash browns stuffed with sour cream and cheese. Almost time to pack up and leave: Hit the Little Traverse Bay Restaurant to fuel up for the journey home. Then lament why you didn’t plan to stay in Harbor Springs longer. Linda Marsicano

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20 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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GOING PLACES

May 2014 is

the

BABY

issue

Don’t miss the due date! Reserve space by March 31 Do you have a message for new and expectant Moms & Dads? We do, too! Reserve your ad space in this big Baby issue that will “deliver” on April 21st. Contact your Sales Rep today to reserve ad space! ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

Congratulations CGS! Latin Certamen Team 1St place Chicago Regional Junior High Division

In June 2014 CGS will celebrate our first 8th Grade graduation. Walter Payton, Jones, Lane Tech, Lincoln Park IB and St. Ignatius are among the High Schools to which our CGS students have been accepted. www.chicagogrammar.org 312‐944‐5600

Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin Chicago, IL 60610

22 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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Always a reason to celebrate

fests

In this section 26 March and April 28 May

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FESTS

Dare to go dark

n March 29, the lights will go out in Tokyo, and Paris, and Dubai. And they’ll also go out in Batavia. It’s all part of a worldwide initiative known as Earth Hour, which was launched in 2007 in Sydney, Australia, as an attempt to unify people in their desire to protect our planet.

Two years later, in 2009, Batavia joined photography. Another popular option is the in and decided to turn the relatively subDrum Circle, where people of all ages join dued event into a party—and expanded it together to improvise and make music. into Earth Two-and-a-Half Hours. “We treat it like a celebration, but there is “We just wanted to take it to the next a certain mindfulness to it,” Burnham says. step: Look at all the great things that we “Who are we and what are our goals? How can do in the dark,” says Carolyn Burnham do we want to treat ourselves and the world of the Batavia Environmental Commission. around us?” “We’ve turned it into a celebration instead To that end, other options include yoga of something quiet, a celebration of what by candlelight, tai chi, guided meditation we can do without power.” and a gong bath (“no water involved”). And The “celebration” for those who are curious includes games in the about whether they’re more dark for kids 2 and up, like a badger or a puma Earth Hour a storyteller, stargaz(no, it’s not a Facebook ■ 7-9:30 p.m. March 29 ing with the Fox Valley quiz), there will be a place Astronomical Society, to learn your animal totem. ■ Eastside Community Center and “Art in the Dark” Burnham says the idea is ■ 14 N. Van Buren St., Batavia

to get people to think about the world differently and consider how they can better care for our planet. “There are so many unique experiences that they can try out here,” Burnham says. “But mostly we want them to have fun.” Speaking of fun, the Batavia Creamery is staying open late and offering $1 off each item purchased. The party continues until 10 p.m. for everyone who mentions they’re coming from Earth Hour. One last thing: Bring a flashlight. Although there’s a certain amount of natural light, and the building’s mandated safety lighting, you might be surprised at just how dark it gets when you dare to turn out the lights. Elizabeth Diffin

■ bataviaparks.org

24 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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w o N s n a l p s ’ e r k a a e y M o visit this t th

7 1 7 t s u g u A th

Fun for the Whole Family! • 11 FREE Entertainment Stages • Exotic Animals • Magic Shows • Auto & Horse Races • 10 Days of Concerts • Great Fair Food! See Illinois State Fair coupon in this issue for Special Deal on All Day Unlimited Carnival Rides! For more information, please visit our website • www.IllinoisStateFair.info State of Illinois • Department of Agriculture

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FESTS

Norwegian Constitution Day Parade, see page 29. MARCH

Neighborhoods of the World Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago navypier.com Runs through April 13 Enjoy live music, dance performances, cuisine and folk art from ethnic Chicago communities. Hours: Noon-3 p.m. Sundays. Admission: Free.

5801 N. Pulaski Road, Chicago (312) 744-5472 chicagoparkdistrict.com March 22-23 See the entire maple syrup-making process. Take a walk through the sugar bush, enjoy storytelling, make a craft and taste real maple syrup fresh off the fire. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free.

APRIL

Chicago Flower and Garden Show

Bunny Bonanza

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago chicagoflower.com March 15-23

Welles Park 2333 W. Sunnyside Ave., Chicago (312) 742-7511 chicagoparkdistrict.com April 9

Garden displays, classes, demonstrations and marketplace. Kids’ Activity Garden includes an indoor playground and a creepy-crawly bug zoo. Home Depot offers a daily project. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. SundayWednesday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Admission: $17 weekday, $19 weekend; $5 kids 4-12.

Maple Syrup Festival North Park Village Nature Center

26 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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Kids 5 and under can enjoy an egg hunt, inflatable, craft project, entertainment and photo opportunity. Hours: 11 a.m.-noon. Admission: $6.

Easter Egg Hunt Oakbrook Terrace Park District Heritage Park 1 S 325 Ardmore Ave., Oakbrook Terrace

(630) 627-6100 obtpd.org April 12 Kids seek eggs filled with candy and prizes. At the Bunny Breakfast, enjoy breakfast and activities and take a picture with the Easter Bunny. Hours: Egg Hunt at 10 a.m.; breakfast at 10:30 a.m. Admission: $5 egg hunts; $20 breakfast, $15 resident breakfast, $10 kids 2 years old, free kids under 2.

Breakfast with the Bunny Al Hattendorf Center 225 E. Elk Grove Blvd., Elk Grove Village elkgroveparks.org April 12 Enjoy breakfast and entertainment. All children receive a goody bag. Seating is limited. Hours: 9 a.m. Admission: $14 kids; $10 adult.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Bird Haven Greenhouse 225 N. Gougar Road, Joliet (815) 741-7278 ext. 5 jolietpark.org April 12 Enjoy a family-friendly breakfast,

Easter egg roll and a visit with the Easter Bunny. Hours: 8:30-10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.-noon. Admission: $10, free kids 2 and under. Reservations only, no walk-ins.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Wilder Mansion 211 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst (630) 993-8674 epd.org April 12 Enjoy a kid-friendly buffet breakfast, have photos taken with the Easter Bunny and take part in the Bunny Hop. Hours: 9:30-11 a.m. Admission: $27, $22 resident.

Beecher Easter Egg Hunt Firemen’s Park 673 Penfield St., Beecher (708) 946-2261 beecherchamber.com April 12 Kids 10 and under. Hours: 11 a.m. Admission: Free.

Breakfast with the Bunny Brookfield Zoo 8400 W. 31st St., Brookfield

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FESTS (708) 688-8000 czs.org April 12-13 and 19

photos after the hunt. Hours: 10 a.m. Admission: Free.

out of recycled material. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Families can enjoy breakfast and meet Mr. and Mrs. Bunny. The band Banjo Buddies entertains. Call for reservations. Hours: 9 or 11 a.m. Admission: $40.95, $28.95 kids 3-11; $29.95 members, $21.95 member kids; free kids 2 and under.

ReptileFest

Breakfast with the Bunny

University of Illinois-Chicago Physical Education building 901 W. Roosevelt Road, Chicago (312) 409-4456 chicagoherp.org April 12-13

Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org April 18-19

Easter Egg Hunt at Batavia Park District

Features hundreds of animals for visitors to touch, hold and look at. No animals are for sale. Familyoriented event with lots of activities for kids. Experts will answer questions. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Check website.

West Main Community Park 40W101 W. Main St., Batavia (630) 879-5235 bataviaparks.org April 12 Kids are divided into age groups and at separate hunt areas. Bring a basket. Includes an appearance by the Easter Bunny. Hours: 10 a.m. Admission: Free; bring non-perishable food item.

Homewood Flossmoor Lucky Egg Hunt Irwin Park 18120 Highland Ave., Homewood hfparks.com April 12 Kids 6 and under can hunt for eggs. The Bunny will be available for

Kaneland Community Fine Arts Festival Kaneland High School 47W326 Keslinger Road, Maple Park (630) 365-5100 ext. 180 kanelandartsinitiative.org April 13 The festival is appropriate for all ages and includes a special area for kids 5 and under. Professional performances and workshops run throughout the day, while the High School Art Club provides balloon animals and face painting and the Science Club makes instruments

A springtime buffet featuring a visit from the Easter Bunny. Hours: 9-11 a.m. Admission: $42, $33 member; $34 kids, $28 member kids; free kids under 3.

Bunny Brunch Lambs Farm I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville (847) 362-4636 lambsfarm.org April 18-19 Enjoy a buffet and then take a walk to the Bunny Patch, where kids can do crafts, activities and take a photo with the bunny. Call (847) 362-5050 for reservations. Hours: Seatings at 9, 10:30 a.m. and noon. Admission: $16.95, $7.95 kids 23 months and younger for activities.

(630) 668-5161 cantigny.org April 19 Enjoy a breakfast buffet, a photo with the Easter Bunny and strolling magician. Each child receives complimentary bunny ears. Hours: 9-10:30 a.m. Admission: $24, $16 kids 3-12, free kids 2 and under; free parking.

Easter Egg Hunt at Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org April 19 Hunt for eggs, get a picture taken with the Easter bunny, enjoy balloon twisting and see baby animals. Families with kids 10 and under. Hours: Easter Egg Hunt at 11 a.m.; activities at 10:30 a.m. at McCormick Museum south lawn. Admission: Free; $5 parking.

Easter Egg Roundup

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny

The Children’s Farm at the Center 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park (708) 361-3650 thecenterpalos.org/farm April 19

Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton

Collect and decorate an egg, ride a horse, visit the newborn animals

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Spring 2014 • goingplaces 27

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FESTS and visit the Easter Bunny. Advance tickets required. Hours: 10 a.m. Admission: $20.

Easter Egg-Stravaganza Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago (312) 742-2000 lpzoo.org April 19 Meet the Easter bunny, hunt for eggs and visit animals. Light refreshments served. Hours: Check website. Admission: $20, $15 members; $40 kids 2-12, $35 member kids; free kids 1 and under.

Park District of Highland Park Annual Egg Hunt “Eggstravaganza” West Ridge Park 636 Ridge Road, Highland Park (847) 579-3120 pdhp.org April 19 Gather eggs filled with toys and surprises. Hours: 10 a.m. Admission: Free.

Egg Hunt Frontier Sports Complex 3380 Cedar Glade Drive, Naperville (630) 848-5000 napervilleparks.org April 19 Kids 1-8 can enjoy an egg hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Only children 2 or younger may have help from a parent. The Naperville Jaycees will be accepting donations of non-perishable food items. Hours: 9 a.m. Admission: Free.

Swim with the Bunny Pavilion Aquatic Center 1000 Wellington Ave., Elk Grove Village (847) 593-6248 elkgroveparks.org April 19 Meet the Easter Bunny, collect Easter eggs in the pool and trade them in for prizes. Hours: 1-3 p.m. Admission: $10, $5 adults

Wilder Park Easter Egg Hunt

Worth Park District Brunch with the Bunny Charles M. Christensen Terrace Centre 11500 S. Beloit Ave, Worth (708) 448-7080 worthparkdistrict.org April 19 Includes music, an inflatable moon jump and a chance to get a picture with the bunny. Hours: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission: Check website.

Worth Park District Easter Egg Hunt Charles M. Christensen Terrace Centre 11500 S. Beloit Ave., Worth (708) 448-7080 worthparkdistrict.org April 19 Thousands of eggs will be hidden throughout the playground. Includes music and photos with with Bunny. Bring your own basket and camera. Kids 12 and under. Hours: 11 a.m. Admission: Check website.

Easter Brunch Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org April 20

Earth Day Celebration

Wilder Park 175 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 rglmarketingforthearts.com May 3-4

James “Pate” Philip State Park/Bartlett Nature Center 2054 W. Stearns Road, Bartlett (847) 608-3100 bartlettparks.org April 27 Includes games, activities, music, food and a native plant sale. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Admission: Check website.

Springtime on the Farm Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com April 27 Experience a busy spring on a working 1880s farm by helping till fields, plant a vegetable garden, visit baby animals or help with spring cleaning. Features kids’ crafts, refreshments and wagon shuttle. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Admission: $4 person, $16 family, free kids under 3.

MAY

Long Grove Chocolate Festival

Easter Brunch

The village is transformed into a chocolate lover’s paradise. Enjoy live music, food and wine pairings and children’s activities. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $5.

Brookfield Zoo 8400 W. 31st St., Brookfield (708) 688-8355 czs.org April 20 Easter brunch buffet features an appearance by Mr. and Mrs. Bunny, who will be available for photos. Music by the Banjo Buddies. Reservations required. Hours: 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Admission: $49.95, $35.95 kids 3-11, $39.95 members, $29.95 member kids; free kids 2 and under.

Easter Egg Brunch Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org/calendar/event/ easter_brunch April 20

Kids 1-10 can hunt for eggs and visit with the Easter Bunny. Bring your camera and a basket. Hours: 10 a.m. Admission: Free.

Enjoy brunch in Nichols Hall. Bring a basket and hop to the Rose Garden after brunch and join in the Easter egg hunt. Hours: 11

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their own kite. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

Brunch featuring prime rib, madeto-order omelet, pasta station and more. Hours: Seatings at 9:30 a.m., noon, and 3 p.m. Admission: $58, $49 members; $40 kids, $34 member kids; free kids under 4.

Wilder Park 175 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst (630) 993-8901 epd.org April 19

28 goingplaces • Spring 2014

a.m. and 1 p.m. Admission: $38, $30 members; $29 kids 3-12, $24 member kids; free kids 2 and under.

Old McHenry Road and Robert Parker Coffin Road, Long Grove (847) 634-0888 visitlonggrove.com May 2-4

Cinco de Mayo Festival 26th Street and Kostner Avenue, Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com May 2-4

Art in the Park in Elmhurst

A show of fine arts and crafts. Enjoy an array of other activities including kids’ art activities, School of Rock with performances by local musicians, a food vendor court, and gourmet food gift section. Wilder Mansion will be open for coffee, pastries, and lunch provided by Café Amano both days. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

MayFest Copernicus Foundation 5216 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago polishmayfest.com May 3-4 This family festival includes Polish food favorites and live music. Families can visit the “Krakus Kids Stage” with live children’s theater, dance, music, magic, balloon twisting, face painting and other special entertainment. Festival also offers traditional folk dance performances, cooking classes and a Festival Marketplace. Hours: Noon-9:30 p.m. May 3, noon-9 p.m. May 4. Admission: Check website.

Backyards for Nature Fair Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com/spv May 4 A native plant sale and a backyard ecology fair for the whole family, including birdhouse building, free wildflower seedlings, games and activities in the Kid’s Garden. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Admission: Free.

Community celebration in the Little Village neighborhood features food, live music and activities for kids and families. Hours: 6-11 p.m. May 2; 2-11 p.m. May 3-4. Admission: Free.

Stages, Sights and Sounds

Chicago Kids & Kites Festival

A global performance festival for families. This year’s festival features 48 performances by master puppeteers and storytellers from around the world exploring the animal kingdom. Performances take place in downtown Chicago and Lincoln Park. Hours: Visit website. Admission: $11, $5 kids; $2 more if purchased at door.

Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park West Montrose Drive, Chicago (312) 744-3316 chicagokidsandkites.us May 3 The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events provides free kits for kids to design and create

Chicago Humanities Festival 500 N. Dearborn, Suite 825, Chicago (312) 454-9509 chicagohumanities.org May 5-24

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FESTS Mayfest

justplay.org May 17-18

3100 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago (773) 665-4682 starevents.com May 16-18

Dozens of interactive sports and performances and a 5K run & walk. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free.

Music, festival favorites, local vendors at the Merchant Square, and interactive games and entertainment. Hours: 5-10 p.m. May 16, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. May 17-18. Admission: $10.

Civil War Days at Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St., Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.museum May 17-18

Earth Day-Arbor Day Festival The Konow Farm 16849 S. Cedar Road, Homer Glen (708) 301-0632 homerglen.org May 17

At a Civil War encampment, visitors can meet famous characters of the past and become immersed in history. A battle is held each day at 2:30 p.m. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $15, $10 kids 4-12; in advance $10, $5 kids 4-12; free kids 3 and under.

Children’s activities include crafts, petting zoo, jump zone, storytelling, hay rides and pony rides. Exhibits will feature antique cars, eco-vehicles, tractors and a green market. Many unique animals will be participating, including Birds of Prey from Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab and Education. Enjoy a special presentation with Jim Necsi’s Cold Blooded Creatures. Hours: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

Elmhurst Museum Day Downtown Elmhurst (630) 833-1457 elmhursthistory.org May 18 Join three Elmhurst museums (Elmhurst Art Museum, Elmhurst Historical Museum and Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art) to celebrate International Museum Day. Park at one museum and ride a complimentary trolley to each location for free admission, exhibits, kids’ activities and refreshments. Hours: 1-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Homewood Railroad Day Homewood Auditorium 2010 Chestnut Road, Homewood (708) 798-3000 homesweethomewood.com May 17 Includes vendors featuring model train layouts, antiques, historic items and train accessories. This year includes an interactive area for kids that features three model Lionel train layouts for them to drive. Families will have the opportunity to ride on Little Obie, a scale model of a Canadian National locomotive that comes with a flatcar and a caboose. Attendees can visit Homewood’s Rail Watching Platform and the Homewood Train Station. Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free.

May Fair Festival Chicago Waldorf School 1300 W. Loyola Ave., Chicago (773) 465-2662 chicagowaldorf.org May 17 The festival features Maypole dancing, live entertainment and music, games, food, kid-focused activities like Jump Rope Braiding Machines, craft-making, and unique vendors and exhibitors of handmade artisanal goods. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Check website.

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Norwegian Constitution Day Parade Hodges Park 20 S. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge nnleague.org May 18

Long Grove Chocolate Festival, see page 28.

Parade includes local marching bands, folk dancers, singers and various Scandinavian groups in national costumes. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

YEA! Festival

Spring Celebration

Evanston yeaevanston.org May 17

Lake View Nature Center 17W063 Hodges Road, Oakbrook Terrace (630) 941-8747 May 17

Woofstock & Pet Parade

Enjoy fun activities, live animals, self-guided hike, paddle boating and more. Hours: Noon-4 p.m. Admission: Free; donations appreciated.

All animals are welcome in the Pet Parade. Plus, dog contests, petfriendly vendors and demonstrations. All dogs must be on a leash and all vaccinations current. Pet Parade registration 1-1:30 p.m.; dog contest registration, 1-2 p.m. Hours: 1-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

YEA! (Young Evanston Artists) Festival is a festival of visual art in which all Evanston schools, preschool through high school, are invited to exhibit students’ artwork. A performing arts stage features music and dance by Evanston kids. The event takes place on the sidewalks of the Chicago/Dempster business district. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

JustPlay! Rec & Sports Festival Carol Stream Town Center Gary Avenue and Lies Road, Carol Stream

10925 W. La Porte Road, Mokena mokenapark.com May 18

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FESTS

30 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 2014

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Discover the world around you

museums

In this section 32 Art 33 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 35 Historical/Regional 36 Science 38 Special Interest

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MUSEUMS ART

Admission: $5, $3 seniors and students, free kids under 5. Free on Friday.

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

Museum of Contemporary Art

A great place for families to begin their visit is the Ryan Education Center. Admission to this part of the museum is always free. The Family Room in the education center includes hands-on activities. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss the exhibition The {Not So} Still Life, where you can create your own still life. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and Friday; 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday (Family Room open until 5 p.m.); 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $23, $17 kids 14 and up, students and seniors 65+, free kids 13 and under.

Elmhurst Art Museum 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 elmhurstartmuseum.org Bring the whole family to see work from contemporary artists. It offers art classes, Spring camps and free artist-led workshops. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago (312) 280-2660 mcachicago.org Exhibit halls are filled with brightly colored artwork and sculptures even young kids will enjoy. Stroller tours offered first Wednesday of the month. Family Days are held on the second Saturdays of the month (September-May) and include hands-on art activities led by Chicago artists; admission is free for families with children 12 and under. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. WednesdaySunday. Closed Monday. Admission: Suggested admission: $12, $7 students with ID and seniors, free kids 12 and under, members and military personnel. Free Tuesday for Illinois residents.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park Governors State University 1 University Parkway, University Park (708) 534-4486 govst.edu/Nathan_Manilow_Sculpture_Park/ The park includes 28 works. Hours: Dawn to dusk, daily. Admission:

Adler Planetarium, see page 36.

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Take an interactive trip through Japan in our new hands-on exhibit! www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org/japan 32 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 2014

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MUSEUMS Free admission and parking, fees for some activities.

Plus, a life-size “Operation” table and a piano you can play with your feet. Special Needs Family Nights take place the last Wednesday of the month. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Closed on Monday, except for some school holidays. Admission: $7 adults and kids, $6 seniors.

National Museum of Mexican Art 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago (312) 738-1503 nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org This is a small museum that can be a great way to introduce younger children to art. Family Sundays are free, year-round, hands-on art programs (reservations required). Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySunday. Admission: Free. Performance festivals and tours are ticketed. Donations are accepted.

Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6600 kohlchildrensmuseum.org Seventeen hands-on interactive exhibits for children ages birth to 8. Visit the Japan and Nature: Spirits of the Seasons exhibit through July 14, and Eggs to Chicks live hatching (March 18-June 16). The two-acre outdoor Habitat Park exhibit opens in late March (weather dependent). Hours: 9:30 a.m.-noon Monday; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $11, $10 seniors, free kids under 12 months and members.

Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park McCormick Boulevard between Dempster and Touhy avenues, Skokie (847) 679-4265 sculpturepark.org Two miles of landscaped park are studded with more than 70 sculptures. Hours: Open 24 hours daily year-round. Admission: Free.

Smart Museum of Art University of Chicago 5550 S. Greenwood Ave., Chicago (773) 702-0200 smartmuseum.uchicago.edu Kids are drawn to the outdoor sculpture garden. Free Family Days are offered on the first Saturday of every month, when kids can make their own art based on the art in the galleries. There is a cafe onsite open daily. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday, FridaySunday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday. Admission: Free.

CHILDREN’S

Bronzeville Children’s Museum 9301 S. Stony Island Ave., Chicago (773) 721-9301 bronzevillechildrensmuseum.com This museum makes African-American history interesting and accessible. Learn about African-American inventors in the Bronzeville Gallery. Hours: 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 museum is filled with exhibits, including a dinosaur dig and a water play area. Learn about fire safety in the Play it Safe exhibit where kids can practice safely exit-

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Discovery Center Museum, see page 37. ing a smoky bedroom. Older kids will love climbing on the museum’s Schooner. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Admission: $14, $13 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 two floors include a water area with a sand table, a tree house, Dream-a-Dream theater, Safe Haven Animal Shelter for animal care and the Construction House. Play areas are available for infants. Hours: Check website. Admission: $7, $6 seniors, $3 teachers, free kids under 1. Free parking is available on the 5th floor of the Parking Tower.

DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington St., Naperville (630) 637-8000 dupagechildrensmuseum.org Three floors keep overcrowding at a minimum. The museum offers a time for families of children with visual and mobility impairments to visit on Third Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. Visit the S.M.A.R.T. Café on the lower level, where healthy food options become an opportu-

nity for young children to learn about science, math, art, reading and technology. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday (open until 8 p.m. every Third Thursday); 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $11, $10 seniors 60+, free kids under 1.

Exploration Station 1095 W. Perry St., Bourbonnais (815) 933-9905 ext. 2 btpd.org Change the tires on a car in the Wreck Resort Auto Center, serve sundaes in the Soda Shop and invent a robot in the Invention Center. Visit the live animal room ($1 admission is used to care for animals) and dig for dinosaurs in the new Paleontology exhibit. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday; 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 This two-story children’s museum features a pet vet exhibit, theater, light exhibit and an artworks area.

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, tour a 100-year-old Swedish farmhouse, or blast off into space like SwedishAmerican astronaut Buzz Aldrin. Family nights, Spring explorer camps and afterschool programs offered. Hours: Museum Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Children’s Museum Hours: 1-4 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. SaturdaySunday. 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 up to 8 learn through play. The six permanent exhibits include a stage, the great outdoors, art studio, a farm to market experience with a fantasy village, a storybook castle with slide and tunnel, and architectural fun. Check website for special events offered weekly. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 kids and adults. Free kids under 1 and members.

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MUSEUMS

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34 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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MUSEUMS nois prairie and the Underground Railroad. Try your hand at spinning wool and weaving. Help the miller grind corn. Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Opens for season April 15. Admission: $4.50, $4 seniors, $2 kids.

Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie (847) 967-4800 ilholocaustmuseum.org

Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, see this page. HISTORICAL/REGIONAL

Arlington Heights Historical Museum 110-112 W. Fremont St. Arlington Heights (847) 255-1225 ahmuseum.org The five-building complex and their contents tell the story of Arlington Heights over the last 150 years. The Muller Victorian and 1908 Banta homes, carpentry and blacksmith shop, soda factory displays and dioramas in the coach house are popular. Tour the Martha Mills doll collection. Hours: Tours: 2 and 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday or by appointment. Heritage Gallery 1:304:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Admission: $4, $2 kids for tours. $2 donation suggested for Heritage Gallery.

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. Life-size soldiers demonstrate what life was like during each particular war 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. Hours: Museum: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySunday. Gardens/Grounds: 7 a.m.sunset daily. Call or visit website for special events. Admission: Free. Parking: $5, $2 off peak.

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Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago (312) 642-4600 chicagohistory.org The museum offers a permanent exhibition, Sensing Chicago, where 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. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $14, $12 seniors (65+) and students, free members and kids 12 and under. Call or check website for free day schedule.

Des Plaines History Center 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines (847) 391-5399 desplaineshistory.org Kids can see the newest exhibits and play in the Children’s Room. 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 The museum offers guided tours and birthday parties, and programs for all ages. See In Vogue... & Out, a temporary exhibit featuring fashion accessories from 1880s to present day. HO gauge model train display runs 1:30-3:30 p.m. on the third

and fifth Saturdays of each month. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; noon-4 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Admission: Free, donations welcome.

Elk Grove Historical Museum 399 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village (847) 439-3994 elkgroveparks.org/museumcampus.asp Tour a farmhouse, a barn, a oneroom schoolhouse, a chicken coop and privy. See website for programs, special events, and scheduling parties. Hours: 2:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $1 suggested donation for general admission. Program prices vary.

Elmhurst Historical Museum 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst (630) 833-1457 elmhursthistory.org A family-friendly historic mansion and education center with exhibits and history-related programs. May 16-Sept. 28, see “Sox vs. Cubs: The Chicago Civil Wars,” a new exhibit on the fans, the culture and the fierce rivalry of Chicago’s beloved baseball teams. See website for family program info. Hours: 1-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Admission: Free; nominal fee for programs.

Graue Mill and Museum 3800 S. York Road, Oak Brook (630) 655-2090 grauemill.org Learn about pioneer life on the Illi-

Explore games, multimedia, and interactive exhibits in Make a Difference! The Harvey L. Miller Family Youth Exhibition, where children ages 8-12 can have fun discovering ways to respect differences, address bullying, and take a stand on issues that matter to them. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayWednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $12, $8 students 12-22 and seniors, $6 kids 5-11, free members.

Isle a la Cache Museum 501 E. 135th St. (Romeo Road) Romeoville (815) 886-1467 reconnectwithnature.org Explore exhibits of the French fur trade. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free.

Jane Addams Hull-House Museum The University of Illinois at Chicago 800 S. Halsted St., Chicago (312) 413-5353 hullhousemuseum.org This museum offers both selfguided and guided tours. New programs for children and families available. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Public tours: 1 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday or by appointment. Admission: Free, donations appreciated.

Joliet Area Historical Museum 204 N. Ottawa St., Joliet (815) 723-5201 jolietmuseum.org Start your visit in the highly interactive Route 66 Experience exhibit. 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 3 and under and members. Admission for Mom is free on Mother’s Day, May 13.

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MUSEUMS Lake County Discovery Museum

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.

Lakewood Forest Preserve Route 176, west of Fairfield Road Wauconda (847) 968-3400 lakecountydiscoverymuseum.org Be whooshed through 10,000 years of Lake County history, meet an 11-foot-tall mastodon and explore the prairie-themed Children’s Learning Gallery. For kids 10 and under, features hands-on activities. The gallery is occasionally closed for education programs. Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6, $2.50 kids 4-17, $3 students 18-25 and seniors 55+, free kids 3 and under, free members. Discount Tuesday $3, free kids 17 and under.

Lemont Area Historical Society & Museum 306 Lemont St., Lemont (630) 257-2972 lemonthistorical.org This museum is in the Old Stone Church, a recruiting station for the Union Army during the Civil War. Inside see artifacts from the early 1800s, a general store, a medical office, an early 19th-century schoolroom and period toys. There is a Civil War exhibit on the lower level.

Mitchell Museum of the American Indian 3001 Central St., Evanston (847) 475-1030 mitchellmuseum.org See temporary exhibits, Storytelling: Inspiring Traditions for Generations, and Moccasins: Steps Through Time (opening April 19). At Kids Craft Mornings, Saturdays from 11 a.m.noon, and Sundays from 12:30-1:30 p.m., children learn about Native American culture through hands-on activities. Recommended for children ages 5 and up, but there is no minimum age requirement. Participants under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. No pre-registration is necessary. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday and Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5, $3 kids 17 and under, students and seniors. Free first Friday of the month.

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(630) 420-6010 napersettlement.com History comes to life through dynamic visitor experiences. Explore historic homes and businesses throughout the 12-acre museum campus where you’ll understand the past and how it connects to the present. Hours: March: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday. April-October: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: March: $5.25, $4.75 seniors, $4 kids 4-12, free members and kids under 4. April-October: $12, $10 seniors, $8 kids 4-12, free kids under 4. Free for Naperville residents and members.

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 child, an 1890s farmer, or a 1920s small town. The museum features interactive exhibits where visitors can learn what grew in a Potawatomi garden, milk a replica cow, walk through an old-fashioned general store, try a typewriter, and more. Starting in March, see “A Year in the Life of Buffalo Grove,” an inter-

1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview (847) 299-6096 glenviewparks.org Peek into a tank full of turtles and learn about pioneer and Native American life. The 135-acre grounds have wetland, woodland and prairie areas. Visit the log cabin, longhouse and schoolhouse with costumed guides on Sunday tours. 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. Saturday-Sunday. Kennicott House tours are Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free. Some programs and events cost extra.

SCIENCE

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-STAR (7827) adlerplanetarium.org See the stars and planets, and discover the thrills and dangers of

at ELMHURST ART MUSEUM

630-802-1316

www.SarahsPonyRides.com

Check out our Entertainment & Party Planning section for the perfect entertainer, party supply or service.

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The Grove

SUMMER ART C AMP

For more info or to register call

Planning a Party?

36 goingplaces • Spring 2014

active look at life in 1914. Hours: 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Closed Friday-Saturday. Admission: Free.

(630) 834-0202

elmhurstartmuseum.org Museum Art Camp Ages 7-11 Mon-Fri 9 am - 3 pm

Mini Art Camp Ages 5-7 Mon-Fri

Two Sessions 9:30 - 12 pm 1 - 3:30 pm

Before and After Care Ages 5-11 Mon-Fri 8 - 9 am 3 - 6 pm ChicagoParent.com

3/6/14 5:09 PM

MUSEUMS Field Museum

being a space explorer. Sky Shows are 360-degree shows featuring outer space themes. Planet Explorers is a hands-on exhibition created for families with children 3-8. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday; 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $12, $10 seniors, $8 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under. Discounts for Chicago residents. Shows cost extra.

1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-9410 fieldmuseum.org From ancient mummies to endangered plants to a complete T. rex, the museum boasts a treasury of 24 million specimens. The Crown Family PlayLab has six themed play areas. New in March is The Machine Inside: Biomechanics. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Last admission at 4 p.m. Admission: $13-$31; visit website for pricing structure. Discounts available to Chicago residents.

Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 N. Main St., Rockford (815) 965-3433 burpee.org Established in 1941, the museum is the home of Jane, a rare juvenile T. rex, and Homer, a teen-aged Triceratops. Through April 29, see a traveling exhibit, Megalodon: Largest Shark that Ever Lived. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $8, $7 kids 4-12, free kids 3 and under.

Cernan Earth and Space Center at Triton College 2000 Fifth Ave., River Grove (708) 583-3100 triton.edu/cernan Public planetarium that features earth and sky shows, children’s shows, laser light shows and exhibits. Hours: Call or check the website. Admission: Earth & Sky shows: $8, $4 kids and seniors. Laser light shows: $10, $5 kids and seniors.

John G. Shedd Aquarium

Museum free days

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

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

Cantigny Park and First Division Museum

Dearborn Observatory at Northwestern University

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

2131 Tech Drive, Evanston (847) 491-7650 ciera.northwestern.edu/observatory.php

Chicago Children’s Museum

Historical telescope still in operation. Young eyes can roam the skies here every Friday night. Gaze through an 18.5-inch telescope, see planets and star formations, ask questions and get answers. The building does not have an elevator. Hours: 9-11 p.m. April 1-Sept. 30; 8-10 p.m. Oct 1-March 31. Admission: Free.

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

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

Museum of Contemporary Art 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago (312) 280-2660 Free admission: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Always free for kids 12 and under.

Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (773) 684-1414 Free admission: May 10

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

Discovery Center Museum

Notebaert Nature Museum

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

2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago (773) 755-5100 Free admission: Thursdays. Always free for kids under 3.

Kids can see what it’s like to be a farmer, a news anchor or an athlete as they explore more than 250 exhibits. The expanded spaces include a new Tot Spot and a Baby Spot. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $8 children and adults, free kids 1 and under and members.

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1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 939-2438 sheddaquarium.org Visitors can discover the dolphins and whales. 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 aquarium. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday and holidays. Admission: General Admission (original galleries only): $8, $6 kids. Total Experience pass: $37.95, $28.95 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. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Free. Classes cost extra.

Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (773) 684-1414 msichicago.org Offers thousands of fun, interactive exhibits. Starting March 20, see Earth Explorers from National Geographic, a hands-on exhibit that allows kids of all ages to become explorers and journey to the wildest places on Earth. 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: Ticket packages begin at $18 for kids and go up to

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MUSEUMS $36 for adults. Museum entry is $11 for kids, $17 for seniors and $18 for adults. City of Chicago residents receive a discount on packages and museum entry. Parking $20.

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 exhibits to climb in, splash in and explore. This spring, check out Nature’s Struggle: Survival and Extinction. The museum offers a variety of daily events for children and adults, including animal feedings and butterfly releases. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $9, $7 seniors and students, $6 kids 3-12, free kids under 3. 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. Store is handicap and stroller friendly, but the downstairs museum is not. Hours: 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Tuesday and Friday; 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Free.

SciTech Hands-On Museum 18 W. Benton St., 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. Call or visit website regarding summer camp information. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Admission: $8, $6 seniors, free kids 3 and under and members.

SPECIAL INTEREST

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum 212 N. Sixth St., Springfield (800) 610-2094 presidentlincoln.illinois.gov Follow Abraham Lincoln through his boyhood years, the White

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Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, see this page. 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: $15, $12 seniors and students, $10 military, $6 kids 5-15, free kids under 5.

Air Classics Museum of Aviation Aurora Airport 44W546 U.S. 30 (1 mile west of airport entrance), Sugar Grove (630) 466-0888 airclassicsmuseum.org The museum’s collection includes aircraft, vehicles, engines, uniforms and other aviation memorabilia. Also exhibits honoring the 100th anniversary of Naval Aviation and the Tuskegee Airmen. Hours: Opens for the season April 5. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; group tours by appointment Tuesday-Friday. Admission: $8, $5 kids 5-15 and seniors 62+, free kids under 5 with parent.

International Museum of Surgical Science 1524 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 642-6502 imss.org Future doctors can glimpse the medical past, present and future. New exhibits are designed to appeal to younger children and foster an interest in healthcare. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Last admission one hour before closing. Admission: $15, $10 students and seniors, $7 kids 4-13, free kids 3 and under. Free on Tuesday.

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park) Elmhurst (630) 833-1616 lizzadromuseum.org Rocks are hot here, from meteorites to gemstones. Visit website for upcoming programs and field trips. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5, $4 seniors 60+, $3 students and teens, $2 kids 7-12, free kids under 7. Free on Friday.

National Hellenic Museum 333 S. Halsted St., Chicago (312) 655-1234 nationalhellenicmuseum.org Dedicated to telling the story of the Greek American experience, from ancient history to modern immigrant stories. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $10, $8 seniors and students, $7 kids 3-12, free kids under 3.

Volo Auto Museum 27582 Volo Village Road, Volo (815) 385-3644 volocars.com See hundreds of automobiles, including those dating to the early teens, famous Hollywood TV and movie cars like the Batmobile, bizarre cars, military vehicles and weapons, trolley rides, theater, antique malls and other shopping and dining. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $13.95, $11.95 seniors 65+ and veterans/military with ID, $8.95 kids 6-12, free kids under 5 and military in uniform.

ChicagoParent.com

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MUSEUMS

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

3748 West Montrose Ave. Chicago, IL 60618 GatewayMontessoriSchool.org Phone: 773-539-3025 • Email: info@GatewayMontessoriSchool.org

Nurturing the potential within each child Parent-Child Program: For parents with children up to 18 months. Children’s House: For children 3 to 6 years old.

Community: For children 15 months to 3 years old. Elementary: For children 6-12 years old.

Come Play With Us!

5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn, IL 708-423-6709 Check our web site for programs and hours www.cmoaklawn.org Have your birthday party or Field Trip with us! Call for more details! The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to positively impact a child’s potential in life through play-based education.

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MUSEUMS

Let’s

PLAY!

Get loud. Be silly. Make a mess. (Your kids will have a blast, too.)

Climb, build, splash, dig, laugh, dance and discover on three floors of high-energy fun.

ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org At NAvy Pier • Open daily at 10 am • (312) 527-1000 40 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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Family-friendly urban adventures

city

In this section 43 The Chop Shop 45 Mexican food done right 48 Walking tour of Lincoln Square 50 Landmarks, sightseeing & tours

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CITY

The Chop Shop welcomes families

s the Wicker Park neighborhood has evolved over the past decade, it’s become a place where families are abundant everywhere you look. The recently opened The Chop Shop and 1st Ward Events intends to become an integral part of that community. Whether you are looking for a local butcher, a new lunch spot, a bar to grab a drink, a restaurant for a delicious meal or a venue

The Chop Shop and 1st Ward Events 2033 W. North Ave., Chicago 537-4440 ■ chopshopchi.com ■

■ (773)

for a private event, The Chop Shop has managed to accommodate them all in one massive space. “The vision started out as a traditional Italian salumeria, and then evolved into something more expansive with the inclusion of the bar and restaurant,” says Matt Woodburn, coowner and principal of The Chop Shop. At the forefront of The Chop Shop is the butcher division with an abundant assortment of meats and cheeses on display. “The butcher shop has introduced a new lunch offering to Wicker Park with quality, quick-service, delistyle offerings and offers an alternative to the big box supermarkets for high quality, locally sourced cus-

tom cut meat,” he says. Whether guests are stopping in to grab a signature handmade sausage or sitting down for a meal, The Chop Shop intends to be a welcoming environment for families. There is even a reserved area for stroller parking. “We’ve always felt that it was important to be inclusive, open and comfortable when it comes to the environment at The Chop Shop,” says Woodburn. “Plus as a Wicker Park resident for years and now a father of two young girls myself, it’s nice to see families eating together inside the restaurant and downstairs shopping at the butcher.” Megan Murray Elsener

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Summer School 2014 has the grand opportunity to congregate in the Laboratory Schools’ newest and most up–to–date early education facility. Earl Shapiro Hall opened in September 2013 and has charmed its occupants and their families ever since. Nursery, Kindergarten, and Primary School classes and activities will meet here this summer, while grades 3 and up will meet at the schools’ Historic Campus, including, but not limited to, the recently renovated parts of Blaine Hall. Please join us for another memorable Summer Lab experience, where love of learning spends the summer. Full Day, Morning, and Afternoon Programs for Children of All Ages. Call 773-834-7766 or visit us online at: http://summerlab.org

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CITY

Mexican food done right: Four places great for families

nce upon a time I thought tacos only came in hard shells and that tortillas were chips. I used taco seasoning in a packet. I thought guacamole looked gross, and I had never heard of tamales or chile rellenos. I grew up in Baltimore, and Mexican food just wasn’t our thing. That was before I met my California-bred husband Scott, or more specifically his grandmother Thelma Hubbell, who is of Mexican descent. The first time I tasted Grandma Hubbell’s rice and beans, warm tortillas and homemade tamales, I was obsessed. Grandma’s cooking is hands-down the best Mexican food I have ever tasted, but Mexican food anywhere in California beats anything I have tasted elsewhere. Moving to Chicago, a foodie haven, from middle-of-nowhere Pennsylvania, Scott and I were certain we would find good Mexican food. We made it our family mission. We have searched far and wide, eating our way through the city and suburbs. We focused on spacious, casual, fun and family-friendly restaurants with great food. Extra points were given for amazing guacamole, tortilla chips baked at the restaurant and excellent rice (out-of-the-box rice results in elimination). This is our list in alphabetical order, but it’s not all-inclusive. There are other standouts in the city (any of the Rick Bayless restaurants) and the suburbs (Antonio’s in Spring Grove is surprisingly awesome) that deserve props. Kristy MacKaben

Cantina Laredo

■ 508

N. State St. ■ (312) 955-0014 ■ cantinalaredo.com With a prime location on State Street, Cantina Laredo was shockingly not crowded on a Saturday afternoon. Surely the Mexican restaurant books up during the dinner hour. But Scott, our kids Julie, 8, and Johnny, 4, and I enjoyed lunch in a pretty empty restaurant.

Garcia’s Restaurant

■ 4760 ■ (773)

N. Lincoln Ave. 769-5600

The restaurant is spacious and perfectly laid out for families large and small. The guacamole is fresh, but a tad bland for my liking. Scott, however, says that’s how guacamole is supposed to be prepared so that diners can add salt or spices to fit their palates. The meals were delicious. I ordered the tilapia fish tacos topped with fresh avocado and

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tomatoes. Perfect. Scott opted for the Chicago Burrito—humongous and smothered with cheese and a delectable sauce, just the way he likes it. Julie gobbled a burrito made-to-order with rice, beans, meat, cheese and sour cream, and Johnny went boring with the chicken fingers. Can’t win them all. Overall a great experience. My only regret? Not ordering a margarita. What was I thinking? There isn’t a website for this goldmine of Mexican fare, but Google and you’ll find the menu and all the details.

If you’re looking for authentic Mexican fare, this isn’t necessarily the place. It’s a bit trendier, but the food is great. We would return just for the table-side guacamole and grilled chicken nachos. The pomegranate margarita was also one of the best I’ve sipped. (And I’m pretty much a margarita expert.)

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Moe's Cantina River North

n 155

W. Kinzie St. (312) 245-2000 n moescantina.com n

This place obviously morphs into a hoppin’ bar after 8 p.m., but it’s perfect for a Saturday family lunch. The place is spacious, fun and the menu is full of delicious Mexican and Spanish tapas. As soon as we were seated, we were served an interesting array of salsas and chips. Of course we ordered the guacamole, which was tasty. Parents of picky eaters beware: There is no kids’ menu. But most kids would probably be OK with a quesadilla or a taco. My pickiest kid (who really isn’t all that picky if you compare him to other kids) opted for the tilapia slider for $4. Perfect size for Johnny. Julie was in heaven with her makeyour-own tacos plate. It was served with steak, lettuce, tomatoes, beans, cheese and sour cream. She loved putting together her own creations. Scott absolutely loved the pa-

ella. It was kind of fun to switch it up and go for a Spanish plate. I opted for the Al Pastor tacos, which were six mini soft tacos with delicious bites of pork I topped with cilantro, onions and tomatoes. Portions were big, but we somehow still managed to gobble dessert. The churros with caramel sauce and ice cream were amazing, and we devoured the chimichanga dulce (a fried pastry filled with cream and topped with caramel and ice cream). Though Moe’s is probably targeted to adults, the restaurant is still great for families for lunch or early dinner. Another unique offering on the menu is the skewer with meat and vegetables. When brought to the table, the skewers hang from a hook at the table. We didn’t realize this until we were finished eating, but that will be a must on our next trip to Moe’s.

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Nuevo Leon

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W. 18th St n (312) 421-1517 It’s impossible to write a story about Mexican restaurants in Chicago and not include Nuevo Leon. This is the real deal. The authentic Mexican restaurant is an institution in the heart of Pilsen. Johnny and I visited the nearby National Mexican Museum of Art before devouring lunch at Nuevo Leon. Before our entrees, we noshed on the fresh salsa, guacamole and chips, and were treated to little plates of small meatballs and papas (potatoes). For lunch, I ordered chicken and bean tostadas topped with guacamole, lettuce and cheese and Johnny opted for the cheese quesadilla. Portions were big, but we couldn’t resist trying the flan, which was scrumptious.

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bakerdemschool.org 44 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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CITY

caption, see page xx.

incoln Park gets all the buzz, but the smaller, lesser-known Lincoln Square deserves some attention too. As a Chicago newbie, I knew nothing of this charming little neighborhood until I took a tour of Lincoln Square with a friend who was a long-time resident. My kids, Julie, 8, and Johnny, 4, tagged along with my friend and her four sons (7, 6, 4 and 2).

We fell in love with the place. It’s in the city, but feels like a small town. There are adorable cafes and restaurants, unique little shops, a world-class music school and plenty of fun parks for kids to run and play. In the summer, a fountain in the middle of the square comes to life and sometimes kids jump in or at least splash around. And the

downtown community hosts festivals throughout the year, bringing out droves of Lincoln Square-ians. I have lived in suburbia my entire life, but Lincoln Square makes me long for city living. If you decide to check out Lincoln Square (which you totally should!) here are some don’t-miss stops. Kristy MacKaben CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

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Play Timeless Toys 4749 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 334-4445 timelesstoyschicago. com Though this is technically a toy shop, kids can’t help but play here. It’s filled with puppets, dolls and trains, plenty of fun games, and a wide assortment of dress-up costumes. And the shop seems to encourage play. On one of the cool marble structures, written on a sign was “Ask for marbles to play.”

oldtownschool.org Anyone who knows Lincoln Square knows about the Old Town School of Folk Music. This gem of music and the arts seems to anchor the neighborhood. It was founded in 1957, though it didn’t move to Lincoln Avenue until 1998. Since that time, it has been catering to people of all ages and talents. There are dozens of kids’ classes, ranging from piano, guitar and art to dance, theatre, ukulele and banjo. There are also an assortment of “Wiggle-

caption, see page xx.

Welles Park 2333 W. Sunnyside Ave. (312) 742-7511 At the corner of Lincoln and Montrose avenues is the 15-acre Welles Park. With playgrounds, spray parks, horseshoe pits and sports courts, the park offers something for everyone. While residents frequent the fitness center and gymnasium in the winter, the park really comes to life in the spring and summer when families flock there to picnic, play and enjoy outdoor concerts. Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-6000

worms” classes, which encourage young kids (babies to 3) to dance, sing and play. Older kids can enjoy classes like story time dance, comic book drawing and musical theatre.

Eat Café Selmarie 4729 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 989-5595 cafeselmarie.com Located in the heart of Lincoln Square, this French café serves pastries and sweets, but also delicious soups, salads and sandwiches. The kids and I stopped at this restaurant on a chilly day and warmed up with some homemade

46 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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macaroni and cheese, vegetable chili and the moistest and sweetest corn bread we’d ever tasted. Paciugo Gelato and Cafe 2324 W. Giddings (773) 989-1926 paciugo.com What a perfect location for an ice cream shop— just steps away from the awesome fountain I mentioned earlier. In warm weather, grab a gelato and sit by the fountain. Ever try banana beet sorbet? What about rum raisin or roasted banana cashew heath crunch? Me neither, but Paciugo offers 200-plus flavors, some strange, some simply delish. Pizza Art Café 4658 N. Rockwell St. (773) 539-0645 pizzaartcafe.com This BYOB restaurant is a great stop for salads and pizza. The restaurant is only open for dinner, but it’s still fine for kids. The pizza selection is wide—with dozens of vegetable, cheese and meat topping choices.

Shop Enjoy 4723 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 334-8626 urbangeneralstore.com I could spend hours in this tiny shop browsing all the unique gifts, books, décor and trinkets. Chicago lovers will love the really cool and different Chicago memorabilia, from maps to

distressed-wood picture frames. One of my favorite frames is bright red and says “To the Moon and Back.” Adorable. And, the store cracks me up. There are usually a handful of things I find hilarious—like a tongue-in-cheek book for kids called How Babies Are Made or Good Night iPad (a parody of the classic children’s book). There are fake mustaches, Abraham Lincoln bandages, bacon air freshener, gingerbread men cookie cutters with different body parts missing and little gifts that you just hope your kids don’t see. Julie found a tin of lip gloss that said “Lip S***” and she asked what that meant. Oops. I still love the store. The Savory Spice Shop 4753 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 293-4559 savoryspiceshop.com Julie and Johnny were a little shocked when they scarfed down a bite of ginger, which I’m sure they assumed was candy of some sort. Customers are invited to taste any of the spices in the shop, which can be

fun, until kids realize it’s not “real food.” But the spice collection is pretty impressive. We left with a barbecue rub and a blue cheese seasoning the kids really like. The store sells pretty much any spice you might be looking for, and is also a great stop for gifts. Amy’s Candy Bar 4704 N. Damen Ave. (773) 942-6386 amyscandybar.com About a half mile from Lincoln Avenue (still walkable with kids in nice weather) is Amy’s Candy Bar—a cute, yet tiny, candy shop. Sweets of many colors and shapes overwhelmed my kids. They didn’t know what to choose! I think they were still in shock that I was actually letting them pick out any candy in the store. Julie chose pink strawberry-flavored gummies and Johnny chose candy-coated marshmallows. Gene’s Sausage Shop & Delicatessen 4750 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-7243 genessausageshop.com The homemade pierogis and specialty meats (venison, bison, rabbit and boar are among the more unusual choices) are worth a stop. The shop is also entertaining to browse with kids. Julie was a bit grossed out by the octopus salad, but intrigued that the store sold ostrich meat.

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CITY

is part of your favorite social networks Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

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Five reasons to visit Eataly with kids

he chocolate smudges on my son’s cheeks told the story perfectly. Eataly, Chicago’s newest foodie haven on East Ohio Street, is for kids too. My 4-year-old son Johnny and I recently toured the amazing two-story mecca of everything Italian. Johnny’s favorite? The Nutella bar, of course. Johnny made sure this was our first stop where he gobbled two slices of warm bread slathered with the chocolate-y spread. We continued to eat our way through the massive Italian market—the second built in the United States—after New York City. (Eataly first started in Italy, but there are also locations in Japan.) From Italian wines, meats and cheeses to pasta, breads, sweets and pizza, Eataly will satisfy any urge. With the wine, coffee and upscale eats, Eataly is perfect for date nights, but there’s plenty to please families. Kristy MacKaben

Nutella Bar

As soon as you walk into Eataly, look to the far right corner and you will spy a Nutella bar. Need I say more? Promise kids the chocolate-y goodness and they just might be on their best behavior as you explore the awesomeness that is Eataly. At the Nutella bar you can choose to spread Nutella on croissants, breads, crepes, muffins, pancakes or pastries.

Freshly made cheeses

Johnny got a kick out of watching a woman make fresh mozzarella. The entire process takes a couple minutes—from throwing the curd in boiling water to laying it out on a pan and squeezing it into what looked like little golf balls. And, there really aren’t many things tastier than warm mozzarella balls sprinkled with olive oil and lightly seasoned. Then, of course there is the entire case of gourmet Italian cheeses. Johnny had his eyes on a block of cheese which in Italian means “Little Red Riding Hood.”

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Pasta Lab

Watching pasta being made and cut into interesting shapes is the coolest. Johnny was transfixed by the experts kneading and flattening the dough, then forming the noodles into different shapes. To cut the noodles exactly the same sizes, a special tool is used, which looks like four miniature pizza cutters attached together. Gnocchi is formed by indenting the pasta with a thumb. And did you know bowtie pasta is called “Butterfly Pasta” in Italy? Johnny was especially amazed by the flower-shaped raviolis he insisted we take home for dinner. Little did he know they were stuffed with squash and goat cheese. (He couldn’t get enough!)

Brick Oven Pizza

The glimmering gold caught our eyes. Two massive gold ovens were hard at work cooking fresh brick-oven pizza topped with cheeses, vegetables and meats sold at the market. The intrigue of Eataly is the food sold at the market is also cooked and prepared at the cafes and restaurants, and many of the meats and the vegetables are local. All meat is hormone free and vegetables are organic. There is also a special service Eataly folks like to call the “busy mom” service, where customers can buy fresh vegetables that are cut, diced or sliced any way you like.

Gelato

We couldn’t leave Eataly without tasting the hand-dipped gelato. Conveniently located on the lower level, Lait Gelato was an easy stop before we left. There are at least a dozen flavors of hand-dipped gelato, and soft-serve gelato is also available.

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CITY LANDMARKS

360 CHICAGO 875 N. Michigan Ave. (888) 875-VIEW (8439) jhochicago.com Along with 94th-floor views and an open-air skywalk 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile, the John Hancock building has a free multimedia tour for both kids and adults. The tour offers an insider’s perspective of the city’s sights. Try the children’s areas and the world’s tallest cafe. Hours: 9 a.m.-11 p.m. (Last ticket sold at 10:30 p.m.) The best time to visit is 9-11 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to catch sunsets and starry skylines. Admission: $18 ages 12 and up, $12 kids 3-11, free kids under 3.

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 595-PIER (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. The pier is home to the Chicago Children’s Museum, Amazing Chicago, a 4,000-square-foot maze, Chicago Shakespeare Theater and the IMAX Theatre. Pleasure boats dock at Navy Pier and offer everything from dinner cruises to speedboat rides, depending on the season. Navy Pier is free, but parking and many attractions charge a fee. Open year-round. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free admission. Fees for attractions vary.

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

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Chicago Detours, see this page. utes before closing. Admission: $18, $12 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under.

SIGHTSEEING AND TOURS

Antique Coach and Carriage Board at the southeast corner of Michigan Avenue and Huron Street (773) 735-9400 for reservations antiquecoach-carriage.com Experience the city 19th-century style in an antique Victorian carriage. Choose your own routes in open and closed carriages. Hours: Monday-Friday evenings only. Saturday and Sunday days and evenings. Pick-ups and drop-offs available. Call for times. Admission: $80 per hour, $60 per 45 minutes, $40 per half hour for up to four people. Additional $5 per person for a total of six people per ride.

Chicago Architecture Foundation 224 S. Michigan Ave. (312) 922-3432 architecture.org River cruises depart from Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, just north of Millennium Park. Docents provide the 90-minute tour with entertaining and fact-filled commentary on Chicago’s architecture. Also offers walking, Segway, bike, bus/trolley, and “L” tours. Hours:

Season starts April 5; check website for times. Admission: $37.85.

Chicago Crime Tours 163 E. Pearson St. (312) 888-6224 chicagocrimetours.com This luxury bus tour is family and kid friendly. Escape into Chicago’s underworld. 90-minute tour takes you on an escape into the criminal past of Chicago’s River North, Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, Old Town, Loop and Magnificent Mile neighborhood. Hours: Noon and 2 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Private tours available for large groups. Admission: $39.95 per person.

Chicago Detours 30 E. Adams St., Suite 425 (312) 350-1131 chicagodetours.com Offers guided tours of architecture, history and culture with stories and places locals don’t even know. Kids enjoy the use of shared iPads with historic photos and video clips. The interior tours make for great rainy day options. The Loop Interior Architecture Tour uses secret shortcuts and underground passages to explore Chicago from the inside, including the mostly underground Pedway System. You’ll spend less than five minutes outdoors during this two-hour tour. Hours: 11 a.m.

Monday, 10 a.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 3 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Saturday, 1:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $26, $24 student/senior, $18 kids 5 and up, free kids under 5.

Chicago Food Planet Food Tours 830 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 445-9948 chicagofoodplanet.com Offers three-hour food tasting and cultural walking tours that combine delicious food and drink tastings (enough for lunch) in Chicago’s Chinatown, Bucktown/Wicker Park, Gold Coast and Old Town neighborhoods. Suitable for all age groups and fitness levels. Taste foods from specialty food stores, local restaurants and ethnic eateries while receiving an insider’s view into the culture, history and architecture that defines The Second City. Tours are appropriate for children, but may be best for older kids. Hours: Tours available mid-March through mid-November. Admission: $47$60 depending on tour; $15-$35 kids and teens, depending on tour and age.

Chicago Grand Tour (888) 881-3284 chicagotours.us This tour covers both the North and South sides of Chicago, passing

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CITY through the parks and outer Lake Shore Drive. Includes a stop at the Lincoln Park Conservatory or Adler Planetarium. Upgrade to visit 360 Chicago at the Hancock building. Hours: 10 a.m. and noon OctoberMay. 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. June-September. Admission: $44.95, $23.95 kids 5-14, free kids under 5. Tours include free pickup at downtown Chicago hotels. $5 off each adult ticket booked online.

Chicago Line Cruises 465 N. McClurg Court (312) 527-2002 chicagoline.com The 90-minute Architectural Cruise travels the Chicago River and covers notable buildings along the way. The Historical Cruise, also 90 minutes, is done with the Chicago History Museum and includes the river and lake. Guides discuss architecture and the history of Chicago from early settlements to the Chicago fire to the World’s Fair. Reservations are recommended. Free snacks and drinks available. Hours: Sailing season begins in late March through November. Architectural, historical and other cruises: check site for seasonal tour times. Admission: $40, $33 seniors, $23 kids

7-18, free kids 6 and under.

Chicago North Side Tour and Chicago South Shore Tour Board at Chicago hotels (888) 881-3284 chicagotours.us The Chicago North Side Tour includes the Magnificent Mile and a stop at the Lincoln Park Conservatory. The South Shore Tour includes Grant Park and a camera stop at the Adler Planetarium. Hours: North Side Tour: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. October-late May and 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. late May-September. South Shore Tour: Noon October-May and 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. June-September. Admission: $27.95 (online), $13.95 kids 5-14, free kids 4 and under.

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Company Various pick-up and drop-off spots around Chicago (773) 648-5000 chicagotrolley.com Learn about Chicago on these twohour tours with 13 stops. Trolleys run every 15-25 minutes. An all-day ticket lets you hop off and on at any site. Avoid crowds by going week-

Celebrations

(312) 332-1353 mercurycruises.com

day mornings. Also offers private neighborhood tours. Tickets can be purchased at the Explore Store, located at Block Thirty Seven, and online. Hours: Boarding times start at 9 a.m. daily and the last pick up is at 5 p.m. Admission: $17-$45. Discounts are available when booking online.

Season begins in May. Specialty cruises include the Fireworks Cruise, Canine Cruise and the Urban Adventure Package Cruise that includes admission to 360 Chicago in the Hancock building. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Admission: Call or check website.

Chicago Water Taxis

Mystic Blue Cruises

(312) 337-1446 chicagowatertaxi.com

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (877) 299-7783 mysticbluecruises.com

The distinctive yellow and black checkerboard taxis provide service from the Wrigley Building on Michigan Avenue, LaSalle/Clark, Madison Street (Ogilvie, Union and Amtrak train stations), North Avenue at Goose Island and Chinatown’s Ping Tom Park. Buy an all-day pass and hop on and off or save on a 10-ride pass for the whole family. Schedule and pricing is posted online. Hours: Season begins in March. Admission: Fares start at $3; discounts for seniors on one-way fares.

Experience Chicago from a unique perspective aboard the contemporary Mystic Blue. Each cruise features a buffet, DJ entertainment and skyline views. Take it all in during a lunch, brunch, dinner, fireworks or blue after-dark moonlight cruise. Also features various holiday and specialty cruises throughout the year. Hours: Cruises yearround. Lunch noon-2:30 p.m., dinner 6-8:30 p.m., brunch 12:30-3 p.m. All cruise times subject to change. Admission: Prices run $42$47 for lunch, kids 4-12 are 40 percent off; $72-$99 for dinners, no discount for kids.

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

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Navy Pier, see page 50. Noble Horse

free kids 2 and under.

820 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 266-7878 noblehorsechicago.com/carriages.html

Odyssey Cruises

Catch an old-fashioned carriage ride at the corner of Michigan and Pierson. Carriages are stationed at 820 N. Michigan Ave. or 1410 N. Orleans St. (in Old Town). Go for a noisy city ride or enjoy a calm lakeside drive. Reservations are recommended. Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.-midnight daily because horses do not go out during weekday rush hour. Admission: $80 per hour, $60 per 45 minutes, $40 per half hour for up to four people.

O’Leary’s Chicago Fire Truck Tours Board at Michigan Avenue and Illinois Street (312) 287-6565 olearysfiretours.com Ride on an antique fire truck for a 60-minute tour and see two Chicago firehouses, the old Water Tower and the Pumping Station. Commentary covers the history of the fire department and the Great Chicago Fire. Board near the InterContinental Hotel, 505 N. Michigan Ave. Kids’ birthday party packages available. Plus see Brady the Fire Dog! Hours: By appointment only. Tours are weather permitting. Admission: $20, $10 kids 12 and under, seniors and active military,

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Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (866) 305-2469 odysseycruises.com Odyssey II offers guests an exceptional way to experience an upscale restaurant while cruising along Chicago’s world-famous skyline. Every cruise comes with a superior three-course, locally sourced menu, DJ entertainment and Chicago skyline views. Brunch, lunch, dinner, fireworks and a variety of specialty cruises year-round. Hours: Cruises year-round. Dinner 7-11 p.m., lunch 11 a.m.-1:45 p.m., brunch 11:15 a.m.-2 p.m. All cruise times subject to change. Admission: Prices run $51-$64 for lunch, kids 4-12 are 40 percent off; $89-$129 for dinner, no discounts for kids.

Shoreline Sightseeing Skyline Lake Tours Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 222-9328 shorelinesightseeing.com Enjoy a panoramic Lake Michigan boat tour complete with professional narration on Chicago’s colorful history and famous landmarks. Half-hour tours depart from Navy Pier. Hours: April through Labor Day with multiple departures daily

plus Sunset Cruises and Fireworks Cruises in summer season. Admission: See website for schedule and prices.

Shoreline Water Taxis (312) 222-9328 shorelinesightseeing.com Hop aboard at Navy Pier, Willis (Sears) Tower (dock at Adams Street), Michigan Avenue Bridge and Museum Campus (dock at Shedd Aquarium.) Plus seasonal service at Queen’s Landing opposite Buckingham Fountain. Hours: Multiple departures from 10 a.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day, plus weekends spring and fall, weather permitting. Shoreline Commuter Water Taxis run morning and evening May-October. Admission: See website for fare information.

Slice of Chicago Pizza Tours River North (exact location provided upon reservation) (312) 623-9292 sliceofchicagopizzatours.com These pizza tours are family- and kid-friendly events. Tours combine the tasting of several deep-dish pizzas with fun, historical information on the history of each pizzeria and its founder. The walking distance is fairly short and the tour time is short enough to keep everyone’s attention. Hours: 11:30 a.m.

and 4:30 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Private tours available for parties of eight or more. Admission: $45, free kids 5 and under if they share pizza with adult.

Spirit of Chicago Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (866) 273-2469 spiritofchicago.com Delivers a combination of dining, dancing, entertainment and spectacular views from the rooftop lounge. Cruising year-round from Navy Pier, offering lunch, brunch, dinner, cocktail, moonlight, holiday, specialty and fireworks cruises. Hours: Cruises year-round. Lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., brunch noon2:30 p.m., and dinner 6:30-10 p.m. All hours subject to change. Admission: Prices run $49-$54 for lunch, kids 4-12 are 40 percent off; $72$104 for dinners, no discount for kids.

Tall Ship Windy Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 451-2700 tallshipwindy.com Enjoy spectacular city views, exciting Great Lakes history, and the joy of sailing aboard Windy, Chicago’s very own tall ship. During each 60-75 minute cruise, passengers are encouraged to join the crew and help hoist the sails and

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CITY pass commands from deck to deck aboard the 148-foot gaff rig schooner. Windy sails with the wind, making every sail different. The crew loves to talk and answer questions about sailing, Great Lakes history and Chicago’s skyline. Most days you can find a “pirate” or a 19th Century sailor or two telling stories of piracy, and ghostly happenings. Tickets are sold online or at the Windy Ticket Booth. Hours: The season begins in April. Check website for specific sailing times. Admission: $30-$45, $25-$40 seniors and students, $10-$25 kids 3-12, $1 kids 2 and under.

under 3. Chicago River Experience Tour: $17, $15 seniors, $6 kids 11 and under, free kids under 3.

Wrigley Field Tour 1060 W. Addison St. between Clark Street and Sheffield Avenue cubs.com/tours

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

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Wrigley Field Tour, see this page. Wendella Sightseeing Boats 400 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 337-1446 wendellaboats.com or chicagowatertaxi. com Try the 90-minute lake and river tour, a fun overview of Chicago featuring a trip through the Chicago Lock and Lake Michigan. Beverages and snacks available for purchase

onboard. For a more in-depth tour, try the 75-minute Chicago River Architecture tour. The 45-minute Chicago River Experience is oriented to families. Call or buy tickets online or over the phone. Hours: Call or check website for times. Season opens in March. Admission: Lake and River tour and Architecture Tour: $30, $27 seniors, $15 kids 11 and under, free kids

Guided tours of historic Wrigley Field are offered on game days and non-game days beginning in March. This 75-90 minute tour usually includes visits to the seating bowl, press box, bleachers, visitor’s clubhouse, Cubs’ clubhouse and Cubs’ dugout, as well as a chance to step on the field. Specific tour routes are established based on events and activities in the ballpark. Game day tours do not visit the clubhouses, but instead visit the batting cage and enter the ballpark before gates open. Tours are outdoor walking tours (about 1 mile) conducted rain or shine. Group and VIP tour options available. Tour sizes are limited and may sell out, so advanced purchase is recommended. Hours: Tour season runs March-September. Admission: $25. Purchase tickets online.

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*With the purchase of each full price adult admission ticket receive one free ticket of equal or lesser value. Must mention or enter discount code BOGOGP at time of purchase to receive discount. Not valid with group rates, or any other special offer. Upgrades are additional. Valid at the Schaumburg Castle only. Offer expires 5/30/2014.

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Spotlight on our favorite shows

stage

In this section 56 Redmoon 58 March 60 April 62 May

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The Redmoon shines in Pilsen

here’s a pleasant buzz of anticipation in the lobby of Redmoon Theater 30 minutes before curtain time. Frank Maugeri, producing artistic director, enters the room smiling and waving. “Come on in and play,” he says, throwing the doors wide open to the main floor.

The crowd surges forward into every kid’s dream—a cavernous room wide enough to roller skate, tall enough to accommodate wooden swings that hang from 45-foot ceilings and big enough to house cargo ships or airplanes. Its 57,000 square feet also grant Redmoon’s wish for more legroom to create the dramatic spectacle performances for which it is famous. Redmoon, founded in 1990 and originally housed in the West Loop, yearned for more space, and after searching for three years, finally found what it was looking for—a huge empty warehouse at 2120 S. Jefferson in Chicago. Because Redmoon draws a lot of inspiration from Mexican art, its location in Pilsen is a perfect fit. Even though it has moved,

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Maugeri says Redmoon’s core mission continues to be to provide free outdoor theater for the city. The extra indoor footage allows room for invention and experimentation. mas “Our indoor space is like a massive laboratory that permits out us to experiment for outdoors,” Maugeri says. The indoor and outdoor works of Redmoon share a symbiotic relationship. While the core mission is focused on its outdoor work, it can’t happen without the indoor facility. The income generated from the indoor performances, as well as rentals of the space by outside groups, is what provides funding for the free outdoor shows. With that in mind, Redmoon has developed a

structured season of five or six ticketed indoor shows that will be performed regularly. That being said, part of the charm is that no two shows are ever exactly alike. Redmoon people are highly creative and spontaneous; there are no scripts per se. Redmoon does not perform your typical sit-and-watch plays. The lively shows invite a connection with the audience you won’t soon forget. Redmoon will present its Spring Spectacle, “Bellboys, Bears, and Baggage,” a whimsical take on Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale,” April 4-20. The story focuses in particular on the thawing of regret. The audience will move about Redmoon’s one-of-a-kind space to encounter scenes, installations, dances and interactive opportunities appropriate for all ages. For more information about Redmoon and its upcoming season, visit redmoon. org.

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Theatre Summer Camps be you. be together. be lookingglass.

AGES 5â&#x20AC;&#x201C;18

registration is now open for 2014 summer camps! for information call 773.477.9257 x 193 or visit lookingglasstheatre.org /education ChicagoParent.com

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Princess and the Pea Chicago Kids Company Stahl Family Theater 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Runs through March 21 Classic story recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12.

The Three Little Pigs Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Runs through May 17 When the pigpen starts to look like a real sty, Mama says it’s time to leave and build something new. Help Cha, Stu and Bao watch for wolves. Best suited for ages 3-10. $16, $13 kids.

The Teddy Bears’ Picnic Emerald City’s Little Theatre 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago (773) 529-2690 ext. 810 emeraldcitytheatre.com Runs through March 30 Interactive theater for the very young. The performance includes gentle sound and lighting effects that create a full sensory experience. The show lasts about 45 minutes. Recommended for families with kids 4 and younger. No shoes. $14 for ages 1 and up, $7 for children under 1.

Sounds of Blackness eta Creative Arts Foundation 7558 S. South Chicago Ave., Chicago (773) 752-3955 etacreativearts.org Runs through June 13 This Showfolk Family Matinee is performed on Saturdays. Call for cost.

Sleeping Beauty Chicago Kids Company Beverly Arts Center 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Runs through April 11 Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12.

The Bully Show AlphaBet Soup Productions P.O. Box 85, Lombard (630) 932-1555

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PHOTO BY CHAD DUNBAR

Aerial Works RAW, see page 60. absproductions.com Runs through May 2 Join Professor McBumble and his group of rag tag actors as they present three fairy tales with an antibullying message. Check website for venue dates and times. Recommended for families with kids 4-10. $7-$10, depending on venue.

Street. Best suited for ages 5-10. $16, $13 kids.

Schoolhouse Rock Live Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire (847) 634-0200 marriotttheatre.com Runs through May 4

Short Shakespeare! A Midsummer Night’s Dream

This one-hour presentation is for children of all ages. $15.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago (312) 595-5600 chicagoshakes.com Runs through March 22

Return of Neverland

A 75-minute abridged production of William Shakespeare’s whimsical comedy. Provides a family-friendly introduction to Shakespeare with special opportunities for audiences to interact with the actors at every performance. The show will be performed for the public Saturdays at 11 a.m. in CST’s Courtyard Theater. $16-$20.

Ramona Quimby Emerald City Theatre Company Apollo Theatre 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 935-6100 emeraldcitytheatre.com Runs through May 18 Ramona is starting third grade and everything is about to change. Her sister Beezus guides the viewer through a full year on Klickitat

Quest Theatre Ensemble The Blue Theatre 1609 W. Gregory Ave., Chicago (312) 458-0895 questensemble.org Runs through March 30 A sequel to Peter Pan centered on Wendy’s teenage daughter, Jane. Accompany Jane as she falls in love with the perpetually young Peter Pan, and returns home with a lesson she will carry the rest of her life. Free, donations appreciated.

Into the Woods

couple encounters Jack of Beanstalk fame, Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf, Cinderella and her suitors, and the Witch herself. $22-$59.

The Magical Exploding Boy and the Invisible Circus Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St., Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.com Runs through March 23 Chicago clown Dean Evans headline this circus adventure into the imagination. A simple creature who longs to be someone else, the Magical Exploding Boy learns that he cannot escape his unique destiny. This Actors Gymnasium mainstage, circus event features original live music, aerial acrobatics, and the birth of a clown. Runs 7:30 p.m. Fridays; 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m. Sundays. $20, $15 kids and seniors.

Winter Circus

Mercury Theater 3745 N. Southport, Chicago (773) 325-1700 mercurytheaterchicago.com Runs through March 30

The Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St., Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.com Runs through March 23

The epic fairytale of several Brothers Grimm characters including the Baker and his Wife, who learn that they cannot have a child because of a witch’s curse. As they set off on a journey to break the curse, the

This show features professionals from the Chicago circus and physical theater communities alongside the teen ensemble and advanced students. Performances run weekends. $15, $12.50 kids.

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

Acting, Singing, Dancing, Swimming, Crafts, and Outdoor Activities! Early Registration Discounts! Camps & Workshops taught in the Palatine/Schaumburg, Rolling Meadows area For more info - visit our website at www.artreachspotlite.com or call our offices at (847) 372-7798 or (773) 604-1892.

Weekly Newsletters Be in the know about family events, coupons and great giveaways! Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party! Follow us @ChicagoParent

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Aerial Works RAW

Chopin Theatre Upstairs Theatre 1543 W. Division St., Chicago thehousetheatre.com (773) 769-3832 Runs through March 24

Aerial Dance Chicago 4028 W. Irving Park Road Loft A (2nd floor), Chicago (773) 463-4402 aerialdancechicago.org March 22

Performed by Lifeline Theatre and set in Radio Falls. Rose must risk her life to rescue a magic coin from the icy clutches of the Rime Witch. Although designed for adults, the show is suitable for kids 6 and up. Performances are 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays. $20-$40, $10 kids.

Fresh new aerial dance ideas and choreography alongside favorite pieces from ADC’s repertoire. 6 and 8:30 p.m. $20.

ERTH’s Dinosaur Zoo Live Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago (800) 775-2000 broadwayinchicago.com March 25-30

The Broadway Dream Gorilla Tango Bucktown 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago (773) 598-4549 gorillatango.com March 8-April 6

Go on a tour through prehistoric Australia, where an array of ancient creatures come to life on stage. Meet a menagerie of insects, mammals and dinosaurs in their ancient environment. From the sweetly curious baby Dryosaur, to the peaceful hulk Titanosaur, and even the teeth-gnashing T. rex, this is an interactive theater performance. $28-$38.

Follow Amelia Van Buren on her way to the Big Apple. A high-stakes audition, big dreams of Broadway, and song and dance numbers make this a hit for audiences of all ages. $20.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com March 18-30 Joseph blends pop, country and rock into an uplifting, techni-colored story of biblical proportions. This magical musical is full of unforgettable songs. Call for cost.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Sleeping Beauty, see page 58. Once Upon a Symphony performances feature small ensembles of CSO musicians, a storyteller who helps bring the story to life with the help of video projections, and costumes and props that give young children a playful introduction to music. Preconcert activities begin 45 minutes before each concert (9:15 and 11 a.m., respectively). Once Upon a Symphony is presented in collaboration with the Chicago Children’s Theatre. $16.

Piccolo Theatre 600 Main St. (inside the Main Street Metra Station), Evanston (847) 424-0089 piccolotheatre.com March 21-May 3

The Family Barber

The marriage of King Theseus and Queen Hippolyta dishes up more than cake when mortal and enchanted characters clash in misadventures of the heart. Performances are at 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. $25, $15 students, $10 kids 10 and younger.

A special performance for kids 5-10 at the Civic Opera House features selected scenes and music from The Barber of Seville. Recommended for families with kids 5-10. 2 p.m. $20$40, $10-$20 ages 5-17.

The Three Little Pigs Chicago Symphony Orchestra Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 294-3000 cso.org March 22, 29 and April 26 Designed for children ages 3-5,

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Lyric Opera of Chicago 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago (312) 827-5912 lyricopera.org March 22

Élan Dance Company Showcase Naperville Park District Naperville North High School Auditorium 899 N. Mill St., Naperville (630) 848-5000 napervilleparks.org March 22 The park district’s dance company presents an eclectic collection of dances from classical ballet to jazz

to modern dance. 6:30-9 p.m. $10, $8 by March 21.

Tiny Great Performance: The Lion and the Mouse by Von Orthal Puppets DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington St., Naperville (630) 637-8000 dupagechildrensmuseum.org March 22 One of Aesop’s greatest fables is brought to life with traditional European, Japanese and American puppetry techniques. 9:30 a.m. Free with admission.

Lyle Finds His Mother Lifeline Theatre 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com March 22-April 27 Regular performance times are Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Plus, every Saturday and Sunday at noon, there is a Stories Come Alive! Hour. Children can take part in an interactive storytelling session and theater games. The cost for the Stories Come Alive! is $5 per child. Reservations are recommended, though not required. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Children under 2 are not permitted. $15.

Cheaper by the Dozen Fox Valley Repertory 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles (630) 584-6342 foxvalleyrep.org March 27-May 18 The classic story of the family with 12 children. $32-$42.

Justin Roberts Old Town School of Folk Music Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall 4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org March 30 Kids concert at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. $15.

The Diary of Anne Frank Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights (847) 577-2121 metropolisarts.com. March 31-April 11 Recommended for families with kids in grades 5-12. $14, $12 kids 12 and under.

APRIL

ERTH’s Dinosaur Zoo Live Elgin Community College Visual & Performing Arts Center 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin

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(847) 622-0300 elgin.edu/arts April 1-2

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights (847) 577-2121 metropolisarts.com April 15-25

Observe and interact with extraordinarily life-like creatures just like those that inhabited the Southern Hemisphere millions of years ago. 7 p.m. $24, $15 kids 12 and under.

Sleeping Beauty has a curse put on her by the evil Maleficent. Recommended for families with kids in preschool through third grade. $14, $12 kids 12 and under.

Peter and the Starcatcher Bank of America Theatre 18 W. Monroe, Chicago broadwayinchicago.com April 2-13 A prequel to Peter Pan, the innovative musical play is based on the best-selling novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. A dozen actors play more than a hundred unforgettable characters. Suitable for younger audiences but most enjoyable for kids 10 and older. Call for cost.

Sesame Street Live-Can’t Stop Singing Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet (815) 726-6600 rialtosquare.com April 2 When Elmo casts a spell with Abby Cadabby’s magic wand, Sesame Street becomes a nonstop, all-singing, all-dancing musical montage. 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. $15-$58.

Little Red Riding Hood Chicago Kids Company Stahl Family Theater 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com April 4-May 17 Recommended for kids 2-12. Check website for days and time.

Spring Spectacle Redmoon Theater 2120 S. Jefferson St., Chicago (312) 850-8440 ext. 111 redmoon.org April 4-20 The family-friendly Spring Spectacle will provoke audiences’ imagination with giant machines, largerthan-life visuals and original music. Performances run 8 p.m. Fridays; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $25, $15 kids, free kids 3 and under.

The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences 3323 Walters Ave., Northbrook

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Chicken Little

Chicken Little, see this page. (847) 291-2367 northbrooktheatre.org April 5-May 10 Performances run 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays. Recommended for families with kids 4 and older. $12 ($10 at Box Office on Fridays).

Tiny Thumbelina Steel Beam Children’s Theatre 111 W. Main St., St. Charles (630) 587-8521 steelbeamtheatre.com April 5-27 Performances are 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and 1 p.m. Sundays. $15, $10 kids 16 and under.

A Circus Space Odyssey: CircEsteem’s Spring Circus Alternatives Inc. 4730 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago (312) 731-HAHA (4242) circesteem.org April 5-6 and 12-13 Take an outer space adventure with CircEsteem. Featuring trapeze, gym wheel, acrobatics, juggling, clowning, stilt walking and trampoline performances. 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. April 5 and 12; 3 p.m. April 6 and 13. $8-$18; $35 VIP.

FamilyDance Matinee: Reggie Wilson/Fist & Heel Performance Group Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago 1306 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 369-8330 colum.edu/dancecenter April 5 FamilyDance Matinees feature one-hour family-oriented performances preceded by free parent/ child movement workshops with the artists. 3 p.m.; free movement workshop 2:15 p.m. $15, free kids 12 and under.

Trey McIntyre Project featuring Music Institute of Chicago Harris Theater for Music and Dance 205 E. Randolph Drive in Millennium Park Chicago (312) 334-7777 harristheaterchicago.org April 5 Trey McIntyre Project will perform with local musicians from Music Institute of Chicago. Show lasts one hour. Recommended for families with kids 4-9. Check website for time. $10-$15.

Chicago Kids Company Beverly Arts Center 111th and Western, Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com April 23-May 3 Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12.

Sleeping Beauty Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace (630) 530-0111 drurylaneoakbrook.com April 23-June 7 Meal packages and breakfast buffet with character packages offered in addition to the performance. $15.

Jackie and Me

The Sound of Music

Chicago Playworks Merle Reskin Theatre at DePaul University 60 E. Balbo Drive, Chicago (312) 922-1999 theatreschool.depaul.edu April 8-May 10

Lyric Opera of Chicago 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago (312) 827-5912 lyricopera April 25-May 18

Performances are 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays; 2 p.m. Saturdays. Events will be held in conjunction with this production, including an ice cream social, community partner days, post-show discussion and autograph sessions. $10.

Aladdin Theatre at the Center The Center for Visual and Performing Arts 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255 theatreatthecenter.com April 11-13 Musical edition of the Arabian Knights story. $9.50, $7.50 kids.

Handel is Fun! Concert Grace Episcopal Church 924 Lake St., Oak Park (708) 386-8036 April 12 A concert of Handel’s music, especially for kids and the young at heart. 4 p.m. Free.

ncludes 13 matinees. Held at the Civic Opera House. Tickets start at $29, and are available at lyricopera. org/soundofmusic or at (312) 8275600. $29.

A Little Princess: The Musical The Wilmette Theater 1122 Central Ave., Wilmette (847) 251-7424 wilmettetheater.com April 26-May 11 Musical full of heart, imagination and perseverance. Show times are 10 a.m. Saturdays and 4 p.m. Sundays. $18, $15 in advance.

The Wizard of Oz Cadillac Palace Theatre 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com April 30-May 11 Click your heels together and join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and her little dog, Toto, as they journey to Oz. Call for cost.

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The White Snake

(847) 635-6601 allstatearena.com May 3

Goodman Theatre 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago (312) 443-3800 goodmantheatre.org May 3-June 8

America’s top Olympic medal contenders from the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi headline the allnew Stars on Ice Tour. 7:30 p.m. Check website for cost.

Chronicles the tale of a gentle serpent spirit that lives for centuries coiled on a mountaintop. One day, she transforms herself into a beautiful young woman and, with her feisty companion, Green Snake, travels down to the world of humans. Call for cost.

The Tale of Snow White

Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries Akoo Theatre at Rosemont 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont (847) 671-5100 rosemonttheatre.com May 3 All-new family musical. Performances are 1 and 4 p.m. Saturday. $17-$63. The top ticket price includes a VIP Meet and Greet with the cast.

Stars on Ice Allstate Arena 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont

Steel Beam Children’s Theatre 111 W. Main St., St. Charles (630) 587-8521 steelbeamtheatre.com May 10-June 1 Performances are 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and 1 p.m. Sundays. $15, $10 kids 16 and under.

Adventures with Aladdin Chicago Symphony Orchestra Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 294-3000 cso.org May 10 Chicago’s Lookingglass Theatre Company joins the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to help bring this timeless music to life. Arrive at Symphony Center one hour before each performance for activities and music. 11 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. $6-$57.

Registration Begins April 7th REGISTER FOR ALL 10 WEEKS AT ONCE & RECEIVE

$100 OFF TOTAL PAYMENT PER CAMPER!

Return of Neverland, see page 58. Circus in Progress - An Evening of Daring New Work The Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St., Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.com May 17 Get a sneak peek at some of Chicago’s most exciting new works of circus art. The latest installation focuses on new acts. $15, $12.50 kids.

Kids Fare: Prancing and Dancing Pick-Staiger Concert Hall Northwestern University’s Bienen School of Music 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston (847) 467-4000 pickstaiger.org May 17 The Kids Fare season finale spotlights DanceWorks Chicago. Recommended for families with kids 3-8. 10:30 a.m. $6, $4.

Project on Children’s Thinking Northwestern University

You and your child are invited to participate in our child development studies!

Field Trip Camp for Teens Students entering 6th - 9th grade 3 field trips per week include arcades, water parks, Six Flags,® laser tag, bowling, rock climbing and more! Swimming 2 times per week at Sea Lion Aquatic Park

For more information or to sign up, visit:

Active Outdoor Day Camp

groups.psych.northwestern.edu/POCT

Students entering 1st - 6th grade Weekly field trips Swimming 3 - 4 times per week Cookouts, games, sports, crafts, theme days and more!

WEEKLY SESSIONS from June 4 - August 8 LisleParkDistrict.org 630.964.3410 62 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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GOING PLACES

Specıal Parent CHICAGO

A Chicago Parent EMPOWERMENT GUIDE

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

Redefining Smart.

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

Redefining Smart.

Enroll now for Summer Enrichment Camp and Fall 2014. Schedule your private tour today.

• Expanded special needs resource directory online at ChicagoParent.com

Specıal Parent CHICAGO WINTER 2014

AN EMPOWERMENT GUIDE FROM

LOCAL RESOURCES YOU NEED

EMBRACE your child

other tips after a diagnosis

The sweet life

One mom’s special needs journey

CHAMPIONS for a cause 4 focused on tomorrow

At Brickton Montessori School we measure our Located just South of I-90MAKE between students’ abilities to THINK critically, Cumberland East River Road responsible decisions, andand SOLVE problems 8622 West Catalpatoday Avenueor in visit Chicago creatively. Call 773.714.0646 www.brickton.org. Ages 2-14 (Toddlers

Winter edition now Located just South of I-90 between Cumberland and available! East River Road

t need to be toilet trained) more information, call (708) 386 5555 8622 West Catalpa dependent SchoolsFor Association the American Montessori Society. in Chicago or visit ChicagoParent.com CPS_Cover_Winter2014 3

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do not need to be toilet trained) Fully accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States Avenue and the American Montessori Society.

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GOING PLACES

JOIN US FOR THE

5 5K K 5K 5K

SPRING SPRINGSPRING

JOIN US FOR THE JOIN US FOR THE

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SERIES SERIES SERIES

The Girls on the Run-Chicago 5k Series is a spectacle of Girl Power! The event is family-friendly and open to the public. Runners will take part in a 3.1 mile, non-competitive run celebrating health, conﬁdence and strength.

Join us at one of our three locations: May 10, 2014 • St. James Farm in Warrenville, IL May 17, 2014 • Grant Park in Chicago, IL June 1, 2014 • Vernon Hills Athletic Complex in Vernon Hills, IL Visit gotrchicago.org/gotrc5k or call 773-342-1250 for more information. Raise funds and win prizes including a 1-year, all-access membership to Chicago Athletic Clubs, National an iPad and more! Sponsors:

Visit gotrchicago.org/gotrc5k or call 773-342-1250 for more information. Visit gotrchicago.org/gotrc5k or call 773-342-1250 for more information. Girls on the Run–Chicago is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident.National Using a fun, Sponsors: National experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running, the innovative program combines training for a 5k event with interactive lessons Sponsors: that encourage positive social, emotional, mental and physical development. Over the past 14 years, Girls on the Run–Chicago has served more than 35,000 young girls across six Chicagoland counties. This year, more than 1,000 coaches will mentor 8,000 girls, empowering them with the confidence and character they need to become strong, healthy women.

Girls on the Run–Chicago is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident. Using a fun,

Girls on the Run–Chicago is a 501(c)(3) non-profi t organization whose mission is training to inspire to be healthy experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running, the innovative program combines for agirls 5k event withjoyful, interactive lessonsand confident. Usin that encourage positive social, emotional, mental and integrates physical development. the past 14 years, Girls on the Run–Chicago hasfor served experience-based curriculum which creatively running,Over the innovative program combines training a 5kmore event with interactive than 35,000 young girls across six Chicagoland counties. This year, more than 1,000 coaches will mentor 8,000 girls, empowering them with the that encourage positive social, emotional, mental and physical development. Over the past 14 years, Girls on the Run–Chicago has serve confidence and character they need to become strong, healthy women. than 35,000 young girls across six Chicagoland counties. This year, more than 1,000 coaches will mentor 8,000 girls, empowering them confidence and character they need to become strong, healthy women.

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Make the most of your day

play

In this section 66 Family fun in Rosemont 69 Arcades, entertainment centers, creative studios 71 Eat ‘n’ play 74 Family sports, indoor play centers 77 Indoor water parks, sports to watch

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PLAY

Family fun blooms in Rosemont

here’s a reason Rosemont’s new entertainment complex has been dubbed the “Mini-Mile” in a nod to Chicago’s famed Magnificent Mile. In the heart of Rosemont, MB Financial Park has plenty to offer, from restaurants and bars to a luxury movie theater, an upscale bowling alley and a comedy club, not to mention it’s situated within walking distance from the new Fashion Outlets of Chicago. This spring, a new restaurant called Sugar Factory, with a focus on fun drinks and desserts will open, as well as iFLY, an indoor skydiving facility. My family of four spent Friday night and most of Saturday in Rosemont for a little staycation. We stayed at Aloft, a trendy, fun hotel steps from the restaurants and across the street from the outlets. Though Aloft (aloft chicagoohare.com) is perfect for a couple’s weekend away, the hotel is a fun family retreat.

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The indoor swimming pool was an immediate draw for our kids (Johnny, 4, and Julie, 8) and the lobby was filled with board games (Sorry and Jenga to name a few) to play by the fireplace. Parents can sip a few cocktails at the bar while the kids play games. First on our staycation agenda was a trip to the outlets. I was more than a little curious about the Tory Burch outlet, my husband Scott wanted to check out Under Armour, and Julie and Johnny were begging to stop by the Disney Store outlet. At the Disney outlet we were just in time for an animation class where the kids were given Mickey Mouse ears to wear as they learned step-by-step how to draw the famous mouse. Of course we didn’t leave without buying a few stuffed animals. Before leaving the mall, we

couldn’t pass by Lolli and Pops. The colorful candy store was like a walk back in time to the old penny candy stores, yet it had an almost futuristic feel. Every room is uniquely decorated and features a different candy. Since we were given a special tour, the kids were treated to samples of pretty much any candy they desired. They had never seen so many variations of gummy bears, chocolate-covered pretzels and lollipops. After our sugar high, we headed to dinner. Yes. We know. Consuming large amounts of candy before a sit-down dinner

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PLAY

isn’t a great idea. Luckily, Hofbrauhaus (hofbrauhauschicago. com) is loud and fun. Hyper kids don’t seem to faze the servers, and the performers encourage crazy audience participation. The large German pretzels with a bevy of dips was an awesome appetizer, which Scott and I washed down with German beer brewed onsite. Then, there were schnitzel, wieners and strudel, eaten while we danced, sang, clapped, cheered, clinked glasses and enjoyed one of the most entertaining performances we’ve experienced while eating dinner with kids. (Other family-

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friendly restaurants at MB Financial Park include Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar and Grill featuring barbecue and American fare, and Adobe Gilas, a Mexican restaurant.) What a wonderful feeling to simply walk back to our hotel room at Aloft after a night of dinner, drinks and dancing. Back at the hotel, we decided to skip the swimming pool and games, and just crash for the night. Breakfast was a la carte, perfect for our family because we were ready to swim and try out some of Rosemont’s other attractions. After a dip in the pool, we tried Kings Rosemont (kingsbowlamerica.com), which is unlike your neighborhood bowling alley. This place is hopping with partiers on weekend nights, but during the day families are welcome. We were treated to

a couple of games in a private room where we munched on some pretty amazing food: Steak salad, Cobb salad and fresh guacamole, nothing like your typically greasy bowling alley fare. The menu even had fresh fish, frozen drinks and plenty of burgers, soups, sandwiches and appetizers. The manager said the slogan at Kings is “A restaurant with a bowling alley,” not the other way around. We would have to agree, though we gave the bowling two thumbs up. The entire staycation earned, in our opinions, five family stars. We will be back. Kristy MacKaben ■ Aloft, aloftchicagoohare.com ■ Lolli and Pops, lolliandpops.com ■ Hofbrauhaus,

hofbrauhauschicago.com ■ Kings Rosemont,

kingsbowlamerica.com

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PLAY

m r s o w e l g g i w ®

orns, babies, and toddlers b w e n r o f

Since 1985, the Old Town School’s celebrated early childhood music program has welcomed babies, toddlers, preschoolers and their families to a musical world! Engaged and curious kids sing, dance, learn finger plays, tell story songs, and explore rhythm instruments for little hands!

To register, call 773.728.6000 or visit us online at

OLDTOWNSCHOOL.ORG Now Open!

PLAYALL DAY Unlimited All-Day Play For Kids Of All Ages!

Early Tweet Special The ﬁrst child at our door each day at 10am is FREE!

All children & adults are required to wear socks in play areas!

Parent & Tot Lounge • Play Structure • Ball Blasting Area Pedal Tractor Area • Parent Zone with Pool Tables & Cafe 864 Route 59 (Near Sam’s Club) • Naperville • 630-445-8365 www.BallFactoryFun.com • 10am-6pm Sun-Thu • 10am-8pm Fri-Sat

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MUST MENTION COUPON WHEN BOOKING

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68 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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With this coupon. Not valid with other oﬀers. Oﬀer expires 6/17/14

3 off

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Ball Factory • 864 Rt. 59 • Naperville 630-445-8365 With this coupon. Not valid with other oﬀers. Oﬀer expires 6/17/14

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PLAY ARCADES AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS

CREATIVE STUDIOS

Beauty and Brawn Art Gallery and Think Space

Amazing Chicago Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (between Riva Chicago Restaurant and the Shakespeare Theater) Chicago (312) 595-5375 amazingchicago.com Squeezing, stomping, spinning, twisting and turning attractions await at Amazing Chicago. Part funhouse, part maze, visitors will navigate through 4,000 square feet of tunnels and mazes for a full sensory experience. Try Time Freak, a thrilling race against time that challenges players to compete against the clock while pushing buttons as they light up. School group outings and birthday parties available. Hours: Opens every day at 10 a.m.; check website for closing times by season. Admission: $9.99 per person; $2 Time Freak; free kids 4 and under. Passes available.

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. TuesdaySaturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday. Admission: $10 for 1/2 hour of racing (includes car and controller).

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

Laser Quest Multiple locations Interactive adventure game for student field trips, sports teams, team building and family fun. Features multi-level maze with 30 players in a game. Birthday packages available. Hours: Hours vary, check website; Monday open only for

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3501 W. Fullerton Chicago (773) 772-9808 beautyandbrawngallery.com Multi-media gallery and arts education facility. In addition to its regular rotation of artists, the facility offers classes for children ages 4-18, and seminars, workshops and open studio gatherings for children, teens and adults. Hours: Hours vary. Admission: Class fees vary; gallery is free.

Beverly Arts Center

Arctic Splash, see page 77. private events. Admission: $9 per person for one game. Members $7 per game.

Odyssey Fun World Naperville 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, outdoor paint ball, indoor family thrill rides and eight-station Gamer’s Lounge featuring Xbox One and PS4. Birthday and group packages available. Hours: Varies by season. Call ahead. Admission: Pay per attraction or buy wristbands or game tokens.

Odyssey Fun World Tinley Park 19111 S. Oak Park Ave. Tinley Park (708) 429-3800 odysseyfunworld.com Four-level soft playland with a maze of tubes and ball pits, laser tag, video games, bowling and indoor family thrill rides, eightstation Gamer’s Lounge featuring Xbox One and PS4. Also featuring bumper boats, mini-golf, paddle boats, Hydro Racers, zip-lines, gokarts and batting cages outdoors. Birthday and group packages available. Hours: Varies by season. Call ahead. 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 featuring 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.

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, broomball 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 the 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.

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. Get In, Get Art is a series of free monthly programs for all ages offered on Sunday afternoons. Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free. Additional charge for classes and special events.

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.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon, noon-4:30 p.m. for birthday parties Saturday; open for birthday parties Sunday. Admission: Varies.

Chicago Glass Collective 1770 W. Berteau Ave. 203 B, Chicago (216) 543-2329 chicagoglasscollective.com Community-based art studio dedicated to the medium of glass through educational workshops and studio space for new and experienced glass artists. Offers classes, family workshops and private lessons throughout the year. Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 5-9 p.m. Wednesday; noon-6 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: Varies by class.

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PLAY

Real Skills for Real Life: Self Defense & Self Awareness

6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park

708-383-3456

www.master-sh-yu.com

BASEBALL CAMPS LEARN FROM THE CHAMPS

SESSION ONE: Friday, June 20 and Saturday, June 21 SESSION TWO: Thursday, July 24 and Friday, July 25

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PLAY building skills are incorporated into every project. Workshops are geared for ages 6-adult. Also features birthday parties, afterschool programs, camps and adult sewing. Hours: Visit website for schedule. Admission: $15-$45.

Magical Minds Studio 343 Harrison St. Oak Park (708) 948-7934 magicalmindsstudio.com

walk into any class on the schedule. Hours: Check website for hours Monday-Friday; Saturday-Sunday parties and private events. Admission: Check website.

Art studio allows children to learn through hands-on art experiences. The studio fosters intellectual, physical, social and emotional development. In art classes, children work on everything from water painting to sculpting clay. Also offers spring and summer camps plus after-school programming. Arterro art kits for sale. Hours: Open daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Visit the website for Open Studio hours. Admission: Program prices vary. Open Studio: $10 per hour, per child. Buy punch card for $90 and get 10 classes.

Paint-Your-Own-Pottery and Glass Fusing studio. Pottery painting is very simple, and the fun is addictive, even for the ‘artistically challenged’. Call or visit website regarding classes and workshops. Pieces take one week to be fired and returned and are fully functional. New location in Vernon Hills. Hours: Check website. Admission: Studio fee $9, $7 kids, plus cost of piece ($6 and up).

Kids Clay Room

Make A Messterpiece

719 W. Wrightwood Ave. Chicago (773) 416-4511 kidsclayroom.com

The Glen Town Center 2050 Tower Drive Glenview (847) 730-5275 makeamessterpiece.com

Color Wheel Studio

Lillstreet Art Center

2016 W. Concord Place Chicago (773) 661-1743 thecolorwheelstudio.com

4401 N. Ravenswood Ave. Chicago (773) 769-4226 lillstreet.com

Offers formal fine art classes as well as weekly Open Studio time for kids ages 2-teen. Also hosts birthday parties, plus events and art openings. 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 eightweek session.

Classes and camps for kids ages 18 months to 18 years featuring clay, painting, drawing, metalsmithing, printmaking, sewing, movie making, cartooning and digital arts and photography. Birthday parties offered. 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.

Kids Clay Room, see this page. Color Me Mine - DeerPark 20771 N. Rand Road Kildeer (847) 550-5077 deerpark.colormemine.com

Constructive Chaos 349 Ashland Ave. River Forest (708) 613-0444 constructive-chaos.com Fine art and culinary center for children ages 5-18. Offers art and culinary classes along with themed birthday parties. Parents can sign kids up for classes in advance or

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Pottery studio for children. Children make and glaze clay pieces through classes, individual and group workshops, camps and birthday parties. Hours: Check website. Admission: $30-$40 per child.

Little Bits Workshop 411 Park Ave. River Forest (630) 309-1606 thelittlebitsworkshop.com Teaches the art of upcycling through classic skills: sewing, knitting, crochet, jewelry-making, bookbinding, collage, printmaking and

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: Messy Package $15; Messiest Package $22; Annual Family Membership $160; individual project pricing available.

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

The Art Station Studio 8106 Oakton St. Niles

(847) 274-8478 theartstationstudio.com Offers art classes recycling, upcycling and re-purposing as much material from local resources as possible to create beautiful and whimsical art. Offers birthday parties. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; call ahead for an appointment. Admission: Check website.

The Wishcraft Workshop 2312 W. Roscoe St. Chicago (773) 348-WISH (9474) wishcraftworkshop.com Offers sewing lessons, art and craft classes, summer and day camps, birthday parties and after-school programs for grades K-8. Teen and adult sewing programs and baby showers are available. Hours: Varies; check the website. Admission: Check website.

EAT ‘N’ PLAY

Ball Factory Indoor Play & Cafe 864 S. Route 59 Naperville (630) 445-8365 ballfactoryfun.com A safe, clean and stimulating environment for physically active children 12 and under to play in and explore. Ball Factory’s visually open play area will challenging kids to reach, think, interact, explore, and have fun. 10,000-square-foot area consists of four-level play structure, 30-foot-long triple slide, enclosed Parent & Tot Lounge with a play area for toddlers under 4, and a café with seating to accommodate 60 people. Hours: Check website for current hours. Admission: Monday-Friday: $9 toddlers, $11 kids 5 and up; Weekends: $12 toddlers; $14 kids 5 and up. Free adults, newborns and crawling siblings.

Cafe N Play 1767 W. Ogden Ave. Suite 155 Naperville (630) 995-3101 cafenplay.com Features an indoor playground with a pirate clubhouse, princess castle, wooden play structure and dress-up clothes. Parents can relax with a cup of organic, fair trade Kind Coffee. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $8.50 kids, $5 crawlers.

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PLAY

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

Mt. Prospect Park District has the BEST birthday parties!

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

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

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

On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

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Session 1: July 21-25 Session 2: Jul 28-Aug 1 Color Wheel Studio, see page 71. Growth Spurts 404 Linden Ave. Wilmette (847) 850-9059 agrowthspurt.com Indoor play space and family cafe offering block building, play dough, music enrichment, and art. The cafe serves natural and organic snacks, coffee, tea and has free Wi-Fi. Hours: Check website. Admission: $10.95 first child, $5.95 and $2.95 siblings, free adults.

KidStreet PlayCenter and Grounds for Hope Cafe 2701 Maple Ave. Lisle (630) 390-1290 groundsforhopecafe.org Family-friendly cafe serving nutritious food and tasty beverages as well as specialty coffees, espressos and teas. It features a clean, bright cafe and play atmosphere. Profits benefit other nonprofits focused on starving children and clean drinking water. Also includes a familyfriendly kids’ play area for all ages called Kidstreet. KidStreet PlayCenter is a great way to engage your children, while enjoying coffee with friends. Hours: Playcenter: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m.noon Sunday. Cafe: 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-noon Sunday. Admission: $5 per family.

Kookaburra Play Cafe 2267 N. Clybourn Ave. Chicago (773) 281 5400 kookaburraplaycafe.com Kids can play, create, explore, listen to stories, have a play date, and celebrate a birthday party. There are arts and crafts and afterschool programs. Dance and sing with a different Disney-inspired princess every week. All ages are welcome.

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Parents can have a meet up, host a baby shower or relax and watch children play. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday; closed Sunday for private events. Admission: $12, $8 siblings.

Apr. 5 – Aug. 3

Overnight & day camp for 2nd-8th graders in Carol Stream, Illinois Instruction in 3 sports with over 15 choices Mind & body focus for peak performance

Little Beans Cafe 1809 W. Webster Chicago (773) 251-1025 littlebeanscafe.com

Organic camp meals

matrixsportscamp.com Play areas include a custom-built sluggermuseum.com “village” complete with a grocery Register by Apr 1 for $50 off store, firehouse, playhouse, school and service station for kids to run errands, shop or work. Other play areas include spaces for puzzles, 53877_ChiP_ad.indd 1 3/5/14 1:44 PM books and games and a soft touch area for crawlers to explore. The Learning Centers creative space allows parents to relax and chat alongside their kids while Little Beans’ staff keeps a safe and clean environment. There is also a cafe. Also offers classes, events, workshops, camps, parties and more; visit website for information. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. MondayFriday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday; 9 Make the difference of a lifetime in just a few weeks. a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $12 daily pass, $8 siblings.

We teach READING, SPELLING, COMPREHENSION, and MATH.

Little Monkey Bizness 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. There is art and crafts, open play times, walled off infant/crawler area, supervised play area and birthday party packages. Healthy food available. Hours: Open Play: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $8 walkers, $5 crawlers.

Join Us for Our Open House! Saturday, March 29th

from 9:00-10:30

a.m.

Call now for information and to reserve your space:

(847) 914-0771

740 North Waukegan Road, Suite 207, Deerfield, IL 60015

“The staff at Lindamood -Bell were so great to work with and Sarah is now confident and finding success in school. Thanks so much! ” ~ Sally, a mother

www.LindamoodBell.com ©Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes

LC-PA-Chicago Parent 0314

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PLAY Pickle’s Playroom

C & A Robot Factory Inc.

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

326 Peterson Road Libertyville (847) 996-0123 carobotfactory.com

This play center in Lincoln Square lets kids burn off some energy in its play area, but there’s also a full-service cafe and a kids’ hair salon. The play space is designed for kids 6 months through 6 years 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 drop-off play, classes, and birthday party packages. Hours: Check website. Admission: $12, $9 siblings (crawlers and up); free adults.

A place for Lego enthusiasts to use their imaginations to create unique projects during open play for kids 1-14. 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: Check website. Admission: $5 kids; free 1 and under.

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

TreeHouse

Features an expanded water play area, Lite Brite wall, Engineering MegaStation, stage and dress-up area, climbing wall, transportation station, book nook, toddler zone and two-and-a-half story tubes and tunnels climbing structure. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Free to $5 depending on age and residency.

985 S. Rand Road Lake Zurich (847) 438-8887 thechicagotreehouse.com Indoor play cafe with a three-level soft indoor treehouse play structure. Offers leather couches, gourmet coffee and espresso bar, and healthy homemade food for kids and adults. Available for birthday parties. Hours: Visit website for hours. Admission: $10.50 kids 1-15; free adults.

FAMILY SPORTS

Magical Minds Studio, see page 71. available. Hours: Check website; Adventure Golf and batting cages open March 30. Admission: Fees vary by activity.

Scuba Emporium

TopGolf

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

699 W. Thorndale Ave. Wood Dale (630) 595-4653 topgolf.com

Offers swim and snorkeling lessons, scuba birthday parties 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 the website for more information. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Admission: Varies by activity.

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: Hours change seasonally. Check website before visiting. Admission: Buy a playing card pre-loaded with game credits or a card where you pay by the game.

Skokie Sports Park

Vertical Endeavors

3459 Oakton St. Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 3100 skokieparks.org

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

Kids can practice their putting skills on two mini-golf courses or head to the driving range. Batting cages are

Participants of all ages can climb any time of the year. There is a wall designed specifically for families

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and children that offers whimsically shaped holds for kids. Parties, kids and family programs and rock climbing day camps are offered. Call or check the website for special events. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $15 to climb all day, $17 on weekends; rental gear costs extra.

INDOOR PLAY CENTERS

Airtastic Play Land 850 S. Frontenac St. Aurora (630) 851-7525 airtastic.com Features10 gigantic inflatable play structures and two age appropriate play areas. Birthday parties available. Currently offering Engineering for Kids classes, too. Visit engineeringforkids.com/location/ cws for additional cost and schedule of classes and camps. 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 90 minutes, and $10.50 for two hours. Find coupons online.

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. Guest artist exhibits feature the work of Illinois artists. Drop-in classes and events every day in art, movement, and music.Visit website for calendar of classes and events. Admission includes complimentary coffee, tea and water. Hours: Check website. Admission: $12 daily drop-in, 10-visit pass $100, or monthly membership $75.

Go Bananas 4516 N. Harlem Ave. Norridge (708) 669-7029 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 inflat-

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PLAY able bouncer. Food is available in the Rhino Diner. Bring socks. Free parking. Birthday parties accommodated. Hours: Noon-8:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; noon-9:30 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Saturday; noon-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free; pay per attraction or buy an unlimited ride pass.

schoolers. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday. Admission: $4, free 12 months and under.

Jump!Zone

In addition to the Buffalo Grove center, there is an indoor go-kart racing facility located in Addison. The K1 Speed Chicago facilities are entertainment venues designed to keep visitors entertained and engaged, whether on or off the track. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Varies.

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

Jumps ‘N’ Jiggles and Carousel Pavilion 1000 Wellington Ave. Elk Grove Village (847) 437-9494 elkgroveparks.org The 18-horse indoor carousel is the main attraction here. Jumps ‘N’ Jiggles is a play room with a ball pit, soft blocks, Legos, a maze of tunnels, spiral slide and other activities geared toward toddlers and pre-

K1 Speed Addison 2381 W. Army Trail Road Addison (630) 433-3700 k1speed.com

groups for children and teens; check website. New “In home Support” program. Hours: Check website for events and hours. Admission: $10 donation.

Kid City 1837 W. Grand Ave. Chicago (312) 829-6775 kidcitychicago.com

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 siblings under 1.

Legoland Discovery Center

This creative play space features a grocery store, movie theater, costume boutique and playhouse. Available for private birthday parties. Drop-off program 1-3 p.m. Wednesdays. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. Admission: $14; $24 two siblings; $30 three siblings; $35 four siblings; pass cards and memberships available.

Kaitlin’s Hideout for Kids with Autism

Kidstown Play & Party

526 Crescent Blvd. Glen Ellyn (630) 460-0878 kaitlinshideout.com

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

A recreation, resource and support center for special needs families (specializing in autism). Offers respite care, music, art, exercise and yoga classes, plus social skills

Indoor play center with more than a dozen themed play areas, from construction to princesses. Recently expanded to include large party area and peanut-free lunch area.

The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall) 601 N. Martingale Road Schaumburg (847) 592-9700 legolanddiscoverycenter.com/chicago An indoor family entertainment destination with more than 3 million Lego bricks and nine attractions including: Master Builder Academy; Jungle Expedition; Kingdom Quest Laser Ride; Lego City Construction Site Play Zone; Merlin’s Apprentice Ride; Lego 4D Cinema; Build and Test; Lego Factory Tour; and Miniland featuring iconic Chicago landmarks. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Extended hours available on school vacation days and national holidays. Admission: $20; special discounts available online.

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

Birthday Parties & Group Packages

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

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PLAY Monkey Island

Peekaboo Playroom

2100 N. 15th Ave. Melrose Park (708) 344-4803 playmonkeyisland.com

206 S. Marion St. Oak Park peekabooplayroom.com

This indoor playground includes jumpies, a three-story climbing structure, basketball court, soccer field, laser tag, arcade games, and more. Birthday, field trip and play group packages available. Socks must be worn. Hours: Noon-8 p.m. Monday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. TuesdayThursday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. FridaySunday. Call for holiday hours. Admission: $4.20, $8.40 kids.

Party Fantasy 342 Townline Road Corner of Routes 45 and 60 Mundelein (847) 837-0010 partyfantasy.net

A playroom where children are free to create, imagine and dream in a safe and calm environment while parents relax and play with their kids. Hours: 9:15 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $12 kids, $8 siblings.

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

Purple Monkey Playroom

Drop-in play, party rooms, inflatables, rock climbing wall, gokarts, Fantasy Cafe, toddler room and arcade room with redeemable prizes. Offers party packages. Second location at 7150 Capitol Drive, Wheeling. Hours: Check website. Admission: Check website.

2040 N. Western Ave. Chicago (773) 772-8411 purplemonkeyplayroom.com 1,500-square-foot playroom includes a plush alcove dedicated to lap babies and crawlers with ageappropriate toys. Older kids can bounce, climb, build, read, color, and engage in imaginative play. There also is a life-sized Tiki Hut.

Planning your summer? ...WE ARE!

Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; check website for weekend hours. Admission: $12 one child, $22 for up to three children, $6 babies under 8 months, free siblings under 8 months; free parking. Families of multiples are $6 per child on “Multiples Mondays.”

Sky High Sports Sky High Sports Naperville 2244 Corporate Lane (just north of I-88 and just east of Route 59) (630) 717-JUMP (5867) nap.jumpskyhigh.com Sky High Sports Niles 6424 W. Howard (behind Fibrecraft) Niles (847) 801-5867 nil.jumpskyhigh.com

Foreign Language for Tots, Musical Mondays, Whimsical Wednesdays, Weekly Lactation Consultant and Infant Massage, as well as a private event space for parties. Hours: Monday-Friday; hours vary. Admission: $12 kids, $8 siblings (0-6 month old siblings free with paid admission).

The C.A.K.E. Village 611 E. Main St. East Dundee (224) 699-9968 TheCAKEVillage.com

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

Sod Room 1454 S. Michigan Ave. 2nd Floor, Chicago (312) 922-3131 sodroom.com Eco-friendly, indoor playspace located in the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago. Features drop-in play, classes and workshops such as

The C.A.K.E. Village is a cultural, visual and performing arts center that immerses children in the culture of Africa. The goal is to foster an enriched, positive connection between all children and Africa. The Mini-Village is a cozy playroom with a stage, huts, dress-up, fruit stand, pretend play and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday. Admission: $7 per child.

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

LIFE-CHANGING

AVERY COONLEY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM In Three Sessions June 16 – June 27 June 30 – July 11 July 14 – July 25 Enrichment Courses • Recreational Programs Stimulate new interests and strengthen skills in an exciting and educational summer program.

FOR CHILDREN AGES 4-14

For the 2014 Program Guide or Course Description call or write

Avery Coonley School 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois 60515

(630) 969-0800, option 2 fax.(630) 969-0131 www.averycoonley.org 76 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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Camp Sessions/Registration Starting Dates June 15-20 (Registration: February 4) June 22-27 (Registration: February 5) July 6-11 (Registration: February 6) July 13-18 (Registration: February 7) Registration opens at 8:00 am CST on each date. Register online: www.lorasallsportscamps.com LORAS.EDU

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PLAY (630) 752-1400 xtremetrampolines.com

nel, water playground, zero depth pool, dive well, whirlpool and family changing room. Birthday parties, group outings and private pool rentals available. Noon-8 p.m. March 24-28 for spring break. Hours: 5:30-8 pm Monday-Thursday; 4-8 p.m. Friday; noon-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $9, $7 kids. Resident $7, $5 kids, kids 2 and under free.

Indoor trampoline park offers dropin jump times and birthday party packages. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Carol Stream: $11 first hour, $6 each additional hour; Buffalo Grove: $12 one hour, $16 for 90 minutes, $19 two hours.

Yu Kids Island Chicago Woodfield Mall, next to Sears, 5 Woodfield Mall Schaumburg (847) 969-9000 yukidschicago.com Unique playground inside the mall for kids under 48 inches tall. Includes 10 attractions, including The Dancing Balloons, The Spinning Palms and The Revolving Tree. Also offers party packages. Bring socks. Additional location at Westfield Hawthorn Mall in Vernon Hills. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $10, $9 for additional sibling Monday-Thursday; $12, $11 siblings Friday-Sunday; Pajama Play (last hour): $5.

INDOOR WATER PARKS

Arctic Splash Wheeling Park District 327 W. Dundee Road Wheeling (847) 465-7674 wheelingparkdistrict.com 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. Hours: Vary by month/season. Check website. Admission: $7.50, $6.50 kids 3-9, free kids 2 and under. $6.50, $5 kids 3-9 residents.

CoCo Key Water Resort Rockford 7801 E. State St. Rockford (815) 398-6000 cocokeyrockford.com Indoor water park 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. CoCo Key Water Resort is connected to the Clock Tower Resort and Conference Center. Hours:

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SPORTS TO WATCH

Chicago Steel Edge Ice Arena 735 E. Jefferson St. Bensenville (630) 594-1162 chicagosteelhockeyteam.com

Sod Room, see page 76. Vary; visit website. Admission: $10 and up.

Oak Brook Park District Family Aquatics Center 1450 Forest Gate Road Oak Brook (630) 990-4233 obparks.org Leisure pool with 105-foot spiral water slide, gradual beach-like entry with maximum depth of four feet, zero-depth pool, water playground and vending machines. Separate program area offers ample space for tot programs and youth swim lessons. Slide turned off Monday-Thursday. Hours: 6-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 4-9:30 p.m. Friday; noon-5:30 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Admission: $12, $8 kids 3-17 and seniors 55+. $10, $6 kids 3-17 and seniors 55+ resident.

Park Place Cool Pool Streamwood Park District 550 S. Park Blvd. Streamwood (630) 372-PARK (7275) ext. 3010 streamwoodparkdistrict.org This indoor aquatic center has a 25-yard lap pool, a zero-depth entry leisure pool, two-story water slide, kiddie slide, water play features, horseshoe channel, whirlpool and dry saunas. 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: Check website.

Bolingbrook (630) 739-1705, (630) 739-1700 bolingbrookparks.org The indoor park has an enclosed water slide, tumble buckets, Parkie the Pelican slide, Green Monster water slide, indoor lap pool, 10-person whirlpool tub and zerodepth entry pool. Swim lessons available. Hours: 4-8 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; noon-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: Indoor park: $8, $6 resident.

Splash Landings Park Center 2400 Chestnut Ave. Glenview (847) 486-5372 glenviewparks.org Water slides, a zero-depth pool, vending machines and concessions. Swim suit required. Bring a towel and lock. Babysitting available for kids 3 months-6 years (certain hours apply). Kids under 9 must be within arm’s reach of an adult at all times. Special spring break hours March 24-28. 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; check website for special spring break hours. Admission: $6, free kids under 2. Free parking.

The Water Works

Pelican Harbor Aquatic Park

Schaumburg Park District 505 N. Springinsguth Road Schaumburg (847) 490-2505 parkfun.com

Bolingbrook Park District 200 S. Lindsey Lane

This indoor water park has three water slides, a rapid water chan-

The United States Hockey League season runs through April 5, playoffs through beginning of May. Check the website for family events. Admission: $8, $6.50 in advance. Family packs start at $27. Check website for birthday and other kids’ packages.

Chicago Wolves Allstate Arena 6920 N. Mannheim Road Rosemont (800) THE-WOLVES chicagowolves.com The American Hockey League season runs through April. Don’t miss the fireworks, laser show and pyrotechnics show before every home game. Check the website for information on family packages, which include tickets, food and souvenirs. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Tickets start at $10.

Kane County Cougars Fifth Third Bank Ballpark One Cougar Trail Geneva (630) 232-8811 kccougars.com The Cougars are a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Chicago Cubs, and is the only Minor League Baseball team linked with a Major League team. Baseball fans can watch future stars, as more than 100 former Cougars have reached the Major Leagues. Fan interaction is a staple at Cougars games, with on-field player autograph sessions, special promotions, fireworks shows, and chances for fans to run the bases. Hours: Season runs April-September. Visit website for schedule. Admission: $9-$15; free kids 2 and under. Handicap parking and seating available.

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PLAY

Wonder Works Children’s Museum

Head to Oak Park for an

easy family day trip

rank Lloyd Wright made Oak Park world famous when he made the western suburb his home for two decades and built many homes there (including his own). But the quaint area just immediately west of Chicago (which we’re taking to include Oak Park, River Forest and Forest Park because they’re all within a few miles of each other and contain fabulous kid-friendly finds) will charm more than architecture buffs. It also has its fair share of kiddie wonders, which makes it the perfect place to spend a day or a weekend exploring. Danielle Braff Wonder Works Children’s Museum 6445 North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-4815 wonder-works.org It’s smaller than the Chicago Children’s Museum—but it’s never very crowded, so your child can monopolize the stage and put on an awesome performance in the theater room. Or he can do a fun craft without waiting in the art room, run wild with all the toys and grocery carts, race up a tree or down a slide. They’ve got all the good stuff on a smaller scale, st including the price. It’s just re’s $6 per child here, and there’s free parking. Oak Park Conservatory ark 615 Garfield St., Oak Park (708) 725-2400 m oakparkconservatory.com sis along This wonderful little oasis ay is tthe he the Eisenhower Expressway ducing perfect way to begin introducing many ny younger children to the ma nd fl flow owdifferent kinds of plants and flow-

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ers. The free conservatory has a fern room, tropical room and desert room, along with little ponds where kids can look for turtles and fish. The Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor 7347 Madison St., Forest Park (708) 366-7970 browncowicecream.com This adorable old-fashioned ice-cream parlor serves up handmade ice-cream in gigantic portions (I usually share a small with my daughters). I’m partial to the chocolatepeanut butter, while my 5-year-old loves the bubblegum flavor. Horace Mann Elementary School Playground 921 N. Kenilworth Ave., Oak Park We adore so many things about the new playground here, from the separate toddler area to the cool swings, climbing material and ample room to run and play. This is a must-visit park on our list. H Hal Tyrrell Trailside Museum 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest (708) 366-6530 fpdcc.com/nature-centers There are animals, including a coyote and a fox, in cages outside, logs to walk on, a pretend fort and nature walks designed for small children. They have kids’ and family programs such as guided nature walks and nature-based stories aalmost every week, which are open to the public—so you can plan your tr trip around their activities. Cost is free to enter, $1-$2 for activities such as storytime and crafts.

Horace Mann Elementary School Playground

Hal Tyrrell Trailside Museum

Gaetano’s 7636 W. Madison St., Forest Park (708) 366-4010 gaetanosforestpark.com This is drool-worthy Italian food. No, it’s not a place you’d normally take children, as you can drop $50 per person because the food is that good—but they do something there that is family-friendly genius: On the second Monday of the month, they have a kids night for ages 2-12. This means kids get whisked away to the back room, where the owner’s wife and daughters play with them (freeze-dance games, etc.), do a craft, feed them a homemade dinner and set up an ice-cream sundae bar for $15 per child. Meanwhile, you and your significant other can have a romantic dinner sans kids. Oh—and this night coincides with their ½ price bottle of wine Monday nights.

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nature

Your guide to the outside

In this section 80 Botanic gardens 81 Conservatories, farms & ranches 84 Zoos

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NATURE

T:10”

Big Run Wolf Ranch, see page 81. BOTANIC GARDENS

Chicago Botanic Garden 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org A 385-acre living plant museum features 26 display gardens and four natural areas, uniquely situated on nine islands surrounded by lakes. Visit the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Plant Conservation Science Center with interactive exhibits and the Green Roof Garden. It has events, programs and activities for all ages. Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset. Admission: Free. Select event fees apply. Parking is $20-$25; free for members.

Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden 2715 S. Main St., Rockford (815) 965-8146 klehm.org This 155-acre outdoor living museum has specialty gardens plus beautiful trees, shrubs and wooded areas. Two miles of accessible paved paths, 2.5 miles of wood-chipped trails, a children’s garden, butterfly garden, picnic area, fountain

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garden and more. Hours: Open daily; hours vary by season. Admission: $6, $3 seniors, students and kids 3-17, free kids under 3.

Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org Explore 1,700 acres of plants and trees. Walk, run or bike nine miles of paved roads or hike 16 miles of trails with birds, frogs and other wildlife, amid trees, meadows, ponds and lakes. Wander a oneacre Maze Garden or enjoy the Children’s Garden with year-round activities for ages 2 and up. Family and youth outings, classes, storytimes and other nature- and science-based activities for all ages vary year-round. Visitor stations at Big Rock and Schulenberg Prairie tell the story of the area and its ecosystems. Hours: 7 a.m.-sunset daily. Visit website for Children’s Garden hours. Admission: $12, $11 seniors, $9 kids 2-17, free kids under 2. On Wednesdays, $8, $7 seniors, $6 kids, free kids under 2. Free parking.

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

CONSERVATORIES

Bird Haven Greenhouse 225 N. Gougar Road, Joliet (815) 741-7278 jolietpark.org A Joliet Park District facility located in Pilcher Park, it consists of four greenhouses open to the public with outdoor gardens. There are special events held throughout the year just for kids. Hours: 8 a.m.4:30 p.m. daily. Admission: Free.

Friendship Park Conservatory 395 W. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines (847) 298-3500 mppd.org Visit the three-story indoor atrium

and 15 acres of outdoor gardens. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayThursday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: Free.

Garfield Park Conservatory 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago (773) 638-1766 garfieldconservatory.org The Elizabeth Morse Children’s Garden provides a fun and comfortable setting for kids who can go down the vine tube slide, climb a giant seed or crank up a huge bee to pollinate an enormous flower. There’s also a toddler-size playground and a digging area. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Open until 8 p.m. Wednesday. Admission: Free.

Lincoln Park Conservatory 2391 N. Stockton Drive, Chicago (312) 742-7736 chicagoparkdistrict.com This conservatory doesn’t have a children’s garden, but it’s still a great place to relax after a day at Lincoln Park Zoo. Take a stroll through the tropical flora and fauna. Look for goldfish and koi. No food allowed in the conservatory. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; check website for holidays. Admission: Free.

Oak Park Conservatory 615 Garfield St., Oak Park (708) 725-2400 oakparkconservatory.org Walk through a warm, lush wonderland of ferns, tropical plants, and cacti at the Oak Park Conservatory. Kids can also visit the Exploration Station open 10 a.m.-noon on Saturdays. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday; 2-4 p.m. Monday. Admission: $2 suggested donation.

Wilder Park Conservatory Wilder Park 225 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst (630) 993-8901 epd.org A small conservatory, ideal for little feet, showcases seasonal plants as well as permanent displays of flowering tropical plants. On April 27, the conservatory will reopen to the public after a yearlong renovation. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: Free, donations appreciated.

FARMS AND RANCHES

Big Run Wolf Ranch 14857 Farrell Road, Lockport

(815) 588-0044 bigrunwolfranch.org Nonprofit educational facility specializing in North American wildlife. Visit during Family Day/Open Houses or book a presentation or a party. Hours: Spring Family Day/ Open House dates: April 26, May 17, May 31. Admission: $5.

Blackberry Farm 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora (630) 892-1550 foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Historic Blackberry Farm celebrates the pioneer days of the 1800s, bringing yesteryear to life amid a beautiful setting of modern amenities and attractions. The living history museum on Aurora’s southwest side recently underwent a modern makeover. The multi-level adventure playground will delight the kids with a zipline and its network of climbing decks, slides, ropes and catwalk-style bridges connecting an array of playhouses. Admission also includes unlimited rides on the steam-engine replica train, hay wagon, carousel, ponies and pedal tractor course. Visit the farm animals and learn about pioneer life from the costumed historical interpreters posing as rug-weav-

River Forest Community Center

Summer Camps

Registration Begins March 10th Half-Day Camps

Full-Day Camps

Breakfast Club (15 mos. – 2 yrs) Parent/Caregiver and Tot Camp M,W : 9:00 am–10:00 am

Young Voyagers (3 yrs. - 1st gr.) M-F: 10:00 am– 4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm

Three For All (3 yrs. by 9-1-14) M,W: 10:15 am–12:15 pm T,Th : 9:30 am–11:30 am Little Explorers (4 & 5 yrs) M-Th: 9:00 am-11:30 am th

Summer Scene (K – 7 grade) M-F: 12:00 am – 4:00 pm

Adventure Camp (2nd – 4th gr.) M-F: 10:00 am-4:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Urban Safari (5th – 8th gr.) M-F: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm Extended Care: 7:00 am-10:00 am & 4:00 pm-6:00 pm

since 1962

Summer Horse Camp for Girls Western Riding • Vaulting • Trail Rides • Swimming • Boating Arts & Crafts • Field Activities • and much more! ** Mother / Daughter weekends available! Call for details! **

Unforgettable Adventures from June 9th – August 22nd Arts & Crafts, Games, Sports, Swimming Field Trips, Special Events, and More!

River Forest Community Center 8020 Madison Street • River Forest, IL 60305 708-771-6159 • www.rfcc.info

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Call today to learn more! Phone (810) 679-2505

www.BlackRiverFarmAndRanch.com

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

Enjoy Pioneer Farm 17N400 Big Timber Road, Hampshire (847) 683-2863 enjoypioneerfarm.com Hold a baby lamb at this farm just one hour west of Chicago. On Saturdays and Sundays in March, April and May watch sheep-shearing and see baby lambs, goats, chicks, piglet and calf. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. weekends. Admission: $5, $12 families of three to four members, $20 families of five+.

Friendship Park Conservatory, see page 81. ers, silversmiths, quilters, blacksmiths, soap-makers and cooks. New improvements include a large performance shelter for live entertainment, modernized restrooms and concessions, expanded group

picnic areas and a boathouse shelter/pavilion. Hours: May 1-Sept. 1: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. MondayFriday; 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $8, $7 kids and

seniors; $5 resident, $4.50 resident kids and seniors; free kids under 2.

Bonner Heritage Farm 19412 W. Sand Lake Road, just west of

Kline Creek Farm 1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago (630) 876-5900 dupageforest.org/klinecreekfarm Visit this living-history farm to discover life for DuPage County fami-

His Best Summer Yet!

NEW LOCATION - 1025 W. Lake Street, Melrose Park, IL 60160

708.366.2764

82 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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• Christ-Centered, Multi-Age Education • Full Day Kindergarten - 8th Grade • Preschool Program ages 3 - 5 years • Small Class Sizes Personal Attention • Extended Care Program 6:30 am 6:00 pm • 1:1 Laptop Computer Program • Interscholastic Athletics • Choral & Instrumental Music Instruction • Concordia University Partner School

www.walther.com

Your Son’s Adventure Begins At

Adventure. Tradition. Character. Since 1935 • Cass Lake, Minnesota 2-, 4-, and 8-week sessions June – August Contact: Mike Endres, Camp Director mike@campchippewa.com

800-262-1544

www.campchippewa.com ChicagoParent.com

3/6/14 5:34 PM

NATURE lies in the 1890s. Tour the house, barn and visitor center. See sheep, chickens and horses and let costumed staff and volunteers share life on the farm. Activities and special events throughout the year reflect the seasons, including the “Sheep Shearing” weekend April 26-27. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Monday; closed Tuesday, Wednesday. Surrounding Timber Ridge Forest Preserve open daily one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset. Admission: Free to forest preserve and farm. Fees for some programs.

website for restaurant and shop hours. Admission: Day pass $8, $12 kids 2-12.

Prairie Crossing Farm 32400 N. Harris Road, Grayslake (847) 548-4062 ext. 11 prairiecrossing.com/farm/learning.php Offers a variety of outdoor farmbased education programs on a 100-acre working organic farm. Hours: Visit website for program information. Admission: Check website.

Riegel Farm & Conservation Center

Lambs Farm I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville (847) 362-4636 lambsfarm.org This nonprofit center serves more than 250 people with developmental disabilities who work and live on site. Lambs Farm operates five kid-friendly businesses. At the Farmyard, kids can enjoy the carousel, mini train ride, miniature golf course, bounce house and pet the many animals. Check website for upcoming family-friendly events. Hours: Farmyard: March weekends 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; AprilMay 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Check

580 Farmview Road, University Park (708) 534-6456 university-park-il.com This site has a barn and picnic areas. The petting zoo has a diverse group of animals, including exotic birds, snakes and an alligator. Birthday parties, tours and horse rides ($4). Hours: Check website for opening day. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday; Monday and Tuesday by appointment. Admission: Free, donations accepted; $8.99 per child birthday parties.

Morton Arboretum, see page 80.

Family Fun for Everyone!

A 2013 National Blue Ribbon School Preschool - 8th Grade Join us for an unparalleled educational experience that includes. . . . .

• Petting Area, Learning Center, Hands-on Fun • Mini-Golf, Train Ride, Carousel • Farm Animals on Display

www.lambsfarm.org 847.362.4636 Open Daily, 10-5 I-94 & Rt. 176 Libertyville ChicagoParent.com

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• • • • • • • • •

Christ–centered Technology integration Service Opportunities Academic Learning Teams Athletic Program in Grades 5-8 Spanish in Grades K-8 Fine Arts Program Chicagoland Field Trips Before and After School Care

STPETER-AH.ORG 111 W. Olive St. | Arlington Heights Spring 2014 • goingplaces 83

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NATURE Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm Schaumburg Park District 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg (847) 985-2100 parkfun.com Step back in time to the 19th century on this working farm and see how pioneers did chores such as plowing and cooking. The baby farm animals, turtles and draft horses are big attractions for kids. At the nature center, hike through 135 acres of restored natural habitats and let kids loose at educational displays, puzzles and seasonal activities. Hours: Heritage Farm opens April 1. Check website for hours. Admission: Free. Some programs require fees and pre-registration.

The Children’s Farm at The Center

Oak Park Conservatory, see page 81.

12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park (708) 361-3650 thecenterpalos.org/farm.html

hay, pumpkins and garden vegetables, and also offers preschool classes and after school farm classes. Hours: 1-4 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Admission: $5, free kids under 2.

Sixty-acre educational farm dedicated to the mission of connecting people, animals and nature. Hands-on tours of the animal barns feature cows, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, horses, donkeys, rabbits, geese, turkeys and ducks. It’s a real working farm growing

Wagner Farm & Heritage Center 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview

(847) 657-1506 glenviewparks.org The Glenview Park District’s 18-acre farm is one of the last working dairy farms in Cook County. The farm provides a unique opportunity to learn about our farming heritage and experience firsthand “the way things used to be” on the outskirts

of Chicago from the 1850s to the present. Features interactive exhibits, a milking parlor, greenhouse, an authentic 1930s grocery store and a museum store. Call for tours. Stroller friendly. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free. Some programs and special events cost extra.

Special advertiSing Section

Take a Closer Look at Your Park District Bolingbrook Park District 201 Recreation Dr. Bolingbrook (630) 739-0272

Photo courtesy of lisle Park district

bolingbrookparks.org

Itasca Park District 350 E. Irving Park Rd. Itasca (630) 773-2257 itascaparkdistrict.com

Photo courtesy of Mt. ProsPect Park district

84 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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Lisle Park District

Mt. Prospect Park District

1925 Ohio Street Lisle (630) 964-3410

1000 W. Central Rd. Mount Prospect (847) 255-5380

www.lisleparkdistrict.org

mppd.org

ChicagoParent.com

3/6/14 5:31 PM

NATURE ZOOS

(gates open until 5); April-May: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (gates open until 6). Admission: Free. Parking $17-$30, depending how long you stay.

Brookfield Zoo 8400 31st St., Brookfield (708) 688-8000 czs.org

Phillips Park Zoo 1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora (630) 256-3860 phillipsparkaurora.com

This 216-acre zoo has more than 2,000 animals. Find wolves in their natural habitat, learn about recycling, meet penguins and visit a swamp. If that’s not enough, you can always hoot and holler with the monkeys at Tropic World, watch dolphins at the Seven Seas Panorama, observe kangaroos at the Australia House and go on a safari at Habitat Africa. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $16.95, $11.95 kids 3-11 and seniors 65+, free kids 2 and under. $10 parking.

Cosley Zoo

Get an up-close look at a bald eagle, gray wolves, and cougars. See North American river otters, llamas, elk, goats, swans, turkeys, peacocks and Reptile House. Stop by the visitor center to see educational displays and exhibits featuring mastodon bones. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: Free.

Randall Oaks Barnyard Zoo

Brookfield Zoo, see this page.

1356 Gary Ave., Wheaton (630) 665-5534 cosleyzoo.org This five-acre zoo, which is dotted with ponds, offers an intimate experience with a large variety of domestic farm animals and native Illinois wildlife. Picnic area, gift shop and seasonal concession stand available. Also offers educational programs and a variety of special events. Hours: March 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

daily, April-May 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $5, $4 seniors, free kids 17 and under, members and Wheaton Park District residents.

Lincoln Park Zoo 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago (312) 742-2000 lpzoo.org See more than 1,100 animals, many

of them endangered. Popular stops include the African Apes exhibit, Kovler Lion House and Regenstein African Journey. Kids can see bears, wolves, beavers and otters play at Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo, and climb in the Treetop Canopy Climbing Adventure. The Nature Boardwalk allows visitors to experience a multisensory, interactive ecosystem. Hours: March: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee (847) 551-4310 dtpd.org Visit, pet and feed the farm animals, while also seeing emus, lynx, hawks, owls and a variety of reptiles. Pony rides and a jumpy are available for an additional charge. Hours: Opens for season April 12. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends only April 12-May 4; daily May 5-Oct. 13. Admission: $4, $3.25 resident, free kids under 2.

Interc u ltural Montessori Language School Two Locations: Oak Park (708) 848-6626 Chicago-West Loop (312) 265-1514

Discover the simple power of learning by doing Understand how the learning process at Chiaravalle Montessori is designed to connect how and what children learn. Call today. 425 Dempster, Evanston, IL 847.864.2190 www.chiaravalle.org

ChicagoParent.com

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Dual Language Montessori Programs • Chinese/English • Spanish/English • Japanese/English • Ages 3-12 years old

ENROLL NOW! E-mail: admissions@interculturalmontessori.org Visit: www.interculturalmontessori.org NEW! After School language programs in Spanish and Chinese Spring 2014 • goingplaces 85

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GOING PLACES

Live the language!

Eat in a new culture. Swim in a new language.

PLAY AND LEARN

Preschool & Pre-K Playdates

at a Minnesota summer camp!

• Programs available in 15 languages. • 1, 2, and 4 week programs. Day Camps, High School and College Credit sessions available.

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

• Scholarships available. For more information visit: www.ConcordiaLanguageVillages.org/Scholarships (800) 222-4750 • clv@cord.edu • www.ConcordiaLanguageVillages.org

May 2014

Quest Academy goes beyond other preschools by providing:

the

BABY

issue

Contact your Sales Rep today to reserve ad space! 86 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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Saturdays, April 12, 2014 & May 17, 2014 Preschool and Pre-K Play Date (Ages 3 - 4)* 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.

• • • • •

Accelerated learning opportunities Advanced concepts and skills A differentiated curriculum An environment of like-minded peers Teachers who “get” your child

* Reservations required for these events.

Apply Today for 2014/15 Weekday morning tours available by appointment. Contact Director of Admission, Leslie Kovich at leslie.kovich@questacademy.org or call 847.202.8035, ext. 438 today. questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067

ChicagoParent.com

3/6/14 5:52 PM

GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Top Schools

Spring Open Houses

Avery Coonley School Pre-K - 8th, gfted

1400 Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 averycoonley.org

Accelerated curriculum; comprehensive technology and arts program; and a nurturing faculty that understand the unique needs of gifted students. Early Childhood (3 year olds) Observations, without a formal tour, are available on Wednesday and Friday (8:20 AM - 9 AM or 12:20 PM - 1 PM). Please call the Admission Office to register. Junior Kindergarten (4 year olds) Observations are available. Please call the Admission Office to register.

Baker: The Progressive School Pre-K - 8

201 Sheridan Road, Wilmette (847) 425-5800

Baker Demonstration School is an independent coeducational school, for children early childhood through eighth grade, dedicated to creating well-rounded students through the principles of progressive education. Less formally, Baker is a school where children learn by doing. Love to learn, cherish the journey, serve the world.

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

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

Chiaravalle Montessori School 425 Dempster St., Evanston (847) 864-2190 chiaravalle.org

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

The Chicago Grammar School PreK – 6th grade

900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org

A Classical Liberal Arts education beginning in elementary school. Educating the mind through the integration of academics, fine arts, and sports.

Council Oak Montessori

11030 S. Longwood Dr. Chicago (773) 779-7606 Counciloakmontessori.org

Please join us at our March 19th, April 16th and May 14th “Coffees.”

Gateway Montessori School 3748 West Montrose, Chicago (773) 539-3025 gatewaymontessorischool.org

Gateway Montessori is a nonprofit education center for young children, dedicated to quality education based on the principles of Dr. Maria Montessori. Montessori education is a nontraditional and holistic approach to working with young children. More than just academics, Montessori education aids the natural development of children, beginning from birth. Gateway offers The Parent- Infant Program, ages 3 months to 18 months; The Community, ages 15 months to 3 years; Children’s House, 3-6 years; and Elementary, ages 6-9 years.

Intercultural Montessori Language School

Language immersion programs in Spanish, Japanese, or Chinese PreK – 6th

301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park 114 S. Racine, Chicago (708) 848-6626 interculturalmontessori.org

Both of our campuses host Open Houses approximately once a month during the regular school year. In order to participate in one of our Open Houses, you may contact either of the campuses directly or via e-mail at admissions@ interculturalmontessori.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF BAKER: THE PROGRESSIVE SCHOOL

ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

Top Schools

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Spring Open Houses

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools Nursery – 12th grade

1362 E. 59th St., Chicago (773) 702-9451 ucls.uchicago.edu

St Peter Lutheran School Preschool - 8th Grade

111 W. Olive St., Arlington Heights (847) 253-6638 Stpeter-ah.org

A 2013 National Blue Ribbon School Join us for an unparalleled educational The Laboratory Schools offers exceptional opportunities for students who come from a rich experience that includes: Christ–centered variety of backgrounds, and represents the best education, Technology integration, Service Opportunities, Academic Learning Teams, that America has to offer in education. Athletic Program in Grades 5-8, Spanish in Lakefront Children’s Academy Grades K-8, Fine Arts Program, Chicagoland PreK thru after school programs Field Trips, Before and After School Care. 400 East Randolph, Suite 6B, Chicago Contact us for a tour or information today!

Walther Christian Academy 305 Circle Avenue, Forest Park (708) 366-2764 www.walther.com

With an emphasis on Christian values, Walther Academy students, Preschool through 8th grade, learn in an academically rich setting. Integrity, respect, responsibility, and service are key educational components. Dedicated teachers integrate technology with learning, helping students reach their full potential. Full choral, instrumental music and inter-scholastic athletic programs are offered.

(312) 819-1760 lakefrontchildrensacademy.com

Conveniently located in the center of Chicago, LCA is a full service private academy with an enhanced curriculum and educational program.

Queen of Angels School

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

At Queen of Angels, we nurture our students’ wonder, curiosity and faith in the world, instilling a love of learning that will last a lifetime. Our students develop sound academic skills, critical thinking skills and an ability to learn independently and cooperatively through a rich academic curriculum. Each day is designed to bring new excitement and opportunities to engage in learning in a safe, child-centered environment. Join us on April 9th at 8:30am for a prospective parent coffee tour.

Quest Academy

Independent day school, gifted and talented students prechool-8th

500 N. Benton, Palatine (847) 202-8035 questacademy.org

Providing gifted children with a challenging curriculum and nurturing environment. Program emphasizes sound character, scholarship and creativity in both the academics and the arts. Preschool and Prekindergarten Play Dates: registration required Saturday, April 12th, 2014 9 - 10:30 a.m. and Saturday, May 17th, 2014 9 - 10:30 a.m.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRICKTON MONTESSORI SCHOOL

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ChicagoParent.com

3/7/14 12:32 PM

GOING PLACES

it’s not it’s it’s not ’s it’s not ’s fault not ’s fault ’s fault it’s fault not ’s fault

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by TheShelterPetProject.org o1648_Hdln_Vertical_r0.eps 108.65 Boton Bold 28.38 Boton Regular 0 tracking o1648_Hdln_Vertical_r0.eps 108.65 Boton Bold 28.38 Boton Regular 0 tracking

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Spring 2014 • goingplaces 89

3/6/14 5:31 PM

GOING PLACES

BOOK PEOPLE UNITE

Help us get books to kids in need. Help us get books to kids in need. TAKE THE PLEDGE TAKE THE PLEDGE BookPeopleUnite.org BookPeopleUnite.org All trademarks and copyrights are properties of their respective owners. All trademarks and copyrights are properties of their respective owners.

90 goingplaces â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 2014

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ChicagoParent.com

3/6/14 5:50 PM

GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CAMP GUIDE DAY CAMPS

Avery Coonley School Summer Program 1400 W. Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 ext. 122 Camp Summer Quest at Lisle Community Park Active outdoor day camp for kids entering grades 1-6 1825 Short Street, Lisle (630) 964-3410 www.lisleparkdistrict.org/summerquest Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 chicagogrammar.org Columbia College Art Start Summer Arts Camp 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago (312) 369-7574 summer.colum.edu/a-day-at-camp.php

2014

Summer Lab 2013-University of Chicago Laboratory Schools Adventure Kids Day Camp (773) 834-7766 summerlab.org Lakefront Children’s Academy 400 E. Randolph, Ste. 6B, Chicago (312) 819-1760 lakefrontchildrensacademy.com

Mt. Prospect Park District 50 Years of Excellence

Mt. Prospect Park District 1000 W. Central, Mt. Prospect (847) 255-5380 mppd.org River Forest Community Center Summer Camp Programs 8020 Madison Street, River Forest (708) 771-6159 rfcc.info

Walther Christian Academy Adventures on the “Magic School Bus” Ages 3 yrs - 4th grade 305 Circle Avenue Forest Park (708) 366-2764 www.walther.com

ChicagoParent.com

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YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Day and overnight camps Throughout Chicago (312) 932-1200 or (800) 514-1224 YMCAchgo.org

OVERNIGHT CAMP Black River Farm and Ranch 5040 Sheridan Line Crosswell , MI 48422 (810) 679-2505 blackriverfarmandranch.com Camp Chippewa for Boys 22767 Cap Endres Road SE Cass Lake, MN (800) 262-1544 www.campchippewa.com

SPECIALTY CAMPS ArtReach Affordable Performing Arts Camps 3839 W. Frontage Rd., Palatine (847) 372-7798 or (773) 604-1892 Artreachspotlite.com Concordia Language Villages (800) 222-4750 concordialanguagevillages.org Da Vinci Academy 37w080 Hopps Rd., Elgin (847) 841-7532 Dvacademy.org admissions@dvacademy.org Dolphin Swim Club Crystal Lake, Skokie, Loves Park (815) 282-3488 dolphinswimclub.com Elmhurst Art Museum 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 Elmhurstartmuseum.org Intercultural Montessori Language School 301 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park 114 S. Racine, Chicago (708) 848-6626 interculturalmontessori.org

Spring 2014 • goingplaces 91

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GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CAMP GUIDE Lifeline Theatre Summer Drama Camps Ages 4-6 and Ages 7-12 6912 N. Glenwood, Chicago (773) 761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com

Lookingglass Theatre Company 875 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1430, Chicago (773) 477-9257, x193 lookingglasstheatre.org/education Loras All-Sports Camps 3155 Spring Valley Rd. Dubuque, IA 52001 lorasallsportrscamps.com Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts 6701 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-3456 Master-SH-Yu.com Metropolis School of the Performing Arts Dance, drama, music, camps and performances 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights (847) 577-5983 x221 Metropolisarts.com/sopa

Chicago Children’s Museum Navy Pier 700 E. Grand, Chicago (312) 527-1000 chicagochildrensmuseum.org Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6600 kohlchildrensmuseum.org Make A Messterpiece 2010 Tower Dr., Glenview (847) 730-5275 makeamessterpiece.com

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament 2001 N. Roselle Rd., Schaumburg (888) WE-JOUST medievaltimes.com Safariland 701 W North Ave, Villa Park (630) 530-4649 safarilandfun.com

Safari Land

Looking for more camps?

No Name Teen Camp at Lisle Community Park Field trip summer camp for teens entering grades 6-9 1825 Short Street, Lisle (630) 964-3410 www.lisleparkdistrict.org/nonameteencamp Old Town School of Folk Music 4544 N. Lincoln Ave & 909 W. Armitage Chicago (773) 728-6000 oldtownschool.org Schaumburg Boomers 1999 Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg (847) 461-FOWL (3695) Boomersbaseball.com

FIELD TRIPS Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago (312) 922-7827 adlerplanetarium.org

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You’ll find even more Camp resources on line at chicagoparent.com, and in the January through May issues of Chicago Parent. ChicagoParent.com

3/7/14 3:34 PM

focuscope e Research Discussions are strictly confidential, professionally conducted and NEVER involve any sales. Families of all sizes & ages!

MOMS... We’ll Pay For Your Opinions! Join the Focuscope Respondent Community www.focuscope.com or call 708-386-5086

Oak Park • Downtown Chicago • Oak Brook

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*With the purchase of one full paying adult admission, the birthday 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 BFGP at time of purchase to receive discount. Upgrades are additional. Some restrictions may apply. Valid at the Schaumburg Castle only. Expires 5/30/14.

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Book the Avani pedicure or Avani manicure and receive the following upgrade: paraffin mask or hot stone upgrade ($25 value each) Schedule your getaway today by calling 800-SPA-1000 or visiting theabbeyresort.com Must mention promo code: Chicago Parent Spring at time of booking

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3/7/14 3:33 PM

GOING PLACES

going places advertiser index The Abbey Resort.......................................18, 93

DuPage Children’s Museum ......................34, 93

Minocqua Area Chamber of Commerce ...........18

Art Reach ........................................................59

Earn Income at Home ......................................27

Mt. Prospect Park District ...............................72

Avery Coonley School .......................................76

Elmhurst Art Museum .....................................36

Munising Visitors Bureau ..................................8

Baker Demonstration School ...........................44

Everett College Funding ..................................34

Northwestern University ..................................62

The Ball Factory ..............................................68

Fleetwood Roller Rink ......................................34

Odyssey Fun World ..........................................72

Beachwalk Vacation Rentals ...........................20

Focuscope .......................................................93

Old Town School of Folk Music ........................68

Black River Farm and Ranch ..........................81

Gateway Montessori ........................................39

Once Upon A Child ..........................................75

Bluffdale Vacation Farm .................................18

Girls on the Run ..............................................64

Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau .........................12

Bolingbrook Park District ................................70

Illinois State Fair.......................................25, 93

Queen of Angels Elementary ...........................89

Brickton Montessori ........................................63

Intercultural Montessori ..................................85

Quest Academy ...............................................86

Camp Chippewa..............................................82

Kenosha CVB...................................................12

ReptileFest ......................................................27

Cave of the Mounds ........................................11

Kohl Children’s Museum............................32, 93

River Forest Community Center .......................81

Chiaravelle Montessori....................................85

Lakefront Children’s Academy .........................44

Safari Land .....................................................75

Chicago Children’s Museum............................40

Lambs Farm ..............................................83, 93

Sarah’s Pony Rides..........................................36

Chicago Grammar School................................22

Lifeline Theatre ...............................................59

Schaumburg Boomers .....................................70

Chicago Humanities Festival ..........................47

Linda Mood Bell Learning Centers ..................73

St. Pater Lutheran Church & School................83

Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn .....................39

Lisle Park District............................................62

Subaru ............................................. Inside Front

Columbia College Chicago ..............................42

Lookingglass Theatre ......................................57

Tomah .............................................................11

Concordia Language Villages..........................86

Loras College All Sports Camps ......................76

University of Chicago Lab Schools ..................42

Council Oak Montessori...................................47

Louisville Slugger Museum .............................73

Walther Christian Academy .............................82

Da Vinci Academy ...........................................27

Make A Messterpiece.................................30, 93

Wildlife Prairie Park ........................................20

Dad’s Slot Cars ...............................................72

Master S.H Yu .................................................70

Yellowbird Vacation Rentals ............................12

Dolphin Swim .............................. 93, Back Cover

Matrix Sports Camp ..................................15, 73

YMCA Chicago...................................................1

Dude Ranch’s Association ...............................14

Medieval Times .........................................54, 93

Yorktown Center ..........................................2, 93

ChicagoParent.com

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Spring 2014 • goingplaces 95

3/7/14 4:10 PM

GOING PLACES

Happy birthday Wrigley Field! W

rigley Field will turn 100 this summer and the Chicago Cubs have planned a season-long party to celebrate the event. The official birthday is April 23, which is when the biggest festivities will take place, says Alison Miller, senior director of marketing for the Cubs. “We’ll be dressed as the Chicago Federals, which played here then. The Arizona Diamondbacks are going to be the Kansas City Packers.” Before the game begins that day, the Cubs are planning to bring back some former players including Ernie Banks, Billy Williams and Fergie Jenkins, Miller says. “We’ll do some things during the game and have cake

96 goingplaces • Spring 2014

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products to give away to the fans.” During the season, each homestand will feature a different decade and include giveaways specific to the time period, such as the Babe Ruth “Called Shot” bobblehead for the 1930s or Cubs Rubik’s Cube toy for the 1980s. The food featured at the ballpark during that era will be sold as well. “We’ll have family games on Sundays and wear throwback uniforms and retro games for the kids,” Miller says. “It’s been fun to work on and to see what it was like during the ‘20s and ‘30s.” Tickets for the games and more information about the events planned are on the Cubs website at cubs.com.

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3/6/14 5:14 PM

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