Chicago Parent Summer Going Places 2014

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SUMMER 2014

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ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

This summer, a mountain vacation is only 80 minutes away, because Frontier Airlines is offering low-fare, non-stop flights from Midway Airport to Knoxville, Tennessee, beginning June 15.

And since less travel time means more time for fun, your family can experience many different attractions. From the exhilarating rides at Dollywood to the sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium to shopping at Tanger Five Oaks Outlets.

Learn more about all that you can do and enter to win a free family vacation at

2 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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FLYSMOKIES.COM. ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

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3/3/14 8:39 AM Summer 2014 • goingplaces 3

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5/1/14 12:04 PM

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EDITOR Liz DeCarlo

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO FAMILY FUN

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy

SUMMER 2014

ART DIRECTOR Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS Sky Hatter DIGITAL EDITOR Graham Johnston DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Jackie McGoey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Linda Marsicano,

Kristy MacKaben, Kathy Woods AD PRODUCTION MANAGER Philip Soell AD DESIGN MANAGER Andrew Mead

FEATURES

6 Puppet bike pedals fun on Chicago streets 10 Start your engines

AD DESIGNERS Maggie Acker, Debbie

Becker DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

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

Walter Burden ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Doerr CIRCULATION MANAGER Kathy Hansen DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Alan Majeski CREDIT MANAGER Debbie Zari COLLECTIONS Charlie Kelly PUBLISHER Dan Haley VP/DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Andrew Johnston COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar

CONTACT US PHONE (708) 386-5555 EDITORIAL chiparent@

chicagoparent.com DISPLAY SALES

advertising@chicagoparent.com CLASSIFIED SALES

FEST 13

■ Little Boots Rodeo ■ Listings by month

d ffairs i andd on parades, festivals

MUSEUMS 29

■ Museum of Science and Industry’s ‘Wow’ tour ■ Listings on museums, including art, children’s, historical,

science, special interest and free days

CITY 41

■ Best spots for barbecue, plus Andersonville ■ Listings on landmarks, sightseeing and tours

TRAVEL 53

STAGE 63

in Pennsylvania

PLAY 75

■ Glamping in a treehouse ■ A San Francisco treat ■ Color your world

GOING PLACES

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Elizabeth Diffin

■ Full Moon lights up Chicago lakefront ■ Listings by month on dance, music and theater

■ Play with a purpose ■ Listings on entertainment, indoor play centers,

eat ‘n’ play, creative studios and water parks

NATURE 99

■ Community gardens in Chicago ■ Listings on biking, canoeing, u-pick and zoos

classified@chicagoparent.com

ON THE COVER

CIRCULATION

COVER KID: Eden McGoey, 2, Chicago. Photo taken at Oak Brook Aquatic Center.

circulation@chicagoparent.com Chicago Parent Going Places is published quarterly

PHOTO: Liz DeCarlo

by Wednesday Journal, Inc. Our offices are at

DESIGN: Claire Innes

141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302.

FIND MORE AT:

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to

ChicagoParent.com

Chicago Parent Going Places, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60302. © 2014 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

Puppet bike

pedals fun on Chicago streets

T

ake a bike. Attach a large, brightly painted wooden box with curtains to the back. Assemble a cast of adorable Steiff animal puppets and add a small band of friends and neighbors.

The result is Puppet Bike, a beloved theater-on-wheels that has pedaled the streets for the past 10 years entertaining visitors and residents of all ages.

Puppet Bike was created by Chicago Heights native Jason Trusty. Trusty’s original plan was to build a coffee bike for which he had already purchased commercial brewing equipment—but a city regulation and a trip out west changed all that.

Trusty happened upon a

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puppet show in a Colorado mountain clearing and was captivated by the Steiff puppets.

When he learned that the coffee bike would necessitate the use of a commercial kitchen, his plans changed and Puppet Bike

was born. With the help of his brother Eric, Trusty constructed the bike in about five weeks.

“It’s like a radio station, TV studio and playhouse all in one,” Trusty says.

Trusty is a self-described

skilled craftsman and handyman as well as an artist and inventor. He even has a couple of patented inventions, including a ladder rack for the interior of service vehicles called JetRack.

In the early years Trusty

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GOING PLACES

“It’s like a radio station, TV studio and playhouse all in one.”

Jason Trusty Creator

sometimes performed with the puppets, although these days he mostly does maintenance on the bike, leaving the performing up to a volunteer group of puppeteers.

A performance lasts anywhere between two and five hours and includes little or no spoken dialogue. Clover, Lefty, Amtrak, Monkee and the other puppets dance, mime and generally ham it up to a musical rotation which includes Cajun zydeco, blues and old timey tunes.

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While the Puppet Bike’s location isn’t always easy to pin down, it does have some favorite parking spots including Michigan Avenue near the Art Institute; Daley Plaza; and the corner of Clark and Berwyn in Andersonville.

The bike stays locked up outside and the Chicago weather has been kind of rough on it.

With its future in question, Trusty shares a not-so-secret secret: he’s working on building a replacement. There’s even a Puppet Bike Fan Club that hopes to raise a little cash to help with the costs of construction. He plans to refurbish the old one, too, and then Chicagoans might be lucky enough to double their chances of catching a Puppet Bike performance.

What drives Trusty to keep the bike out on the streets? “It puts people in a good mood; it’s

Puppet bikes roam the city streets. unique; it’s free; and it’s something forgotten. I can’t begin to quantify all the smiling faces that have stood in front of the box.”

Check out the Puppet Bike website for photos, videos and interesting trivia at puppetbike. com.

Kathy Woods

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GOING PLACES

Xtreme Trampolines is the place for fun.

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

BUFFALO GROVE | 224-676-0660 CAROL STREAM | 630-752-1400 www.xtremetrampolines.com

You’re in the Right Place for Kindie Rock!

COOL MUSIC FOR KIDS Award-winning children’s indie musician Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players kicks off at noon on Friday.

Closing out Friday’s familyfocused fun is Ralph’s World from 4 PM to 6PM. Ralph’s World is the mega-fun musical planet where kids rock and dance to their own and their parents’ delight.

Downtown Homewood Art & Garden Street Fair Friday, June 13 10 AM to 7 PM Saturday, June 14 10 AM to 7 PM Martin Avenue & Ridge Rd (708) 798-3000

homesweethomewood.com

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GOING PLACES

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GOING PLACES

t r a ! t S our nes i y ng e

“Fans can see race cars and haulers up close.

They can see the drivers walking the red carpet.”

Nicole Mancuso Meagher Director of communications

I

f your child spends his or her day zooming cars around the floor, it might be time to take them to see the real thing at the Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet.

The Speedway and the nearby Route 66 Raceway have NASCAR races and drag racing events filled with activities for kids.

“Beyond the actual action taking place on the track, there’s so much more to do,” says Nicole Mancuso Meagher, director of communications for the race tracks. “We have Champions Park with live music on a music stage, paved walkways, display areas, interactive games and free games.”

The park includes a Kids Zone with story times led by NASCAR drivers, craft activities, bouncy houses and Radio Disney. The activities are free with admission (only $5 for kids for some of the races), and so is parking for most of the events.

If you have a diehard racing fan, pay a little extra and buy a fan zone pit pass, which allows visitors to get down in the center of the track (before the races begin).

“Fans can see race cars and haulers up close. They can see the drivers walking the red carpet,” Meagher says. “For Sunday’s race day in September, fans with a pit pass can attend a pre-race concert.

Two years ago it was Luke Bryan. This gets you down right in front of the stage.”

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Meagher says the races are loud, but fun for any age. “The noise adds to the excitement. There are a lot of families attending with younger kids; they bring ear muffs to help with the noise,” she says.

“It’s an experience to be had.”

It’s cheaper to buy tickets before going to the track, since the cost increases on the day of the event. Also, kids’ tickets are $25 less than adult tickets for all races.

The NASCAR events are held July 19 and Sept. 12-14 at the Chicagoland Speedway. Camping and tailgating are allowed, and parking is free for these events. To buy tickets, visit ChicagolandSpeedway. com or call (888) 629-RACE. The drag racing event is June 26-29, with Friday and Saturday nights as qualifying rounds and the championship race on Sunday. Camping is allowed for this event and each ticket includes a pit pass.

For information or to buy tickets, visit Route66Raceway.com.

Liz DeCarlo

ChicagoParent.com

5/8/14 4:23 PM

GOING PLACES

ChicagoParent.com

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GOING PLACES

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Always a reason to celebrate

fests

In this section 15 Little Boots Rodeo 16 May and June 20 July 24 August 27 September

Andersonville Midsommarfest by Raney Images ChicagoParent.com

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FESTS

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FESTS

Giddy up little cowboys and girls

J

ack Groat watched a rodeo in Texas many years ago and cringed as kids lost and cried and lost and cried in the many competitions. After watching the competitiveness of the events kids were involved in, Groat swore to himself that he would have a festival and there would “never, ever be a competition.”

Little Boots Rodeo ■ Arlington Heights Road & Devon

Avenue

■ Elk Grove Village ■ (630) 766-8980 ■ littlebootsrodeo.org

So, seven years ago, Groat started the Little Boots Rodeo in Elk Grove. The concept of this rodeo is simple—kids get a punch card for $12 that entitles them to participate in 13 different events. Once they complete the events, they’re officially designated as cowboys or cowgirls.

Every year, the events are changed, and this year the rodeo has brought in a stunt jump and zip line, in addition to its typically odd lineup of events for kids: mechanical bull riding, cow milking, crabbing, shoot-

toward people with disabilities.

Each child with a disability gets in free and gets a different colored punch card so they don’t have to wait in lines.

The rodeo runs 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

June 21 and noon-6 p.m. June 22. Groat recommends families arrive earlier in the day to beat the crowds.

Proceeds from the event benefit the District 59 Education Foundation, as well as other Elk Grove community organizations.

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ing gallery, butterfly release and smelling the breath of a dinosaur.

With flying pigs, camel rides and the return of the iconic TV character Svengoolie, the rodeo promises to be a fest like no other, just as Groat had planned all those years ago.

“This is our seventh year and the whole concept is just silly, silly fun,” Groat says. “We don’t use the word ‘race’ and we never, ever have a child who is upset.”

The festival is also geared

i

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FESTS MAY

Stages, Sights and Sounds Chicago Humanities Festival 500 N. Dearborn, Suite 825, Chicago (312) 454-9509 chicagohumanities.org Runs through May 24 A global performance festival for all ages. This year’s festival features four international theater companies/artists, along with readings by children’s book authors Timothy Basil Ering and Jon Scieszka, hands-on creative workshops for kids, and the first-ever Chicago Puppetolio. Performances take place at Chicago Cultural Center, Storefront Theater, and the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater.

Visit website for detailed schedule and ticket information. Hours: May 6-24. Admission: $14, $7 kids.

Barrington Art Festival Downtown Barrington Cook and Station streets (847) 926-4300 amdurproductions.com May 24-25 Features artwork, live music, food and kids’ activities. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free; free parking.

Chicago Memorial Day Wreath Laying and Parade

Chicago (312) 850-9390 do-divisionstreetfest.com May 30-June 1 Food, crafts, live music and a huge sidewalk sale. Family Fun Fest activities include live music, drumming, dunk tank, pony rides and vendors.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. May 30, noon-10 p.m. May 31-June 1. Admission: $5 donation.

Millennium Art Festival Lake Street at Michigan Avenue, Chicago millenniumartfestival.com May 30-June 1 The three-day festival features original artwork from more than 100 artists, tasty treats from neighboring restaurants, as well as live music and art demonstrations.

Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. May 30, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. May 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

June 1. Admission: Free.

Deerfield Festival of Fine Arts Park Avenue and Deerfield Road Deerfield (847) 726-8669 dwevents.org May 31-June 1 Fine arts and crafts, free kids’ art activities, live music and food.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free; free parking.

LaGrange Pet Parade

Daley Plaza Washington and Dearborn, Chicago (312) 744-3370 cityofchicago.org/specialevents May 24

Cossitt Avenue and LaGrange Road LaGrange (708) 352-7079 lgpetparade.org May 31

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

Hours: 11 a.m. Admission: Free.

Featuring marching bands, kids showcasing their pets (participate and have a chance to win one of the many prizes), floats and clowns.

Includes a Junior Grand Marshal and Honorary Pet Marshal. Visit website for participation registration. Hours: 9:30-11 a.m. Admission: Free.

JUNE

Pivot Arts Festival Pivot Arts 1443 W. Norwood St., Chicago (773) 609-0782 pivotarts.org May 28-June 14

Girls on the Run 5K Chicago

Programming includes live music, theater, dance, a community dance party and performances for children. Hours: Check website for schedule. Admission: Free-$15.

Girls will celebrate their “girl power” by running 3.1 miles together. Families are encouraged to run along with them. The postrace festival features food, games, giveaways, face painting and tiara decorating. Hours: 8:30 a.m.

Admission: Check website.

Do-Division Street Fest Division Street from Ashland to Leavitt

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Vernon Hills (773) 342-1250 gotrchicago.org June 1

Barrington Art Festival, see this page.

Naperville Park District Frontier Park Kite Festival 3380 Cedar Glade Drive, Naperville (630) 848-5000 napervilleparks.org June 1 Enjoy gigantic kites, exciting demonstrations, stunts, hands-on activities, games and giveaways. Plus live performances by Neuqua Valley High School Steel Band, School of Rock Naperville, Andrew Huber and Élan Dance Company. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free.

Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race Mount St. Mary Park, St. Charles (630) 859-8606 foxvalleyparkdistrict.org June 1 Paddle the scenic Fox River while enjoying this classic tradition.

Rental boats are available. St. Charles to Aurora (10 miles) starts at 9 a.m.; Batavia to Aurora (6 miles) starts at 10 a.m. Hours: 9 a.m. Admission: Check website.

Eye on India Various locations, Chicago eyeonindia.com/Chicago June 2-29 Festival honors the wealth of India’s cultural heritage by showcasing the best of traditional and contemporary Indian art, literature, theater, film, music and dance. Programs will take place throughout the city

and suburbs in venues including the Field Museum, The Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, Chicago Temple, Chicago Cultural Center, Reva and David Logan Center at the University of Chicago, Old Town School of Folk Music, Evanston S.P.A.C.E. and the Chicago Park District. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Varies; check website.

Progressive Insurance Chicago In-Water Boat Show 31st Street Harbor, Chicago (312) 946-6200 chicagoinwaterboatshow.com June 5-8 Features dealers and manufacturers showcasing power and sailboats for sale, water activities including kayak and stand-up paddleboard lessons and demos, antique and classic boats, powerboat and sailing lessons. Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

June 5-6, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. June 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 8. Admission: $10, free kids 15 and under.

Taste of Wheaton Memorial Park and downtown Wheaton wheatonparkdistrict.com/taste June 5-8 Includes Cosley Run for the Animals 5K/10K, arts and crafts, food vendors, carnival rides, children’s games, live entertainment, beer garden and marketplace business expo. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free; fees for some activities.

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FESTS Milk Days 300 Lawrence Road, Harvard milkdays.com June 6-8 Includes a dairy cattle show, demos on cattle care, feeding and milking, a milk-drinking contest, and live music. Also features a parade Saturday afternoon down Ayer Street, which is painted bright white. Plus, antique tractor display, two-mile and 10K milk runs, twomile milk walk, junior dairy cattle show, talent show, bed races and a fireworks show Sunday evening.

Hours: Check website. Admission: Check website.

Andersonville Midsommarfest 5200 N. Clark St., Chicago (773) 728-2995 andersonville.org June 6-8 Festival features food, entertainment on five stages and family activities including face painting, games and a pet parade. The Swedish American Museum sponsors Swedish entertainment, music and dancing around the Midsommar Maypole. Hours: 5-10 p.m. June 6 (between Balmoral and Catalpa avenues only), 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

June 7-8. Admission: $5 Friday;

$10 Saturday-Sunday; free kids under 12.

Ribfest Chicago Northcenter, Lincoln Avenue at Irving Park Road, Chicago (773) 525-3609 ribfest-chicago.com June 6-8 Enjoy ribs and other food and listen to bands while the kids hang out at “Kids Square” featuring entertainment, inflatables and games. Plus, celebrity-judged “Best Ribs” award and amateur and professional ribeating competitions. Hours: Ribfest: 5-10 p.m. June 6, noon-10 p.m. June 7-8. Kids Square: noon-8 p.m. Saturday, noon-7 p.m. Sunday.

Admission: $5 donation.

St. Norbert Annual Block Party Meadow and Walters Avenue, Northbrook (847) 272-7090 stnorbertblockparty.org June 7 5K fun run and Kids’ Dash at 8 a.m.

Block party includes live music, beer garden, food and kids’ corner with games, inflatables, face painting and entertainment. Hours: 5K: 8 a.m. Block Party: 3-10:30 p.m.

Admission: $5, $10 after 7 p.m.

Rockford Airfest 2014

Chicago 57thstreetartfair.org June 7-8

Chicago Rockford International Airport 60 Airport Drive, Rockford (815) 969-4000 rockfordairfest.com June 7-8 Features the United States Air Force Thunderbirds. Hours: Check website. Admission: $20 per car in advance; $30 at gate.

Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival

Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest

Burlington Park, 30 E. Chicago Ave. Hinsdale (630) 323-3952 hinsdalechamber.com June 7-8

Dearborn Street between Polk Street and Congress Parkway and the Harold Washington Library, Chicago (312) 222-3986 printersrowlitfest.org June 7-8 Lit Fest brings together lovers of literature, national best-selling authors, performers and booksellers.

Children’s programming includes storytelling, performances, singalongs and special activities. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 7, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 8. Admission: Free.

57th Street Art Fair 57th Street, Hyde Park neighborhood

JUNE

Chicago’s oldest juried art fair features art in many media, with hands-on activities and playgrounds for kids. New Boot Camp takes art lovers through the fair and gives art buying tips. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. June 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 8.

Admission: Free.

More than 150 juried artists featured, food and beverages, children’s activities and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Promenade of Art Arlington Heights Downtown Arlington Heights 121 W. Campbell, (847) 926-4300 promenadeofartarlingtonheights.com June 7-8 Features120 juried artists, live music, food and kids’ activities. Art enthusiasts of all ages can get into the “art-filled action” by making their mark on a community mural

20 & 21 2014

New Balance North Shore 610 Central Avenue • Port Clinton Square Downtown Highland Park

North Shore

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FESTS at the festival. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Greater Chicago Jewish Festival St. Paul Woods, Oakton and Lehigh streets, Morton Grove (847) 933-3000 jewishfestival.org June 8 The festival, an outdoor celebration highlighting local and national Jewish talent, will feature continuous music and dance on three stages plus a separate children’s stage, hands-on activities for children and adults, a juried art fair, a strictly kosher food court plus cooking demonstrations and booths. New this year is an added focus on celebrating Israel. In addition to the Israeli artists in the Art Fair and the great selection of Israeli food, the four stages will feature Israeli performers and Israeli music. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $5, free kids.

Grant Park Music Festival Millennium Park, Chicago grantparkmusicfestival.com June 11-Aug. 16 Presents more than 20 concerts.

Hours: Check website. Admission: Free.

Puerto Rican Festival Division and California Humboldt Park, Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com June 12-15 Food, music, arts and crafts, carnival rides and more. On Saturday the fest is the end location of Chicago’s annual Puerto Rican Day Parade on Division Street. Hours: 3-10 p.m. June 12-13, noon-10 p.m.

June 14-15. Admission: Free; carnival rides cost extra.

Chicago Blues Festival Grant Park, Chicago (312) 744-3315 chicagobluesfestival.us June 13-15 Celebrating “Blues by the Lake,” the world’s largest free blues festival showcases performers on five stages. Renowned artists such as Betty Lavette, Aaron Neville, Nikki Hill, the Carolina Chocolate Drops and Dr. John are among the list of headliners. Hours: Visit website.

Admission: Free.

Downtown Homewood Art and Garden Street Fair Martin Avenue and Ridge Road

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Annual Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby, see page 24.

Downtown Homewood (708) 798-3000 homesweethomewood.com June 13-14 Festival kicks off with a Fitness Boot Camp for mom, followed by a Mr. Bubble’s Bubble Show for the kids. At noon, Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players will hit the stage. Both days have a full musical line-up from Chicagoarea indie musicians as well as activities for the kids, including art activities, art demonstrations and gardening workshops. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Lockport Old Canal Days Downtown Lockport (815) 838-3357 oldcanaldays.com June 13-15 Features parade, carnival, music, craft fair, family activities, horse-

drawn wagon tours, tour of the 1907 Hydraulic Power Plant, food and entertainment. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free.

6 Corners BBQ Fest 4000-4080 N. Milwaukee Avenue From Irving Park Road to Belle Plaine Avenue, Chicago sixcornerschicago.com June 14-15 Fest features plenty of barbecue, plus live music, marketplace and kids’ area with arts and crafts and inflatables. A neighborhood cooking contest takes place on Sunday.

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. June 14, noon-8 p.m. June 15. Admission: $5 donation, $20 family donation.

Dairy Breakfast and Farm Day Wagner Farm, 1510 Wagner Road Glenview

(847) 657-1506 glenviewparks.org June 14 Celebrate National Dairy Month and enjoy a farm-style breakfast featuring plenty of dairy items.

There will be farm tours, demonstrations, hay rides and hands-on activities throughout the morning.

Hours: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Admission: $11, $10 kids, $5 kids 2-10, free kids under 2.

Island Rendezvous Isle a la Cache Museum 501 E. Romeo Road, Romeoville (815) 886-1467 reconnectwithnature.org June 14-15 Visitors will journey back to the 18th century during this free, twoday family festival. Re-enactors representing voyageurs, Natives, colonists and soldiers relive the fur-

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FESTS trade era. Activities include canoe racing, black-powder musket demonstrations and tomahawk throws.

Live period music is ongoing, and crafts and food will be available for sale. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Free; free parking and shuttle service available.

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

Puerto Rican People’s Parade

Long Grove Strawberry Festival

Division from Western to Sacramento Chicago cityofchicago.org/specialevents June 14

Long Grove Historic Village 307 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove (847) 634-0888 visitlonggrove.com June 20-22

Humboldt Park’s Puerto Rican community celebrates the 35th anniversary of the People’s Parade along Division Street. Hours: 2:30 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Old Town Art Fair Lincoln Avenue and Wisconsin Street (Main Gate), Chicago (312) 337-1938 oldtownartfair.org June 14-15 Juried art fair features works of 250 artists in various mediums, plus a music stage, kids’ art, activities at the Children’s Corner, garden walk, food court and vendors. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $7 donation, free kids 12 and under.

Wells Street Art Festival Wells Street between North Avenue and Division Street, Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com June 14-15 This show features a wide variety of fine art, musicians, a children’s art area and food vendors. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: $7 donation.

Swedish Day Good Templar Park, 528 East Side Drive Geneva (847) 845-2640 swedishday.net June 15 Features Scandinavian song and dance, Viking encampment, children’s activities, Maypole raising, food and carnival games. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: $5, kids 12 and under free.

Swedish Days Festival Downtown Geneva South Third Street and West State Street (Rt. 38), Geneva (630) 232-6060 genevachamber.com/swedish_days.php June 17-22 Geneva celebrates its Swedish heri-

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Enjoy plenty of food, shopping, entertainment and strawberryrelated activities. Plus, activities, kiddie rides, face painting, outdoor activities and tents of family and education-oriented products.

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. June 20; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. June 21; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

June 22. Admission: $5.

Highland Games & Scottish Festival Hamilton Lakes, Highway 290 and Thorndale, Itasca chicagoscots.org June 20-21 Events includes a highland dance competition, athletics competition, cultural exhibits, car show, kids’ crafts and activities. Hours: 4-10 p.m. June 20, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

June 21. Admission: $12, free kids Friday; $20, $5 kids 3-12. Parking $5. Discounted tickets available on website.

Villa Park Summerfest Ardmore Avenue at the Prairie Path Villa Park villaparksummerfest.com June 20-21 Friday night includes a car show, bands, food and drink. Saturday features kids’ attractions, craft show, bands, kids’ entertainment stage.

Wristbands for all day access to attractions for a wide range of ages, such as kiddie games, a bounce house, a four-person Euro-Bungy and more. Enjoy magic shows, a face painter and balloon artist.

Hours: 6-11 p.m. June 20, 11 a.m.10:30 p.m. June 21. Admission: Free, $10 wristband for activities.

Make Music Chicago Various locations, Chicago makemusicchicago.com June 21 Live, one-day, free music festival on the first day of summer in tandem with a growing global phenomenon called Fête de la Musique. Throughout the day, people of all ages and

from all backgrounds gather in Chicago’s public spaces, including Daley Plaza, Millennium Park, John Hancock Center, Lincoln Park Zoo and more than 25 Chicago Park District sites, to perform music of all genres. Grand finale concert is 6-9 p.m. at St. James Cathedral Commons. Hours: 7 a.m.-midnight.

Admission: Free.

Custer’s Last Stand Festival of the Arts 600 Main St., Evanston (847) 328-2204 custerfair.com June 21-22 Eclectic art festival with diverse works from 300-plus artists. Plus, unique folk and Native American music on two stages, an “EcoVillage” green vendor area, a children’s park with kids’ activities, and cuisine from more than 30 restaurants. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Admission: $1 donation.

Wicker Park Green Music Fest Damen Avenue, between North and Schiller, Chicago (312) 850-9390 greenmusicfestchicago.com June 21-22 Fest blends cutting edge, environmentally-conscious bands with environmentally-friendly production, eco-minded vendors and services, sustainability demonstrations, green arts & crafts and the always popular Green Family Fun Fest.

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $5 donation.

Scandinavian Midsommar Festival Vasa Park, Route 31, South Elgin vasaparkil.com June 21 Festival opens with Children’s Parade and dancing around the Maypole, followed by crafts, games and horse-drawn wagon rides. Bonfire lighting and traditional toast begin at sunset. Bring a family dish to pass at picnic. Hours: 3:30-10 p.m. Admission: $5, free kids 12 and under.

Gold Coast Art Fair at Grant Park Grant Park’s Butler Field Corner of Monroe and Lake Shore Drive Chicago (847) 926-4300 goldcoastartfair.com June 21-22 Showcases the work of more than 300 juried artists from around the world, plus live music, food and fun activities for kids, including an

art scavenger hunt and interactive mural. Festivalgoers will have the opportunity to “Shop the Show” with a show director. This private tour highlights the best art the show has to offer. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Family Fun Festival Chase Promenade North, Millennium Park Chicago (312) 742-1168 millenniumpark.org June 23-Aug. 24 A summer-long fun festival featuring interactive activities, arts and crafts and games for kids. Highlights include daily appearances

by Wiggleworms instructors at 10 a.m., daily reading circle at 11 a.m. and Movement Music Mondays at 1 p.m. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free.

SJC Fest St. John of the Cross 51st Street and Wolf Road Western Springs (708) 246-4404 sjcfest.com June 26-29 Features carnival rides, midway games, food from area restaurants, a bake sale, face painting, live music and entertainment. Hours: 5-10:30 p.m. June 26, 5 p.m.-midnight June 27, 1 p.m.-midnight June 28, noon-7 p.m. June 29.

Admission: Free; food and rides cost extra.

Chicago Gospel Music Festival Ellis Park, 37th and Cottage Grove Chicago (312) 744-3316 chicagogospelmusicfestival.us June 26-29 Showcases the best in local, national and international gospel music performers. Takes place in the Chicago Cultural Center and Ellis Park. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Free.

Taste of Joliet ATI Field at Joliet Memorial Stadium 3000 W. Jefferson St., Joliet (815) 741-7275 tasteofjoliet.com June 27-29 Three-day festival featuring live music, carnival, food vendors and kid zone. This year’s headliners are Sammy Hagar, Thompson Square, Brett Eldredge, Eric Paslay and Dan + Shay. Hours: Visit website.

Admission: Visit website.

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FESTS Des Plaines Summer Fling Lee Street and River Road Des Plaines (773) 868-3010 desplainessummerfling.com June 27-28 Features music, food, kids’ activities, and arts and craft vendors.

Hours: 6-11 p.m. June 27, 2-11 p.m. June 28. Admission: Free.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival Milwaukee Avenue between Kimball and California, Chicago (847) 675-2580 milwaukeeavenueartsfestival.org June 27-29 Features art, live music, food, sidewalk sale and arts-inspired activities for kids. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Check website.

Chicago SummerDance Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park 601 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 742-4007 chicagosummerdance.org June 27-Sept. 14 Free one-hour dance lessons by professional instructors and two hours of live music and dancing are presented as a part of the largest annual outdoor dancing series in the U.S. Highlights include Chicha Libre (Psychedelic Cumbia), House DJ nights with DJ Alan King and DJ Terry Hunter and many more sessions.

Hours: 6-7 p.m. dance lessons, 7:309:30 p.m. live music and dancing Friday-Saturday; 4-5 p.m. dance lessons, 5-7 p.m. live music and dancing Sunday. Admission: Free.

Glen Ellyn 4th of July Lake Ellyn Park and other locations Glen Ellyn glenellyn4thofjuly.com June 28-July 4 Annual event features The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta and Picnic in the Park at Lake Ellyn Park.

Hours: Cardboard Regatta: noon June 28; Picnic in the Park: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. June 28. Admission: Free, food and family fest activities extra.

Fountain Square Arts Festival Sherman and Church streets (downtown) Evanston (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com June 28-29 Features more than 150 artists, food, musical entertainment and a children’s art tent. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $5 donation.

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Andersonville Midsommarfest, see page 17.

Fun and Fit Family Day Lambs Farm, I-94 and Route 176 Libertyville (847) 362-4636 lambsfarm.org June 28 The 5K Run/2-Mile Walk is designed to encourage families and individuals to participate in fun activities to stay active and healthy together. Proceeds benefit Lambs Farm’s Special Olympics programs.

Post-run, families can enjoy special activities for children, browse sponsor booths, visit Lambs Farm’s farmyard and attractions, browse the shops and visitor’s center, or enjoy a healthy meal at the Magnolia Café & Bakery. Hours: 9 a.m.noon. Admission: $25, $75 family of up to five.

Glenview SummerFest Lehigh between Glenview Road and Washington Street, Glenview (847) 724-0900 business.glenviewchamber.com June 28 Showcases a range of regional businesses and civic organizations.

Favorites include the Glenview Fire Department’s fire pole, special entertainment and kid-friendly activities. The free Auto Show features antique and vintage cars. Plus,

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

The Art Center’s Festival of Fine Craft

ances. Proceeds are donated to promote literacy. Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free.

JULY

Corner Park and Sheridan Downtown Highland Park (847) 926-4300 festivaloffinecraft.com June 28-29

Eyes to the Skies Balloon Festival

This revamped festival showcases original works from 130 juried artists and offers activities for children and families, as well as live entertainment and tasty festival treats.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free; suggested donation.

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

Hours: Carnival runs July 2-6. Festival runs July 3-5. Visit website for schedule. Admission: $7, free kids 7 and under.

Dragon Boat Race for Literacy Ping Tom Memorial Park 300 W. 19th St., Chicago (312) 326-5320 chicagochinatown.org June 28 Experience the excitement as teams compete in a fast-paced race on the south branch of the Chicago River in decorated dragon boats. In addition to the boat tournament, this year’s event will feature other onland spectacles such as live musical and dance performances, booth vendors and special guest appear-

Community Park, 1825 Short St., Lisle (630) 769-1000 eyestotheskies.org July 2-6

International Festival of Life Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 427-0266 festivaloflife.biz July 3-6 Features international and local acts on two stages, arts and crafts, food, games and entertainment for kids. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $15, $5 kids 6-11 and seniors 65+, free kids under 6; $20 at gate; $49 season pass.

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FESTS Naperville Ribfest

Taste of Chicago

Knoch Park, 700 S. West St., Naperville ribfest.net July 3-6

Grant Park, 331 E. Randolph St. Chicago (312) 744-3315 tasteofchicago.us July 9-13

Fest features a barbecue contest with several rib vendors, food ranging from ribs and hot dogs to salads, snacks, desserts and drinks, two live music stages, special events, and fireworks. Family area features carnival rides, inflatables, circus tricks, magic show, face painting, petting zoo and live performances. Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Admission: Varies by day; visit website.

Windy City Ribfest Lawrence Avenue and Broadway Street Chicago windycityribfest.com July 4-6 Fest features live music, lots of ribs, arts & crafts and kids’ area (on Saturday and Sunday afternoons).

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. July 4-5, noon-9 p.m. July 6. Admission: $5.

Bristol Renaissance Faire West of I-94, exit Russell Road and follow the signs Near the Illinois-Wisconsin border Kenosha, Wis. (847) 395-7773 renfair.com/Bristol July 5-Sept. 1 More than 1,200 performers, artisans and merchants take visitors on a trip through Elizabethan England with 16th Century games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music, and special entertainment. Kids Kingdom is an enclosed play area filled with oversized sand boxes, a climb-aboard pirate ship, interactive games, crafts and other child-friendly diversions.

Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. weekends July 5-Aug. 31 and Labor Day, Sept.

1. Admission: $19.95, $9.50 kids 5-12, free kids 4 and under. Visit the website for discounted tickets.

Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org July 5-6 Guests can stroll the Esplanade and shop for botanic-themed art and art made from plant materials. More than 100 juried artists will display their work including photography, paintings, ceramics, cement, metal, fiber, wood, jewelry and more.

Artist talks and family activities will be featured. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free; $20 parking.

The Taste returns for five days in Grant Park for a massive foodie fair complete with live music and activities for the entire family. Popular features include a three-course fine dining experience prepared by a notable Chicago Chef at Celebrity Chef du Jour, pop-up restaurants, food trucks and more. Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. July 9-11; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 12-13. Admission: Free; additional cost for food and seating at Petrillo.

Bastille Day 5K Run/Walk and Block Party Cannon Drive and Fullerton, Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com July 10 Features 5K run/walk, post-race block party, food and live music.

Hours: Start of run: 7:15 p.m.

Block Party: 8:30-10 p.m. Admission: Run: $30-$37. Block Party: $5.

Get your thrills at the Wisconsin State Fair, presented by U.S. Cellular July 31 – August 10.

Featuring the state’s largest agricultural showcase, entertainment on 30 FREE stages, thrilling rides and games, educational exhibits, shopping and food galore, the annual State Fair offers affordable family fun with something for everyone.

West Chicago Railroad Days Reed-Keppler Park Arbor and National Street, West Chicago (630) 231-3003 sponsorchicago.com/West-ChicagoRailroad-Days/index.html July 10-13 Music, food, fireworks, carnival rides, parade, 5K Run/Walk, community art show and beer garden.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. July 10, 5-11 p.m.

July 11, noon-midnight July 12, 3-10 p.m. July 13. Admission: Free.

Windmill City Festival

Check out several other Fair Deals beginning May 1, including discounts on exciting rides and games in SpinCity, delicious Cream Puffs, Milwaukee Brewers tickets and so much more!

Batavia Riverwalk Houston Street and Island Avenue Batavia (630) 879-5235 windmillcityfest.org July 10-13 Features carnival, entertainment, music and demonstrations. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free.

Chicago Tribune North Michigan Avenue Art Festival Pioneer Court 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago artfestival.com July 11-13 A wide variety of original artwork will be on display and for sale.

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FESTS Enjoy the eclectic displays and live music. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

July 11-12; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 13.

Admission: Free.

South Shore Air Show Fair Oaks Farms, 856 N. 600 E. Newton County, Ind. (219) 989-7770 southshoreairshow.com July 11-13 Features the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, a twilight show with fireworks, kids’ zone, military displays, beer garden, food and novelty vendors. Hours: 5:30-9:30 p.m. July 11, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. July 12-13. Admission: Free.

The Irish American Heritage Festival 4626 N. Knox Ave., Chicago (773) 282-7035 ext. 10 irishfestchicago.com July 11-13 This annual family event features more than 100 performers for three days. Plus, Irish and American food and drink, shopping, Irish dancers, cultural exhibits, children’s activities, a raffle with a trip to Ireland, the Mashed Potato Eating Contest and Sham-ROCK Stars singing contest for kids. Hours: 6 p.m.-1 a.m.

July 11, noon-1 a.m. July 12, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. July 13. Admission: $10-$20, free kids 10 and under.

Square Roots Festival 4400-4560 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago (773) 728-6000 squareroots.org July 11-13 More than 70 acts including music, dance parties, jams and family activities. Features the best local and regional craft breweries and Lincoln Square restaurants.

Hours: 5-10 p.m. July 11, noon10 p.m. July 12, noon-9 p.m. July 13. Admission: $10 donation, $5 seniors and kids, $20 families.

Bucktown Tree and Garden Walk 1824 W. Wabansia (starting point at Club Lucky), Chicago (773) 486-4353 July 12-13 Features a garden walk, tree walk, trolley rides, live music at Club Lucky and petting zoo at Lottie’s Pub. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $10 donation.

Buffalo Grove Fine Arts Festival Buffalo Grove Town Center Corner of Lake Cook Road and Route 83

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(McHenry Road) (847) 926-4300 buffalogroveartfestival.com July 12-13 Features works from more than 160 artists, including youth art division and special needs division, and kids’ art activities. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Summer on Southport 3700 N. Southport at Waveland, Chicago (773) 665-4682 starevents.com July 12-13 Taking place in Chicago’s vibrant Southport neighborhood, this festival showcases the work of 100 juried artists. In addition to the artwork, festival-goers will enjoy great food from neighboring restaurants and live musical performances all weekend long. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. July 12, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 13. Admission: $5 donation.

West Fest Chicago Avenue between Damen Avenue and Wood Street West Town neighborhood, Chicago (312) 850-9390 westfestchicago.com July 12-13 Features live music on three stages, plus Kid Fest, Pup Fest, and an array of vendor booths from neighborhood retailers, restaurants and artists. Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Admission: $5 donation.

Civil War Days Lakewood Forest Preserve Rte. 176, west of Fairfield Road Wauconda (847) 968-3400 lcfpd.org/civilwar July 12-13 See large-scale battle reenactments, explore camps and shops and meet various characters. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

July 13. Admission: $10, $5 kids 4-17. Includes museum admission and parking.

Winfield Criterium Oakwood Park, Winfield winfieldcriterium.com July 12 This competitive bike race attracts local, national and international proranked cyclists and offers spectators an opportunity to experience championship-style bike racing. Food, drink and entertainment for racers, spectators and visitors. Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Admission: Free.

Roscoe Village Burger Fest Belmont and Damen avenues, Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com July 12-13 Celebrate America’s favorite sandwich at a festival featuring music acts, burgers from top local eateries, arts and crafts and Kids’ Zone.

Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: $8 donation.

AccessChicago Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. Chicago cityofchicago.org/mopd July 17 Test products, services and connect with community organizations to learn about available disabilityrelated social services. Take part in various adaptive sports and recreational demonstrations; learn about legal rights of people with disabilities; participate in a free health screening; and enjoy fun activities for the entire family. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Vernon Hills Summer Celebration Century Park, north of U.S. Route 60 on Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills (847) 361-8979 vernonhills.org July 17-20 Includes live music, carnival rides, food, bingo games and kids’ activities. Hours: Call for schedule.

Admission: Free.

BenFest St. Benedict Church courtyard 2215 W. Irving Park, Chicago benfest.com July 18-20 Highlights a large menu of food and refreshments, beer selections, live music for adults and children, and quality family entertainment. The new marketplace on Leavitt includes local vendors and merchants of art, jewelry, clothing, gifts, crafts and games. The children’s area features live music and dance for various ages, games, water slide, costumed characters, inflatables, arts and craft area, train rides and more. Hours: 4-10 p.m.

July 18, 1-10 p.m. July 19, 1-7 p.m.

July 20. Admission: $5 donation.

St. Haralambos Big Greek Food Fest of Niles Holy Taxiarhai and Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church 7373 Caldwell Ave., Niles

(847) 647-8880 biggreekfoodfestofniles.org July 18-20 The event features Greek food, cooking demonstrations, live Greek music and dancing. Kid’s Korner is a secure area where kids can enjoy face painting, crafts and more.

Tours of the church also available.

Hours: 5 p.m.-midnight July 18, 3 p.m.-midnight July 19-20. Admission: $2, $1 seniors, free kids 12 and under.

Taste of River North Ward Park, Kingsbury Street and Erie Chicago tasteofrivernorth.com July 18-20 Enjoy cuisine from River North restaurants, merchants, artists, music and a Kids’ Zone. Hours: 5-10 p.m.

July 18, noon-10 p.m. July 19, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. July 20. Admission: $5 donation.

Disability Pride Parade Downtown Chicago disabilityprideparade.org July 19 Annual event to generate national visibility for the disability community. Parade marches west on Van Buren to Dearborn and north on Dearborn to Washington (Daley Plaza). Post-parade celebration takes place on Daley Plaza at noon.

Hours: 11 a.m. Admission: Free.

Old Settlers Days Settlers Park East Hawick Street, Rockton (815) 624-7625 oldsettlersdays.com July 19-22 Features parade, music, carnival rides, Trading Post, food and fireworks. Hours: Visit website.

Admission: Visit website.

Oregon Trail Days Lowden State Park 1411 N. River Road, Oregon (815) 732-2435 oregontraildays.org July 19-20 Tipis, canoes, horses, and cowboys are just a few of the genuine western attractions you can see and experience. Visitors will see everything from cultural dances with American Indians in handmade full regalia to cowboys performing shootouts on horses and bank robberies. Pioneers, mountain men, blacksmiths, and an authentic log cabin round out the event. Visitors

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FESTS can camp in an authentic tipi while enjoying the festivities. Merchants with western wares and food vendors will be on hand. A full breakfast will be served Sunday at the Lorado Taft Field Campus and a 5K River Run will also be held Sunday.

Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. July 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 20. Admission: $7 includes parking, some activities cost extra; $79 per night for tipi camping.

Evanston Ethnic Arts Festival Dawes Park, Sheridan Road at Church Street, Evanston (847) 448-8260 cityofevanston.org/ethnic July 19-20 Features more than 100 nations represented through the work of 100 visual artist, two venues of continuous performances and entertainment, children’s art activities and ethnic food booths. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Admission: Free.

Sheffield Garden Walk & Festival Sheffield Avenue, between Webster and Belden, Chicago sheffieldgardenwalk.com July 19-20 Features self-guided tours of gardens, architectural tours and Kids’ Corner, located on Sheffield between Webster and Belden, with entertainment and activities.

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $7-$10 suggested donation.

Caribbean Block Party 171st Street to Hickory Street along Oak Park Avenue, Tinley Park (708) 444-5678 downtowntinley.com July 20 Live music on two stages, family fun for all and a mini-Taste of Tinley Park. Hours: Noon-7 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Woodstock Folk Festival Woodstock Square, Woodstock woodstockfolkmusic.com/folkfestival July 20 Music festival features folk acts.

Visit website for performance information. Hours: 12:30-6 p.m.

Admission: $15, $10 seniors and students, $25 family.

Chicago Botanic Garden’s Kite Festival, see page 25.

(312) 326-5320 chicagodragons.com July 20 Iconic annual celebration of Far East culture includes the Dragon & Lion Dance Procession, artisans, food vendors and more. Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission: Free.

lawnmower races, demolition derby, motocross, livestock barns & auction, competitive exhibits, horse show, carnival midway, petting zoo, food, and more. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. July 23-24, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. July 25-26, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 27. Admission: $5-$10; free kids 5 and under.

DuPage County Fair

Pierogi Fest

2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton (630) 668-6636 dupagecountyfair.org July 23-27

Downtown Whiting on 119th Street Whiting, Ind. (888) 659-0292 pierogifest.net July 25-27

Entertainment includes monster trucks, rodeo, demolition derbies, Michael Lynch from “The Voice” and more. Plus, carnival rides, community service projects, craft fair and horse shows. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Visit website.

Lake County Fair

Chinatown Summer Fair

Peterson and Midlothian roads Grayslake (847) 680-7200 lcfair.com July 23-27

Wentworth Avenue and Cermak Road Chicago (773) 868-3010

Features four stages of live entertainment, Chicago Flower & Garden Show exhibit, professional rodeo,

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Features food, entertainment, kids’ play area, polka parade and pierogi eating contest. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. July 25-26, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. July 27. Admission: Free.

Geneva Arts Fair Third Street, Geneva (630) 232-6060 genevachamber.com/geneva_art_fairs. php July 26-27 Features more than 150 artisans and a kids’ art area with special activities. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Free.

North Shore Festival of Art Old Orchard Westfield Old Orchard 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie (847) 926-4300 northshorefestivalofart.com July 26-27 Features more than 120 juried artists, food, live music and kids’ activities, including spin art and an art scavenger hunt. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Wicker Park Fest Milwaukee Avenue, between North Avenue and Paulina, Chicago (773) 384-2672 wickerparkfest.com July 26-27 Features live music and food, expanded arts and crafts, and kids’ areas. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $5 donation.

Taste of Lincoln Avenue North Lincoln Avenue between Fullerton and Wrightwood, Chicago tasteoflincolnchicago.com July 26-27 Features 250-plus vendors, food

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FESTS and nearly 40 acts on five music stages. Every music genre is represented from blues and country to rock and folk. Afternoons feature a stand-alone (free) “kids’ carnival” on Altgeld (with art activities, pony rides and more), and the “Lill Street Craft Fair” showcasing handmade and DIY art. Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Admission: $10 donation.

Highwood Days with Taste of Summer Everts Park 130 Highwood Ave., Highwood (847) 433-2100 celebratehighwood.com/taste.html July 27-29 Three days of carnival-style family fun featuring tastes of the North Shore, live music, a beer garden, and plenty of carnival rides for all ages. Hours: 5-11:30 p.m. June 27, 1-11:30 p.m. June 28, 1-9 p.m.

June 29. Admission: Free.

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Oshkosh, Wis. airventure.org July 28-Aug. 3 Features 10,000 aircraft, 2,500 show planes, world-class daily air shows plus two night air shows featuring pyrotechnic and fireworks (Wednesday and Saturday), evening entertainment, 800 exhibit areas, 1,000 forums and workshops, onsite camping, and KidVenture with hands-on activities. Hours: Gates open at 7 a.m. Visit website.

Admission: Visit website.

Fiesta del Sol 1400 W. Cermak Road, Chicago (312) 666-2663 fiestadelsol.org July 31-Aug. 3 Includes Aztec dancing, local art exhibit, craft workshop, a children’s area with read-out-loud sessions, free books, games and educational activities, Civil Rights of Immigrants Booth, College Fair, live entertainment, Pilsen School Expo, indoor soccer tournaments, free health screenings and food vendor.

Hours: Check website. Admission: Check website.

AUGUST

Festa Italiana Boylan High School Grounds 4000 St. Francis Drive, Rockford

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Dragon Boat Race for Literacy, see page 20.

(815) 636-2902 griaa.com Aug. 1-3 Three days of authentic music, carnival, kids’ activities and Italian food. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Visit website.

Evanston Lakeshore Arts Festival Dawes Park Sheridan Road at Church Street Evanston (847) 448-8260 cityofevanston.org/lakeshore Aug. 2-3 Focuses on high-quality juried artwork in 11 categories. Plus live music, a silent auction, children’s craft tent and food booths. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Glencoe Festival of Art Downtown Glencoe Green Bay Road and Park Avenue (847) 926-4300 glencoefestivalofart.com Aug. 2-3 Features more than 130 juried artists from around the world. Live music, great food and fun activities

for kids, including an art scavenger hunt. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Taste of Latin America 3600 W. Armitage Ave. at Central Park Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com Aug. 2-3 Visitors enjoy food from countries including Argentina, Venezuela, Brazil, Mexico and Cuba. Plus, cooking demonstrations, an eclectic world music lineup, kids’ activity tent, and arts and crafts. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: Check website.

Wrigleyville Summerfest 3309 N. Seminary Ave., Chicago (773) 665-4682 wrigleyvillesummerfest.com Aug. 2-3 Includes live music, food, drinks and the Kid’s Zone, with interactive games, crafts, a bouncy castle and other family-friendly activities. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Aug. 2, noon-9 p.m. Aug. 3. Admission: $5 donation.

Annual Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby Chicago River Columbus Avenue bridge to Michigan Avenue bridge, Chicago duckrace.com/Chicago Aug. 7 Spectators cheer on more than 50,000 yellow rubber ducks during the annual Derby to benefit Special Olympics Illinois. Family entertainment includes face painting, games, free food and appearances by several sports mascots.

Donated prizes will be provided to the adoptive parents of the winning ducks. Hours: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Admission: Free; $5 to adopt a duck.

Illinois State Fair 801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield (217) 782-6661 illinoisstatefair.info Aug. 7-17 Features entertainment, carnival, parade, kids’ tent, petting zoo and animal shows. Hours: Grounds open 7 a.m.-midnight, buildings open 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Admission: $7,

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FESTS $3 kids 5-12 and seniors, free kids under 5.

Annual Ginza Holiday Festival Midwest Buddhist Temple 435 W. Menomonee St., Chicago (312) 943-7801 ginzachicago.com Aug. 8-10 Experience a taste of Japan at this cultural festival, which features Japanese cultural exhibits and demonstrations, classical dances, drumming, ukelele, martial arts and fencing. Skilled master craftsmen (Waza) demonstrate crafts that will be offered for sale. Traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered along with other Japanese merchandise. Hours: 5:30-9 p.m. Aug 8, 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 9, 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 10. Admission: $7, $6 students and seniors, free kids under 12; $15 three-day pass; concert: $12.

Wood Dale Prairie Fest Town Square, Wood Dale Road and Commercial Street, Wood Dale (773) 868-3010 wooddale.com Aug. 8-10 Three-day community summer fest with food, music, arts and crafts, carnival games and more. Hours: 6-11 p.m. Aug. 8, 1-11 p.m. Aug. 9, 1-10 p.m. Aug. 10. Admission: Free.

Art at the Glen Glen Town Center 1800 Patriot Boulevard, Glenview (847) 926-4300 artattheglen.com Aug. 9-10 Families can stroll past the work of 185 artists, enjoy food from local restaurants, listen to music and enjoy kids’ activities, including an art scavenger hunt. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free.

Chicago Botanic Garden’s Kite Festival 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org Aug. 9-10 Members of the award-winning Chicago Fire Kite Team perform sport kite ballet and precision flying demonstrations, and experts offer kite-flying tips. Guests can buy kites or bring their own. Kids are encouraged to join in the fun by making their own kite during the kite-making workshops. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free; $20 parking.

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Bud Billiken Day Parade and Picnic

South Elgin Riverfest

Martin Luther King Drive from 39th Street (Oakwood Boulevard) to 51st Street Chicago (773) 536-3710 budbillikenparade.com Aug. 9

Panton Mill Park Route 31 and State Street, South Elgin (847) 774-1151 riverfestexpress.net Aug. 14-17

Parade kicks off at 10 a.m. and features floats, bands, drill teams, dance teams and celebrities. At the end of the parade route, there is a picnic with entertainment, food and music. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Retro on Roscoe Roscoe and Damen, Chicago (773) 665-4682 retroonroscoe.com Aug. 9-10 Features local restaurants, artisans, vendors, chili cookoff and a family area with crafts, balloon artists, face painting, music, rides and more. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $10.

Veggie Fest Science of Spirituality Meditation Center 4S175 Naperville Road, Naperville (630) 955-1200 veggiefestchicago.org Aug. 9-10

Features food, carnival, kids’ activities, arts and crafts show, live music and entertainment. Hours: 5-10 p.m. Aug. 14, 5 p.m.-midnight Aug. 15, noon-11 p.m. Aug. 16, noon-10 p.m. Aug. 17. Admission: Free.

Edison Park Fest Downtown Edison Park 6730 N. Olmstead Ave., Chicago (773) 631-0063 edisonpark.com Aug. 15-17

(773) 761-4477 glenwoodave.org Aug. 15-17 Includes a street art fair, indoor art displays, and live entertainment on three outdoor stages featuring 48 acts. KidFest Area features free hands-on arts activities. On both days, the South Stage offers a family-friendly circus, theater, dance and music acts (11 a.m.-4 p.m.). Hours: 6-10 p.m. Aug. 15, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 16-17. Admission: Free.

Farm & Barn Fest

Includes music, food, craft fair, dog show, bags tournament and basketball clinic. Kids’ Play Area features a rock climbing wall and waterslide, and Children’s Stage has kidfriendly performances, craft booths and a playground. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free.

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest 6900-7000 N. Glenwood Avenue (Morse and Glenwood), Chicago

Yunker Farm 10824 LaPorte Road, Mokena (708) 390-2401 mokenapark.com Aug. 16 Features sheep-shearing demo, petting zoo, horse rides, farm antiques, horse-shoeing demo, raffle, stage entertainment, square dancing, kids’ games and activities and food vendors. Plus, woolcarding and corn-grinding demonstrations, baby contest, quilt show, flea market and country concert. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free; fees for some activities.

Features health booths, vegetarian food demos, talks by health professionals, drawings, live music, food to purchase, and kids’ activities.

Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission: Free.

Ecuador Parade Albany Park 4346 N. California Ave., Chicago cityofchicago.org/specialevents Aug. 10 Parade takes place in the Albany Park neighborhood. Features a vibrant train of floats, along with Andean music and dancing from local folkloric troupes, all celebrating Ecuadorian independence.

Hours: Noon. Admission: Free.

Taylor Street Festa Italiana Taylor Street between Racine Street and Ashland Avenue, Chicago (312) 243-3773 starevents.com/festivals/festa-italiana Aug. 14-17 Features authentic Italian activities, delectable Italian cuisine, cooking demos and live entertainment.

Plus, a meatball-eating contest and grape-stomping. Hours: 5-11 p.m.

Aug. 14-15, noon-11 p.m. Aug. 16, noon-10 p.m. Aug. 17. Admission: $5, free kids under 12.

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Summer 2014 • goingplaces 25

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FESTS India Independence Day Parade Devon Avenue, Chicago cityofchicago.org/specialevents Aug. 16 Parade route runs on Devon Avenue from Western to California Avenues. Celebrates Indian independence. Hours: 11:30 a.m.

Admission: Free.

Albany Park World Fest Lawrence and Kimball, Chicago (773) 868-3010 chicagoevents.com Aug. 16-17 The northwest side neighborhood celebrates its melting pot diversity with food, music, arts & crafts, and activities for kids and families.

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Admission: $5 donation.

Chicago Air and Water Show North Avenue Beach, Chicago (312) 744-3370 chicagoairandwatershow.us Aug. 16-17 One of Chicago’s longest-running events, the show includes a wide variety of civilian and military acts with daredevil pilots performing their aerial stunts in the skies above Lake Michigan. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free.

Lincolnshire Art Festival Village Green Milwaukee Avenue and Old Half Day Road Lincolnshire (847) 926-4300 lincolnshireartfestival.com Aug. 16-17 Features more than 110 juried artists, live music and fun art activities for kids. Art enthusiasts of all ages can get into the “art-filled action” by making their mark on a community mural at the festival. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Festival of the Horse and Drum Pow Wow Kane County Fairgrounds 525 Randall Road, St. Charles (630) 524-0088 festivalofthehorseanddrum.com Aug. 16-17 Includes Native American dancing and drumming; native and multicultural vendors; Nakota Horse Conservancy; tipi contest; Renaissance Faire; Bird of Prey exhibit; Medallion the stallion; kids’ corral with pony rides; horse demos and more. Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Aug. 16, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 17. Admission: Check website.

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DuPage County Fair, see page 23.

St. Viator’s Rock the Lot Fest 4140 W. Addison Ave., Chicago stviatorelementary.squarespace.com Aug. 16 Includes a variety of food, beer garden, wine grotto, rides and attractions, along with live music.

Hours: 3-10 p.m. Admission: Check website.

Chicago Dancing Festival Various locations, Chicago chicagodancingfestival.com Aug. 20-23 Celebration of the finest dancers and choreographers from across the country and around the world showcasing a wide range of dance, including ballet, modern and ethnic dance forms. Times and locations vary. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free, but tickets for indoor performances need to be reserved in advance. No tickets are required for the outdoor Grand Finale at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.

First Annual Chicago Kids Yoga Fest Garfield Park Conservatory 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago chicagokidsyoga.com Aug. 17 Dozens of activities planned for kids of all ages including interactive classes and workshops, family scavenger hunt in Garfield Park Conservatory, two music stages,

family-friendly fire jam, art studio and Chic-a-go-go Dance Party.

Event will be inviting no matter what your yoga experience. Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: Free.

Cherry Valley Festival Days Baumann Park 218 S. Walnut St., Cherry Valley (815) 332-2152 valleydays.com Aug. 22-24 Three-day festival includes entertainment, amusement rides, kids’ activities, fireworks and food.

Hours: Visit website. Admission: Visit website. One button good for all three days.

Port Clinton Art Festival Central Avenue at the intersections of First and Second streets Highland Park (847) 926-4300 portclintonartfestival.com Aug. 22-24 Features more than 260 artists including a Youth Art Division with works from kids 18 and younger.

Event includes kids’ activities, music, and food from many local restaurants at the Taste of Highland Park, which runs in conjunction with the festival. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 22 (Taste only), 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 23-24. Admission: Free.

Life Time Kids Tri Chicago Montrose Avenue Beach, Chicago

(773) 404-2372 ltkidstri.com/page/show/1102119chicago-il Aug. 23 The swim takes place in Lake Michigan at Chicago’s Montrose Avenue Beach, including a shallow water start, parallel to the beach. The bike and run take place on closed park roadways and running paths all along Chicago’s lakefront. Open to boys and girls 7-14. Hours: 8:30 a.m. first wave starts. Admission: Visit website for registration information.

Taste of Greektown Greek Town, 400 S. Halsted Chicago (847) 509-8050 tasteofgreektown.com Aug. 23-24 Food, music and entertainment including Greek bands, belly dancers and games for both kids and families. Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Chicago Food Social Kendall College (parking lot) 900 Branch St., Chicago chicagofoodsocial.com Aug. 23-24 Top Chef finalist and Michelin Starawarded Carlos Gaytan, plus many other guest chefs, provide live preparation demonstrations and sell selections of culinary creations. Plus, communal dining, hands-on culinary activities for adults and kids, and a

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FESTS live music stage. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: $5 donation.

Sunday at 1 p.m. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Free.

Chicago Jazz Festival

Fox Valley Folk Music and Storytelling Festival

Grant Park, Chicago (312) 744-3315 chicagojazzfestival.us Aug. 28-31 The Labor Day weekend tradition showcases Chicago’s vast jazz talent along with national and international artists to entertain, encourage and educate a jazz audience of all ages with live musical performances in the Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park.

Hours: Check website. Admission: Free.

Taste of Polonia Copernicus Center Lawrence and Milwaukee avenues Chicago (773) 777-8898 topchicago.org Aug. 29-Sept. 1

Island Park Routes 25 and 38, Geneva (630) 897-3655 foxvalleyfolk.com Aug. 31-Sept. 1 Features eight stage areas with performances of folk music and storytelling, plus workshops and kids’ activities. Plus a Barn Dance and Ghost Stories Sunday night. Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: $20, $15 teens and seniors, free kids 12 and under.

SEPTEMBER

Sandwich Fair Sandwich Fairgrounds (815) 786-2159 sandwichfair.com Sept. 3-7

Features four stages of music (Polish, American, Dance and Club music), Polish cuisine, arts and crafts, game arcades, and a Kid’s World featuring activities and entertainment. Hours: 5-10 p.m. Aug. 29, noon-10 p.m.

Aug. 30-Sept. 1. Admission: $7; free kids 12 and under.

Features carnival, livestock judging, arts and crafts, horse shows, truck and tractor pulls, demolition derby, farm zoo, exhibits, kids’ entertainment, live music and food stands.

Hours: Visit website. Admission: $9, $5 kids 6-12, free kids 5 and under; check website for season passes.

African Festival of the Arts

Festival of the Vine

Washington Park 51st and Cottage Grove, Chicago (773) 955-2787 africanfestivalchicago.com Aug. 29-Sept. 1

Route 38 and North Fourth Street Geneva (630) 232-6060 genevachamber.com/festival_of_vine. php Sept. 5-7

Festival highlighting African culture features dancing, music, art and entertainment. Hours: Check website. Admission: Check website.

Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sept. 5-6, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 7. Admission: Free; cost for food and wine.

Alley Art Festival

German-American Fest

Water Street Mall Aurora downtownauroran.wordpress.com Aug. 30 More than 60 artists display their wares, food is available for purchase, free yoga and hula hoop demonstrations, lots of familyfriendly activities and live music.

Hours: Noon-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Frankfort Fall Festival Frankfort Historic Business District Kansas Street (815) 469-3356 frankfortfallfestival.info Aug. 30-Sept. 1 Features artisans, live entertainment, carnival and a parade on

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Lincoln Avenue between Leland and Western avenues, Chicago (630) 653-3018 germanday.com Sept. 5-7 Celebrate German Day and the von Steuben parade at the GermanAmerican Festival. Enjoy German food, beverages, dance and music.

The parade is at 2 p.m. Saturday on Lincoln Avenue from Irving Park Road to Lawrence Avenue. Hours: 5-11 p.m. Sept. 5, noon-11 p.m.

Sept. 6, noon-10 p.m. Sept. 7. Parade is at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Admission: Free; cost for food and booths.

Bloomingdale Septemberfest 201 S. Bloomingdale Road Bloomingdale

(630) 893-7000 villageofbloomingdale.org Sept. 6 End-of-summer celebration kicks off with a parade that leads into a full day and evening of events and entertainment in Old Town Park, including a car show, stage performances and scholarship presentations. The fest also hosts a variety of food and craft vendors, and a Lions Club beer tent. Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: Free.

The Festival on Prairie Avenue Prairie Avenue at 18th Street Chicago (312) 401-2688 pdnachicago.com Sept. 6 Includes music, inflatables, sports games, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, magic shows, historic tours, and arts and crafts.

Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Admission: $7 donation, free kids 12 months and under; food costs extra.

Von Steuben Parade Lincoln Avenue between Irving Park Road and Lawrence Avenue Chicago (630) 653-3018 germanday.com Sept. 6 Featuring floats, ethnic costumes and marching bands. Hours: 2 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Downtown Downers Grove Art Festival Downtown Downers Grove Main Street and Burlington Avenue (847) 926-4300 downersgroveartfestival.com Sept. 6-7 Features artwork in a variety of mediums and price points, as well as live music, great food and fun art activities for kids. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Free.

Four Star Bike & Chow UIC Circle Memorial Grove Morgan and Taylor streets, Chicago (312) 427-3325 ext. 251 4starbikeandchow.org Sept. 7 Get to know the parks, architecture and other landmarks during Chicago’s longest-running annual ride and sample Chicago treats like pierogies, egg rolls and tacos at the rest stops along the way. Four routes from 12-62 miles fit all types of riders. Registration includes an event T-shirt, rest stop access, food

samples and entry into the postride festival with entertainment and purchase options for a full lunch and beer. Hours: 7-9:30 a.m. staggered start. Admission: $37, $32 members, $15 kids 17 and under.

Central American Parade Montrose Avenue from California to Kimball, Chicago cityofchicago.org/specialevents Sept. 7 Celebrate Central America’s independence. Central America includes Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. Hours: Noon. Admission: Free.

Cornfest Family Fun Day Graue Mill, 3800 York Road Oak Brook (630) 655-2090 grauemill.org Sept. 7 Celebrate the beginning of fall with an old-fashioned family picnic featuring burgers and hot dogs, roasted corn on the cob, homemade pies and taffy apples. Entertainment includes games, races and a fishing tournament for kids. Kids can use hammers, nails and paint to create a craft project in the giant woodpile. Hours: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: Free; food and some activities extra.

Lake County Monarch Festival Downtown Waukegan at County and Clayton streets waukeganpl.org Sept. 7 Open-air celebration of nature, art and culture. More than 50 booths showcase handcrafted art and host games and activities for kids. A stage presents a variety of music and dancing and local restaurant vendors offer diverse food options.

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

Scandinavian Day Festival Vasa Park, Route 31 South Elgin (847) 695-6720 scandinaviandayil.com Sept. 7 Celebrate the cultures of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. Morning church service and entertainment throughout the day by ABBA Salute, Scandinavian dancers and singers. Cultural displays and Scandinavian food and vendors. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Admission: $10, free kids 12 and under.

Summer 2014 • goingplaces 27

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GOING PLACES

NOW OPEN !

ow! h S e h t f o r a t S e Where You’re th wow your d n a g n ri r te n e c Take to the mes, big-top tu s o c y z ra c h it w friends much more! d n a s e c n a rm o rf pe mble, juggle, tu to ” e g ta s k c a Go “b d spin! balance, hang an

ChicagoChildrensMuseum.org AT NAVY PIER • Open daily at 10 am • (312) 527-1000 28 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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Discover the world around you

museums

In this section 31 Get WOW’d at MSI 32 Art & Children’s 33 Historical/Regional 37 Museum Free Days 38 Science & Special Interest

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Summer 2014 • goingplaces 29

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MUSEUMS

: Family Workshop !

Photography Fun

FREE * ADMISSION n

1, 3:00–4:30 pm Sunday, June ages 8-14.

Recommended for

e childre for up to thre with (ages 5-11) lt. a paid adu

Family Day at the Illinois m!

Holocaust Museu

, 1:30–3:00 pm Sunday, July 27

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ChicagoParent.com

5/9/14 3:34 PM

MUSEUMS

Get WOW’d at MSI

T

he Museum of Science and Industry is full of treasures and experiences you can’t find anywhere else in Chicago, such as a 727 suspended overhead, a coal mine, and a model railroad that runs from Chicago to Seattle.

But did you know that the flaps and rudd rudders on th the plane w work with th the click of a button? Or that kids hav have the oppor opportunity to work the coal mine whistle that echoes throu throughout the ma main floor?

Or that th there’s a train hospita hospital for the locomotives that run throughout T The Great Train Story?

Enjoy all those opportunities and in interact with even more ex exhibits on the exclusive, b behindthe-scenes view at the museum with the WOW! Tour.

The one-hour to tour is jam-packed with b both information and new experiences that will excite exc even frequent visitors who w think they know the MS MSI like the back of their h hand.

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My tween and I felt like we were seeing the MSI for the first time because the WOW! Tour took us to areas not open to the general public.

For example, Toy Maker 3000 seems like a completely different exhibit once you’ve seen the robots at work behind the scenes.

And who knew that the chicks at the hatchery got pedicures?

Going inside the Omnimax projection room is pretty awesome, and we even got a few frames of film to take home as a souvenir.

Our enthusiastic and energetic facilitator kept the small WOW! Tour group moving the whole hour and shared a ton of fascinating facts and insider info.

The kids we took on the WOW! Tour loved connecting with exhibits they had seen in the past in new ways. They said their favorite part was getting to put

the wheels and flaps down on the 727, although we all also liked the live science component, which involved guests trying Mberry miracle fruit berry tablets that turn sour foods sweet.

Shannan Younger

The WOW! Tour ■ Museum of Science and Industry ■ Additional timed-entry ticket required. Non-members can select the tour as part of an Explorer ticket package, which starts at $27 for adults, $18 for kids 3-11. For members, the tour costs $8 adults/seniors, $6 for children.

■ msichicago.org

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MUSEUMS ART

Art Institute of Chicago 159 E. Monroe, Chicago (312) 443-3600 artinstituteofchicago.org A great place for families to begin their visit is the Ryan Education Center on the first floor of the Modern Wing. Admission to this part of the museum is always free.

The Family Room in the education center includes hands-on activities. Free Family Wednesdays is the first and second Wednesday of the month for Illinois residents. 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. Free 5-8 p.m. Thursdays for Illinois residents.

Elmhurst Art Museum 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst (630) 834-0202 elmhurstartmuseum.org Bring the whole family to see lively artwork, stroll through Mies van der Rohe’s McCormick House, and explore The Artivity, an interactive art wall. Stop by for Art on the Run, a free educational art project for families. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5, $3 seniors and students, free kids under 5. Free on Friday and to members.

Museum of Contemporary Art 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago (312) 280-2660 mcachicago.org With four floors, the MCA is big enough to fill up a few hours and still manageable enough to fit around naps and school schedules. Stroller tours offered the first Wednesday of every month (11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.). The family can enjoy outdoor jazz performances on the MCA’s terrace and sculpture garden as part of Tuesdays on the Terrace (5:30-8 p.m.) Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

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Burpee Museum of Natural History, see page 38.

Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park Governors State University 1 University Parkway, University Park (708) 534-4486 govst.edu/Nathan_Manilow_Sculpture_Park A collection of 29 works set within the wild prairie swales of the university campus. Enjoy special events for the whole family, including Kids & Kites on June 1. Hours: Dawn to dusk, daily. Admission: Free, fees for some activities.

National Museum of Mexican Art 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago (312) 738-1503 nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org This Pilsen museum is a natural for families. Ongoing exhibits present 3,000 years of Mexican history through ancient, colonial and contemporary art. This is a small museum that can be a great way to introduce younger children to art. Kraft Family Sundays are free, year-round, hands-on art programs related to the themes of current exhibitions (reservations required).

On-street parking is available nearby. Follow up your visit with lunch at La Cebollita (1723 S. Ashland Ave.), where you can enjoy traditional Mexican food at affordable prices. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesday-Sunday. Closed on major holidays. Admission: Free for exhibits. Performance festivals and

tours are ticketed. Donations are accepted.

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 60 sculptures. Visit the website before you visit and download a family guide.

Free, family-friendly tours at 1 p.m. on June 22, July 27, Aug. 24 and Sept. 28. Art-in-the-Park, the fifth annual free sculpture-making project for children, is Aug. 17. Hours: Open 24 hours year-round. Admission: Free.

Smart Museum of Art University of Chicago 5550 S. Greenwood Ave., Chicago (773) 702-0200 smartmuseum.uchicago.edu Family guides will lead you through the museum’s galleries of modern, Asian, and contemporary art. Kids are drawn to the outdoor sculpture garden. Visit during scheduled free Family Days, when kids can make their own art. Family tours (10 people minimum) are available by appointment. Free drop-in Family Days the first Saturday of each month (1-4 p.m.). Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday,

Saturday and Sunday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday. Admission: Free.

CHILDREN’S

Bronzeville Children’s Museum 9301 S. Stony Island Ave., Chicago (773) 721-9301 bronzevillechildrensmuseum.com This museum makes African-American history interesting and accessible. Each exhibit is designed to build children’s minds through fun, hands-on exhibits. 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 The museum’s three floors are filled wifth exhibits and playful programs, including Dinosaur Expedition. The gated Treehouse Trails and Kids Town exhibits are geared especially for toddlers and preschoolers. Older kids will love climbing on the museum’s threestory climbing schooner. Open this summer, Circus Zirkus: Where You’re the Star of the Show invites kids to swing on a flying trapeze or just clown around in center ring.

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday-

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MUSEUMS 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 9,000-square-feet of exhibit space on two floors includes a water area with a sand table and a tree house. Hours: Check website. Admission: $7, $6 seniors, $3 teachers, free kids under 1. Free parking is available on the fifth floor of the Parking Tower.

DuPage Children’s Museum 301 N. Washington St., Naperville (630) 637-8000 dupagechildrensmuseum.org The museum is divided into eight unique neighborhoods, each made up of a cluster of exhibits and experiences. The museum also offers a special time for families of children with special needs on Third Thursdays. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Monday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. TuesdayThursday (open until 8 p.m. every Third Thursday); 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday;

noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $11, $10 seniors 60+, free kids under 1.

KidsWork Children’s Museum 11 S. White St. (inside the trolley barn) Frankfort (815) 469-1199 kidsworkchildrensmuseum.org This two-story children’s museum brings children, families and the community together to engage in fun, hands-on interactive play. Special Needs Family Nights take place the last Wednesday of the month.

Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. TuesdayThursday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday.

Admission: $7 adults and kids, $6 seniors.

Kohl Children’s Museum 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview (847) 832-6600 kohlchildrensmuseum.org Seventeen hands-on interactive exhibits for children ages birth to 8, as well as a two-acre outdoor exhibit, Habitat Park. Bring a change of clothes—kids may get wet at the Water Works exhibit.

Hours: 9:30 a.m.-noon Monday (9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. June-August);

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.

Swedish American Museum & Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration 5211 N. Clark St., Chicago (773) 728-8111 swedishamericanmuseum.org Kids can climb aboard a 20-foot immigration steamer or tour a 100-year-old Swedish farmhouse.

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. MondayThursday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

Admission: $4, $3 students and seniors, free kids under 1.

Wonder Works 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-4815 wonder-works.org Kids up to 8 learn through play.

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.

HISTORICAL/REGIONAL

Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org The First Division Museum features our nation’s military history from World War I through Desert Storm and kids enjoy climbing on the tanks outside the museum.

Cantigny has many special events and programs just for families and kids, including Family Night Out, a new monthly program, and Art in Bloom, June 14-15. The park offers a restaurant (lunch only), coffee shop, gift shop and picnic area with playground. Hours: Museum: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Gardens/Grounds: 7 a.m.-sunset daily.

Call or visit website for special events. Admission: Free. Parking (per car): $5, $2 off peak.

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. Kids love making themselves into a giant

Underwritten by:

Experience it Through July 7 Take an interactive trip through Japan in our new hands-on exhibit!

2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview IL ChicagoParent.com

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Opening August 5 What role does science play in health and wellness? Young scientists can explore an interactive laboratory to find the answer in this exciting new exhibit.

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MUSEUMS Chicago-style hotdog or smelling the (sometimes awful) smells associated with the city, or becoming part of a giant Chicago postcard.

This summer, stop by Second Saturdays to discover Chicago stories with hands-on activities, makeand-take crafts, and more. Kids can participate in the city of Chicago’s Summer of Learning and earn a digital badge. Experience Family Trolley Tours—real urban adventures that explore Chicago’s unique places and spaces and Stroller Tours in the Parks. Hours: June 9-Jan. 6: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $14, $12 seniors (65+) and students, free for museum members and kids 12 and under. Call or check website for free day schedule.

Deerfield Historic Village 517 Deerfield Road, Deerfield (847) 948-0680 deerfieldhistoricalsociety.org Family-friendly historic village featuring five buildings including the Caspar Ott log house, the oldest building in Lake County. Kids enjoy visiting the one-room schoolhouse.

Hours: June-September: 2-4 p.m.

Sunday. Admission: Free.

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Graue Mill and Museum 3800 S. York Road, Oak Brook (630) 655-2090 grauemill.org Step back in time and explore four floors of exhibits and learn about pioneer life on the Illinois prairie and the Underground Railroad.

Try your hand at spinning wool and weaving and help the miller grind corn. Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Admission: $4.50, $4 seniors, $2 kids.

Grosse Point Lighthouse 2601 N. Sheridan Road, Evanston (847) 328-6961 grossepointlighthouse.net This light used to tell sailors that they had reached Chicago. Grounds are open year-round, and the lighthouse is open June-September.

It is not stroller-friendly and children under 8 are not permitted in the light tower. Access to the light tower is sometimes discontinued during extreme weather conditions or renovation work. Hours: The grounds are open year-round. Tours held 2, 3 and 4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, June-September. Admission: $6, $3 kids 8-12.

Graue Mill and Museum, see this page.

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MUSEUMS Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie (847) 967-4800 ilholocaustmuseum.org Explore games, multimedia and interactive exhibits in Make a Difference! The Harvey L. Miller Family Youth Exhibition, where children ages 8-12 can have fun discovering ways to respect differences, address bullying, and take a stand on issues that matter to them.

Exhibits include Take A Stand, a virtual reality game where frogs confront “bullies” in their pond; Choices, a peek inside school lockers to find inspiring stories about Rosa Parks and Anne Frank as well as modern-day teens who took a stand; and What Do You See, where kids explore an interactive mural to see who is standing up for what is right and who could use a hand.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. MondayWednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Closed some holidays. Admission: $12, $8 students 12-22 and seniors, $6 kids 5-11, free members.

Isle a la Cache Museum 501 E. 135th St. (Romeo Road) Romeoville (815) 886-1467 reconnectwithnature.org Explore exhibits of the 18th century French fur trade. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday.

Admission: Free.

Joliet Area Historical Museum 204 N. Ottawa St., Joliet (815) 723-5201 jolietmuseum.org Located at the crossroads of Route 66 and the Lincoln Highway in the former 1909 Ottawa Street Methodist Church. Line Drives to Lipstick: the Untold Story of Women’s Baseball opens June 16 and runs through Aug. 11. Summer Free Days include: Star Wars Day, June 7; Multicultural Palooza Festival, June 28; All Roads Lead to Joliet Celebration of the Lincoln Highway and Route 66, July 12; and Kidzfest, Aug. 2. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday; 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 Dad is free on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 15.

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Lake County Discovery Museum 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 check out the world’s largest collection of picture postcards. Explore the prairiethemed Children’s Learning Gallery for kids 10 and under featuring a variety of hands-on activities (occasionally closed for programs, call before going). 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.

McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum Michigan Avenue at Wacker Drive 376 N. Michigan Ave., Riverwalk Level Chicago (312) 977-0227 bridgehousemuseum.org The museum celebrates Chicago’s river and world-famous movable bridges. Beginning at river level and spiraling five stories up, the museum provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore a historic landmark bridgehouse. On select dates, visitors can get a behind-thescenes look at the gears in motion as they lift the Michigan Avenue Bridge. See website for bridge lift details, tours and other special events. Hours: May 10-Oct. 31: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Monday.

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

Admission: $5, $4 kids 6-12 and seniors 62+, free kids 5 and under; $10 bridge lifts.

Midway Village Museum 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford (815) 397-9112 midwayvillage.com Features 26 historical structures including a general store, blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, town hall, police station, hospital, fire station, church, barber shop, two barns and four farm houses. Phase II of the new immigrant experience exhibit Many Faces, One Community will open this year. Hours: Main Museum Center: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tuesday-Friday, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday. Closed Sunday-Monday; Village Tours run May-September (last tour at 3 p.m.). Admission: $7, $5 kids.

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For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit chicagoparent.com Summer 2014 • goingplaces 35

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MUSEUMS 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. 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. Recommended for children ages 5 and up. Participants under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. No pre-registration necessary.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdayWednesday and Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday; noon-4 p.m.

Sunday. Closed Monday. Admission: $5, $3 kids 17 and under, students and seniors. Free first Friday of the month. Members and tribal members free.

Naper Settlement 523 S. Webster St., Naperville (630) 420-6010 napersettlement.com This outdoor living history museum is a place where the stories and people of our past come alive through award-winning family-

Elmhurst Art Museum, see page 32.

Dance Party! ‌like back in the days of kings and queens.

Summer performances of the Tempel Lipizzans begin on June 21st.

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MUSEUMS

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

Adler Planetarium 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 922-STAR Free admission: June 3-5, 10-12

Art Institute of Chicago 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago (312) 857-7161 Free admission: 5-8 p.m.

Thursdays. Always free for kids 13 and under.

Cantigny Park and First Division Museum 1S151 Winfield Road Wheaton (630) 668-5161 Free admission: Always

free. Parking is $5, $2 offpeak.

Free admission: July 4, Aug. 10, 19-21, 26-28.

Chicago Children’s Museum

Elmhurst Art Museum

700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago (312) 527-1000 Free admission: 5-8 p.m.

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

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

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

Always free for kids 4 and under.

Field Museum 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 922-9410 Free admission: June 4-5, 9

Museum of Science and Industry

Free admission: Thursdays.

Always free for kids under 3.

5700 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (773) 684-1414 Free admission: June 1-6

Shedd Aquarium 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive Chicago (312) 939-2438 Free admission: June 2-3, 9-10, 16-17. Sept. 2, 8-9.

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

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.

Notebaert Nature Museum 2430 N. Cannon Drive Chicago (773) 755-5100

Clifford Free Exhibit June 7-August 24

sluggermuseum.com

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Adventures with Clifford The Big Red Dog was created by Minnesota Children’s Museum together with Scholastic Entertainment. ©2014 Scholastic Entertainment Inc. SCHOLASTIC and logos are trademarks of Scholastic Inc. CLIFFORD, EMILY ELIZABETH, CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG, BE BIG and logos are trademarks of Norman Bridwell. All rights reserved.

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MUSEUMS friendly exhibits, special events and programs. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tuesday-Saturday; 1-4 p.m. Sunday.

Admission: $12, $10 seniors, $8 kids 4-12, free kids under 4. Free general admission for Naperville residents and members.

Raupp Memorial Museum 901 Dunham Lane, Buffalo Grove (847) 459-2318 bgparks.org Experience a day in the life of an 1830s Native American kid or a 1910 pioneer child. Starting June 10, there will be free walk-in activities every Tuesday afternoon, and free nature walks every Wednesday morning. Hours: 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 1-4 p.m.

Sunday. Closed Friday-Saturday.

Admission: Free.

The Grove 1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview (847) 299-6096 glenviewparks.org Step into the past at this outdoor history and nature museum. Tour the restored 1856 Kennicott House, the log cabin, longhouse and schoolhouse with costumed guides.

Hours: The Interpretive Center and grounds are open to the public year-round, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. SaturdaySunday. 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 being a space explorer at the Adler.

Sky Shows are 360-degree shows featuring outer space themes. New summer show, Destination Solar System, flies audiences from one end of the Solar System to the other in under 30 minutes Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $12, $10 seniors, $8 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under.

Discounts for Chicago residents.

Shows cost extra.

Burpee Museum of Natural History 737 N. Main St., Rockford

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(815) 965-3433 burpee.org Established in 1941, the museum is the home of “Jane,” the world’s best preserved and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex, and “Homer,” a teen-aged Triceratops, and is one of the preeminent mid-sized natural history museums in the nation.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Closed holidays. 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 (show information) triton.edu/cernan Visitors can get a crash course in astronomy and explore the wonders of the earth and universe.

Hours: Call or check the website.

Admission: Earth & Sky shows: $8, $4 kids and seniors. Laser light shows: $10, $5 kids and seniors.

Dearborn Observatory at Northwestern University 2131 Tech Drive, Evanston (847) 491-7650 ciera.northwestern.edu/observatory.php Historical telescope still in operation. Great for kids to spark an interest in science. Note that the building does not have an elevator.

Hours: 9-11 p.m. Admission: Free.

Discovery Center Museum 711 N. Main St., Rockford (815) 963-6769 discoverycentermuseum.org Kids can see what it’s like to be a farmer, an astronaut, a news anchor or an athlete as they explore more than 250 exhibits. Expanded spaces include an outdoor Secret Garden.

The new and improved Body Shop will open the end of June. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: $8 children and adults, free for kids 1 and under and members.

Field Museum 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 922-9410 fieldmuseum.org From ancient mummies to endangered plants to a complete T. rex, the museum boasts a treasury of 24 million specimens. The Crown Family PlayLab has six themed play areas and is perfect for younger kids. Many areas of the museum also offer interactive elements for children. Check out The Machine Inside: Biomechanics exhibit. Before your visit, download one of the

Family Adventure Tours or pick one up at the museum’s information desks to help children make the most of the exhibitions. Public parking lots are nearby or the museum is easily accessible by public transportation. 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.

John G. Shedd Aquarium 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 939-2438 sheddaquarium.org Visitors can discover the dolphins and whales in the Oceanarium. 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. This summer, check out Stingray Touch, an outdoor exhibit with live stingrays.

For an extra fee, take a behind-thescenes tour or join an overnight at the aquarium. Public, paid parking lots are located nearby on the museum campus or take public transportation. Shedd offers free days for Illinois residents, but avoid the long lines and reserve tickets ahead. Be prepared for crowds on free days. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday and holidays. Check website for extended summer hours.

Admission: $8, $6 kids. Total Experience pass: $34.95, $25.95 kids.

Museum of Science and Industry 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (773) 684-1414 msichicago.org See your heart beat 13-feet tall, climb aboard a World War II German submarine, take a tour of your digestive system, plunge into a working coal mine or control a 40-foot tornado. See Earth Explorers from National Geographic, a hands-on exhibit that allows kids of all ages to become explorers.

Parking is available in the museum’s underground garage for $20.

Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. daily.

Extended hours, until 5:30 p.m., are offered on select dates; check msichicago.org. Admission: Ticket packages begin at $18 for kids and go up to $36 for adults. Museum Entry is $11 for kids, $17 for seniors and $18 for adults. City of Chicago residents receive a discount on packages and Museum Entry.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago

(773) 755-5100 naturemuseum.org The highlight for most children is the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven where butterflies from around the world fly free. There are also exhibits to climb in, splash in and explore an extreme green house.

Check out “Nature’s Struggle: Survival & Extinction” a new exhibit that explores why some species go extinct, why others thrive and what guests can do to promote species conservation, biodiversity and strengthen their relationship with nature. The museum offers a variety of daily events for children and adults. Paid parking is available nearby or look for free street parking. It’s also convenient to public transportation. 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 in this basementlevel museum. Rocks and fossils are available for purchase at the store. Store is handicap and stroller friendly, but the downstairs museum is not. Hours: 10:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. Monday-Tuesday and Friday; 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday. Closed Wednesday and Sunday. Admission: Free.

SciTech Hands-On Museum 18 W. Benton St., Aurora (630) 859-3434 scitechmuseum.org Learn about math and science with more than 200 interactive exhibits.

Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. Check website or Facebook page for summer hours. 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 House, the Civil War and his assas-

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MUSEUMS

Chicago Children’s Museum, see page 32. sination. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily with last admission at 4 p.m.

Admission: $15, $12 seniors and students, $10 military, $6 kids 5-15, free kids 4 and under.

Air Classics Museum of Aviation Aurora Airport 44W546 U.S. 30 (1 mile west of airport entrance), Sugar Grove (630) 466-0888 airclassicsmuseum.org Visitors can get up close to an A-7 Corsair II that flew combat missions in the Gulf War or climb into the cockpit of a Vietnam-era UH-1 Huey helicopter. The museum’s collection includes 12 aircraft and three buildings of aviation memorabilia from the 1930s to the present.

Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. SaturdaySunday; group tours by appointment Tuesday-Friday. Admission: $8, $5 kids 5-15 and seniors 62+, free kids under 5 with parent.

Fox River Trolley Museum 361 S. LaFox St. (Ill. 31), South Elgin (847) 697-4676 foxtrolley.org Take a ride into the past on the Fox

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River Line’s historic trolley cars, some of which are more than a century old. Pack a picnic lunch.

Benches are located at both ends of the line. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sundays Mother’s Day-Nov. 4. Saturdays June 30-Labor Day. Open Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Admission: $4 adults, $3 seniors 65+, $2 for kids 3-11, free kids under 3.

Illinois Railway Museum 7000 Olson Road, Union (800) BIG-RAIL (244-7245) (815) 923-4000 irm.org See, ride and experience America’s largest railway museum. You can browse one of the largest collections of railroad memorabilia around, and enjoy fun family photo ops. Pach a picnic because indoor and outdoor dining areas are available. Enjoy a Day Out with Thomas coming in August. Hours: Open days and hours vary. See website.

Admission: Weekends May-September: $14, $10 kids 3-11, max $50 family; Weekdays: $10, $7 kids 3-11, max $38 family.

International Museum of Surgical Science

teens, $2 kids 7-12, free kids under 7. Free on Friday.

1524 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago (312) 642-6502 imss.org

National Hellenic Museum

Future doctors can glimpse the medical past, present and future. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Last admission one hour before closing. Closed Monday and holidays.

Admission: $15, $10 students and seniors, $7 kids 4-13, free kids 3 and under. Tuesday is free day.

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art 220 Cottage Hill Ave. (in Wilder Park) Elmhurst (630) 833-1616 lizzadromuseum.org See the New Rock & Mineral Experience and more than 200 exhibits featuring jade and the Castle Lizzadro, carved out of gold. The Faces of Eternity special exhibit (July 1-Nov. 2) features 15 life-size skulls carved from gem materials. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday and major holidays. Admission: $5, $4 seniors 60+, $3 students and

333 S. Halsted St., Chicago (312) 655-1234 nationalhellenicmuseum.org The only major museum in the U.S. dedicated to telling the story of the 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 the Midwest’s largest all-indoor vintage, collector and Hollywood car collection. 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.

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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.

Northside Prep, Walter Payton, Jones, Latin and St. Ignatius are among the High Schools to which our CGS students have been accepted. www.chicagogrammar.org 312-944-5600 Join CGS this SUMMER for TEST PREP CAMP! Chicago Grammar School 900 N. Franklin Chicago, IL 60610

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Family-friendly urban adventures

city

In this section 43 Best barbecue in the city 46 A day out in Andersonville 48 Listings on landmarks, sightseeing and tours

Bobby’s Bike Hikes ChicagoParent.com

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CITY

DON’T MISS 4 DAYS OF PURE FUN!

S T. S T A N ’ S S C H O O L

CARNIVAL 2014 JUNE 5 t o JUNE 8 Thursday, June 5

5-9 PM

Friday, June 6

Saturday, June 7

2-11 PM

Sunday, June 8

5-11 PM 12-10 PM

COME JOIN US for family fun, thrill rides, delicious food, exciting games, children's festivities, a beer garden and great music at THE TASTE OF ST. STAN’S CARNIVAL! 1255 N. Noble St. Free parking available at Holy Trinity on the corner of Noble and Division.

STSTANSCHICAGO.ORG

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CITY

BEST

IN THE CITY Food you must order if you go: Kobe brisket, chicken wings (which are marinated and smoked, not fried) and espresso ice cream covered in peanut brittle, which I have no words to describe.

Chicago q

chicagoqrestaurant.com Walking up to Chicago q, we immediately sensed this wasn’t your neighborhood barbecue joint. The trendy little restaurant on Dearborn Street is all urban barbecue.

Fun atmosphere. Cool vibe.

Friendly staff.

And literally the best food we’ve consumed yet in Chicago. I’m not kidding.

It’s no wonder with Lee Ann Whippen as the chef and partner at the restaurant. My husband Scott was a bit starstruck. (She has appeared on Food Network’s Bobby Flay’s Throwdown and TLC’s BBQPitmasters series.)

We visited Chicago q for a recent Sunday brunch and tasted pretty much everything barbecue on the menu.

Chicago q is located on Dearborn St. ChicagoParent.com

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Portions are big at Carson’s.

Carson’s

W

hen you think Chicago food, barbecue probably isn’t your first or even your last thought.

Italian, steaks, pizza—Chicago has that covered. But barbecue? That’s something our family of four doubted we would find in Chicago. We are barbecue lovers. Give us some brisket, corn bread and smoky baked beans, and we’re happy.

So we tried some of Chicago’s acclaimed barbecue restaurants and were pleasantly surprised— Chicago has some great barbecue. Here are a handful of our favorites.

Kristy MacKaben

ribs.com Considered something of an institution, Carson’s had been mentioned by a few of our Chicago-native friends.

Portions are generous and the sweet and tangy barbecue sauce is delicious. The restaurant is a tad fancier than your average barbecue joint, but families will feel at home here. The ribs were great and the au gratin potatoes reminded the kids of my homemade “cheesy potatoes” but “10 times better.”

Smoke Daddy

thesmokedaddy.com Owners at Smoke Daddy take pride in their “lil red smoker” where they smoke CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

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CITY BEST BARBECUE IN THE CITY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43

Smoque is worth a return trip. all their meats and vegetables.

The Wicker Park barbecue joint has been featured on the Food Network’s The Bobby Flay show and Rachel Ray’s Tasty Travels.

Everything is about smoke and meat at this place—from the pulled meat nachos and smoked jalapeno beer cheese to the smoked pit beans and smoked sliced brisket. There’s even a

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barbecue vegetable sandwich on the menu. Smoke Daddy also features live music seven days a week.

Smoque

smoquebbq.com I love reading about food and restaurants in the city, and I had my heart set on trying Smoque

for quite a while. The little joint in Irving Park has earned excellent reviews from food critics, and I was dying to try it.

We stopped by Smoque on a Saturday afternoon—after running the Chicago quarter marathon along the lake. The place was packed. A crowded restaurant is always a sign of good things to come. (Around lunchtime on weekends, finding a table might be difficult, but it’s worth the wait.)

We tried a few things on the menu: brisket, ribs, chili, baked beans...

My husband said the brisket was as good as Memphis and I fell in love with the St. Louis ribs. (I’m not even a rib girl.)

The sides served in little tin cups were perfect. The homemade mac ‘n’ cheese topped with buttery bread crumbs was delicious. The desserts, also served in little tin cups, were scrumptious as well. We will definitely make a return trip for the best barbecue I’ve ever tasted.

Ribs are tasty at Twin Anchors.

Twin Anchors

twinanchorsribs.com We’re suckers for history. We love exploring old places and daydreaming about who might have lived, walked or met there.

Twin Anchors is situated in the Old Town building built in 1881.

Since 1931 it has been Twin Anchors, a pretty famous barbecue joint, considering Frank Sinatra used to frequent the place.

Though the draw is definitely the history, the barbecue is good, too. The pork barbecue and ribs were tasty. With its old school tavern charm and nautical theme, Twin Anchors has a fun atmosphere.

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CITY

Seventh Annual

AND CRAFT / VENDOR SHOW Saturday, June 21, 2014  10:00 am – 6:00 pm Sunday, June 22, 2014  Noon – 6:00 pm

SEE OUR FLYING PIGS

Located at the intersection of Arlington Heights Road and Devon Avenue in Elk Grove Village The “Little Boots Rodeo” is an event where families help their children participate in 13 events in a non-competitive atmosphere. After completing all events, the children will be certified as an official certificate Cowboy or Cowgirl on stage, have their name announced over the speaker and receive a certificate!

NEW THIS YEAR Stunt Jump

Zip Line

Rodeo Participant Events - Mechanical Bull (Big & Baby Bull)  Cow Milking  Stunt Jump Crabbing  Shooting Gallery  Pick-a-Pearl  Corn Stripping  Butterfly Release Zip Line  Bow and Arrow  Panning for Gold  Pennies in the Corn  Smell the Breath of a Dinosaur General Public and Family Events - Large Petting Zoo  Wagon Rides ($2 per person)  Lasso  Jail Little Boots Railroad ($2 per person)  Pony Rides ($2 per person)  Camel Rides ($3 per person) Bronco Riding  Huge Raffle  Best Dressed Cowgirl and Cowboy Contest (Trophy awarded every hour) SPECIAL APPEARANCE

Pony Rides P

Shooting Gallery

Mechanical Bull

Corn Stripping

Pig Races

Camel Rides

SVENGOOLIE RETURNS SUNDAY (1:00-3:00)

Panning for Gold

Pennies in the Corn

FREE OSCAR MEYER HOT DOG AND DRINK FOR PUNCH CARD PARTICIPANTS

Proceeds will benefit The District 59 Education Foundation, The Elk Grove Farmers Market, The Lion’s, Lioness, Leo Clubs of Elk Grove Village

Rodeo organized and sponsored by the Little Boots Foundation in Elk Grove Village, IL

Certification events entrance fee is $12.00 per punch card (only 1 child per punch card) Huge Model Train Display on site from LGB Model Railroad Club of Chicago Main: 630-766-8980 ~ Cell: 630-878-7627 ~ www.littlebootsrodeo.org

Subject to Change

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CITY

A day out in

I

’m not Swedish. Like most non-Swedish Americans, the main things I know about Sweden can be limited to meatballs, the American Girl doll named Kirsten, and IKEA. And, of course, Andersonville.

The primary claim-to-fame of Andersonville, which runs along the western edge of Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood, is being Swedish. In fact, its recently demolished water tower was painted to resemble the Swedish flag, and other blue-and-yellow decorations adorn the street. And while the first residents of the neighborhood may have hailed from Stockholm, North Clark Street is a welcome day trip for all Chicagoans—whether you have Swedish blood or not.

Elizabeth Diffin

EAT Your first stop should be the Swedish Bakery (5348 N. Clark), a charmingly old-school spot that specializes in pastries from Europe. Keep an eye out for traditional Swedish treats like pepperkakor (ginger cookies) or drommar (dream cookies), helpfully marked with a blueand-yellow flag. You’ll also find all the mainstays of a traditional bakery, plus beautifully decorated cakes. And when the line took a while, I took advantage of the free coffee while the kids enjoyed free samples of the goodies.

North Clark Street is home to

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a wide variety of family-friendly restaurants. If you’re looking to make it an all-Swedish day, check out Svea (5236 N. Clark), which serves up a Viking breakfast—complete with Swedish pancakes topped with lingonberries—that can be easily shared. Lady Gregory’s (5260 N. Clark) offers sandwiches, burgers and some traditional Irish fare. For pure experience, there’s Hamburger Mary’s (5400 N. Clark), a flamboyantly decorated spot (the check comes in a stiletto) that specializes in creatively named dishes like Buffy the Burger Slayer. Of course, Andersonville is also home to popular chain restaurants like

ELIZABETH DIFFIN

Swedish Bakery Homemade Pizza Co. and Potbelly Sandwich Works, so there’s something for every taste.

Your trip would not be complete without a stop at George’s Ice Cream and Sweets (5306 N. Clark), a modern take on an old-fashioned ice cream parlor.

It offers a huge range of handdipped flavors (with or without the fresh-baked waffle cones), including gluten-free, soy, and no sugar added options. For those who need a little help combining tastes, there are specialty sundaes and shakes to select. And if you’re not big on the cold stuff, don’t worry: there’s an extensive bakery menu, hot drinks, and an adorable candy bar in the back.

PLAY Families with little kids are sure to love the weekly story time at Women & Children First (5233 N. Clark). The independent bookstore opens early (10:30 a.m.) on Wednesdays just for the kids, who pile onto gym mats on the floor (or parents’ laps) and listen to popular children’s stories. They also throw in some fun finger plays to help get the wiggles out. At a half-hour, it was a bit long for my 2-year-old nephew, but fortunately, the store is brimming with books for a welcome distraction. Bring cash for the requested $1 donation.

Andersonville embraces its ethnic legacy at the Swedish

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ELIZABETH DIFFIN

Swedish American Museum American Museum (5211 N. Clark). Check out the huge Dala Horse in the museum’s lobby (its twin hangs out at the corner of Clark and Farragut) before heading upstairs to the real fun: The Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration. Kids can experience life on a Swedish farm before boarding a boat that takes them to the homesteads of Minnesota. There are lots of things to do—milk a cow! row a Viking ship! ride a sleigh!—that are far beyond our American experience. My 4-year-old nephew gravitated toward the space section (did you know Buzz Aldrin is Swedish-American?) where we got to experience multiple bumpy “blast-offs.”

SHOP If you’re looking for some unique gifts or one-of-a-kind clothing, stop by The Red Balloon (5407 N. Clark). We enjoyed the wide range of personalized gifts like the keepsake name loveys and ceramic frames, the Chicago-themed onesies and the initial tees for older kids. And as an enthusiastic reader, I fell in love with the wall of classic and Chicago-ori-

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The Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration ented books, while my nephews were taken with the toy piano and mini-firetrucks just within their reach.

Make sure you set your schedule before heading into Toys et Cetera (5311 N. Clark) or your kids will want to stay all day. It’s absolutely brimming with toys, games and craft kits everywhere you look. My nephews immediately occupied themselves at the train table while their mom and I browsed for some gifts for an upcoming birthday. If you’ve got musical kids, stop by on Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m. or 4 p.m. for instruments and singing. And did I mention they gift wrap—for free?!

Just beyond Foster, and slightly past the best known blocks of Andersonville, you’ll find Green Genes (5111 N. Clark), an eco-friendly boutique. The boys played with the dollhouse and make-believe kitchen while we browsed adorably trendy clothing from Boys & Girls, Winter Water Factory and Maxomorra.

You can find environmentally friendly lunch bags, water bottles, shampoo, nail polish and toys. My favorite was a portable changing pad from FEED—proceeds help bring food to the hungry around the world.

ELIZABETH DIFFIN

Women & Children First

ELIZABETH DIFFIN

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CITY LANDMARKS

360 CHICAGO John Hancock, 875 N. Michigan Ave. (888) 875-VIEW (8439) jhochicago.com 360 CHICAGO (formerly John Hancock Observatory) sits in the heart of the city, 1,000 feet above The Magnificent Mile. On the 94th floor, guests can enjoy 360 degree views, as well as interactive learning opportunities. Hours: 9 a.m.11 p.m. (Last ticket sold at 10:30 p.m.) Admission: $18 ages 12 and up, $12 kids 3-11, free kids under 3. Total Tower Experience (includes audio tour and a gift) $28; $22.

Fast pass express entry $35; Sun & Stars pass (re-entry within 48 hours) $24.50; $18.50.

Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave., (312) 595-PIER (7437) navypier.com More than 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, restaurants and family-friendly attractions.

Enjoy year-round free entertainment and amusement rides including the 150-foot-tall Ferris wheel, the Wave Swinger and Musical Carousel. The pier is home to the Chicago Children’s Museum and Amazing Chicago, a 4,000-squarefoot maze. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Free. Fees for attractions vary.

Skydeck Chicago Willis Tower, 233 S. Wacker Drive Enter on Jackson Boulevard, (south side of building), between Wacker Drive and Franklin Street (312) 875-9696 theskydeck.com Step out onto The Ledge, glass balconies that extend more than four feet outside of Willis Tower, and Chicago is literally at your feet, 1,353 feet below. “Knee-High Chicago” exhibits are geared toward kids. Hours: 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Last admission is 30 minutes before closing. Admission: $19, $12 kids 3-11, free kids 2 and under.

SIGHTSEEING AND TOURS

3DFireworks Cruises Riverside Gardens Dock, lower level and southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue bridge and Wacker Drive (312) 332-1353 mercurycruises.com Mercury presents the city’s only Fireworks Cruise in 3-D. This popu-

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MarianKrusPhotography.com Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Company, see page 49. lar 90-minute lakefront fireworks cruise departs Wednesdays and Saturdays in the summer and offers unobstructed views of the lakefront pyrotechnics. Hours: 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 9:15 p.m. Saturdays. May 31-Aug. 30. Admission: $32, $12 kids under 12; free kids under 3.

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 30 minutes for up to four people. Additional $5 per person for a total of six people per ride.

Bobby’s Bike Hike 540 N. Lake Shore Drive (entrance on Ohio Street) (312) 915-0995 bobbysbikehike.com Bobby’s Tike Hike: Kid’s Edition is perfect for families with kids 10 and younger. Bikes, helmets and children’s equipment provided.

Bike hikes for older children and adults are offered all summer long.

Hours: Tours are 10 a.m. daily Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admis-

sion: $32.50, $22.50 students and seniors, $15.50 kids under 12, $5.50 kids under 4.

Chicago Detours

Chicago Architecture Foundation

Offers guided tours of architecture, history and culture. Kids enjoy the use of shared iPads with historic photos and video clips. The Loop Interior Architecture Tour uses secret shortcuts and underground passages to explore Chicago from the inside, including the mostly underground Pedway System.

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.

224 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 922-3432 architecture.org The Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise aboard Chicago First Lady Cruises departs 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 runs through Nov. 23; check website for times. Admission: $37.85.

Chicago by Night!

Riverside Gardens Dock at the lower level and southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue bridge and Wacker Drive (312) 332-1353 mercurycruises.com 90-minute river and lake cruise aboard Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline that celebrates Chicago at night. Timed to coincide with the sunset, this cruise makes a brief highlight stop near Buckingham Fountain at 9 p.m. for passengers to see the nightly light show. Hours: 8 p.m. daily from May 23-Sept. 1; 8 p.m. weekends Sept. 2-Oct. 3.

Admission: $32, $12 kids under 12, free kids under 3.

30 E. Adams St., Suite 425 (312) 350-1131 chicagodetours.com

Chicago Food Planet Food Tours 830 N. Michigan Ave. (312) 445-9948 chicagofoodplanet.com Three-hour food tasting and cultural walking tours combine delicious food and drink tastings in Chicago’s Chinatown, Bucktown/ Wicker Park and Near North neighborhoods. Tours are appropriate for children, but may be best for older kids. Hours: Tours available through mid-November. Admission: $47-$60 depending on tour; $15-$35 children and teens, depending on tour and age.

Chicago Grand Tour (888) 881-3284 chicagotours.us This tour covers both the North

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CITY and South sides of Chicago, passing through the parks and outer Lake Shore Drive. Includes a stop at the Lincoln Park Conservatory or Adler Planetarium. Hours: 10 a.m. and noon through May. 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. June-September. Admission: $49.95, $23.95 kids 5-14, free kids under 5.

family. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Fares start at $3; discounts for seniors on one-way fares.

Chicago Line Cruises

Knowledgeable guides lead a 90-minute walking tour of Chinatown at 10 a.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Strollers recommended for kids 5 and under.

Highlights include the Nine Dragon Wall, Chinatown Gate and the Chinatown Zodiac Square. Meet at Three Happiness Restaurant. Reservations required. Hours: 10-11:30 a.m. May 23-Sept. 14. Admission: $10, free kids 6 and under.

465 N. McClurg Court (312) 527-2002 chicagoline.com The 90-minute Architectural Cruise travels the Chicago River. The Historical Cruise, also 90 minutes, is done with the Chicago History Museum and the tour includes the river and lake. Hours: Season runs through November. Check website for 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: Check website. Admission: $32.95, $13.95 kids 5-14, free kids 4 and under. $5 off online.

Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Bus Company Various pick-up and drop-off spots (773) 648-5000 chicagotrolley.com The Signature Tour operates year round and lets riders hop on and hop off. The Neighborhoods Tours take visitors to the north, south and west neighborhoods. Signature Tour trolleys run every 15-25 minutes. Hours: Boarding times start at 9 a.m. daily and the last pickup is at 5 p.m. Admission: $18-$45.

Chicago Water Taxis (312) 337-1446 chicagowatertaxi.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

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Chinatown Walking Tour Meet in front of New Three Happiness Restaurant, 2130 S. Wentworth Ave. (312) 842-1988 chinatowntourchicago.com

CityLights Cruises Departing from Navy Pier (847) 299-5070 citylightscruises.com Three-hour, family-friendly afternoon and evening cruises on Lake Michigan. Cruises include a complimentary hot buffet lunch or dinner, sightseeing tour of the lakefront and live DJ entertainment. Children under 16 are welcome on cruises departing before 7:30 p.m. Try the Wednesday and Saturday evening cruises during the summer and see Navy Pier fireworks. Hours: Check online for schedule. Admission: Check website.

Mercury Canine Cruise Riverside Gardens Dock at the lower level and southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue bridge and Wacker Drive (312) 332-1353 chicagocaninecruise.com Leash up Fido and Fluffy and join other families and their canines for this summertime favorite. The 90-minute lake and river tour features lively commentary about dog-friendly Chicago and includes on-board amenities such as large bowls of fresh water and a newspaper-lined restroom. Hours: 10 a.m.

Sundays July 6-Sept. 28. Admission: $31, $11 kids under 12, free kids under 3; $8 dog.

Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline Southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue bridge and Wacker Drive, (312) 332-1353 mercurycruises.com Specialty cruises include the Fireworks Cruise, Canine Cruise and the Urban Adventure Package Cruise that includes admission to

LCCIL’s Mission is… …to empower people with disabilities to lead self-directed lives as valued members of the community LCCIL is a not-for-profit organization serving all people with disabilities who reside in Lake and McHenry Counties. We provide independent living skills training, information & referral, advocacy and education, and peer mentoring.

Among our many services, we offer Youth and Parent Advocacy programs for children with disabilities and their families.

Parent Advocacy

Advocates assist families through the Special Education process, providing support and advocacy with IEPs, section 504 plans, and transition programs. Advocates work with individual families as well as conduct educational workshops throughout the year.

Youth Leadership

Taught in community high schools and transition programs, advocates teach a 30week course in leadership, self-advocacy, goal setting, and more. Youth learn about their rights and how to properly communicate their wants and needs as they prepare to transition into adulthood.

Voyager Internship

Youth participate in a summer program to learn community advocacy skills, “hands on” office skills, project planning, and disability awareness.

For more information or to request services, please contact Claudia Stevens at (847) 949-4440 or Claudia@lccil.org.

Also check out our website to learn about our many services for adults with disabilities at www.lccil.org.

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CITY 360 CHICAGO. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Admission: Call or check website.

Mystic Blue Cruises Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (877) 299-7783 mysticbluecruises.com Buffet, DJ entertainment and amazing skyline views. Take it all in during a lunch, brunch, dinner or blue after-dark moonlight cruise.

Hours: Cruises year-round. Lunch noon-2:30 p.m., dinner 6-8:30 p.m., brunch 12:30-3 p.m. Admission: Prices run $42-$47 for lunch, children ages 4-12 are 40 percent off; $72-$99 for dinners, no discount for children.

Noble Horse 820 N. Michigan Ave., (312) 266-7878 noblehorsechicago.com/carriages.html 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). Hours: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.-midnight daily. Admission: $80 per hour, $60 for 45 minutes, $40 per 30 minutes 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.

Board near the Inter-Continental Hotel, 505 N. Michigan Ave. Kids’ birthday party packages available.

Hours: By appointment only. Tours are weather permitting. Admission: Call or check website.

Odyssey Cruises Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (866) 305-2469 odysseycruises.com Enjoy live entertainment and skyline views. Lunch, brunch, dinner and specialty cruises available yearround. 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. Admission: Prices run $51$64 for lunch, children ages 4-12 are 40 percent off; $89-$129 for dinner, no discounts for children.

Seadog Speedboat Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.

(312) 822-7200 seadogcruises.com

cago River, or from Gateway Park at Navy Pier. Admission: See website for prices and schedule.

Learn Chicago trivia and see the sights onboard this exciting yellow speedboat. The 75-minute architectural tours are on the Chicago River. The Lakefront tours include a 30-minute speedboat ride accompanied with a narrated tour of the skyline. With the most horsepower, Seadog Extreme features a more intense and jet-propelled experience along the lakefront. Must be 48 inches or taller to ride Seadog Extreme. Fireworks Cruises are available Wednesday and Saturday, Memorial Day-Labor Day. Reservations not required, but encouraged.

Hours: Vary per cruise. Call for times. Admission: $19.95-$36.95.

Enjoy a panoramic Lake Michigan boat tour complete with professional narration on Chicago’s colorful history and famous landmarks.

Hours: Through Labor Day with multiple departures daily, plus Fireworks Cruises Wednesday and Saturday evenings in summer. Admission: See website for schedule and prices.

Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tours

Shoreline Sightseeing Fireworks Tours

401 N. Michigan Ave., (312) 222-9328 shorelinesightseeing.com

Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 222-9328 shorelinesightseeing.com

Enjoy 75-minute Chicago River Architecture Tours, led by professional and entertaining guides highlighting more than 40 landmark buildings. Hours: Daily service with multiple departures starting at 10 a.m. at the northeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at the Chi-

Shoreline Sightseeing Classic Lake Tours Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 222-9328 shorelinesightseeing.com

Enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks on a Shoreline Sightseeing Fireworks Tour. Choose the Architecture/Fireworks Tour to experience both a dramatic nighttime guided Architecture Tour on the Chicago River plus fireworks viewing from Shoreline’s

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CITY 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. non-game days. Admission: Call for suggested donation.

Wacky Pirate Cruise Riverside Gardens Dock at the lower level and southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue bridge and Wacker Drive (312) 332-1368 mercuryskylinecruiseline.com or wackypiratecruise.com Join Buccaneer Bob as the host for this 60-minute river and lakefront voyage. Kids learn how to tie a nautical knot, recite the Wacky Pirate Oath and are issued a temporary tattoo. Hours: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Fridays, July 12-Aug. 16. Admission: $26.61, $12.20 kids 2-10.

Wendella Sightseeing Boats 400 N. Michigan Ave., (312) 337-1446 wendellaboats.com or chicagowatertaxi.com

Mercury, Chicago’s Skyline Cruiseline, see page 49. dock at Gateway Park at Navy Pier.

Or take Shoreline’s Lake Fireworks Tour for a panoramic lake tour followed by up-close viewing of the fireworks. Hours: Wednesday and Saturday evenings, May 24-Aug. 30.

Admission: See website for ticket prices and schedule.

Shoreline Water Taxis (312) 222-9328 shorelinesightseeing.com Enjoy fun connections between some of Chicago’s top attractions on the Chicago River or Lake Michigan. Hours: Multiple departures at 10 a.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Shoreline Commuter Water Taxis run morning and evening May-October. Admission: See website for schedule and fares.

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 infor-

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mation on the history of each pizzeria and its founder. The walking distance is fairly short and the tour time is short enough to keep everyone’s attention. Hours: Season begins May 23. 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Admission: $45, free kids 5 and under if they share pizza with adult.

Spirit of Chicago Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (866) 273-2469 spiritofchicago.com Year-round cruises offer dining, dancing, entertainment and spectacular views on lunch, brunch, dinner, moonlight and specialty cruises. The History Lunch Cruise offers architectural and historical narration.

Hours: Cruises year-round. Lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., brunch noon2:30 p.m., and dinner 6:30-10 p.m.

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 During the 75-minute sail, passengers are encouraged to join the crew and help hoist the sails and pass commands from deck to deck aboard the 148-foot gaff rig schooner. Most days you could find a “pirate” or a 19th Century sailor, or two, telling stories of Great Lakes history, real life piracy, and ghostly happenings. Tickets are sold online or at the Windy Ticket Booth, located at Navy Pier. Hours: Check website. Admission: $30-$45, $25$40 seniors and students, $10-$25 kids 3-12, $1 kids 24 months and under.

U.S. Cellular tour 333 W. 35th St., (312) 674-1000 chicago.whitesox.mlb.com Tours available weekdays and include the home dugout, the press box, the field, the suites and the Stadium Club. Advance reservations required. For younger children who might find the 75-minute tour too long, field visits where they visit the dugout can be scheduled.

Hours: 10:30 a.m. game days;

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. Call or buy tickets online or over the phone. Firework tours every Wednesday and Saturday. Hours: Call or check website for times. Admission: Lake and River tour and Architecture Tour: $30 adults; $27 seniors, $15 kids 11 and under, free kids under 3. Chicago River Experience Tour: $17, $15 seniors, $6 kids 11 and under, free kids under 3.

Wrigley Field Tour Wrigley Field, 1060 W. Addison St. between Clark Street and Sheffield Avenue cubs.com/tours Non-game day tours may include visits to the seating bowl, press box, bleachers, visitor’s clubhouse, Cubs’ clubhouse, Cubs’ dugout, as well as a chance to step on the field.

On game days, guided tours may include visits to the seating bowl, press box, bleachers, indoor batting cage, as well as a chance to step on the field. Game day tours do not visit the clubhouses, but instead visit the batting cage and enter the ballpark before gates open. This is a 75-90 minute guided tour. Tours are outdoor walking tours (about 1 mile) conducted rain or shine.

Hours: Call or check website.

Admission: $25. Buy tickets online.

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Day trips to week-long getaways

travel

In this section 55 Glamping in a tree house 56 A San Francisco treat 60 The Crayola Experience

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Summer 2014 • goingplaces 53

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TRAVEL

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www.caveofthemounds.com 54 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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TRAVEL

Glamping in a

treehouse?

Yes!

E

ver watched “Treehouse Masters” on Animal Planet and been envious? I have, so I was thrilled to discover a family-friendly treehouse resort near the gorgeous Shawnee National Forest.

My clan of four recently stayed at Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins in southeastern Illinois. It was a fabulous “glamping” experience, where we got to enjoy the great outdoors without having to rough it. What parent doesn’t love more fun with less preparation?

Enthusiastic and hospitable owners Marty and Elizabeth Canfarelli, previously from the Joliet area, currently offer two fully equipped treehouses and two log cabins. An antique log cabin and outpost will open soon.

We stayed in the White Oak Treehouse, perched atop a 200-year-old tree, 20 feet up in the beautiful, blue sky.

Thoughtful touches, such as a smiley face swing and cozy eating nooks, enchanted us as we climbed the 21 steps into the treetops. Opening the door, we were surprised by how spacious our 550-square-foot treehouse appeared to be.

The kitchenette has a refrig-

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erator, sink, cooktop, toaster, coffeemaker, microwave/convection oven, and dishes. The modern bathroom features a toilet, stall shower and fluffy, spa-quality linens. A fullsize futon, table, flat-screen TV with movies, high-speed Internet and a phone bring you most of the comforts of home.

Heating and air conditioning make it enjoyable year-round.

Our 2-year-old and 4-year-old enjoyed climbing the ladder to the lofted bedroom, which features a full-size mattress in a lofted nook as well as a queen size bed by an interior tree branch. Outside was a fire pit, a camp-style grill and hammock. Down the path

Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins ■ Karbers

Ridge, Shawnee National Forest, Illinois ■ (618) 264-9091 ■ timberridgeoutpost.com

was a pavilion with tetherball, horseshoes, beanbags, swings and grills.

You can order home-baked dessert delivery or on-site massage. The pond is stocked for fishing and you can tell that Marty teaches 4-H by the gentle way he provided our 4-year-old son his first archery lesson. I now have him to thank for a Chicago husband who wants a bow and arrow.

While there was plenty to explore on-site, we couldn’t miss the other natural wonders.

Garden of the Gods, a magnificent hiking spot just three miles down the hilly, country road, features prehistoric sandstone pillars and scenic bluff

overlooks with the most amazing views in the Midwest. The 45-minute Observation Trail is easy enough for little ones to navigate holding an adult hand.

Neighboring Rim Rock and Pounds Hollow, with a clean, spring-fed beach for summer swimming, also are popular.

While I felt like I might be going out on a limb with the six-hour drive and lack of cellphone service, it was fabulous to branch out to a totally different kind of adventure.

The treehouse swayed and creaked at night, reminding me of sleeping on a houseboat as a kid. It is a vacation we won’t soon forget.

Cortney Fries

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A San

Francisco treat

T

hey could have danced around the pier for hours. It was a characteristically foggy and chilly summer day in San Francisco, but our kids, Julie and Johnny (4 and 7 at the time) didn’t seem to care. There’s just something magical about a big city on the water.

Whether it’s the fresh ocean air, the seals lounging on the rocks off the pier or the incredible topography, San Francisco is truly one of our favorite cities.

We have visited family in the bayside city quite a few times, but we always manage to find a different adventure. We do, however, have a few favorites: clam chowder in a bread bowl, Ghirardelli chocolate (with caramel) and a ride on a trolley car.

Kristy MacKaben

Photo by Kristy MacKaben 56 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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Stay There are plenty of great, family-friendly lodging options.

Staying near Fisherman’s Wharf is ideal because almost everything will be walkable or close to transportation. It’s all about location in San Francisco. Here are a couple options: Argonaut Hotel argonauthotel.com To truly experience San Francisco, stay at the Argonaut, a charming boutique hotel on the San Francisco Bay. Everything is nautical at this hotel, which is housed in a historic warehouse.

Located in the lobby is the Maritime National Park Visitor’s Center and Interactive Museum, as well as the Blue Mermaid Chowder House and Bar.

Courtyard Marriott Fisherman’s Wharf marriott.com This Courtyard Marriott is located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf and just a couple blocks from the nearest cable car stop. One-bedroom suites are available at the hotel.

Eat Boudin at the Wharf boudinbakery.com Yes, it’s touristy. But, in our years of traveling to San Francisco, we have yet to find a better bread bowl or chowder.

It’s just that good. Get to Boudin at the right time and you might be privy to a bread-making demonstration.

Ghirardelli Square ghirardellisq.com You can’t visit San Francisco and skip Ghirardelli Square. Of course there’s the lure of chocolate, but there’s much more to Ghirardelli Square, which dates back to the late 1800s.

Once home to the Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, Ghirardelli Square has morphed into a complex of shops, restaurants, and of course, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Manufactory and Soda Fountain. Walk into the

store and kids and adults will be delighted by the free samples and the countless flavors and variations of chocolate. The assorted chocolates in the trolley container make for a great souvenir.

Off the Grid offthegridsf.com Where else can you find tacos, sushi, chicken wings, Chinese dumplings, burgers and gyros in one place? Off the Grid in San Francisco’s Marina District is pure food heaven. A giant festival of food trucks, Off the Grid is a place to gather, hang out and eat and drink as much as possible. Meander from food truck to food truck and taste anything and everything you want. The servings are relatively small so you can experience a wide variety.

The San Fran Experience Take the trolley sfcablecar.com What says San Francisco more than the cable cars rolling up and down the hills of the city? Your kids will never forget their ride on the San Francisco trolley, which just happens to be a convenient form of transportation as well.

Fisherman’s Wharf fishermanswharf.org I can’t think of a much better way to experience a city than to eat, shop and play downtown on the waterfront.

San Francisco is especially unique. Gazing at Alcatraz, the kids were amazed by stories about the island that once housed prisoners. And they were fascinated by the hundreds of barking seals lying on the rocks.

Lombard Street Driving down crooked Lombard Street is truly an experience. The drive is slow as cars try to maneuver around the sharp curves. Looking out the back car window, Julie and Johnny were transfixed by the steep zig-zag of the street.

Golden Gate Park Considered San Francisco’s backyard, the 1,000-plus-acre Golden Gate Park features playgrounds, trails, lakes, gardens, museums and entertainment venues. Hike, bike, play ball or just explore the massive park in the middle of the city.

Photo by Kristy MacKaben ChicagoParent.com

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Coit Tower Standing 210 feet high on Telegraph Hill, the tower is one of those must-do tourist attractions—kind of like going to the top of the John Hancock in Chicago. It’s just something you have to do. From the Coit Tower, the Golden Gate and Bay bridges are visible.

We took the scenic route by climbing the Filbert Street stairs and passing through the Grace Marchant Garden where we spotted plenty of unusual flowers, birds and butterflies.

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GOING PLACES

Thrills Connect Cedar Point is the perfect summertime place for making memories your family will reasure for years to come!

• Voted the Best Amusement Park in the World for 16 years • Two exciting new family rides: the rocking and rolling Pipe Scream and the soaring Lake Erie Eagles • One of the largest ride collections on Earth, including 17 coasters • More than two dozen rides for thrillseekers-in-training in three children’s areas • Live entertainment includes an ice-skating extravaganza, an extreme sports show and live musical shows

• The nighttime spectacular Luminosity provides a dazzling celebration, with singing, dancing and fireworks • Classic rides to share with your kids, featuring an old-fashioned steam-powered train and three antique carousels • Convenient Cedar Point Resorts accommodations range from a beachfront hotel to waterfront cottages, an indoor waterpark and a value-priced hotel • Special benefits for Resorts guests include exclusive ticket discounts and Early Entry into the park to enjoy popular rides before the general public

Make plans for your family’s getaway to Cedar Point today! Rooms at our convenient accommodations, many within walking distance of the amusement park, are filling up fast.

Cedar Point’s located about 60 miles west of Cleveland on Lake Erie. CedarPoint.com Cedar Fair Entertainment Company® ©2014 Cedar Fair, L.P. © 2014 Peanuts Worldwide LLC, peanuts.com CP14-418

One Cedar Point Drive | Sandusky, OH | 419.627.2106 | cedarpoint.com 58 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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GOING PLACES

is part of your favorite social networks

Find us on Facebook Join the Twitter party!

Follow us @ChicagoParent On Pinterest pinterest.com/chiparent

We are Wisconsin’s Cranberry Country! Nestled in Wisconsin’s driftless region, our area is home to the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center, the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, Mill Bluff State Park, its sister-park Wildcat Mountain State Park, thousands of acres of cranberry marshes and a 15 minute drive from the Elroy-Sparta State Bike Trail.

At the crossroads for west-central Wisconsin, Tomah’s location is where I-90 & I-94 connect making us a convenient location for your next getaway.

To learn more about our community, our attractions and our events visit our website. Call to request a copy of our Area Guide or download from our website!

www.tomahwisconsin.com ChicagoParent.com

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WISCONSIN’S CRANBERRY COUNTRY

800-948-6624 Summer 2014 • goingplaces 59

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TRAVEL The Crayola Experience ■ 30

Color your world in Pennsylvania

Centre Square, Easton, Pa. (about 55 miles from Philadelphia) ■ 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday and some holidays ■ $14.99, $12.99 seniors, free kids under 2 ■ crayolaexperience.com

W

hen you think of crayons, one word likely comes to mind: Crayola.

The colorful company has been inspiring creativity in kids ever since its first crayon box rolled off the assembly line, helped along by om o m its increasingly huge product collection, from markers to modeling clay.

So it doesn’t take a genius to realize there’s a lot of masterpiece potential in one little crayon. That’s where The Crayola Experience comes in, a four-story building located in sleepy Easton, Pa., that’s dedicated to the childhood staples we all know and love.

The Crayola Experience is basically a themed children’s museum—and that theme is creativity. But you don’t have to be raising mini-artistes for your kids to find something to strike their fancy.

Start the day in the Crayon Factory, where a live show illustrates how crayons are made. Then take a good look at everything the building has to offer and pick-and-choose from there.

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Otherwise, you ccould ould ou ould d eeasily assil asil ily spend all day and home nd g go oh ome om with some crabby kids. b k by id dss..

If Water Works, 85k , an 8 ks 55foot water table, e, sounds like something the kids would enjoy, go o early—and plan for a long line. On the rainy and very busy day we visited, we missed sed our opportunity and had to opt for some of the other her attractions.

Everyone will love the opportunities to “create” theirr own unique crayon, mix a marker and sculpt lpt with modeling clay. Among the artistic set, check out Meltdown, Art Alive and Drip Art. For kids ds who like to move, Color Playground

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TRAVEL and Doodle in the Dark are great bets.

If you’ve got little ones, you’ll want to stop by Toddler Town. Our experience showed that big kids have a tendency to invade, so carefully supervise and make sure your tot gets their chance to play.

For lunch, bring a picnic if you can. Easton itself doesn’t have many options and Crayola Café offers pretty standard cafeteria food, save for the multi-colored cupcakes that go right along with the

whole theme (and make for a great treat). Although the building does have an elevator, the multiple staircases make it less than ideal for strollers, so go without if you can. And be aware that they try to make you exit through the huge Crayola Store, which sells some unique souvenirs, but might be a bit much on your wallet.

For a better souvenir, there are great photo ops all over the place—look for the world’s biggest crayon in the cafe or the markersgone-rogue in the outdoor courtyard. They’ll be a great reminder of what happens when you let your creativity go a little wild.

Elizabeth Diffin

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Ignoring your risk of breast cancer is no different.

If a small fire started in your kitchen, would you ignore it? Of course not. In much the same way, it’s critical to find breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Call 1-877 GO KOMEN or visit komen.org to learn more. Because every woman is at risk.

This space provided as a public service. The Running Ribbon is a registered trademark of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. ©2009 Susan G. Komen for the Cure®

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Summer 2014 • goingplaces 61

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GOING PLACES

*Dad is free when accompanied by one full paid adult. Limit one free Dad per full paid adult. Must mention or enter code DFGP14 at time of purchase to receive discount. General admission only and upgrade packages are additional. Not valid with groups, special offers or any other discounts. Valid at the Schaumburg Castle only. Valid at all shows June 9th–15th, 2014 only.

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*Applies to general admission only. Plus tax. Must mention or enter discount code 3426GP at time of purchase. Not valid with groups, special offers or any other discounts. Upgrade packages are additional Some restrictions may apply. Valid only at the Schaumburg Castle. Expires 9/30/2014.

ChicagoParent.com

5/8/14 5:16 PM

Spotlight on our favorite shows

stage

In this section 67 May 68 June 70 July and August

Chicken Little, Chicago Kids Company ChicagoParent.com

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STAGE

Full moon lights up Chicago lakefront

“It’s not just the fire dancers that have fun.

It’s the drummers, it’s the kids, it’s the families with their picnics.”

Liz Breen Campanella Founder and performer for Pyrotechniq

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STAGE

I

f you’re a fire dancer celebrating a birthday with other fire dancers, sometimes the flames on the cake candles just don’t cut it. At least that was true for Liz Breen Campanella and her friends one Chicago evening in 2004. After the party they decided to have some fun doing what they love best—fire dancing—and went down to the lakefront. They quickly drew an enthusiastic crowd that wanted more, and Full Moon Jam was born.

Campanella is the founder and director of Full Moon Jam as well as manager and performer for Pyrotechniq, a worldwide traveling troupe of fire performers.

A jam consists of groups of fire dancers moving to music provided by local percussionists.

They use tools such as poi (a set of chains with weighted ends), staff, hula hoops and fans. The dances are one part artistry and one part athleticism, inspired by South Pacific cultural traditions.

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Before a jam begins, a large area known as the Great Circle is roped off where six to eight fire dancers perform at any given time. Spectators and drummers locate themselves around the outside perimeter of the circle.

Jams are informal. Sometimes only a handful of dancers or drummers shows up; sometimes there are dozens. The public is invited to attend and anyone is welcome to bring drums; however, only certified fire

dancers are allowed in the ring along with their assigned safety person.

Jams take place on the night of the full moon falling between Sunday and Thursday. If a full moon occurs on a Friday or Saturday, the celebration is scheduled for a Thursday or Sunday. Most of the jams take place at the lakefront park between Foster and Lawrence avenues.

They start after sundown and end at 10:15 p.m., allowing 45 minutes for clean up before the park closes.

All park rules are strictly observed, including the ban on alcohol and substance use. At the end of the jam spectators and performers alike help clean up—this is a “leave no trace” event.

Campanella loves her community of fire dancers (in Chicago alone there are 400-500 fire dancers) and the fun they have doing Full Moon Jam. Campanella says everyone has a good time.

The jams are family-friendly and people come out with blankets, lawn chairs and picnics. Even dogs are welcome as long as they remain on leashes.

“It’s not just the fire dancers that have fun. It’s the drummers, it’s the kids, it’s the families with their picnics,” says Campanella.

The event is free. For a complete schedule and more information, visit fullmoonjam. org.

Kathy Woods

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STAGE

Where Confidence Is Born Dedicated to empowering Singers, Models, Actors and Dancers ages 4 and up by preparing and launching each individual successfully into the Entertainment Industry.

Call Today 312-600-5055 www.smashtalent.com

Are you ready to break through?

braNd New Show!

May 23 –Sept 1 | pepsi Skyline Stage, Navy pier ®

Tickets start at just $15.50 Kids $19.50 Adults*

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Call 800.745.3000 or Visit ticketmaster.com/shanghai Groups 10+ call 773.327.3778

* facility fee applies

Back to School Education Guide Coming in August

For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit chicagoparent.com 66 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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STAGE

Photo by Darbe Rotach Blue Man Group, see page 69.

MAY

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

Meals cost extra.

The Teddy Bears’ Picnic Emerald City’s Little Theatre 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago (773) 529-2690 ext. 810 emeraldcitytheatre.com Runs through Aug. 10 This is Emerald City Theatre’s production for ages 0-4. The performance builds a simple story with the audience. $14 ages 1 and up, $7 children under 1.

Sounds of Blackness eta Creative Arts Foundation 7558 S. South Chicago Ave., Chicago (773) 752-3955 etacreativearts.org Runs through May 24 This Showfolk Family Matinee is

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performed on Saturdays at 2 p.m.

Call for cost.

The White Snake Goodman Theatre 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago (312) 443-3800 goodmantheatre.org Runs through June 8 The White Snake chronicles the tale of a gentle serpent spirit who 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.

Later Stages Chicago Children’s Theatre The Ruth Page Center for Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago (872) 222-9555 chicagochildrenstheatre.org May 2-30 Every Friday night in May, CCT will present a show for big kids (ages 8 and up) performed by smaller Chicago companies immediately following the 5:30 p.m. performance of The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

Performances include SuperMan 2050 and Lula del Rey. $15.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Eric Carle Favorites Chicago Children’s Theatre The Ruth Page Center for Arts 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago (872) 222-9555 chicagochildrenstheatre.org Runs through June 1 Featuring innovative puppetry, music and black light visual effects, the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia production brings to life three of Eric Carle’s all-time family favorites—The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Little Cloud and The Mixed-Up Chameleon. For tickets and information, call the Chicago Children’s Theatre box office, (872) 222-9555 or visit chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

The show is for ages 3 and up, and runs 50 minutes with no intermission. Tickets start at $25.

Chicken Little

Little Red Riding Hood Chicago Kids Company Stahl Family Theater 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Runs through Aug. 15 Recommended for kids 2-12. Check website for schedule and cost.

Alice in Wonderland Li’l Buds Theatre Company Unity Lutheran Church 1212 W. Balmoral, Chicago (773) 334-4543 lilbudstheatre.org Runs through May 25 An original adaptation of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. Performances run 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Saturdays; 5:30 p.m. Sundays. $18, $13 kids.

Chicago Kids Company Beverly Arts Center 111th and Western, Chicago (773) 205-9600 chicagokidscompany.com Runs through Aug. 15

The Sound of Music

Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $12.

Performances include 13 matinees at the Civic Opera House. Tickets

Lyric Opera of Chicago 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago (312) 827-5912 lyricopera.org Runs through May 25

Summer 2014 • goingplaces 67

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STAGE start at $29, and are available at lyricopera.org/soundofmusic or at (312) 827-5600.

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

Spring Youth Circus: The Last Voyage of Pirate Blackheart The Actors Gymnasium Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St., Evanston (847) 328-2795 actorsgymnasium.com May 17-25

k of theate erformance r education, ical theatr at Provision e & up who ar based camp e….whether e interested it' or the 100t s for the h!

ges 7-9) 5-7)

es 9-11) Sequel” es 7-9) ovie” 1 (Ages 11-14) s JR.” es 5-7) d-Nosed Reindeer” Ages 7-9)

Ages 9-11) JR."

hedule

Join the fearsome pirate Captain Blackheart in pursuit of treasure yet.

Students of the Actors Gymnasium will amaze you with aerial acrobatics and nautical know-how. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m.

Sundays. Check website for cost.

Cirque Shanghai Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago (312) 595-PIER (7437) navypier.com May 21-Sept. 1 Cirque Shanghai returns to Chicago’s Navy Pier with a new show, “Cirque Shanghai: Warriors.” Performances are at the Pepsi Skyline Stage, a 1,500-seat, canopied, open-air theater on Navy Pier. Call for cost.

Chicago Children’s Choir Paint the Town Red ovision T MillenniumPr Park heater 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago (312) 742-1168 millenniumpark.org May 22

Summer

Camps:

Paint the Town Red unites more than 3,500 singers and special guest artists Mucca Pazza and Allison Semmes, the female lead in the national tour of Motown the Musical. Mucca Pazza, a 30-piece “circus punk marching band” that combines marching band traditions with street theater and rock influences, performs with Voice of Chicago, Chicago Children’s Choir’s premier ensemble. 11 a.m. Free.

Much Ado About Nothing, see page 70.

Luna de Cuernos

JUNE

Fifth House Ensemble Stowe Elementary School Auditorium 3444 W. Wabansai Ave., Chicago fifth-house.com May 23

Go, Improv, GO!

Free performance of a classic Puerto Rican folk tale, modernized with help from the local community. 6 p.m. Free.

Are you searching for a theater program for your aspiring performer?

Look no further than the Provision Theater Youth Program!

For more informatio n--includi weekly th ng Where Kids Learn, Grow & Shine! emes and a detailed camp desc ription, vi sit our website lis 2014 Summer Camps ted below !

Ages 5-7: July 7-11 & August 4-8 Ages 7-9: June 23-27 & July 21-25

& August 11-15 Ages 9-11: July 14-18 & August 18-22 Ages 11-14: July 28-August 1 All camps run M-F from 9am-3pm Tuition: $250 per week

UP Comedy Club 230 W. North Ave., 3rd Floor, Chicago (312) 662-4562 upcomedyclub.com June-July Show is based off audience suggestions. Go, Improv, GO! caters

Planning a Party?

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

Sign up today! To register go to: www.provisiontheater.org/education.htm Questions? Contact Priscilla Hummel, Education Director Email: phummel@provisiontheater.org Phone: 312-455-0066

All camps run M-F 9am-3pm Tuition: $250 per week

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STAGE to an audience of all ages. 11 a.m. matinees are held in June and July.

Check website for specific dates. $12.

of the Kraft Great Kids series. 4 p.m. $15, $5 lawn.

Sleeping Beauty Ballet

Various locations, Chicago makemusicchicago.com June 21

State Street Dance 9 N. Fourth St., Suite E, Geneva (630) 232-0444 statestreetdancestudio.com June 1 Performance is 1 p.m. at the Batavia Fine Arts Center. $20, $15 kids.

Luna de Cuernos at Art Institute Fifth House Ensemble Art Institute of Chicago Ryan Education Center 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago fifth-house.com June 7 Free performance of a classic Puerto Rican folk tale 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Free.

Laurie Berkner

Make Music Chicago

Live, one-day, free music festival in tandem with a growing global phenomenon called Fête de la Musique.

Throughout the day, people of all ages and from all backgrounds gather in Chicago’s public spaces, including Daley Plaza, Millennium Park, John Hancock Center, Lincoln Park Zoo, to perform music of all genres. Grand finale concert is 6-9 p.m. at St. James Cathedral Commons. 7 a.m.-midnight. Free.

Kids’ Concert: Little Miss Ann Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org June 21

835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago (877) 247-5223 americangirl.com June 22

and stories with Jane Stetson. Feel free to bring a blankie and dress in jammies. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free.

Families (and dolls) can enjoy a 4 p.m. afternoon tea at American Girl Place before the 7 p.m. performance of Blue Man Group. $75$100.

Tempel Lipizzans Matinee Performance

Stories & Songs with Shana Harvey The Lurie Garden in Millennium Park Columbus Drive and Monroe Street Chicago (312) 228-1004 luriegarden.org June 22, July 20 and Aug. 10 Singer/songwriter Shana Harvey lead skits in an interactive singalong. Snacks, blankets and musicmakers welcome. Kids must be accompanied by an adult and preregistration is required. Recommended for kids 6 and under with adult. 11 a.m.-noon. Free.

Pajama Time Concert

Ravinia Festival 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park (847) 266-5100 ravinia.org June 14

Lawn seating; bring a blanket or chairs. Picnics welcome. 2 p.m.

Free; $5 parking.

Blue Man Group

Downtown Evanston James Park Mulford Street evmark.org June 25

A special solo performance as part

American Girl Place

Includes music from Joel Frankel

Tempel Farms 17000 Wadsworth Road, Wadsworth (847) 623-7272 tempelfarms.com June 25-Sept. 7 Enjoy a performance of the Tempel Lipizzans set to classical music. After the performance, take a self-guided tour through the stallion stable and visit the foals in the pasture. 1-3 p.m. June 25 and 29; July 6, 9, 13, 23 and 27; Aug. 3, 6, 10, 20 and 24; Sept. 3 and 7. $25, $15 kids 4-14.

Free Kids Concert: Macaroni Soup!

Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton (630) 668-5161 cantigny.org June 28 Kids, parents and grandparents alike will love singing and dancing.

Lawn seating; chairs and blankets welcome. 2 p.m. Free; $5 parking.

SHE SNORES MOREMORE SHE SNORES THAN THAN I DO, BUT I DO,I STILL BUT I STILL LOVE MY LOVEHUMAN. MY HUMAN. — BANDIT — BANDIT adopted 11-26-09 adopted 11-26-09

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STAGE

Cirque Shanghai, see page 68.

Concert in the Park

Seussical

Pottawatomie Park 8 North Ave., St. Charles (630) 513-6200 stcparks.org June 29

Chicago Shakespeare Theater 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago (312) 595-5600 chicagoshakes.com July 5-Aug. 17

The Fox Valley Academy and Philharmonic will perform. For information, call (630) 476-9072, or online at fvacademy.org. 4:30 p.m. Free.

The musical based on the stories

by Theodor Seuss Geisel and narrated by The Cat in the Hat. Performances run at the Courtyard Theater on Navy Pier. $28, $18 kids.

JULY

Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks Chicago Shakespeare Theater 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago (312) 595-5600 chicagoshakes.com Various locations in July-August Chicago Shakespeare Theater brings Shakespeare, free for all, to community parks across Chicago in July and August. Visitors will enjoy a 75-minute, daylight production of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” For more information and performance locations, visit chicagoshakes.com/parks.

Free.

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Charlotte’s Web Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago (800) 775-2000 broadwayinchicago.com July 9-Aug. 17 Emerald City presents this classic story. Call for cost.

Oliver!

Overshadowed Theatrical Productions 210 S. Walnut St., Itasca (630) 250-7518 overshadowedproductions.com July 11-Aug. 2 Brings to life the story of the young runaway orphan and a host of

memorable characters. $14, $12 kids.

Much Ado About Nothing Midsommer Flight Chicago Park District parks midsommerflight.com July 19-Aug. 24 Performances will be 6 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays at Schreiber Park, 1552 W. Schreiber Ave., from July 19-27; Gross Park, 2708 W. Lawrence Ave., from Aug. 2-10; and Touhy Park, 7438 N. Paulina St., from Aug. 16-24. Recommended for all ages. Free.

JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance Chicago Human Rhythm Project 410 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 464 Chicago (773) 281-1825 chicagotap.org July 30-31 and Aug. 2 The oldest and most comprehensive festival of American tap and percussive arts in the world. Location to be determined. Performances are

7:30 p.m. Recommended for families with kids 6 and older. $25-$32.

AUGUST

Chicago Dancing Festival Various locations, Chicago chicagodancingfestival.com Aug. 20-23 Chicago Dancing Festival returns for a four day-long celebration of the finest dancers and choreographers. Times and locations vary. No tickets are required for the outdoor Grand Finale at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Visit website for schedule. Free. Indoor performances require reservations.

Chicago Jazz Festival (312) 744-3315 chicagojazzfestival.us Aug. 28-31 The Labor Day Weekend tradition showcases Chicago’s vast jazz talent along with national and international artists in the Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park.

Visit website for schedule.Free.

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GOING PLACES

Space Available in Early Childhood & Toddler

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

Parent/Child · Toddler · Early Childhood 3-6 · Elementary · Middle School

Discover the simple power of learning by doing

Does your child. . .

• Thrive on complexity?

• Seek deeper understanding?

• Make connections?

Understand how the learning process at Chiaravalle Montessori is designed to connect how and what children learn.

425 Dempster, Evanston, IL 847.864.2190 www.chiaravalle.org

Then, learn more about our . . .

• Innovative curriculum for active learning • Committed faculty who challenge their students • Nurturing culture and small classes

Summer Fun

Visit Quest Academy Call or email today for your viewbook and curriculum guide.

For admission information and updates

Apply now for 2014-15 Call or e-mail Leslie Kovich, Director of Admission 847.202.8035, ext. 438 leslie.kovich@questacademy.org

JUNE 2013 | FREE

ChiCago Parent’s summer aCtivities guide June and July

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067

(Between Plum Grove Road & Benton Street on Northwest Highway)

Sweet spots for summer Giuliana Rancic dishes on dads

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

questacademy.org CP_June_Cover.indd 7

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G O I NDiscover G PLACES

Oak Park, river FOrest & FOrest Park

YOU want a specialist you can trust with your children’s dental needs.

THEY want a place they can be a kid and actually have fun.

Jerry Udelson, DDS, PC & Associates

Why compromise?

You can have it ALL at Children’s Dentistry!

1125 S. Harlem Ave., Forest Park (708) 386-5437 • (708) FUN-KIDS www.kidsdentistforestpark.com Look for us at the Riverside Independence Day Parade and other area events.

Call today to schedule your summer appointment!

Downtown Oak Park is excited to announce a host of events throughout the summer and fall: Thursday Night Out May 22 – August 28, 5–9pm Start your weekends early at Thursday Night Out, beginning in May. Purchase a dine-around booklet at the kiosk on Lake & Marion for $12 and enjoy dining al fresco, free outdoor entertainment and live music under the stars!

UnCork Illinois May 31, 1–9pm Raise a glass of Illinois wine and sample locally crafted gourmet goodies. Enjoy live jazz while strolling, shopping and dining in charming Downtown Oak Park.

Shop Outdoor Sale – Downtown Oak Park July 17–19 Enjoy fun activities and family entertainment while you shop for the best deals of the season. Tables and racks will be on the sidewalks for easy outdoor shopping.

Art dans la Rue August 5, 12–9pm Immerse yourself in French culture for a day full of art, food, wine, music, demonstrations, and more in Downtown Oak Park! Lake Theatre’s First Tuesday Film Club will present Umbrellas of Cherbourg with showings at 12:00 and 7:00 p.m.

Oaktoberfest Friday September 19, 4–10pm Saturday September 20, 12–10pm Celebrate the coming of fall at Downtown Oak Park’s 23rd annual

Special Advertising Section

music festival. This free two-day event will offer seasonal food, microbrews, wine and live music. Kids can enjoy zucchini races and a root beer garden Saturday on Marion Street.

Green Halloween October 18, 11am–3pm Have a boo-rific time at this EEKo-friendly, healthy, green event! Stop in participating local businesses on the Green Pumpkin Trail to participate in free kids’ activities including a pumpkin patch and kids’ costume swap, and collect healthy treats.

For more information, call 708 3834145 or visit www.downtownoakpark. net For Architecture & design fun explore the Youth Architecture Workshop in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Oak Park Studio; multiple sessions in June. Experience what it takes to be an architect. Work in Wright’s own drafting room. For students entering 7th - 12th grade. Space is limited.

Call 708 725 3828 to reserve a seat.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, 951 Chicago Ave. flwright.org.

Celebrating over 50 years of Montessori excellence, Alcuin Montessori is not only one of the oldest Montessori schools in the United States, but one of the jewels when it comes to educational opportunities in Oak Park. Take advantage of an enjoyable summer program that provides the rewards of a Montessori approach with a big helping of summer fun. Weekly themes: Jun. 16-Aug.8 Call 708 366 1882 to learn more.

Downtown Oak Park

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Special Advertising Section

GOIN G PLACES Discover Oak Park, river FOrest & FOrest Park

Intercultural Montessori Language School is a dual-language immersion school that nurtures learning in an environment that celebrates cultural differences and holds true to the philosophies of Maria Montessori. As the world changes, so do our local and global environments. The future will bring more diversity in the people with whom our children will live, work, and develop families and friends.

This global village will favor citizens who are comfortable operating in culturally and economically diverse environments and who can speak multiple languages. Such individuals are more likely to help create cohesive communities and heal those that are divided. Intercultural Montessori has two campuses, one at 114 S. Racine in Chicago and the other at 301 South Ridgeland Ave, here in Oak Park. (708) 848-6626 www. interculturalmontessori.org And, speaking of language and more, check out The Language and Music School at 150 N. Oak Park Avenue in Oak Park. Music Lessons, All instruments, Recitals & more!

Spanish Preschool Immersion 1-5 days/week; Spanish Parent -Tot, 4

month old babies to 4 year olds; Foreign Languages, Private lessons for children or adults. 10 languages available!

Also on the education and recreation front, the River Forest Community Center offers programs throughout the school year and summer that might be beneficial for your family, including parent and tot programs, full and half day preschool and before and after school programs for kindergarten - 7h grade children. RFCC offers summer camp programs as well as various dance, sports, theatre and fitness classes for children, as well as several for adults. And check out the birthday party offerings! Call (708 771-6159 for details. www.rfcc.info Have you noticed the big red smile sign on Children’s Dentistry at 112 S. Harlem in Forest Park? The goal of Dr. Udelson and his staff is to provide the finest comprehensive dental care for the children in their practice so they leave with a healthy smile and positive attitude toward dental care as they approach adulthood. Look for them at the Riverside Independence Day Parade and other area events.

River Forest Community Center 8020 W. Madison, River Forest

Great Birthday Celebrations Without the Work!

Private Birthday Parties in our Indoor Playland or Gymnasium!

Three affordable packages to choose from, including a Deluxe Pizza Party Stop in and see why Chicagoland Parents give our Birthday Parties “Two Thumbs Up” Call Our Party Coordinator for more information

(708) 771-6159

Mention our ad and receive 10% off your party package

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

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

ENROLL NOW FOR SUMMER/FALL 2014!

E-mail: admissions@interculturalmontessori.org Visit: www.interculturalmontessori.org Elementary After School Language programs in Spanish and Mandarin – Oak Park campus only

The Language and

Music School

CALL US TO SCHEDULE A PLACEMENT VISIT FOR OUR SPANISH SUMMER CAMP!!!

In Central Oak Park Since 1994 Trial Classes Available!

Music Lessons

All instruments. Recitals & more!

Spanish Preschool Immersion 1-5 days/week

Spanish Parent-Tot

4 month old babies to 4 year olds

Foreign Languages

Private lessons for children or adults.

10 languages available!

150 N. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park LMSCHOOL.com • 708-524-LALA (5252) ChicagoParent.com

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G O I NDiscover G PLACES

Oak Park, river FOrest & FOrest Park

Special Advertising Section

River Forest Community Center Early Childhood Learning Center Half-Day & Full-Day: Preschool & Pre-K  Before and After School Care  Summer Camps  Parent and Tot Programs Full-Day Infant—Preschool Programs at our OPRF HS location 8020 Madison Street River Forest , IL 60305 (708) 771-6159 www.rfcc.info Bring in this ad to receive $10.00 off your initial registration fee! OPRF GP14

Sign up online for

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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Make the most of your day

play

In this section 79 Amusement parks, entertainment centers, creative studios 82 Eat ’n’ Play, Family sports 84 Indoor play centers 88 Outdoor water parks

Sod Room in Chicago.

Photo by Elizabeth Diffin ChicagoParent.com

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PLAY

*Dad is free when accompanied by one full paid adult. Limit one free Dad per full paid adult. Must mention or enter code DFGP14 at time of purchase to receive discount. General admission only and upgrade packages are additional. Not valid with groups, special offers or any other discounts. Valid at the Schaumburg Castle only. Valid at all shows June 9th–15th, 2014 only.

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*Applies to general admission only. Plus tax. Must mention or enter discount code 3426GP at time of purchase. Not valid with groups, special offers or any other discounts. Upgrade packages are additional Some restrictions may apply. Valid only at the Schaumburg Castle. Expires 9/30/2014.

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PLAY

I

n the Chicagoland area, there’s no shortage of fun indoor play places to spend a rainy morning or scorching afternoon. But we’re always on the lookout for some new and different spots, so we were excited to discover three play places that have a bigger purpose than simply killing a few hours. caption, see page xx.

Love the Earth The conscious parenting movement reaches new heights at this bright, airy spot. The emphasis at Sod Room (1454 S. Michigan Ave., 2nd Floor, Chicago; sodroom.com) is on ecofriendly design, from the train table repurposed from a shipping crate to the low-VOC paint and recycled cork flooring. All the toys, from the kitchen set to the ride-on bikes, are from Plan Toys, and the treehouse—combined with the plentiful natural light—brings the outdoors in. I loved the creative touches, like the custom-made pegboard that uses corks from partner Francesca’s on Taylor, the locally made capes and dress-up, and the strikingly pretty fabric strips hanging from the ceiling (and the complimentary coffee!).

The mission of being “very conscious” extends to Sod Room’s other offerings, such as cloth diapering classes, infant massage and a lactation consultant (there’s also a cozy nursing chair strategically situated in the play area). Birthday parties

Sod Room use eco-friendly party ware, and even the music played in the background comes from local artists. It all fits together to create a warm atmosphere for kids and their parents. Owner Cynthia Valenciana says that’s the greatest compliment she can receive: “I felt like I was at home.”

A taste of Africa The northwest suburbs probably aren’t where you’d expect to find grass-roofed huts, freshly woven kente cloth or noisy gourd shakers. But these unique offerings come to life at The C.A.K.E. Village (611 E. Main

St., East Dundee; thecakevillage.com), which was started for the purpose of introducing kids to African culture (C.A.K.E. stands for Culture of Africa for Kids Everywhere). The play room is set up like an African village, complete with a kitchen, doll hair-braiding and a stage area called the King’s Court. My CONTINUED ON PAGE 78

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PLAY PLAY WITH A PURPOSE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 77

favorite was the authentic dressup clothes that help kids really look the part.

Owner Lande Sanusi hails from Nigeria, so the focus for now is on West Africa, although the large number of children in the area who have been adopted from Ethiopia is leading her to move East. The Village offers everything from language classes (Yoruba and Igbo) to an art studio with African-inspired painting and pottery. Kids will enjoy the dance/music room, full of those noisy instruments they can’t resist.

It’s all part of an effort to give kids a positive relationship with the continent of Africa—and maybe someday they can visit in person.

Hope through fun Most play places are out to make a buck or two, but that’s not the case at Kidstreet (2701 Maple Ave., Lisle; groundsforhopecafe.org/kids-at-grounds).

Admission used to be free, but to avoid overcrowding it’s been raised to $5 a family. That’s because the play place is a ministry of Trinity Lutheran Church as a way to welcome the community—not a money-making venture.

The three-story climbing playhouse is perfect for kids and their coffee-loving parents (The Grounds for Hope Café shares

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C.A.K.E. Village the space and serves handcrafted drinks, savory treats and meals). But behind the school bus-decorated doors is the real surprise: three themed rooms with a tunnel, a treehouse—and even a Mini-Cooper. There’s also a spot just for the little ones, with toys situated under a rainbow. Kidstreet also offers occasional story times, as well as music and art programs.

All proceeds from Kidstreet and Grounds for Hope go to Feed My Starving Children, which gives food to people around the world, and Living Water International, which builds wells in developing countries. It feeds into the center’s mission: To be a loving part of the community and bring hope through food and fun.

Elizabeth Diffin

Kidstreet ChicagoParent.com

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PLAY 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, bowling, paint ball and indoor family thrill rides. Also featuring bumper boats, mini-golf, hydro racers, go-karts and batting cages outdoors. Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Sunday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Admission: Pay per attraction.

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, bowling and indoor family thrill rides. Also features bumper boats, mini-golf, hydro racers and go-karts. Hours: Noon-10 p.m.

Sunday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. MondayThursday; 10 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. Admission: Pay per attraction.

Party Time Palace Family Entertainment Center

Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park, see page 89.

AMUSEMENT PARKS

Donley’s Wild West Town 8512 S. Union Road, Union (815) 923-9000 wildwesttown.com Pan for gold, ride railroad handcars, rope cows and take a pony ride. Hours: Open daily May 17-Labor Day. Check website for hours. Admission: $16, free kids 2 and under. See website for coupon.

Fun Time Square 11901 S. Cicero Ave., Alsip (708) 388-3500 funtimesquare.com Go-karts, bumper boats, batting cages, mini golf, paintball and space train. Hours: Call for hours.

Admission: Free; cost by activity.

Safari Land Indoor Amusement Park 701 W. North Ave., Villa Park (630) 530-4649 safarilandfun.com Features 62,000 square feet of indoor rides and amusements, including The Tiger Terror, the largest indoor roller coaster in Illinois. Hours: Noon-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11

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a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Pay per rides and activity.

Santa’s Village Azoosment Park 601 Dundee Ave. Just south of Higgins Road, East Dundee (847) 426-6751 santasvillagedundee.com Offers kiddie and family thrill rides, a barn and petting zoo, domestic and exotic animals and live shows.

Hours: Check website. Admission: $19.75, $16.75 seniors, $14.75 Late Day Saver, free kids 2 and under.

Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor Grand Avenue off I-94, Gurnee (847) 249-INFO (4636) sixflags.com New for 2014, Goliath will be the fastest wooden roller coaster in the world. Hurricane Harbor water park is free for Season Pass holders. Riptide Bay features five new slides. Hours: Open May-October.

Hurricane Harbor open Memorial Day-Labor Day. Check website for hours. Admission: $64.99, $44.99 children under 48”; $71.99 4-pack Season Pass; free kids 2 and under.

ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS

Amazing Chicago Navy Pier 600 E. Grand Ave. (between Riva Chicago Restaurant and the Shakespeare Theater) Chicago (312) 595-5375 amazingchicago.com Part funhouse, part maze. Try Time Freak, a race against time or check out the new Atomic Rush. Hours: Opens every day at 10 a.m.; check website for closing times. Admission: $9.99 per person; $2 Time Freak and Atomic Rush; free kids 4 and under.

Funway Ultimate Entertainment Center 1335 S. River St., Batavia (630) 879-8717 funway.com Features a roller rink, spin zone bumper cars, Battle Opz laser tag, and a 20-lane bowling center.

Outside, find mini-Indy go karts, Bandits for 16 and up (you must present a valid driver’s license to operate them), bumper boats, minigolf and water wars. Hours: Check website. Admission: Pricing varies by attraction.

723 W. Golf Road, Des Plaines (847) 437-3100 partytimepalace.com Features laser tag, inflatables, mechanical bull riding, interactive games, miniature golf and train rides. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sunday. Admission: Pay per attraction.

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

Check the website. Admission: Ice skating: $6, $5 kids 12 and under.

Skate rental $5, helmet rental $5, golf $6, laser tag $6.

CREATIVE STUDIOS

Beauty and Brawn Art Gallery and Think Space 3501 W. Fullerton, Chicago (773) 772-9808 beautyandbrawngallery.com A multi-media gallery and arts edu-

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PLAY cation facility. Hours: Vary. Admission: Class fees vary.

ing clay, painting, drawing, metalsmithing, printmaking, sewing, movie making, cartooning and digital arts and photography. 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.

Beverly Arts Center 2407 W. 111th St., Chicago (773) 445-3838 beverlyartcenter.org Fine arts education in art, ceramics, music, theater and dance for ages 2 through adult. Chicago Kids Company shows run on select weekday mornings. 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

Little Bits Workshop

Topgolf, see page 84.

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.

Color Me Mine

4845 Oakton St., Skokie (847) 674-3774 bughouseartstudio.com All artwork is made from scratch, starting with a fresh slab of clay.

Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday. Admission: Varies.

700 N. Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills (847) 816-0997 vernonhills.colormemine.com Paint-Your-Own-Pottery and Glass Fusing studio. Hours: Check website. Admission: $9, $7 kids, plus cost of piece ($6 and up).

Chicago Glass Collective

Color Wheel Studio

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

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

Community-based art studio.

Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Tuesday,

Offers formal art classes and weekly open studio time for kids

2-12. Hours: Visit website. Admission: Open Studio: $25 per hour; $150 membership pass good for 10 hours. Classes: start at $115 for four-week session, $220 for eightweek session.

Constructive Chaos 349 Ashland Ave., River Forest (708) 613-0444 constructive-chaos.com Visual arts and culinary center for ages 5-18. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Check website.

Lillstreet Art Center 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago (773) 769-4226 lillstreet.com Classes and camps for kids featur-

411 Park Ave., River Forest (630) 309-1606 thelittlebitsworkshop.com Teaches the art of upcycling through sewing, knitting, crochet, jewelry-making, bookbinding, collage and building. Hours: Visit website. Admission: $15-$45.

Magical Minds Studio 343 Harrison St., Oak Park (708) 948-7934 magicalmindsstudio.com An art studio for kids. 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.

BASEBALL CAMPS LEARN FROM THE CHAMPS

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

SIGN UP NOW! CALL 847.461.3695 ext. 2207

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TICKETS STARTING AT $7 ChicagoParent.com

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PLAY

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

n Pick Your Orwies!

Strawber

th.

10 rough July June 20 th x. ro pp a son pm Picking sea ours 8:30am - 6:00 H

• A great way to spend a quality family day!

• Attractions for kids & adults in our entertainment area $6 each (weather permitting) • Pre-picked berries and other produce available • Lunch and Bakery items available for purchase Check Facebook, Twitter or our Website www.stadefarm.com for crop conditions, availability, and picking schedule.

1 QUART FREE U-PICK STRAWBERRIES WITH COUPON

3709 West Miller Rd. McHenry, IL 60051 815-675-6396

FREE berries must be picked by customer.

Must present coupon upon arrival.

Guided Trail Rides for Children & Adults!

• Ponies for Parties Your Place or Ours • Horse & Pony Camp • Pony Rides • Petting Zoo

y Sarah’s Pones Rid & Trail Rides

• Carriage Rides

Call Sarah

• Lessons • Fantastic Party Room

630-802-1316

www.SarahsPonyRides.com

SKOKIE SPORTS PARK Adventure Golf, Batting Cages & Party Room

Golf Range, PGA Pro Group & Private Lessons

3459 Oakton Street • Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 3100 • SkokieParks.org ChicagoParent.com

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PLAY Terra Incognito

ture $6 admission ($4 crawlers) and $2 pizza slices. 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.

246 Chicago Ave., Oak Park (708) 383-6228 terraincognitostudios.com Offers classes in pottery, silver jewelry, basket making, mosaics and hand building with clay. Hours: Gallery: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. TuesdaySaturday; Classes as scheduled.

Admission: Free, prices vary for classes.

Pickle’s Playroom 2315 W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago (773) 293-7747 picklesplayroom.com

Offers classes recycling, upcycling and re-purposing. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; call ahead for an appointment. Admission: Check website.

This play center lets kids burn off 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 age 6 months through 6 years and has a crawlersonly space. Kids receive free admission to the play space with each haircut. Hours: Check website.

Admission: $12, $9 siblings (crawlers and up); free adults.

The Wishcraft Workshop

TreeHouse

2312 W. Roscoe St., Chicago (773) 348-9474 wishcraftworkshop.com

985 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich (847) 438-8887 thechicagotreehouse.com

Offers camps and classes for kids in grades K-3 and 3-8. Technique and skills are taught with a nojudgment philosophy. The planetfriendly and allergy-conscious workshop is a licensed children’s activities facility. Hours: Varies; check website. Admission: Check website.

Indoor play cafe with three-level soft indoor treehouse play structure. Hours: Visit website. Admission: $10.50 kids; free adults.

The Art Station Studio 8106 Oakton St., Niles (847) 274-8478 theartstationstudio.com

EAT ‘N’ PLAY

Ball Factory Indoor Play & Cafe 864 S. Route 59, Naperville (630) 445-8365 ballfactoryfun.com A stimulating environment for kids 13 and under. Offers a four-level play structure, 30-foot-long triple slide and an enclosed Parent & Tot Lounge. Hours: Check website. 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 playtown with a pirate clubhouse, castle, wooden play structure and dress-up clothes.

Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $8.50 kids, $5 crawlers.

Growth Spurts 404 Linden Ave., Wilmette

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FAMILY SPORTS

Novelty Golf and Games

Magic Waters Waterpark, see page 90.

(847) 850-9059 agrowthspurt.com Indoor play space offering block building, play dough, music and art. 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) 857-3355 groundsforhopecafe.org Features a clean, bright play atmosphere. It includes a family-friendly kids’ play area for preschoolers called KidStreet. Hours: Play center: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m.-noon Sunday. Cafe: 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-noon Sunday. Admission: $5 per family.

Kookaburra Play Cafe 2267 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago (773) 281 5400 kookaburraplaycafe.com Kids can play, create, explore, listen to stories and have a play date. All ages welcome. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday. Admission: $12, $8 siblings.

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

3650 W. Devon Ave., Lincolnwood (847) 679-9434 noveltygolf.com Two 18-hole miniature golf courses, five batting cages and a video game room. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Check website.

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

Includes a custom-built village with a grocery store, firehouse, playhouse, school and service station.

Other play areas include spaces for puzzles, books and games, a toddler area and a soft touch area for crawlers to explore. Visit the website for event and class information.

Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $12 daily pass, $10 siblings.

Offers swim and snorkeling lessons in the indoor, heated pool, SASY program for 5-7 year olds, certification programs for kids 10 and older, and an ongoing scuba program called PADI Seal for kids 8 and up.

Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. MondayFriday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.

Admission: Varies by activity.

Little Monkey Bizness

Skokie Sports Park

229 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton (630) 384-2300 littlemonkeybizness.com

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

Kids, infant-7, play in the 3,500-square-foot play area. There is art and crafts, open play times, walled off infant/crawler area and supervised play area. Family nights are after 5 p.m. on Friday and fea-

Kids can practice their putting skills on two mini golf courses or head to the driving range. Batting cages are also available. Hours: Check website. Admission: Fees vary by activity.

ChicagoParent.com

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PLAY

ChicagoParent.com

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PLAY in every golf ball that track your shots’ accuracy and distance. Also offers an 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.

Vertical Endeavors 28141 Diehl Road, Warrenville (630) 836-0122 verticalendeavors.com/warrenville There is a wall designed specifically for families and children. 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

Six Flags Great America, see page 79.

Tinley Junction 16801 S. 80th Ave., Tinley Park (708) 614-1854 tinleyparkdistrict.org Offers professional batting cages and a miniature golf course. Hours: May 2-June 1: 4-9 p.m. MondayThursday; 4-10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. June 2-Aug. 10: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 10

a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Aug. 11-Sept. 7: 4-8 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; noon-6 p.m.

Sunday. Admission: $4.50, $4 kids 12 and under and seniors.

Topgolf 699 W. Thorndale Ave., Wood Dale (630) 595-4653 topgolf.com Features computerized microchips

Airtastic Play Land 850 S. Frontenac St., Aurora (630) 851-7525 airtastic.com Features 10 gigantic inflatable play structures. 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.

C & A Robot Factory Inc. 326 Peterson Road, Libertyville (847) 996-0123 carobotfactory.com A place for Lego enthusiasts, ages 1-14, to use their imaginations.

Hours: Check website. Admission: $5 kids; free 1 and under.

Exploritorium 4701 Oakton St., Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 2700 skokieparks.org Features a water play area, Lite Brite wall, climbing wall and twoand-a-half story tubes and tunnels climbing structure. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday- Wednesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; closed Thursday and Sunday.

Admission: Free to $5 depending on age and residency.

Gather 602 Davis St., Evanston (847) 859-2312 meetatgather.com Drop-in Monday through Saturday for arts and crafts (all ages) and open play (birth to 8 years). Hours: Check website. Admission: $12 daily drop in, 10-visit pass $100, or monthly membership $75.

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

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

River Forest Community Center 8020 W. Madison, River Forest Private Birthday Parties in our

Great Birthday Indoor Playland or Gymnasium!

Three affordable packages to choose from, Celebrations including a Deluxe Pizza Party Stop in and see why Chicagoland Parents Without the give our Birthday Parties “Two Thumbs Up” Call Our Party Coordinator for more information Work!

(708) 771-6159 Mention our ad and receive 10% off your party package 84 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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Now O pen PLAY

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!

Mt. Prospect Park District has the BEST birthday parties!

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

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.

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 • Expanded special needs resource directory online at ChicagoParent.com

Specıal Parent SUMMER 2013

LOCAL RESOURCES YOU NEED

22

and then what?

AN EMPOWERMENT GUIDE FROM

JOY in the little things

BULLY PROOF your kids

SP_Cover_2013.indd 3

Summer edition coming soon!

6/27/13 10:02 AM

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

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PLAY Special advertiSing Section

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

Fox Valley Park District 101 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora (630) 897-0516 foxvalleyparkdisrict.org

Mt. Prospect Park District

STEM Programs for Kids

Robotics & Invention • Adventure with LEGO Digital Media & Technology Video Game Design · App Design Explore NASA • MinecraftEdu • KidsCode

Naperville and Chicago

www.greenapplecampus.org 630.778.8480

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

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 Skokieparks.org

We buy and sell gently used clothes, toys, & equipment Splash into low prices on everything your kids need for Summer! Amazing savings on toys, clothing, furniture and equipment. Once Upon A Child will also pay you on the spot for the items your kid’s have outgrown. How refreshing is that?

6 Amazing Locations

Chicago Ridge • 708-499-7035 9990 Ridgeland Ave.

Naperville • 630-416-9344 552 South Route 59

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

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

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

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

Slide into Summer Savings!

www.onceuponachild.com 86 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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PLAY Go Bananas 4516 N. Harlem Ave., Norridge (708) 669-7029 gobananasfun.com This jungle-themed indoor family center offers six amusement park rides, including two roller coasters.

Kids can climb in a maze of tubes and slides and bowl. Bring socks.

Hours: Noon-8:30 p.m. MondayThursday; noon-9:30 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Free, pay per attraction or buy an unlimited ride pass.

Jump!Zone Various locations jumpzoneparty.com Features inflatable slides, obstacle courses and bounce houses, interactive games and toddler activities.

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. Play room

features ball pit, soft blocks, Legos, a maze of tunnels, spiral slide and activities geared toward toddlers and preschoolers. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday. Admission: $4, free 12 months and under.

K1 Speed Addison 2381 W. Army Trail Road, Addison (630) 433-3700 k1speed.com In addition to the Buffalo Grove center, there is an indoor go-kart racing facility located in Addison.

Hours: Noon-10 p.m. MondayThursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Varies.

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

Admission: $10 donation.

Planning your summer? ...WE ARE! 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.

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For the 2014 Program Guide or Course Description call or write

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

Kid City 1837 W. Grand Ave., Chicago (312) 829-6775 kidcitychicago.com This creative play space features a market, costume boutique, train area, playhouse and more. 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.

Kidstown Play & Party 1141 Butterfield Road, Wheaton (630) 260-8545 kidstownplayandparty.com Indoor play center with more than a dozen themed play areas. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.

Admission: $10, $5 kids under 1, free adults and additional siblings under 1.

Legoland Discovery Center The Streets of Woodfield (next to Woodfield Mall) 601 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg

(847) 592-9700 legolanddiscoverycenter.com/chicago This family entertainment center features more than 3 million Lego bricks and nine attractions. Hours: Noon-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

Admission: $18; special discounts available online.

Monkey Island 2100 N. 15th Ave., Melrose Park (708) 344-4803 playmonkeyisland.com This indoor playground includes jumpies, a three-story climbing structure, laser tag and more. Socks must be worn. Hours: Noon-8 p.m.

Monday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. TuesdayThursday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. FridaySunday. Admission: $4.20, $8.40 kids.

Party Fantasy 342 Townline Road Corner of Routes 45 and 60, Mundelein (847) 837-0010 partyfantasy.net Drop-in play, inflatables, rock climbing wall and go-karts. Second location at 7150 Capitol Drive, Wheeling. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Check website.

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PLAY Peekaboo Playroom 206 S. Marion St., Oak Park peekabooplayroom.com Children are free to create, imagine, and dream here. Hours: 9:15 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Friday; 9:15 a.m.-7 p.m.

Wednesday; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; check website for Sunday hours. Admission: $12 first child, $8 siblings; check website for summer discounts.

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

Admission: Varies.

Purple Monkey Playroom 2040 N. Western Ave., Chicago (773) 772-8411 purplemonkeyplayroom.com The 1,500-square-foot playroom has a new tree house. 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 Rt. 59) (630) 717-JUMP (5867) Sky High Sports Niles 6424 W. Howard (behind Fibrecraft) (847) 801-5867 Nap.JumpSkyHigh.com

(312) 922-3131 sodroom.com Eco-friendly, indoor playspace.

Hours: Open Monday-Friday.

Hours vary. Admission: $12 first child, $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 A cultural, visual and performing arts center that immerses children in the cultures of Africa. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays; special events on weekends. Admission: $7 per child.

Xtreme Trampolines 485 Mission St., Carol Stream 950 Busch Parkway, Buffalo Grove (630) 752-1400 xtremetrampolines.com Indoor trampoline parks offer dropin jump times. 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 Playground inside the mall for kids under 48 inches tall. Includes 10 attractions. Additional loca-

tion 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 siblings Monday-Thursday; $12, $11 siblings Friday-Sunday; Pajama Play (last hour): $5.

OUTDOOR WATER PARKS

Adventure Bay Water Park Wolf Road between St. Charles and Butterfield roads, Hillside (708) 547-3900 ext. 4 mempark.org Includes three slides for young children. The facility has a raintree spray area, a spray pad and a zero-depth entry pool. Hours: June 7-Aug. 10: 1-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, 1-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $6, $5 for ages 17 and under; $3 Thursday.

Algonquin Swimming Pool & Splashpad 599 Longwood Drive, Algonquin (847) 458-7677 algonquin.org/pool Features an interactive splash pad, diving well, 1-meter spring diving board, preschool discovery area and lap pool. Hours: Call or check website. Admission: Call or check website.

Bensenville Water Park Bensenville Park District 1100 W. Wood St., Bensenville

(630) 766-SWIM (7946) bensenvilleparkdistrict.org Offers zero-depth entry pool, a 155foot water slide and drop slides and a children’s water play area. Hours: May 24-Aug. 19: 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Monday-Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $11, $8 kids 3-17 and seniors. Residents $9, $6 kids and seniors. Free kids under 3. Resident season passes available.

Reduced evening rates at 5:30 p.m.

Big Surf Wave Pool Mount Prospect Park District 411 S. Maple St., Mount Prospect (847) 253-SURF (7873) mppd.org A zero-depth outdoor wave pool.

Hours: Visit website. Admission: Visit website.

Centennial Beach Naperville Park District 500 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville (630) 848-5000 napervilleparks.org Features a sand beach, shallow-end slide, water play features, a diving complex and water depths ranging from zero to 15 feet. Only U.S. Coast Guard-approved flotation devices are allowed. Special Needs Nights are 6:30-8 p.m. June 15 and 29; July 13 and 27. Hours: May 24-Sept. 1. Call or check the website for times. Admission: $10, $6 residents, $3 after 5 p.m.; memberships available.

Trampoline park. On first Tuesday of every month, they turn off the music and dial down the distractions for kids with special needs.

Hours: Check website. Admission: Check website.

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park 325 W. Lake St., Suite A, Elmhurst (331) 209-6333 skyzone.com/elmhurst Indoor trampoline park. Hours: 3-8 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 3-10 p.m.

Friday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $10 for 30 minutes; $14 for 60 minutes; $18 for 90 minutes.

Sod Room 1454 S. Michigan Ave., 2nd Floor Chicago

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Wheeling Park District Family Aquatic Center, see page 90.

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PLAY Centennial Family Aquatic Center

Cypress Cove Family Aquatic Park

Wilmette Park District 2300 Old Glenview Road, Wilmette (847) 256-9680 wilmettepark.org

Woodridge Park District 8301 S. James Ave., Woodridge (630) 985-5620 cypresscove.org

Includes 50-meter pool, leisure pool with water slides, wading pool with tot slide, diving pool with two boards and two drop slides. Hours: Preseason begins May 24 (weekend hours only).

Regular season hours begin June 14. Check website for hours.

Admission: $15, $8.50 resident, $12 resident’s guest; wading pool (9 a.m.-noon) $10, $5.50 resident.

Features spray playground, lazy river, zero-depth pool, water slides, two competition pools and diving board. Hours: June 7-Aug. 15. 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Admission: Monday-Friday: $14, $7 seniors 62+; $8 resident, $4 resident seniors; free kids under 1. Saturday-Sunday: $15, 7.50 seniors; $8 resident, $4 resident seniors; free kids under 1. Discounted price after 5 p.m.

Centennial Park Aquatic Center Orland Park Recreation and Parks Department 15600 West Ave., Orland Park (708) 349-4FUN (4386) orland-park.il.us Offers a lazy river, body flume, drop slides, tube slides, platform jump, a zero-depth pool and lap lanes. Infants required to wear swim pants and a swim diaper (available for purchase on-site).

Hours: May 24-Sept. 1. Noon-8 p.m. daily. Admission: $14, $7 residents until 5 p.m. After 5 p.m. $4 residents.

Devonshire Aquatic Center Skokie Park District 4400 Greenwood Ave., Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 3200 skokieparks.org Features a lap pool with zero-depth entry, a diving board, drop slide and sprayground. Hours: June 9-Aug. 17. Hours vary; call or check website. Admission: $6-$13.

Dolphin Cove Family Aquatic Center Routes 25 and 68 (300 N. Kennedy Drive), Carpentersville

(847) 428-7131 dtpd.org Offers rip tide body slide, tube slide, sand castle beach and interactive water play “Discovery Fountain.” Hours: Opens May 31: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday; noon-6 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $7.50, $6.50 kids 3-9 and seniors.

Residents $5, $4 kids 3-9 and seniors. Reduced rates in evening.

Family Aquatic Center Addison Park District 120 E. Oak St., Addison (630) 833-0100 addisonparks.org Includes a 50-meter L-shaped pool with diving boards and a splash pad for kids 6 and under. Hours: Opens May 31-end of August. 4-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 2-5 p.m. Saturday; 1-8 p.m. Sunday. Admission: Monday-Friday: $7, $4 resident; Saturday-Sunday: $9 adults, $7 kids and seniors, $7 resident, $5 resident kids and seniors; free kids 2 and under.

Flick Pool and Roosevelt Aquatics Center Roosevelt Pool: 2239 Fir St., Glenview

Flick Pool: 3600 Glenview Road, Glenview (847) 724-5670 glenviewparks.org Offers water slides, a zero-depth activity pool with a youth play structure and lap pool. Hours: June 7-Aug. 18. Admission: Check website.

Hall Quarry Beach 400 S. Water St., Batavia (630) 879-5235 bataviaparks.org Features kids’ flume, sandy beach and swimming area, drop slide and zero-depth entry. Hours: May 24-Aug. 17: noon-6 p.m. daily, noon-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Admission: $11, $8 resident.

Hidden Creek Aquapark Park District of Highland Park 1220 Fredrickson Place, Highland Park (847) 433-4790 hiddencreekaquapark.org Offers water slides and a water playground. Hours: Opens May 24. Call or check website for hours.

Admission: $13, $8 residents. Free kids 3 and under.

CHIPAR

CHIPAR

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PLAY Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center

Park Forest Aqua Center

Gurnee Park District 900 N. Hunt Club Road, Gurnee (847) 823-7788 gurneeparkdistrict.com

Park Forest Recreation and Parks Department 30 N. Orchard Drive, Park Forest (708) 749-9490 villageofparkforest.com

Has a zero-depth entry pool and seven slides. One of the most popular slides extends from the back of a cascading waterfall. Hours: May 31-Sept. 1: noon-8 p.m. daily.

Admission: $15, $10 resident, free kids under 3. After 5 p.m.: $12, $8 resident.

Itasca Park District Waterpark 100 N. Catalpa Ave., Itasca (630) 773-2257 itasca.com/waterpark Features an eight-lane zero-depth entry pool, geysers, a spinning vortex, and an interactive playground pool for ages 10 and under with four new interactive toddler features. Hours: Hours vary. Call or check website. Admission: $4 mornings, $6 afternoons, $4 evenings. $9 weekends. Free kids under 2.

JCYS Lillian L. Lutz Recreation Center (The Lil’) 1195 Half Day Road, Highland Park (847) 432-6355 jcys.org/thelil Heated outdoor swimming pool with interactive splash pad. Hours: June 7-Aug. 24. 3:30-7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Extended hours in August. Admission: Check website.

Magic Waters Waterpark Rockford Park District 7820 Cherryvale North Blvd. (Interstate 90 and Highway 20), Rockford (800) 373-1679 magicwaterswaterpark.com Features Illinois’ largest wavepool, the Typhoon Terror Adventure Ride, a five-story body slide, an 80-foothigh raft ride, Double Dare Drop Speed Slides, Splash Magic River, and Tiki Island, which is an interactive water complex. Some rides have height restrictions. Hours: June 7-Aug. 24: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Monday and Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Tuesday-Thursday and SaturdaySunday; check website for pre- and post-season. Admission: $23.99, $16.99 48 inches and under, $17.99 seniors, $4.99 kids 1-2, free kids under 1. Reduced rates for residents. $12 Tuesday-Thursday.

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This three-pool outdoor center offers a 160-foot water slide, a zerodepth entry pool, climbing wall, tube slide and sandy play area.

Hours: Opens for season June 7.

Call or check website. Admission: Check website.

Phillips Park Aquatic Center Fox Valley Park District 828 Montgomery Road, Aurora (630) 851-8686 foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Features two drop slides and two flume slides. Hours: May 31-Aug. 17: open daily from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Weekends only: Aug. 23-24, Aug. 30-Sept. 1. Admission: $5-$10.

Free kids under 2.

Raging Waves Waterpark 4000 N. Bridge St. (Highway 47) Yorkville (630) 882-6575 ragingwaves.com Illinois’ largest water park features 17 waterslides, a wave pool, lazy river and several interactive kids’ areas. New in 2014: “Sinbad and the Search for the Golden Pineapple,” a high-dive show featuring Sinbad and his pirates performing spectacular dives. Hours: Hours vary; call or visit website. Admission: Full day $29.99 adult/child taller than 48”, $19.99 child less than 48”, free kids 2 and under.

After 3 p.m. $19.99 adult/child taller than 48”, $13.99 child less than 48”, free kids 2 and under.

Rainbow Falls Water Theme Park 200 Reverend Morrison Blvd.

Elk Grove Village (847) 228-2860 elkgroveparks.org Features water slides, leisure pool, lazy river and tot pool. Hours: June 9-Aug. 17. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. MondayFriday; 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $15 Monday-Friday, $16 Saturday-Sunday.

Sea Lion Aquatic Park Lisle Park District 1825 Short St., Lisle (630) 964-3410 ext. 2 lisleparkdistrict.org/slp Two 50-foot body flume slides, two drop slides, vortex pool, splash

Funway Ultimate Entertainment Center, see page 79. playground, kiddie water and sand play area and teen pool. Hours: Opens May 24. Regular season begins June 4. Admission: $4-$13; free kids 2 and under.

the water. Hours: May 31-Aug. 17.

11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday.

Admission: $13, $9 kids 48 inches and under. Free kids 2 and under.

Seascape Family Aquatic Center

The Oasis

1300 Moonlake Blvd., Hoffman Estates (847) 310-3626 heparks.org

Bloomingdale Park District 170 S. Circle Drive, Bloomingdale (630) 529-3650 bloomingdaleparks.org

Family-friendly zero-depth entry pool, plunge tube and body slides, sand play area and water playground. Hours: Call or visit website. Admission: $10, $8 kids; resident $9, $7 kids.

Skokie Water Playground 4701 Oakton St., Skokie (847) 674-1500 ext. 3200 skokieparks.org

Features a zero-depth entry pool, two thrill slides, a drop slide, a spray play area, a diving area and an eight-lane lap pool. Paddle boats available. Hours: Opens May 31.

11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: $9, $7 kids. Resident $7, $5 kids.

Features five water slides, a fullyaccessible sprayground and an interactive multi-level play area.

Hours: June 9-Aug. 17. Check website. Admission: $6.50-$14.

Turtle Splash Family Aquatic Center

Splash Country Water Park

Offers a body slide, a tube slide, a slide for small children, a zerodepth entry pool and a play waterfall. Hours: May 24-Sept. 1. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Admission: $8, $6 kids 3-17 and seniors, free kids 2 and under; half-price after 6 p.m.

195 S. Barnes Road, Aurora (630) 906-7981 foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Six-lane zero-depth pool with kids’ play features, 1,100-foot lazy river winding, tube/flume slides, enclosed play area with spray guns, waterfall and other interactive features for kids under 48 inches.

Hours: May 31-Aug. 10: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. Admission: $5-$10. Free kids under 2.

Splash Station Waterpark 2780 Channahon Road, Joliet (815) 741-7275 jolietsplashstation.com Offers a zero-depth entry pool with two body slides and a lazy river.

The highlight is the six-lane slide, where people race headfirst into

West Chicago Park District 129 W. National St., West Chicago (630) 293-6325 we-goparks.org

Wheeling Park District Family Aquatic Center Aquatic Center 327 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling (847) 465-7665 wheelingparkdistrict.com Features drop slides, tube slides and body slides. Younger kids love the water playground. Hours: May 31-Sept. 1. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. MondayFriday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Admission: $13, $11.50 kids 3-9, $9 seniors, free kids 35 months and under.

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GOING PLACES

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CONCERTS IN THE PARK 6 - 8 pm at Capannari’s

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GOING PLACES

Eye On ELMHURST 5/1/13

10:35 AM

Page 1

Special Advertising Section

DISCOVER

Elmhurst The world right next door

VISIT OUR MUSEUMS:

STAY AT OUR HOTELS:

Elmhurst Historical Museum Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art Elmhurst Art Museum

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the world

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92 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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Call today for more information!

630-530-3312

www.elmhurst.org EXPLORE ELMHURST! ChicagoParent.com

5/8/14 5:01 PM

Eye On ELMHURST

Special Advertising Section

A Book Above Get an early start on your summer reading list with a stop at A Book Above. Here you’ll find a hand-picked selection of books for toddlers through teens and even some for you parents too. A Book Above also offers storytimes for preschoolers and young children, therapy dog reading times – where your kid can read their favorite book to a four-legged friend, and other great events celebrating the joy of reading each month.

In June their EXPLORE & MORE event Animal Bananamal will feature a selection of animal books, speakers and giveaways. Sponsored by Readers Ignite the event is a free dropin open house on June 21 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A Book Above also offers gift certificates, which make a great end of year gift to your kid’s teacher.

Visit them at 136 W. Vallette, Unit 6, in Elmhurt.

630-993-0133. abookabove.com Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park Elmhurst Sure, we all like to joke that are kids are “Literally bouncing all the walls with energy,” but did you know there’s a place where they can actually be bouncing off the walls, and the floor? Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park features a wall-to-wall sea of trampolines. It’s the ultimate play zone for kids of all ages, shapes and physical abilities.

Drop in during the week for some “Open Jump”

GOING PLACES

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park time or think about planning an entire party for your kid with one of their Jump Packages. Sky Zone also features fitness classes for parents and corporate outings for you to jump with your co-workers. Just don’t tell your kids you were off jumping without them. 325 W. Lake St., Suite A, Elmhurst. 331-2096333. www.skyzone.com/elmhurst Sweet P. Doll Studio Have a little DIY enthusiast on your hands? Get them started early with a class or summer camp at Sweet P. Doll Studio, where they’ll have the chance to make clothes and accessories for their favorite doll.

Keep those brains creative over the summer with camps like “Frozen in Summer Camp” where campers make an ice castle for their doll, or “Around the World Camp” where they’ll make a Hot Air Balloon. Sweet P. Doll Studio also offers one-day classes and birthday parties packages. You can also schedule a playdate with friends, explore the store’s giant dollhouse and create a unique craft for just $6 per kids. 106 W. Third St., Elmhurst. 630-279-5453. www.sweetpdollstudio.com.

Elmhurst Art Museum Don’t let summer brain drain zap your kids of their creativity before the new school year starts.

Elmhurst Art Museum offers art camps throughout

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Books for toddlers through teens and parents, too!

See 15 life size skulls carved from gem materials Do the skull scavenger hunt

LIZZADRO MUSEUM OF LAPIDARY ART

220 Cottage Hill Ave. Elmhurst, IL 60126 630/833-1616 www.lizzadromuseum.org ChicagoParent.com

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• story times • unique events • special orders • authors and guests • details on facebook

136 W. Vallette, #6 in Elmhurst.

(Southwest corner of York & Vallette Roads) 630-993-0133 Find us on Facebook

Summer 2014 • goingplaces 93

5/9/14 4:35 PM

GOING PLACES

Eye On ELMHURST

the summer for all ages working in all types of art.

From building sculptures to painting, individual and group projects, your kid will have the chance to develop new skills in a fun and energetic environment. Classes for teens and parents are also available.

After camp the whole family can visit one of the museum’s summer exhibits such as “LifeLoggers: Chronicling the Everyday.” By counting the steps they take, listing the food they each, or tracking their location, 13 artists transform this information into complex pieces of artwork.

150 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst. 630-834-0202. www.elmhurstartmuseum.org Elmhurst Historical Museum Brush up on your local history this summer at the Elmhurst Historical Museum. Learn the story of Elmhurst’s beginnings as a prairie village to a modern Chicago suburb. See items and photos from the town’s history dating all the way back to 1834.

Throughout the summer stop by on Tuesdays from June 10 through July 29 for Summer Fun & Games.

From 12 to 2 p.m. the museum will offer a baseball or vintage themed craft activity. Every Tuesday there’s also a family picnic event from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. with free lemonade and treats.

There’s even something for your little baseball fans. The “Sox vs. Cubs, The Civil War” exhibit explores the longtime rivalry between the fans of

Sweet P. Doll Studio

these two storied teams, at the museum until Sept.

28.

120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. 630-833-1457. www.elmhurst.org/index.aspx?nid=73 Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art Alright, we know, you’re probably scratching your head … “Lapidary Art, what’s that?” Lapidary is

Sweet P. Doll Studio

106 West Third Street, Elmhurst IL 60126 www.sweetpdollstudio.com 630.279.5453 CREATE… a personalized outfit for your doll PAINT AND DESIGN… a piece of doll furniture CELEBRATE… with a custom birthday party PRETEND AND PLAY… with our 14-foot dollhouse

Special Advertising Section

the art of cutting and polishing stone, so remember that when the kids are asking as you pile into the car for a trip to the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art. But trust us, this place is worth the trip and there’s something for the whole family enjoy. Browse the galleries featuring beautiful examples of handcut stones, check out the 20 dioramas - including one featuring a former resident of Brookfield Zoo – and explore the rock and mineral collection featuring rare and color pieces from all over the world.

220 Cottage Hill Ave. Elmhurst. 630-833-1616. www.lizzadromuseum.org Around Elmhurst Starting June 14 stop off every Wednesday at the Elmhurst Farmers Market and pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables for a healthy meal or great snacks for the family. Organized by the York & Vallette Business Association the market is open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Wednesday until Oct. 29 and is located on Vallette, just east of York. Visit www.yorkandvallette.com/FarmersMarket.aspx for details, what’s in season and recipes for the family to enjoy.

After a morning at the farmers market spend Wednesday night in downtown Elmhurst for the Block to Block Party. Wednesday nights in June, July and August from 6 to 9 p.m. www.elmhurstcitycentre. com

SUMMER ART C AMP

at ELMHURST ART MUSEUM

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LEARN…in our camps, workshops and classes

Summer Camps Register Today!!!

Camps for girls and dolls ages 4+ • “Frozen in Summer Camp” • Interior design for Girls and Dolls • Around the World • Camping with my Doll

For more info or to register call

(630) 834-0202

elmhurstartmuseum.org Located in the City Centre of Elmhurst, Sweet P. Doll Studio is a very special place for girls and their 18” dolls. Sweet P. offers birthday parties, creative workshops, classes, crafts, fashions, furnishings and more. A 14-foot custom made doll house thrills and delights girls of all ages.

Look for our upcoming workshops and classes. Host a themed party for your girl in our private party room. Or simply take a break with a friend and let your girls have an fanciful and imaginative time. Walk-ins are always welcome.

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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

5/9/14 12:25 PM

Eye On ELMHURST

Special Advertising Section

GOING PLACES

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Summer 2014 • goingplaces 95

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GOING PLACES SPECIAL ADVERTISING DIRECTORY

Top Schools

Summer Programs and more

Alcuin Montessori School 324 N. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park (708) 366-1882 alcuin.org

Summer camp 2014 – Fun with a purpose!

Enjoyable summer program that provides the rewards of a Montessori approach with a big helping of summer fun. June 16 – August 8.

Avery Coonley

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

Educational and recreational programs for children ages 4-14. Three sessions: Session 1: June 16 – June 27 Session 2: June 30 - July 11 Session 3: July 14-July 25. Students select from a wide range of courses that stimulate new interests while strengthening existing skills.

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

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

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

Morgan Park Academy 2153 W. 111th St., Chicago (773) 881-6700 MorganParkAcademy.org

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.

St Stanislaus Kostka School PreK thru 8th Grade 1255 N Noble St, Chicago (773) 278-4560 ststanschicago.org

St. Stan’s is a transformative learning community that inspires students to achieve high academic and social standards from preschool to 8th grade. We provide a rich and rewarding education that prepares young people for lives of excellence. Using a progressive, forward thinking curriculum, we turn classrooms into spaces of critical thinking and complex problem solving.

The Chicago Grammar School PreK – 6th grade 900 N. Franklin, Chicago (312) 944-5600 www.chicagogrammar.org

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

Gifted Learning Center North Shore 5225 Old Orchard Road, Suite 8, Skokie (847) 345-1694 giftedlearningcenter.org Providing social, emotional, and learning support for gifted and profoundly gifted students. Experienced staff, all grades, year -round schedule. Ask about the GLC servicelearning project!

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGO GRAMMAR SCHOOL

96 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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5/9/14 12:13 PM

GOING PLACES

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GOING PLACES

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RIDE LIKE A CHAMPION New Traditions Riding Academy, LLC located at the Palos Hills Riding Stables, 10100 S. Kean Avenue, Palos Hills, IL 60465

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nature

Your guide to the outside

In this section 102 Biking and Botanic Gardens 103 Canoeing and Conservatories 104 Farms and Ranches 105 U-Pick 106 Zoos

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Summer 2014 • goingplaces 99

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NATURE

Plant them

and they will come

Community gardens a growing Chicago trend

T

BY KRISTY MACKABEN

he Shingler kids are motivated by food—especially yellow pear tomatoes, red peppers and green beans.

Every night Cate, 9, Helena, 7, and Emonn, 5, gobble raw vegetables for dinner.

Their mom discovered that if you want your kids to eat vegetables, then grow them yourself.

SPONSORED

A few years ago, the Shinglers, who live in Chicago’s Bowmanville neighborhood, started helping with the local community garden— Bowmanville Community Garden. Soon enough they were growing all their fruits and vegetables.

“My kids get out there and weed and eat vegetables right out of the garden,” says their mom Claire Shingler. “It became our after-dinner destination.”

The Shinglers aren’t the only Chicago family obsessed with community gardening.

In the city, there are about 300 community gardens, says Joe Zarrow, development and strategic communication coordinator for NeighborSpace, which acquires land for community gardens, supplies water and makes sure the soil is safe.

(Openlands and the Peterson Project are other similar organizations in Chicago.)

“There’s been an upsurge in popularity in the past couple years,” says Elvia Rodriguez

Ochoa, neighborhood programs director for Openlands. “When things get tight economically, people become much more interested in gardening. There’s an interest in local food and community food.”

Community gardening isn’t new—the concept was around in the 1800s when gardens were established in cities to teach urban children about gardening, says Cordalie Benoit, board member of the American

Community Gardening Association.

But in recent years, community gardens have gained popularity as people search for ways to eat fresh, organic foods.

Kids are a big part of many of

Why do birds sing?

CONNECT WITH US

NATURE BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE MORTON ARBORETUM • MORTONARB.ORG

#mortonarboretum

100 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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Fulton Street Garden, Garfield Park

ChicagoParent.com

5/9/14 12:55 PM

NATURE the gardens in Chicago.

“They’re learning about where food comes from. They’re learning it doesn’t come from a wrapper in a store,” says Zarrow.

“Somebody actually grows it.”

Here are a few Chicago community gardens that are particularly family-friendly. Check out chicagocommunitygardens. org to see if there’s a community garden near you.

1

Artist’s Garden, South Chicago

Operated by the South Chicago Art Center, the Artist’s Garden on Brandon Avenue is considered an outdoor studio, as well as a community garden.

Sculptures sit throughout the garden, and art classes are often taught in the garden where students use plants and the

environment as inspiration.

“Think about growing up in a neighborhood where there’s no green space,” says Sarah Ward, executive director of South Chicago Art Center. “They can come here to observe life, to take a deep breath, to enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful fertile place. It teaches them long-term skills.”

Encompassing four city blocks, the garden is free to community members who are allowed to grow whatever they choose. There are 35 fruit trees and five community beds also used to grow fruit and vegetables for a local food pantry, and to teach cooking classes to students at the South Chicago Art Center.

■ happyartcenter.org

2

Bowmanville Community Garden

This 40-plot community garden is all about families.

Community garden days are organized with families in mind—complete with snacks and jobs for the kids. To participate, gardeners must pay $10 a season and agree to help in the garden at least 12 hours.

“The vegetable gardens have really taken off in the community,” says Shingler. “There’s lots of families. The neighborhood has really cultivated a green angle for sustainable living.”

■ bcochicago.org

3

Fulton Street Garden, Garfield Park

The Garfield Community

Council likes to think of this garden as a centerpiece of the community. About 22 raised beds are available for gardening at a cost of $20 per season.

“We grow pretty much everything,” says Angela Taylor, who is involved with the garden.

“Our kids do everything from shoveling compost, planting seedlings. I don’t think there is a task that kids can’t do in the garden. Pretty much anything an adult can do, kids can do.”

Taylor’s grandkids Daniel Jr., 13, and Briana, 6, help in the garden every week.

The Fulton Street Flower and Vegetable Garden is in the running for a community garden makeover through the Garnier Green Gardens project. (Vote for it at green.garnierusa.com.)

■ gpcommunitycouncil.org

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Let your child’s mind run free in the natural setting of Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens!

Summer 2014 • goingplaces 101

5/9/14 12:55 PM

NATURE BIKING

Busse Woods Trail East of Interstate 290 between Golf and Biesterfield roads, Schaumburg (800) 870-3666 fpdcc.com Pedal across meadows, through elkinhabited forests and around Busse Lake on this 11.2-mile trail through the Ned Brown Forest Preserve.

Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

Chicago Lakefront Trail Chicago Park District Rainbow Beach to Margate Park (312) 747-PLAY (7529) chicagoparkdistrict.com Bike 18 miles of paved and blacktop pathways that wind along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Hours: Dawn to dusk.

Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway Lake County Forest Preserves West Riverside Road, Lincolnshire to Russell Road, Wadsworth (847) 367-6640 lcfpd.org Hike, bike and enjoy nature along this 31-mile crushed stone trail that follows its namesake river. Visit website for a trail map. Hours: 6:30 a.m. to sunset.

Fox Valley Park District (630) 966-4527 foxvalleyparkdistrict.org The trail parallels the Fox River and winds 35 miles from Crystal Lake to Aurora. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

Illinois Prairie Path (630) 752-0120 ipp.org The 62-mile bike trail follows the former Chicago, Aurora and Elgin commuter train line. The trail starts in Forest Park, but it’s easier to pick it up in Elmhurst off Spring Road.

Free maps available on website.

Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

John Husar I & M Canal Bicycle Trail Forest Preserves of Cook County SPONSORED

(800) 870-3666 fpdcc.com Located in southwest Cook County, this paved, nine-mile trail near Willow Springs meanders along the Sanitary and Ship Canal. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

Major Taylor Trail From 105th Street to 129th Street near Little Calumet River (312) 742-PLAY chicagoparkdistrict.com

Fox River Trail

Chicago’s North Side, north to Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe (800) 870-3666 fpdcc.com This 17-mile paved trail follows the North Branch of the Chicago River with a four-mile loop around the Skokie Lagoons. If you enter the Botanic Gardens at Dundee Road (free entrance for bikers and pedestrians), the gardens provide free bike racks as well as a place to refuel. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

trail starts across from Crabtree Nature Center and winds through woods dotted with ponds. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

Salt Creek Bicycle Trail Forest Preserves of Cook County (800) 870-3666 fpdcc.com This seven-mile paved trail starts north of Brookfield Zoo and ends in Bemis Woods. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

The paved path is four miles and crosses the bridge over the Little Calumet River. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

Old Plank Road Trail

Tinley Creek Trail

McHenry County Conservation District Prairie Trail

Hickory Creek Junction to Park Road (815) 727-8700 reconnectwithnature.org Hickory Creek Junction provides parking and access to the Old Plank Road Trail, a 21-mile asphalt trail that runs from Park Forest in Cook County to Joliet in Will County.

Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

Between 131st and 167th streets and Central and 80th avenues, Oak Forest (800) 870-3666 fpdcc.com

From the McHenry County line in Algonquin to the Wisconsin border (815) 338-6223 mccdistrict.org This 26-mile multi-use trail follows a former railway line that connects eight McHenry County communities. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

North Branch Trail Forest Preserves of Cook County From Caldwell and Devon avenues on

This scenic 13-mile path loops through the Tinley Creek Forest Preserve. Hours: Sunrise to sunset.

BOTANIC GARDENS

Old Stover Bike Path

Chicago Botanic Garden

Crabtree Nature Center On Palatine Road, one mile west of Barrington Road, Barrington (847) 381-6592 fpdcc.com

1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe (847) 835-5440 chicagobotanic.org

The Crabtree Preserve Bike Path

A 385-acre living plant museum featuring 24 display gardens and

Why do trees and other plants have flowers?

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Kayak Morris, see page 103.

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NATURE four natural areas. It has events, programs and activities for all ages. The Model Railroad Garden is open May 11-Oct. 27. Butterflies & Blooms is open May 25-Sept. 2.

Hours: 8 a.m.-sunset through May 31. June 1-Sept. 2: 7 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Admission: Admission is 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 many specialty gardens and unique tree collections, 1.8 miles of accessible paved trails with a children’s garden. Hours: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Admission: $6, $3 seniors, students and kids 3-17, free kids under 3.

tive garden for nature play and learning. Family and youth outings, classes, story times and other nature- and science-based activities for all ages offered. Hours: 7 a.m.sunset daily. Visit website for Children’s Garden hours. Admission: $12, $11 seniors, $9 ages 2-17, free kids under 2. On Wednesdays, $8, $7 seniors, $6 kids, free kids under 2. Free parking.

The Lurie Garden in Millennium Park Columbus Drive and Monroe Street Chicago (312) 228-1004 luriegarden.org The garden offers a free family workshops. Hours: 6 a.m.-11 p.m. daily unless otherwise specified.

Admission: Free.

CANOEING

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.

Enjoy the Children’s Garden, an award-winning, four-acre interac-

Chicago River Canoe & Kayak 3400 N. Rockwell, Chicago (773) 704-2663 chicagoriverpaddle.com Group outings available. Hours: 1-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission:

$15/hour single kayaks, $20/hour tandem kayak and canoes.

Chicago River Canoe & KayakWinnetka Tower Road Lagoons Tower Road, west of Forest Way Drive Winnetka (847) 414-5883 chicagoriverpaddle.com Hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day: 10 a.m.-sunset Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

Admission: $15 for single kayaks; $20 for canoes and tandem kayaks.

Friends of the Chicago River 411 S. Wells St., Suite 800, Chicago (312) 939-0490 ext. 12 chicagoriver.org Offers guided group tours of the Chicago River. No experience necessary. Guides provide instruction and equipment. Hours: May-October.

Admission: Call for rates.

Kayak Morris Griggs Drive, Morris (630) 567-4653 kayakmorris.com Offers eco kayak tours, kayak rentals, kayak lessons and camping.

Beginners and families welcome.

Monthly group Glampouts (glamorous campouts) feature a potluck dinner, a guided kayak tour and a movie. Hours: Visit website.

Admission: $39 up to two hours; $49 up to four hours; $59 up to eight hours.

Reed’s Canoe Trips 907 N. Indiana Ave., Kankakee (815) 932-2663 reedscanoetrips.com Canoe and kayak rentals for paddling down the Kankakee River.

Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Admission: Canoe trips: $60 for six-mile trip or $66 for 12-mile trip. Single kayak trip: $39 for sixmile trip or $45 for 12-mile trip; Double kayak trip: $70 for six-mile trip or $76 for 12-mile trip.

CONSERVATORIES

Bird Haven Greenhouse 225 N. Gougar Road, Joliet (815) 741-7278 jolietpark.org Four greenhouses offer special events just for kids. Hours: 8 a.m.4:30 p.m. daily. Call or visit website regarding holiday closings. Admission: Free.

Friendship Park Conservatory 395 W. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines (847) 298-3500 mppd.org Visit the three-story indoor atrium and 15 acres of outdoor gardens and water features. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 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

SPONSORED

Friendship Park Conservatory, see this page.

A flower is the way trees and plants create seeds to reproduce.

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The Elizabeth Morse Children’s Garden provides a fun setting for kids. 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.

Summer 2014 • goingplaces 103

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NATURE

Garwood Orchard, see page 106.

Lincoln Park Conservatory 2391 N. Stockton Drive, Chicago (312) 742-7736 chicagoparkdistrict.com This conservatory is a great place to relax after a day at Lincoln Park Zoo. 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. 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

SPONSORED

A newly renovated small conservatory showcases seasonal plants as well as permanent displays of

flowering tropical plants. Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission: Free, donations appreciated.

FARMS AND RANCHES

Big Run Wolf Ranch 14857 Farrell Road, Lockport (815) 588-0044 bigrunwolfranch.org Visit during Family Day/Open Houses or book a presentation.

Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Family Day/ Open House dates: May 31, June 28, July 26, Aug. 30. Admission: $5.

Blackberry Farm 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora (630) 892-1550 foxvalleyparkdistrict.org This farm celebrates the pioneer days of the 1800s. The multi-level adventure playground will delight the kids. Visit the farm animals and learn about pioneer life from the costumed historical interpreters.

Many new improvements. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday-Fri-

day, 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 Route 45, Lindenhurst (847) 968-3400 bonnerfarm.org Includes an original barn, a carpenter’s shop, a granary, hay barn, pump house, hog house, chicken coop and storage shed. Hours: 6:30 a.m. to sunset. Admission: Free.

Enjoy Pioneer Farm 17N400 Big Timber Road, Hampshire (847) 683-2863 enjoypioneerfarm.com Farm is open weekends in May for holding the baby lambs, goats, chicks, piglet and feeding the calf. Hours: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: Free.

(630) 876-5900 dupageforest.org/klinecreekfarm Living history farm. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Monday; closed Tuesday, Wednesday and major holidays. Admission: Free to forest preserve and farm. Fees for some programs.

Lambs Farm I-94 and Route 176, Libertyville (847) 362-4636 lambsfarm.org Visit the farmyard and attractions, pet shop, café and bakery, country store and thrift shop while experiencing the farm’s mission of serving people with developmental disabilities. Hours: Farmyard: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Check website for restaurant and shop hours. Admission: $8, $12 kids 2-12.

Prairie Crossing Farm

Kline Creek Farm

32400 N. Harris Road, Grayslake (847) 548-4062 ext. 11 prairiecrossing.com/farm/learning.php

1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago

Visit website for information about

Why are leaves green?

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104 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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Pick at Garden Patch Farms, see page 106.

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NATURE

Brookfield Zoo, see page 106. youth development, educational tours, community garden plots.

Hours: Visit website. Admission: Check website.

draft horses are big attractions for kids. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free. Some programs require fees and pre-registration.

Riegel Farm & Conservation Center

The Children’s Farm at The Center

580 Farmview Road, University Park (708) 534-6456 university-park-il.com

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

The petting zoo has a diverse group of animals. Hours: Check website for opening day. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Wednesday-Sunday. Admission: Donations accepted.

Sixty-acre educational working farm with animals. Complimentary pony rides, weather and work permitting. Hours: 1-4 p.m. SaturdaySunday. Admission: Check website.

Spring Valley Nature Center & Heritage Farm

Wagner Farm & Heritage Center

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

SPONSORED

The baby farm animals, turtles and

Visit one of the few remaining dairy farms in Cook County. At Dollar Drop-in Days, participate in crafts,

U-PICK

Apple Holler 5006 S. Sylvania Ave., Sturtevant, Wis. (262) 884-7100 appleholler.com Enjoy a variety of pick-your-own seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Family Fun activities run throughout the summer. Restaurant on-site.

Hours: Check website. Admission: Varies; check website.

Billy Boy’s Blueberry Barn 650 Freyer Road, Michigan City, Ind.

(219) 872-7477 billyboysblueberrybarn.com Pick your own blueberries July and August (call for specific dates).

Hours: 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday-Monday; closed most Tuesdays, check website for changes.

Admission: Free. Blueberries sold by the pound.

Didier Farms 16678 W. Aptakisic Road Prairie View/Lincolnshire (847) 634-3291 didierfarms.com Greenhouse is open until Aug. 1 with annuals, perennials, vegetables and herbs. Farmstand opens July 12. U-Pick vegetables open early August. Hours: Check website. Admission: Free, price varies for activities.

A green pigment, cholorphyll, helps leaves collect energy from the sun.

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1510 Wagner Road, Glenview (847) 657-1506 glenviewparks.org

demonstrations and farm-related activities. 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.

Summer 2014 • goingplaces 105

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NATURE

Kline Creek Farm see page 104.

Garwood Orchard

The Blueberry Patch

5911 W. 50 South, LaPorte, Ind. (219) 362-4385 garwoodorchard.com

7015 Blackwell Drive, Sawyer, Mich.

(269) 426-4521 (farm) (269) 545-8125 (after hours)

Strawberry u-pick opens in June, raspberries and blackberries available in July. Hours: Check website.

Admission: Free. Produce prices vary.

U-pick and ready-picked blueberries available. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (10 a.m.-6 p.m. Michigan time.) Season runs mid-July to mid-August; call ahead. Admission: Call for prices.

Jollay Orchards

Thompson Strawberry Farm

1850 Friday Road, Coloma, Mich.

(269) 468-3075 jollayorchards.com

Hwy. 50, Bristol, Wis. Hotline: (262) 857-2353 thompsonstrawberryfarm.com

U-pick sweet and sour cherries and peaches. Hours: Opens June 28: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily. Admission: $9 activity admission includes a Ferris wheel ride, hayrides, fishing pond and animal farm. No admission to pick fruit.

Pick your own strawberries from mid-June to the beginning of July.

Pick your own raspberries beginning in late August (8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Wednesday-Sunday). Hours: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends. Admission: $7.50 for four quarts of strawberries; $3.50 pint for raspberries; $60 carload of pumpkins while supplies last.

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

SPONSORED

Pick your own apples, peaches, plums, pears, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, cherries and a variety of more than 65 vegetables. Raw honey as well as farmfresh, cage-free eggs available daily.

Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Admission: Free.

9351 E. Eureka Road, Eau Claire, Mich.

(269) 782-7101 treemendus-fruit.com Cherries ripen in mid-June and early July; apricots, raspberries and plums in mid-July; peaches and nectarines in August. Hours:

ZOOS

Brookfield Zoo 8400 31st St., Brookfield (708) 688-8000 czs.org This 216-acre zoo has more than 2,000 animals. Wild Encounters gives participants an opportunity to experience the day with a zookeeper (for ages 8 and up). Training encounters with dolphins, penguins and more are available. Make sure to ride on the carousel. 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 1356 Gary Ave., Wheaton (630) 665-5534 cosleyzoo.org This five-acre zoo offers an intimate experience with a large variety of domestic farm animals and native Illinois wildlife. Hours: 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. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (gates open until 6).

Admission: Free. Parking $20-$35, depending how long you stay.

Phillips Park Zoo 1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora (630) 256-3860 phillipsparkaurora.com Get an up-close look at a bald eagle, gray wolves, and cougars among other animals. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Admission: Free.

Randall Oaks Barnyard Zoo 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee (847) 551-4310 dtpd.org Visit, pet and feed the farm animals. Pony rides are available for an additional charge. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: $4, $3.25 resident, free kids under 2. Annual season passes available.

What is a tadpole?

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106 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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Tree-Mendus Fruit Farm

August-Labor Day: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Wednesday-Monday. Closed on Tuesday. Admission: Free; price for fruit varies.

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5/8/14 4:52 PM

GOING PLACES

TREE-mendous Summer N EW

N EW

Spend the long summer days–and even a few nights – making priceless memories at The Morton Arboretum.

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Explore the many cultures of the world through food, live music, and activities.

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

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GOING PLACES

going places advertiser index A Book Above...................................................93

Golden Gun Laser Tag .....................................87

Pelican Harbor ................................................84

Alcuin Montessori............................................73

Green Apple Campus.......................................86

Pigeon Forge .....................................................2

Avery Coonley School .......................................87

Hollywood Park ................................................91

Be By Baby ......................................................30

Illinois Holocaust Museum ......................30, 109

Billy Boy’s Blueberry Barn .............................101

Illinois Railway Museum .................................34

Brain Surgeon Theater ....................................68

Intercultural Montessori ..................................73

Capannari Ice Cream ......................................91

Jerry Udelson, DDS ..........................................72

Cassidy Tires .....................................................9

Kohl Children’s Museum..........................33, 109

Santa’s Village ................................................91

Cave of the Mounds ........................................54

Lake County Center for Independent Living .................................49

Safari Land .....................................................81

Cedar Point .............................................58, 109 Chiaravalle Montessori ...................................71 Chicago Children’s Museum............................28 Chicago Grammar School................................40 Chicago Kids Yoga Fest ...................................12 Chicago Scots .................................................17 Children’s Museum of Oak Lawn .....................85 Cirque Shanghai .............................................66 Crawford County .............................................54

Lake County Forest Preserve .........................109 Lake Geneva Canopy Tours ............................107 Lake Katherine ..............................................101

Provision Theater ............................................68 Quest Academy ...............................................71 Reed’s Canoe Trips ........................................108 River Forest Community Center ...........73, 74, 84

Sarah’s Pony Rides..........................................81 Schaumburg Boomers .....................................80 Shoreline Sightseeing ...............................4, 109

Lambs Farm ..................................................101

Siegel’s Cotton Wood Farm ..............................15

Language & Music School ...............................73

Skokie Park District .........................................81

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

Sky Zone ..................................................95, 109

Little Boots Rodeo ...........................................45 Little Hands Learning Center ....................14, 83 Lizzadro Museum ............................................93

Smash Talent ..................................................66 Space Golf.......................................................15 St. Stans School ..............................................42

Dad’s Slot Cars ...............................................84

Louisville Slugger Museum .............................37

Discovery Center Museum .............................109

Medieval Times .................................62, 76, 109

Dolphin Swim ............................ 107, Back Cover

Medi-Weightloss....................... 107, Inside Back

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

Downtown Oak Park ........................................72

Mid City Subaru ................................................1

Sweet P. Doll Studio ........................................94

DuPage Children’s Museum ....................37, 107

Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush .........................9

Tempel Lippizan Farm .............................36, 109

Earn Income at Home ......................................87

Minocqua Chamber of Commerce ...................59

Tomah .............................................................59

Elmhurst Art Museum .....................................94

Morton Arboretum .........................................107

Elmhurst Visitors.............................................92

Mt. Prospect Park District ...............................85

Fleetwood Roller Rink ......................................35

Munising ...........................................................3

Fox Valley Park District..................................109

New Balance North Shore ................................17

Frank Lloyd Wright Trust ...........................34, 74

New Traditions ................................................98

Gail Borden Library .........................................37

Odyssey Fun World ..........................................89

Wisconsin State Fair .......................................21

Gifted Learning Center ....................................25

Once Upon a Child ..........................................86

Xtreme Trampolines ..........................................8

ChicagoParent.com

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Stade’s Farm ...................................................81

Village of Homewood .........................................8 Visit Kenosha ..................................................54 Visit Up North..................................................61 Walt Disney World ...........................................52

Summer 2014 • goingplaces 111

5/9/14 3:36 PM

BACK TO BASICS

Dance your socks off at Dancin’ Sprouts

C

hicago endured such a long, cold winter this year, we need to soak up every last ounce of what makes this city awesome in the summer. Visiting the exquisitely beautiful Chicago Botanic Garden in its full summer glory is invigorating. Add the Dancin’ Sprouts kids’ concert series and you’ve got one of our family’s favorite summer activities. Musicians, children and parents sing, dance and play the early evening away in warm grass surrounded by vibrant flowers, lush plants and peaceful, flowing fountains.

Free Dancin’ Sprouts concerts are held every Wednesday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. June 11-Aug. 27. Picnicking is allowed on the Esplanade, so bring a cooler or stop at the Garden Café and Grille for delicious summer eats.

These interactive outdoor concerts reflect the garden’s participation in the Chicago Wilderness effort to “Leave No Child Inside.” It promotes time outdoors as ways to foster kids’ creativity, stimulate their imaginations and get that limitless energy out.

Michelle Cinqui, coordinator of visitor events, says the line-up this eighth year includes both fanrequested favorites as well as new-to-the-garden musicians, all from the Midwest.

Musicians here love to engage the children. My kids got to strum a guitar and even sing on stage.

Cinqui offers these concert-going tips:

112 goingplaces • Summer 2014

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“Bring a blanket and have fun. Take your shoes off and dance.”

My family loves the carefree feeling of these nights so much that we’re buying a Garden Plus membership, which includes free parking (normally $20 per car) as well as an opportunity to see the Model Railroad, experience the magic of Butterflies & Blooms and ride the tram for free on Wednesdays, too.

We hope to see you there dancin’ your socks off!

Cortney Fries

Chicago Botanic Garden ■ 1000

Lake Cook Road, Glencoe Wednesdays June 11-Aug. 27; chicagobotanic.org/interest/music/ dancin_sprouts.

■

ChicagoParent.com

5/8/14 4:50 PM

Before

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Why

DOLPHIN?

Small classes Warm water Amazing teachers Ribbons for level move-ups Free safety showcases Monthly parent conferences No sessions Ongoing registration

Call us for a FREE trial class.

We know you’ll love us.

Find out why Dolphin has the area’s BEST

SWIM LESSONS! With all of the extras we offer, it’s no wonder Dolphin Swim Club is the easy choice (and the BEST choice) for you and your family.

Learn how, sign up now for your FREE TRIAL LESSON! LESSON!™

CHICAGOLAND AREA

(847)854-1300 www.dolphinswimclub.com

Now with locations in Crystal Lake, Loves Park, Rockford and Skokie GP0514_CV4.indd 1

5/9/14 12:49 PM