Getting more exercise, eating healthier or spending more time with family likely made your 2020 New Year’s resolution list. . . or maybe those are on-going life goals no matter the date on the calendar. We did a deep-dive to give you ideas on getting and staying healthy and including your family in on the lifestyle. Read on for ideas that range from our favorite juice spots to active birthday party ideas.
Where to juice
Real Good Juice Co.
Ditch the over-sugared juices you find in the supermarket and intro your kids to Chicago's fresh-squeezed juice scene. (Psst. . . it’s a pretty sweet way to sneak in veggies!) You'll find juice bars and cafes that focus on all-natural goodness and have family-friendly atmospheres in our story Sip, Sip, Hurray! The Best Local Juice Bars for Kids.
Get kids in on the gym life
enerGEEwhiz
From a wildly cool fitness-focused studio created just for kids to a typically adult-centric facility that gets kids in on the crossfit craze, you can find a gym that caters to your family's interests in our story Our Favorite Fitness Spots for Kids.
You gotta eat, so why not plan a family date night that gets you up and moving at the same time? Right across the street from Wrigley Field, you'll find Lucky Strike Social offering bowling, pool, air hockey and over 100 games and Punch Bowl Social in the West Loop has bowling, shuffleboard, classic gaming and VR gaming. Find these and more in our story Chicago’s Themed Restaurants You HAVE to Try at Least Once (some are most definitely cheat-day approved).
Teach your kids to swim
Goldfish Swim School
Knowing how to swim, even if it's just the basics, is one of those life skills everyone should have. Even babies who are still in the weeble-wobble stage can get in on the fun. In our story 7 Swimming Schools That Will Float Your Boat, we found schools that focus on everything from playful instruction to I-wanna-be-Michael-Phelps-some-day competitive training.
Indoors, outdoors . . find your favorite swim spot
To make things EXTRA exciting, Raging Waves is adding a new waterslide this summer. The Aussie Mat Race is a six-lane mat racing waterslide where six riders race side-by-side in tunnels to the bottom. With only two such slides installed in the world, the Aussie Mat Dash will be a welcome addition to your summertime fun.
Outside, America’s preeminent active lifestyle brand, is hosting Outside Experience, presented by Go RVing, May 16 and May 17 at Northerly Island. This festival will showcase new products and interactive demos from leading active lifestyle brands and travel destinations. Attendees will test gear, enjoy films and live music and sip craft whiskey and beer—all in a festive, family-friendly, indoor/outdoor environment.
Explore and dance with Chicago Botanic Garden (and go granola!)
Chicago Botanic Garden
Lucky us, Chicago Botanic Garden offers programming all year long that keeps us outside and in awe of nature's beauty. While Butterflies and Blooms (May 23-Sept. 2), their Model Railroad Garden (May 9-Sept. 2) and Summer Evenings (Weekdays, Jun.-Labor Day) programming are kid-favorites, they are also hosting a family class on how to make your own granola(Mar. 28) — which most definitely helps work toward your stay-healthy goals.
Take a walk
Morton Arboretum, Daniel Popper
It's not hard to be inspired to walk when you have places like Morton Arboretum in your 'hood. Just as they say goodbye to their uber-cool Troll Hunt exhibit in June, which features 15- to 20-foot-tall trolls hiding in the woods, they welcome Humans+Nature, which includes 5 massive sculptures that bring attention to the deep connections between humans and nature.
While there is plenty of Labor Day fun to be had in the DMV, if you haven’t made plans yet, you may be hard-pressed to find something that isn’t packed with people. Plan B? Get out of town! Here are some last-minute, off-the-beaten-path options that are just a quick day trip away.
Waterfront family fun is a great way to enjoy your long weekend away. The capital of Maryland is a quaint town filled with on-the-water options and Chesapeake Bay-side activities. Future sailors will love the 2-hour cruise on the 74-foot schooners Woodwind and Woodwind II. If your Littles prefer adventures on dry land, try the Discover Annapolis trolley tour. And, a weekend in downtown isn’t complete without a little taste test of the Maryland Blue Crab. It might as well be the state crustacean. Your kiddos will love that they get to play with their food and eat it too.
Head a few miles north of Rehoboth Beach (which is bound to be crazy-crowded anyways) to this historic Delaware town filled with scenic hiking and biking trails, sand dunes and perfect-for-picnicking parks. Kids will love the Fisherman’s Wharf, for fishing, boating, and chowing down on shrimp and crab cakes. If you have time, stop by the Zwaanendael Museum where you can get a peek at a Merman statue made out of fish, hair, ivory, a shrunken monkey head, oak, glass and dye. Weird? Yes! But, totally worth a look.
With over 14,000 acres of beaches and forest land, this tucked-away island on Virginia’s eastern shore is a nature-loving kid’s dream. They’ll scope wild ponies, search for seaweed, mussels, clams and crabs, and ooh and ahh at amazing birds (think: herons, ospreys, and bald eagles). Put an exclamation point at the end of the day by visiting Island Creamery for a “Marsh Mud” cone—a thick chocolate ice cream that really resembles a scoop of mud.
Loudoun County is lined with beautiful farmland and tons of farm animal fun. Temple Hall Farm Regional Park is a working farm and home to many unique animals. Your tiny farmers can visit with the Texas Longhorns, pigs, goats, sheep and a couple super friendly peacocks. Leesburg Animal Park is another great fur and feather feeding adventure. Don’t head out before your kids take a pony or wagon ride around the park. Rainy day? Don’t worry! There is a 3-level indoor jungle play slide with a giant slide and trampoline.
Insider tip: Every spring and fall, stop by multiple farm destinations during the Loudoun County Farm Tour. For two days each season, local working farms open their doors to the public. It is a fun family day and a great opportunity to shop local.
Beach town is the best way to describe this seaside gem. The bustling boardwalk has tons of games, shops and the best French fries around. Family days on the beach are always full of fun, but there are some great spots away from the sand. Dumser’s Dairyland has been around since the 1940s and it is still a delicious step back in time. The oceanfront carnival at the end of the boardwalk is full of spinning rides and neon lights. Be sure to stop by Bike World to rent a family bike. It is a summer vacation memory you won’t soon forget.
Harper’s Ferry, WV (1 hour, 10 minutes by train from DC)
Skip car traffic altogether, and take Amtrak to this town that is the site of a National Historical park by the same name. At the park you can skip rocks into the Potomac, stroll the picturesque trails along the Shenendoah or pitch a tent for a sleepover. Train lovers won’t want to miss a visit to the Brunswick Heritage and Railroad Museum—there’s a massive interactive model railroad to play with.
Insider tip: Tiny tots in tow? Grab the carrier. It is tough to navigate the cobblestone streets and natural stone steps with a stroller.
Travel back in time this Labor Day with a trip to Pea Patch Island (named when a 19th century ship carrying peas wrecked here). A nature preserve that boasts one of the largest wading-bird nesting areas on the East Coast, Pea Patch Island will delight your mini-hikers and animal enthusiasts. To get to the island you’ll take a 1/2 mile ferry boat ride ($12/adults; $7/kids 2-12). Once you’re there learn about blacksmithing at Fort Delaware, bird watch, or just kickback on a picnic blanket with your packed lunch.
The rural town (nestled between Hagerstown and Frederick) is hands-down adorable. With a strong colonial slant, the charming town is home to historic bed and breakfasts (one owned by author Nora Roberts!), Shafer Park (with plenty of open space to while the Labor Day away), and a restored 1902 trolley station.
Although we love the picturesque and historical aspects of the city, there’s much more to Lynchburg than meets the eye. Don’t miss Amazement Square, a hands-on museum in downtown. Your little Picasso can even paint on the walls. Stop by the Lynchburg Community Market – the third oldest farmer’s market in the country – for a yummy meal. Green Market Wednesday is a special treat. If they didn’t grow it, they aren’t selling it. Round out your getaway with a whole lot of love. The LOVE sculpture is a cool outdoor-themed art piece and the perfect #LoveVA photo op.
Choose your Labor Day adventure in Lehigh Valley, located a day trip away on the western edge of New Jersey. If you haven’t made a splash yet at the northeast’s most popular water park Dorney Park, might as well do it sooner than later. For the little adventure seekers in your brood check out kid-friendly Whitewater Rafting Adventures, which takes guided trips down the Lehigh River. Artsy tykes will get a kick out of the Crayola Factory that offers a ton of different hands on activities, plus a cool demo on how crayons are made.
Charlottesville, VA (2 hours and 15 minutes from DC)
Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western Central Virginia, Charlottesville is cuteness personified. Check out the Downtown Walking Mall, an adorable tree-lined, brick-paved pedestrian mall complete with an ice arena, movie theater, toy stores, and eateries galore. Virginia Discovery Museum, City Market, and the lawn at UVA are also kid-appealing.
Don’t limit yourself to staying too close to home when planning that last-minute trip. Make the trek to Pittsburgh and you won’t be disappointed. Travelers of all ages will geek out over all the STE(A)M fun at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Spinning chairs, life-sized gears and a 15-foot toy car track are just a few of the interactive exhibits waiting for your tiny scientists. The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium boasts a lunch spot directly across from the African Savannah exhibit. Your Littles can scope out the Giraffes over chicken tenders and fries. Plan an expedition to Dinosaurs in Their Time at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. It is rumored to be one of the best dino viewing spots in the country.
Tis true, Chicago summers are the bomb. And while it’s nice to ditch the school-time schedule, sometimes the days are long and it’s hard to find fun new ways to fill the calendar without blasting the budget. Lucky for you, the nanny or the grandparents (whoever happens to be on kid duty), we did a bit of research and found ways to keep the kids moving, learning, laughing and happy every weekday. Read on and start loading up your Palm Pilot (you still have one of those, right?) with to-dos.
Monday, Monday . . . so good to us!
Adler Planetarium
Young Explorer's Monday. Calling all curious explorers! Children and their families can try stellar hands-on activities like flying a kite, hear stories under the stars, and more. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus; Monday, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Baby & Me. Parents, grandparents and caregivers are invited to a weekly group aimed at helping adjust to a new baby. A nurse representative will be on-hand to answer questions and facilitate discussions. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Monday, 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m.
Music-Free Monday. Start your week off with jumps at Airtastic’s Music FREE Mondays. They turn off the music to remove extra noise that can be bothersome for some children. Airtastic, 850 S. Frontenac St., Aurora; Monday, 10 a.m.
Preschool Story Time. Walk into the pages of a book with interactive storytelling led by expert museum staff. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Monday, 11 a.m.
Shadow Puppet Story Time. Cozy up for a story with Bill and his trusty sidekick who puts on an amazingly shadowy performance. Wonder Works Children's Museum, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park; Monday, 11 a.m.
Bells in the Garden. Enjoy an enchanting performance of carillon bells, and even try your hand at ringing them yourself. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe; Monday, 4 p.m.-9 p.m. (Thru Labor Day)
Movies on the Lake. Prepare your blankets, lawn chairs and capes as the Pier presents “the summer of superheroes,” a showing of D.C. and Marvel film favorites during their Water Flicks series. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Streeterville; Monday, 6:30 p.m. (Thru August 12)
That's Weird Grandma: Fantastic Beasts and the Stories About Them. Meet the strange and wonderful creatures created by Barrel of Monkeys' students in Fantastic Beasts and the Stories About Them. Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Andersonville; Monday, 8 p.m. (Thru August 24)
Toe Tingling Fun on Tuesday
Play Logan Square
Little Playtimes. The tiniest LEGO® fans are invited to join in for fun and learning featuring educational activities during a time the Center is open exclusively for them. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago, 601 N. Martingale Rd., Schaumburg; Tuesday, 10 a.m.-noon.
Piertastic Tuesday. Every Tuesday this summer, from Jun. 11-Sep. 3, Chicago Children's Museum is offering 2-for-1 general admissions. Chicago Children's Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., Streeterville; Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Thru September 3)
Wiggleworms. The acclaimed Wiggleworms program is making Gallagher Way an absolute must-go-to. Start your morning with the catchy tunes and tons of fun that's synonomous with Wiggleworms. Gallagher Way at Wrigley Field, 3635 N. Clark St., Lakeview; Tuesday, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (Thru September 24)
Story Time Mixed with a Smidgen of Play. This unique children’s toy store has a great selection of books amongst their toys because they understand story time is play time! Play, 3109 W. Logan Blvd., Logan Square; Tuesday, 11 a.m.
Eat Free at Hofbrauahus. Bring the kids hungry and they can eat for free while you indulge in traditional german faire. Hofbrauhaus Chicago, 5500 Park Place, Rosemont; Tuesday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Kitchen Creations. Junior chefs are invited every other Tuesday to Kitchen Creations, featuring farm-to-table food prep and nutritious eating. Your kids will transform a variety of ingredients into healthy snacks, salads and more. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Every other Tuesday, 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. (Thru September 24)
Tinkering Tuesdays. This every-other Tuesday program encourages children to do what they do best: let their curiosity soar. They get to explore the world of engineering by building machines and creating processes, and then discover what happens when they make changes. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Every other Tuesday, 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Toddler Time with Miss Dawn-Marie. Dawn-Marie's Toddler Jam is a place for kids to let loose and parents to connect with one another. From the typical toddler tunes to toddlerized mainstream music, there’s something to appeal to the pickiest of tastes. Black Dog Gelato, 859 N. Damen, West Town; Tuesday, 3 p.m.-4 p.m.
Special Needs Day. Sky High Sports turns off the music, dims the lights and dials down the distractions for the comfort of guests who need a bit of calm. Sky High Sports, 6424 Howard St., Niles & 2244 Corporate Ln., Naperville; Tuesday, 3 p.m.-6 p.m.
Big Band. Watch the sun set over Smith Fountain as you listen to anything from big band to swing to bluegrass tunes as part of the Summer Evening series. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe; Tuesday, 4 p.m.-9 p.m. (Thru Labor Day)
Get Silly with Mr. Singer. Sway along to a joyful jamboree featuring animal songs and dances for wee ones. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park; Wednesday, 9:15 a.m. & 10 a.m.
Story Time at Volumes Bookcafe. Pop into this book café for storytime with the ridiculously fun owner, a former pre-K teacher, Miss Kimberly. Volumes Book Cafe, 1474 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wicker Park; Wednesday, 10 a.m.
Tunes with Mr. Drew. Mr. Drew will showcase his guitar, drum and singing skills to take your kids on a musical adventure, followed by instrument exploration. Tiny Tunes Studio, 69th E. 16th St., Near Southside; Wednesday, 10:15 a.m.-11 a.m.
Story Times at Women & Children First. This femme-focused bookstore hosts a morning of singing, dancing and silliness. Women & Children First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark St., Andersonville; Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m.
Paint Covered Wednesdays. Kids use a variety of paints, methods and canvases as they learn to express their stories, to create new things and expand their understanding of the world around them. Wonder Works, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park; Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Story Time at Barnes & Noble. Chi-town tots are invited to a free storytime in the kiddy section. Making the offer even sweeter, it's sometimes accompanied by various treats from the café. Barnes & Noble, 1441 W. Webster Ave., Lincoln Park; Wednesday, 11 a.m.
Science Sleuths. Watch your kids morph into scientists as they study evidence, make predictions and test their hypotheses. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Wednesday, 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
A K-3 Storytime. Walk into the pages of a book with interactive storytelling led by expert museum staff. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Wednesday, 3:30 p.m.
Dancin' Sprouts. The garden invites their youngest visitors for an evening of live music with their Dancin' Sprouts series during Summer Evenings programming. Chicago Botanic Garden, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Wednesday, 4 p.m.-9 p.m. (Thru Labor Day)
3D Fireworks Cruise. Enjoy a stunning getaway right in the city with Mercury Cruises' midweek Chicago fireworks cruises, departing Wednesdays every week during the summer months. Mercury Cruises, 112 E. Wacker Dr., The Loop; Wednesday, 8:15 p.m.
Thursdays . . . almost to the weekend!
57th Street Books
Sing with Mr. Dave. Imbued with themes of love, learning, positivity and activity, Mr. Dave revs up the fun-o-meter with unbeatable beats, melodic elements and poetic rhymes. Lincoln Commons, 2345 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincoln Park; Thursday, 10 a.m.
Sewing Workshop. Let Wonder Works' sewing master teach your kids the basics, with hands-on projects that are the perfect intro to sewing. Wonder Works Children's Museum, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park; Thursday, 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Music Jam . Have your books with a side of musical jam at Play. Play, 3109 W. Logan Blvd., Logan Square; Thursday, 11 a.m. (Thru August 29)
Music in the Park. Celebrate summer with the Rockin' in the Park free summer concert series. The weekly concerts feature cover band music, food and beverage tents and a musical fireworks display. Parkway Bank Park, 5001 Park Place, Rosemont; Thursday, 7 p.m.-10 p.m. (Thru August 29)
Music Time with Mr. Sam. Not only will your kids have the time of their lives, Mr. Sam's energetic and engaging performances leave them also feeling super special. Tiny Tunes Studio, 69 E. 16th St., Near Southside; Thursday, 12:15 p.m.-1 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.-5:15 p.m.
Theatre Games. Through a variety of creative dramatic exercises, kids will enhance motor skills, problem-solving, listening and speaking skills, following directions and building confidence. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Thursday, 1:30 p.m.
Toying with Tech. Introduce kids to the exciting world of technology in a way that’s developmentally appropriate with themes that change monthly. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Every other Thursday, 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Play Late. Enjoy a discounted night wandering three floors of play, discovery and imagination. Chicago Children's Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., Navy Pier; Thursday, 4 p.m.-8 p.m.
Dance in the Garden. Your dancing shoes will get a workout when you kick it up a notch with high-energy dance beats. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe; Thursday, 4 p.m.-9 p.m. (Thru Labor Day)
Family Night. Head to the Children’s Garden for after-hours fun with live music, kid-friendly fare and entertainment. Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL-53, Lisle; Thursday, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. (Thru August 15)
Get Silly with Mr. Singer. Sway along to a joyful jamboree featuring animal songs and dances for wee ones. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park. Friday, 9:15 a.m. & 10 a.m.
Shadow Puppet Story Time. Cozy up for a story with Bill and his trusty sidekick who puts on an amazingly shadowy performance. Wonder Works Children's Museum, 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park; Friday, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Math Counts. Introduce your kids to the wonderful world of math in a fun, informative way with Math Counts. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Friday, 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.
Kid Fitness. Kids are invited to enjoy a complimentary bounce house, carnival games, a variety of sports and giant Connect Four. Lincoln Common, 2345 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincoln Park; Friday, 3 p.m.
Zoo Summer Nights. Families are treated to roaming entertainers, live music on the kid’s stage, close-up animal encounters and a laser light show, all surrounded by the intrigues of the zoo. Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield; Friday, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. (Thru August 10)
Activities that happen on the daily
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Fantastic Bug Encounters. Discover how bugs’ incredible adaptations are changing the world through interactives, larger-than-life models and a bug zoo where visitors will be able to see (and even hold) live bugs. The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus; Daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Troll Takeover. Something special has emerged from the woods, meadows and vast open spaces. . . unusual creatures, each made of reclaimed wood and measuring 15- to 20-feet-tall. Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL-53, Lisle; Daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Brick Safari. Brookfield Zoo's temporary exhibit, Brick Safari, features more than 40 life-size animal sculptures created from millions of LEGO bricks. Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd. Brookfield; Daily, 10 a.m.
Art Adventures. Kohl Children's Museum invites you to create together with your child in guided art activities based on monthly themes. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Daily, 10 a.m.-noon & 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
Model Railroad Garden. Experience the delightful sights and sounds of miniature trains traversing high and low tunnels, across bridges and around buildings. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe; Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Meet the Discovery Squad. Be on the lookout for the men and women in black to take a peek behind the curtain and learn about the vast collections in the vaults. The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. Museum Campus. Thursday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Fitness for All. Teach the kids how to get and stay healthy at Fitness for All. Whether it’s an opportunity to build endurance, stretch muscles, build gross motor skills, Kohl Children's Museum will help put the active in interactive. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Daily, 10 a.m.-noon.
Garden Buddies. Visit Habitat Park to learn about seeds, weeds, worms, fruits, vegetables and the joys of digging in the dirt. Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview; Daily, 10 a.m.-noon.
Bixbee Imagination Station. Take the littles to see this experiential popup and retail shop featuring an immersive, interactive experience for kids and the kid in you. North Avenue Collection, 915 W. North Ave,, Lincoln Park; Daily, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Free Summer Movie Escape. Make summer more fun, and a bit cheaper, with Free Kids Movie Escape where guests can see movies at no charge. CMX Market Cinema, 4999 Old Orchard Rd., Skokie; Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m. (Thru August 1)
Discounted Summer Bowling. Beat the heat this summer and bring the family in for a game of bowling, where kids can bowl for just $3/hour. Pinstripes, 435 E. Illinois, Streeterville; Daily, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
We’re saying goodbye to a November to remember — unseasonably warm weather, our first snow fall and a month packed full of family fun — and saying a happy hello to an equally fabulous December. This month, take in the final presentation of Robert Joffrey’s Nutcracker, hit up Christkindlmarket or take to the skies for an unforgettable lights tour. Check out our Editor’s picks for wintry family fun in the Windy City.
photo: Museum of Science’s Small World of Christmas Magic
(1) It’s a Small World of Christmas Magic
It’s an international winter wonderland at Christmas Around the World. Your family will be enchanted by the trees and displays that are decorated to represent the rich multicultural heritage of Chicago. Of course, the crown jewel will be the The Grand Tree with 30,000 twinkling lights, sparkly ornaments and all of the trimmings. The kiddos can get into the holiday spirit while they sing along to holiday classics and play in flurries of snow that fall every half hour.
When: Through Jan. 3 Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Museum of Science, 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr., Hyde Park Cost: free with admission (non-residents: $18/adults, $11/children 3-11; residents: $15/adults, $10/children 3-11) Online:msichicago.org
(2) Up, Up, Up! Get a Birds-Eye View of Holiday Lights
Buckle up and take your holiday lights enjoyment to all new heights with a birds-eye view from 1,200 feet above the crowd. New this year, Chicago Helicopter Experience, a helicopter touring company with a heliport in Bridgeport, is offering guests sky-high views of Chicago’s magnificent light displays. The pilot gives a guided-tour of the lights at Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, Millennium Park and the Chicago skyline, which is breathtaking no matter the time of year but exponentially so during the holidays.
When: Through Jan. 3 Hours: 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Where: Chicago Helicopter Experience Heliport, 2420 S. Halsted, Bridgeport Cost: $178/person Online:chetours.com or tinybeans.go-vip.net
(3) Chriskindlmarket
Bundle up for this outdoor market that brings the cherished German and European tradition of the Christkindesmarkt in Germany to Chicago and adds a heap of local charm. Head to Daley Plaza, where you’ll see the market’s signature wooden cabins topped with festive red-and-white-striped canopies, each packed with handmade gifts, food and drinks from around the world and many are run by native German speakers. Shop, eat, enjoy free entertainment, repeat – and be sure to say “guten tag” to Santa Claus.
When: Through Dec. 24 Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Where: On Daley Plaza, Between Dearborn, Washington & Clark St., The Loop Cost: Free Online:christkindlmarket.com
(4) Mrs. Claus! A Holiday Musical
Chicago Kids Company – Theater for Children (CKC) presents Mrs. Claus! A Holiday Musical. This holiday classic and audience favorite returns for its 17th consecutive year. CKC’s biggest and most colorful show will put children and adults alike in the holiday spirit. Join Mrs. Claus as she teams up with the new Elf Class of 2015 to find Santa’s missing list in time for Christmas. Can Mrs. Claus and the elves save the holidays?
When: Dec. 3-Dec. 23 Hours: 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Where: Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St., Beverly Cost: $12 Online:chicagokidscompany.com
(5) Let the Joffrey Ballet Take Your Breath Away
The question isn’t if you are going to see the 28th annual, and final, presentation of Robert Joffrey’s The Nutcracker. It’s when. This epic smash replaces the traditional European setting with a 19th-century American home. It features the acclaimed Joffrey Ballet dancers, elegant costumes, an extravagant set by Oliver Smith, local children’s choruses, 118 young dancers and a giant Mother Ginger puppet by Kermit Love. They all weave together in a story of Clara and the mysterious Dr. Drosselmeyer, who embark on an incredible adventure.
When: Dec. 4-Dec. 27 Hours: Varies (see website for times) Where: The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., The Loop Cost: $32-$136 Online:joffrey.org
(6) A Dazzling Holiday Trolley Ride
The coolest way to watch the winking and blinking of holiday lights is by trolley. Hook up with Chicago Trolley Co. for its annual Holiday Lights Tour. The lightly narrated two-and-a-half-hour adventure shows the best of Chicago’s holiday lights and stops at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Zoolights show. Sights on the tour include The Magnificent Mile, Macy’s holiday windows, Christkindlmarket, the John Hancock and Daley Plaza trees, Millennium Park and more.
When: Through Jan. 3 Hours: Varies Where: Tour departs from the John Hancock Observatory, 875 N. Michigan Ave., Magnificent Mile Cost: Adults, $29; children, $19 Online: coachusa.com
(7) Watch Zoolights Illuminate the Night Sky
One of the nation’s only free-admission zoos flips the holiday switch with ZooLights. With the light displays throughout the grounds your fam can stroll through for holiday crafts, take photos with Santa, enjoy food and drinks, watch ice carving demos, partake in carousel rides and go-’rounds on the new Lionel Train Adventure, all while admiring the explosion of multi-colored lights.
When: Dec. 4-6, Dec. 11-23, Dec. 26-Dec. 31 Hours: 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, Fullerton Pkwy. & Cannon Dr., Lincoln Park Cost: Free Online:lpzoo.org
(8) A Winter Thrill Fill at Navy Pier
Get your thrill fill at Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest, which has rides for all ages. New attractions this year include the Polar Extreme, a double-sided inflatable slide and obstacle course, interactive Arctic Peaks Climbing Walls and an expanded, more challenging Winter Rules mini golf course sure to offer an additional layer of friendly competition and frozen holiday fun.
When: Dec. 5-Jan. 10 Hours: Varies Where: 600 E. Grand Ave. Navy Pier Cost: General admission is $9 online & $10 walk-up. Activity ticket $23 online & $25 walk-up Online:navypier.com
(9) Enjoy Lights, Ice Carving and Magic at Holiday Magic
Celebrate Holiday Magic at Chicagoland’s largest lights festival featuring one million twinkling LED lights illuminating Brookfield Zoo’s walkways. This year’s festival will feature nearly 550 trees decorated by local community organizations and corporations, singing to the animals, professional ice carving demonstrations, Zoo Chats, photo opps with animals, live entertainment, a model railroad display, a 41-foot talking tree and more! New this year: Polar Lights, an interactive light extravaganza with accompanying music which allows zoogoers to activate and control the color and shape of 30 moving lights.
When: Sat. & Sun. in December & Dec. 28-31 Hours: Zoo is open 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; festivities start at 4 p.m. Where: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 W. 31st St., Brookfield Cost: free with admission ($16.95/adults; $11.95/children 3-11 & seniors 65 & over; free for ages 2 & under) Online:czs.org
(10) Jingle Bell Jamboree
Enter a world of holiday magic at the Jingle Bell Jamboree! Bring the whole family and be charmed with live holiday music by the Chicago Sinfonetta, enjoy the sugar and spice of decorating cookies in Mrs. Claus’s Bakery and prepare to summon Santa’s reindeer with a magical treat and tradition. Don’t forget to leave a letter for Santa Claus, too! Registrations recommended.
When: Dec. 19 Hours: 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Where: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville Cost: $7/adult (ages 13+), $5/youth, Settlement-6 members and above Online:napersettlement.org
Big plans for December? Tell us all about it in the Comments below!
A holiday season without model train shows is like the North Pole without elves. Don’t let this jolly time of year pass you by without seeing one! The following four miniature trains are chugging and choo-choo’ing near you — and each have something different to offer.
photo: Chicago Botanic Garden
Wonderland Express at Chicago Botanic Garden
Outdoors at the North Shore’s garden paradise, you can walk meandering pathways and soak up more than 750,000 outdoor lights. Indoors, things are just as magical. In Nichols Hall, watch garden-scale trains wind past miniature replicas of more than 80 Chicago-area landmarks, including Navy Pier, Soldier Field and Millennium Park. These landmarks are no ordinary tchotchkes — they’ve been crafted from natural materials like moss, leaves, bark and acorns. Another model train will weave by more landmarks set around the North Pool of Krehbiel Gallery, transformed into an English country train platform. If all this chugging around has made you hungry, you can whet your whistle at the Caboose Café and Wonderland Express Shoppe, which offers refreshments and souvenirs, including a memory book detailing how the replicas were created by Applied Imagination Studio.
Held thru Jan. 3
Tickets: $12/adults; $10/ages 3-12; Free for ages 2 & under. Members receive $2 off each ticket. Prices are half price on Tuesdays.
1000 Lake-Cook Rd.
Glencoe
847-835-5440
Online: chicagobotanic.org
photo: LEGO Train Show
LEGO Train Show at Cantigny Park
This blink-and-you’ll-miss-it show transforms the entire Cantigny Visitors Center into a brick lover’s dream. Produced by the Northern Illinois LEGO Train Club, it last two days only and takes an entire day to set up. You’ll get up close to cabooses, engines, cargo and mini conductors made entirely of LEGOs. The public is invited to an opening night party on Sat., Dec. 12, from 6-8 p.m. It’s your chance to enjoy the show without lines and meet the builders. Snacks, desserts and hot chocolate will be served and a cash bar will be available. This year, visitors to the show are encouraged to bring a new and unwrapped toy for the Marine Toys for Tots drop boxes inside the Cantigny Visitors Center. Those bringing a toy will receive FREE parking.
Held Dec. 12 & 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission is free (parking is $5)
1s151 Winfield Rd.
Wheaton
630-668-5161
Online: cantigny.org
photo: Chicago Park District
Winter Flower & Train Show at Lincoln Park Conservatory
This is a train show Santa himself would be proud of. In the Show House, an old-fashioned steam engine and freight trains wind their way through a pint-sized village nestled amid poinsettias and princettias. In fact, it’s the beautiful winter blooms (Luv U Pink, Merlot, Ice Punch and Infinity Polar) that make this show so alluring. The village is comprised entirely of natural materials, including willow, spruce and birch woods. Imagine yourself in the conductor’s seat as the train passes by a variety of Chicago-style homes and famous buildings like The Chicago Theatre and Chicago Water Tower Place.
Held Nov. 27-Jan 3; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission is free
2391 N. Stockton Dr.
Lincoln Park
312-742-7736
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com
photo: Morton Arboretum
Enchanted Railroad at Morton Arboretum
This one usually pulls into the station over the holidays. But this year, because of the wildly popular “Illumination” light show happening at the Arboretum, the 13th annual mini train exhibit will be on view in January. Expect an intricate model railroad winding through a new four-seasons-themed display. Good news for toddlers: The display is designed to be easily seen from two feet off the ground. In fact, there are two levels of trains to ogle.
Held Jan. 15-Feb. 21; Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Included in Arboretum general admission ($9/adults; $6 youth; free for ages 2 & under)
4100 Illinois Route 53
Lisle
630-968-0074
Online: mortonarb.org
Do you have a favorite train exhibit? Shout about it in the Comments!
