Fabulous parks, zoos, and museums make this city one of the best to visit with your family.
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1. Hunt for Dinosaurs
While Sue, the largest, best-preserved T-Rex on the planet, is the star of The Field Museum, the new Creatures of Light exhibit, with interactive features like iPad games and a glow-worm cave, will wow kids too ($23 for 12 and up, $16 for kids 3 to 11, free for younger kids).
Courtesy of Shedd Aquarium
2. See the Fishes
With more than 32,500 animals representing 1,500 species, the Shedd Aquarium has plenty for families to explore. Two things not to miss: the seasonal stingray exhibit which runs through October (you can actually touch one) and the aquatic show with dolphins, whales, and sea otters. ($35 for 12 and up, $26 for kids ages 3 to 11, free for younger kids, with advance online purchase of the “total experience pass.”)
Courtesy of Adler Planetarium
3. Go Stargazing
The Adler Planetarium offers eight different shows, including One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure ($22 for 12 and up, $18 for kids 3 to 11 for admission and one show).
Courtesy of City of Chicago
4. Ride on a Ferris Wheel
Take a spin on the iconic Ferris Wheel at Navy Pier. The pier is also home to Chicago’s Children’s Museum and Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, where Shrek The Musical is playing from July 13 to September 1, 2013. Another show option: Cirque Shanghai is performing at Navy Pier through September 2.
Courtesy of American Girl Place
5. Go Shopping
Even the kids won’t mind an afternoon of shopping as long as American Girl Place and The Lego Store are on the list.
Courtesy Cesar Russ Photography
6. See the Bean at Millennium Park
This popular urban park has a three-story steel sculpture — dubbed “The Bean” — that’s become a photo opp for families because it reflects the Chicago skyline. Also don’t miss the Lurie garden and the Crown Fountain, where kids love to get wet.
Courtesy of the Lincoln Park Zoo
7. Visit the Zoo
A favorite among local families, the Lincoln Park Zoo costs nothing to enter. Don’t miss the Treetop Canopy Climbing Adventure.
Courtesy of City of Chicago
8. Take A Cruise
During a 90-minute tour, docents deliver cool facts about 50 buildings along the Chicago River.
Courtesy of Hyatt Chicago Magnificent Mile
9. Spend the Night
An easy walk to attractions, the newly renovated Hyatt Chicago Magnificent Mile woos kids with an indoor pool. (Rooms start at $179 per night.)
Courtesy of Hotel Lincoln
10. Get a Family Suite
Hotel Lincoln offers family suites with bunk beds, a kids’ table and chairs, and a step stool. (Family suites start at $309 per night.)
Copyright © 2013 Meredith Corporation.
This piece was accurate at publication time, but all prices, offerings and availabilities are subject to change. Please contact each hotel and attraction for up-to-date rates and information before taking your trip.
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