I’ve spent the past few months sharing the places we’ve traveled with our little ones, but even with All the Places We’ve Been we still have so much to see and the list of places I still want to go is long! I always look to locals for input on what to do when visiting a new place so when I received the opportunity to collaborate with another mommy on sharing what we love to do in our own hometowns, I jumped on the opportunity! I was even more excited to see a mom’s view on Chicago which is on my short list of places in America I want to visit.
So here it is, Kendra Thornton’s take on Chicago (be sure to check back in next Traveling Tuesday when I’ll be sharing my favorite things about South Florida!):
A Home Away From Home
Home to incredible art museums, the Willis Tower, and some of the best pizza on the planet, the list of reasons I love Chicago is endless. Making your way to the “Windy City” promises experiences that will have you falling in love with the people, the architecture, and the culture as a whole the minute that you hit the city streets. Before you book your ticket, take moment to see just what the city has in store:
An American Town
The crisp temperatures that come with fall provide the perfect opportunity to warm up with fashion and food. Situated in the heart of the city, the Ralph Lauren restaurant, RL, provides a dining experience that will have your mouth watering for shopping as well. The menu is built on classic American cuisine, as is the selection of clothing located at the world’s largest Polo outfitting store that is adjacently located. Whether you are stopping for lunch or dinner, there is something heart-warming for every taste.
Sweet Home Chicago
One aspect of Chicago that makes it so appealing to people young and old is the beauty of the city itself. I have always been so fond of the way the city glows when the sun goes down and the city’s lights come on. This revered skyline can be an essential element in your stay when you find the hotel that is ideally suited for your travels. Using Gogobot, you can explore everything from rates and amenities to surrounding attractions and time-sensitive deals. This site has listings for Chicago hotels that will cater to every taste. Finding a hotel that meets your travel needs while still opening your eyes to the bright lights of the city has never been easier.
Something for Everyone
One of the reasons I am able to keep this city near to my heart is thanks to the huge variety of museums that are constantly drawing in visitors. Families who are making Chicago their vacation destination should be sure to make the Field Museum one of their first stops. Located on South Lake Shore Drive, this museum offers both fun and education as children explore history. It houses traveling exhibits in addition to a revered permanent collection that features dinosaur skeletons and a trip back through time. Admission is affordable, and there is no better way to combine fun and education when looking for something to do as a family.
Art and Nature
Combining these two aspects of the city into one outing creates an adventure that nowhere else can offer. Skokie Sculpture Park on the North Shore creates this unique opportunity for visitors. It is home to over two miles of gorgeous scenery and impressive sculptures lining the walkways. Just off the east side of McCormick Boulevard, this locale is a fantastic, different type of option to bring your family to. This is not the typical family activity, and Skokie Sculpture Park is a fun way to get your children excited about art. It is beautiful year-round, and its features both local and international artists.
