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Too windy? With museums, theatre and outdoors fun galore, Chicago is a happening destination for family travelers of all ages, and at all times of year.

Who said it had to be windy?  With museums, theatre and outdoors fun galore, Chicago is a happening destination for family travelers of all ages, and at all times of year. We didn't need the First Family to tell us how great Chicago is -- there's plenty to do in the Windy City for all visitors. For more general information, contact City of Chicago Tourism (877/Chicago or 312/744-2400). For current entertainment schedules and restaurant guides, check www.metromix.com.

Great Fun for the Kids

(Toddler to Age 8)

Chicago Children's Museum
700 East Grand Avenue at North Navy Pier
Chicago, IL 60611
312/527-1000
Take the kids to this museum and you can all explore. There are a great number of exhibits catering to preschoolers, such as the Waterways playroom, the BIG Backyard, an urban garden with giant insects and interactive flowers. The Dinosaur Expedition is modeled after the 1997 Saharan expedition and features an authentic excavation pit. This museum also has permanent exhibits on science, art, and bathrooms filled with facts about local inventions, such as roller skates, the zipper, and Cracker Jacks. If you are in town on Thursdays make sure to take advantage of Free Family Night.

Lincoln Park Zoo
2001 North Cannon Drive
Chicago, IL 60614
312/742-2000
A welcome respite from bustling downtown, the nation's oldest zoo rests on 35 acres of parkland in the heart of the city. Besides an animal collection that's a real treat in nice weather, there is the Lincoln Pritzker Children's Zoo featuring a new Walk in the Woods exhibit recreating the woodlands of North America with native creatures, such as the River Otter and American Beaver. With one of the largest zoo-based Conservation and Science Centers, many exhibits encourage visitors to learn by not only viewing, but by participating. In the Farm-in-the-Zoo, for instance, you can feed and milk the cows, as well as watch the daily milking demonstrations. There is also a farmhouse kitchen where guests can learn where food comes from. Did we mention that admission is always free?

Lifeline Theatre
6912 North Glenwood Avenue
Chicago, IL 60626
773/761-4477
Special-for-children productions including a regular schedule of new productions, classic tales or musicals and based on children's books, ranging from "Lyle Lyle Crocodile" to "The Dirty Cowboy."