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Top 5 Family Entertainment Destinations in the Chicago Area

Kids viewing a turtle at the Shedd Aquarium in...

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If you’re looking for family-fun adventure, then the “windy city” of Chicago will be sure to take your breath away. You will enjoy scenic views and unforgettable attractions. Here are the top five family entertainment destinations in the Chicago area.

1. Shedd Aquarium

Located in the Museum Campus in Chicago, this aquarium in 2011 was rated the top 10 best aquariums in the U.S. by MyTravelGuidePost.com. The aquarium features aquatic shows with dolphins, seals and penguins, exhibits of coral reefs, jelly fish and mysterious Amazon creatures like crocodiles and anacondas.

2.  Adler Planetarium

Housed along Chicago’s scenic Shore Drive, this planetarium has family-fun activities like interactive space shows, moon exhibits, sky watching and science activities for kids. Your family can save money with the Go Chicago Card that’s accepted at this planetarium and other area attractions.

3. Lincoln Park Zoo

This wildlife oasis in Chicago is opened 365 days a year and has free admission. Top exhibits at the zoo includes the Regenstein’s African Journey and Center for African Apes. These exhibits feature giraffes, elephants, rhinos and families of apes.

4. LegoLand Discovery Center

This children wonderland is located in Schaumburg 45 minutes outside Chicago. Legoland features a factory that displays colorful buildings created from plastic, a jungle adventure, rides and an area where kids can build and test their own creations.

5. SkyDeck Chicago – Willis Tower

This skyscraper is dubbed one of the “7 Wonders of Chicago” and is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. The SkyDeck has 103 floors and daring visitors can step into the glass-box ledge that extends four feet outside the building.

 

 

 

 

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Gardens Among the Stone: Chicago

Jay Pritzker Pavilion - December 12, 2008
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Nestled among the Great Lakes where watersheds and rivers converge is Chicago. This collection of steel and stone stands as one of the country’s most famed destinations.

Incorporated in 1837, it has bloomed into the third largest city in the United States (shattering census records and witnessing endless swells of its population, a reflection of its varied heritage. Immigrants flocked to the area during its conception, looking for new opportunities). Its bold architecture, distinct districts and modern beauty mark it an ideal location for those craving excitement.

There is peace to find within the glass borders, however: Millennium Park offers refuge from the crowds.

Tucked within Chicago’s downtown area (which is recommended for all potential residents. A moving company quote will help to detail the costs of seeking property here) is 25 acres of unexpected greenery. Millennium Park constructed between 1998 and 2004 allows guests to experience a variety of outdoor pleasures. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion offers concerts and events. Crown Fountain combines water, light and streaming videos for an interactive experience. The Lurie Garden sweeps gently among the skyscraper shadows. BP Pedestrian Bridge is an architectural delight, with its girders curving wildly. And the Harris Theater is an open-air venue that boasts some of the most dynamic performances in Illinois. There is much to do.

Millennium Park is often touted as Chicago’s most ambitious project and all visitors will quickly agree. Its unique appeal cannot be denied, and those craving more than concrete will find it to be perfect. It is a combination of art, gardens and sophistication: much like the city itself.

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Fun Activities To Do While On A Cruise

Cruises are quickly becoming the number one option for a family vacation. You can never go wrong with vacationing aboard an elegant and fun cruise ship during your next family vacation.

When going on a cruises you can pick which exotic location you’d like to visit. Whether it’s the Caribbean, Hawaii or the Bahamas, you can’t possibly go wrong.

There are endless amounts of activities your family can partake in while on vacation. There are so many activities that even your young children be a part of and enjoy. From parties to pirate training to special shows, group activities and the various pools, cruise lines will go all out to make sure that everyone in your family is having a non-stop fun-filled vacation. Group activities are great since your children can interact with other kids their age while on vacation.

While the children are off learning and enjoying group activities, parents can take advantage of the many casinos, pools or golf courses the cruise ship has to offer.Vacations not just meant for children to have fun, but parents can have a fabulous time as well.

Once the fun winds down a little bit, you can unwind at the spa that’s located on your cruise ship. There’s a kids pool for the young children and a larger pool for adults. The nice thing about cruises is they make stops. Depending on the location, you can go on an adventurous hike in the woods or do some snorkeling in the ocean.

Going on a cruise is the best choice for your next family vacation. Say goodbye to boring trips and hello to exciting and adventurous vacations.

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Feeling Blue this Winter? Get Green Aboard Shoreline’s St. Patrick Day Cruise

It’s time to grab your Guinness and long (preferably green) underwear for Chicago’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Cruise! While some might argue that March is not an ideal time of year for a cruise around the Chicago River, this event’s track record of selling out begs to differ. The Irish will raise a glass, elements be damned, so come join this hearty (or possibly crazy) stock on March 12th.

This cruise is worth taking, if for no other reason than to see the Chicago River in all its emerald glory. For over forty years, the river is dyed green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, and this year will be no exception. See it up close up while enjoying some of the traditional Irish fare that will be offered buffet-style aboard this expedition provided by Shoreline Cruises. While you munch on (potatoes?) you can learn about the role of the Irish in forming the great city of Chicago we see today.

To avoid conflicts with the popular St. Patrick’s Day Parade, there will be two departures available for the St. Patrick’s Day Lunch Cruise that will be offered pre (10:00 a.m.) and post (2:00 p.m.) parade festivities. Both cruises last about an hour and a half and depart from the Shoreline docks at Ogden Slip, located near the entrance of the Navy Pier. Tickets for these cruises are $31 for adults, $29 for seniors, and $17 for children.

If the green water isn’t enough of a draw for you, perhaps fireworks will do the trick. Shoreline is offering a third cruise in the evening for prime viewing of the St. Patrick’s Day fireworks. These tickets are priced at $32 for patrons of all ages and tickets for the three cruises will open for sale on March 7th.  The fireworks are scheduled to be set off at 7:00 p.m., but there is no word yet on the departure time of the cruise.  Check the Shoreline Sightseeing website for updated information.

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Seeing the Windy City with Your Tax Refund

A vacation to the Windy City of Chicago, Illinois is a great way to do something fun with your tax refund. When tax season rolls around, it is no surprise that many individuals like to have fun with the money they receive back. Sure, investing or doing something financially-responsible is a good choice, but why not have some fun?

Before you start planning your vacation, take advantage of a quick and easy way to file your taxes. Utilize free online tax filing services that can get it done in a quick and efficient manner. The services can also help you along the way, should you be unsure of anything when you file your taxes. As always, consult a tax professional if you need personalized help.

Once you’ve completed that process, it’s time to plan your vacation to the fun and exciting city of Chicago. There are plenty of things to do in Chicago, boasting a number of fun activities. Even the food alone is worth the trip, from world-famous restaurants and steakhouses to Chicago-style hot dogs and deep-dish pizza.

You may want to pinpoint some of the biggest attractions. There are plenty of free activities in Chicago that you shouldn’t miss, such as riding the giant Ferris wheel (that part isn’t free) at Navy Pier to Buckingham Fountain.

Don’t forget your camera. From the Lincoln Park Zoo, Millennium Park, and a number of other museums and architectural sites of interest, there is plenty that you will want to capture. Free admission is available for many of these attractions, such as at the Field Museum (you can see the largest Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil in the world here) at certain points of the year.

Take a fun trip to enjoy your tax refund money. Surely the city of Chicago has a lot to offer, no matter what you’re looking to do or enjoy in a vacation.

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Steak Dinner on Your Vacation

The Windy City is a great destination for couples. There are so many romantic places to visit, you may not want to leave. Here few tips to make your visit as romantic as possible.

Restaurants

There are thousands of restaurants in Chicago. So, before venturing out for food, you may want to prepare yourself a little bit. Be sure to not only do research while you’re in Chicago, but before you leave as well. Sites and apps like Google Maps, Yelp.com, and Urbanspoon can help you narrow down your choices.

One thing you really can’t go wrong with is a romantic private dining experience at one of Chicago’s many steakhouses. With a steakhouse, you can enjoy some of the most delicious food available, no matter what city you’re in. It’s also a very versatile type of dining facility. You could show up in jeans and a t-shirt, or a suit and tie, and either way you’ll fit right in.

We all know that Chicago is famous for their pizzas, but it’s really not the most romantic option out there. Take your sweetheart out for a casual lunch to enjoy a famous Chicago-style pizza, but save the passion for a nice dinner together at a great Chicago steakhouse.

Steakhouses are a wonderful place to take your sweetheart. What better way to show her that you care than to get a private table at a premier steakhouse and enjoy a great meal together. Plus, the food is absolutely delicious. You really can’t go wrong with an expertly prepared steak.

The After Dinner Fun

After you’ve enjoyed your tasty meal, go ahead and spend the rest of your romantic night out on the town. One great destination is the Art Institute of Chicago. There you and your sweetheart can gaze upon some of the most wonderful pieces of art ever created. You could also enjoy a great play at one of Chicago’s many theaters.

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Why Chicago Will Be Your Kind of Town

The Michigan Avenue Bridge over the Chicago Ri...
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The well-known song about the Windy City says it best, and it’s not hard to see why Chicago can be your kind of town. With a variety of attractions, different cuisines, and diverse neighborhoods, this city is among the most livable places in the U.S. and is a top tourist spot. Whether you’re planning to visit for a few days or are planning a permanent move, there are some things you’ll want to know.

Getting Around

One of the best ways to traverse the city is by riding the “L,” which is short for the elevated train. This transportation system can quickly move you through some of the busiest parts of town. There are also city buses and plenty of taxis. When the weather is right, Chicago is a walk-able city with wide sidewalks that are easy to navigate.

Where to Stay

If you’re in town for a short visit, choose a hotel in a district you like. Shoppers will prefer staying near Michigan Avenue (aka The Magnificent Mile), while those who want to see multiple shows should book a room in the Theatre District. Quieter lodging with convenient access to the popular areas is found in and around north Lakeshore Drive. The Loop is a more eclectic neighborhood with some fun shops and eateries. For those who are moving to the area, Chicago apartments are available in these and other parts of the city. Be safe during your time in the city by avoiding areas that aren’t well lit and make you feel uncomfortable.

What to Eat

Deep dish pizza is synonymous with Chicago and one of the best places to go for mouthwatering pie is Lou Malnati’s. Stop in a Portillo’s Restaurant to sample a hot-dog prepared the way Chicagoans like it–with relish, mustard, onions, tomatoes, and other delicious goodies. Chicago Restaurant Week makes the cold of February more tolerable, as 200 of the city’s best restaurants serve up discounted meals.

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Chicago Hotels of Luxury

Luxury and boutique hotel accommodations offer more than a room and bed. Guests are treated to creature comforts and impressionable style. Here is a window into Chicago’s hotels of luxury. Staying at the best luxury hotel Chicago has to offer, is a glamorous way to vacation in the Windy City.

The Dana Hotel and Spa offers guests a haven within the busy city. Winner of the 2010 Forbes Travel Guide’s Best Boutique Hotel in Chicago, The Dana has a motto of giving. Simple elegance meets modern technology beyond its doors. A modern gym is open to guests 24 hours a day and is equipped with Italian TechnoGym Kinetic Equipment to provide optimal results without sacrificing style. Other stand out amenities at this boutique hotel include 24 hour room service, wireless high speed internet, valet laundry service and private wine reserves. Guests can also choose from a menu of spa treatments to help facilitate your relaxation.

Another addition to the luxury hotel landscape of Chicago is The Peninsula . With repeated positive reviews, it is known for a friendly staff and fantastic amenities. There is culinary setting sure to please each guest. Have a memorable dinner at The Avenues, which hold high acclaim with critics and guests alike. The Lobby offers an ascended variant on afternoon tea with its Royal Tea. Royal Tea time includes champagne, chocolate buffet and fashion shows. Wellness is a focus of The Peninsula. It’s in-house spa and fitness facilities offer guests top notch care in health and relaxation.

The heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast beats true with the help of its Elysian Hotel. As soon as you enter the lobby, the city outside melts away and your ultimate experience begins. 188 beautifully decorated rooms are distributed ten to a floor, allowing for roomier accommodations. Each room is home to white Carrera marble bathrooms that include inset LCD televisions, separate showers dual vanities and bathtubs. Fireplaces, private bars, touch screen voice-over IP telephones and Italian linens are just a sample of what guests enjoy in their room.

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Take a Walk Back in Time at the Chicago History Museum

Chicago History Museum miniature 1
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On your next trip to Chicago, consider taking a walk back in time at the Chicago History Museum. This facility offers people of all ages a variety of activities that span the time period from when the story of Chicago began at the present day. The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Saturday and from 412 to 5 PM on Sunday. While you are strolling through the museum, you can stop and get something to eat at the North and Clark Café that was recently opened. There is a fee to enter the museum based on age, with children aged 12 or younger free.

The exhibits available in the museum encompasses a wide variety of topics. A recent addition is the “My Chinatown” exhibit, which is a multimedia theater. Visitors get to learn the stories of individuals who live in this area the city and their cultural traditions. It ties events from the past to the present together in a fascinating display of technology.

Another exhibit, titled “Facing Freedom,” explores the different struggles over the history of the country for various groups to get equal freedom. This includes the women’s rights movement, civil rights, unions and those who were held in the Japanese internment camps during World War II. Displays have a mix of hands-on experiences with historical artifacts from each period. You can also learn history about Abraham Lincoln, the history of Chicago’s neighborhoods, its economy and a plethora of valuable and rare artifacts, such as the bed on which Abraham Lincoln died.

It is advised that you set aside at least a full day to explore the museum. This gives you a good amount of time to get the entire experience in, and the café allows you to eat right where you are. All in all, the Chicago history Museum is one experience that you will not want to miss out on.

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Enjoying Good Times on the Chicago Navy Pier

If you are looking for a good time while in Chicago, you will want to make the Navy Pier one of your stops while in town. A popular hot spot, the pier includes a number of dining establishments and entertainment options to choose from. You can also take a fantastic tour by boat, taking in the view of the city from the river as you pass by.

The Family Pavilion is the best place to start, as it has the information you will need to plan your day. It offers maps, brochures and information regarding the entertainment on the pier. The staff can also help to answer any questions that you may have and can point you in the right direction. When you get hungry, you can find fare in any style from spicy Cajun food to just about anything that will wet your appetite. If you are on a limited budget, the food court area is a great option. It offers you numerous affordable options to eat, saving you money.

If you are a movie fan, you should check out the Imax Theatre on the pier. It features a 60 x 80 feet screen and can seat up to 40 individuals. The films are shown in both the regular version and in 3-D, giving you an incredible experience. The theatre changes its showings periodically to keep up a fresh list. The Children’s Museum is a perfect family stop, featuring various displays and interactive activities that make for an enjoyable afternoon. When you purchase a ticket to the museum, it is good for the entire day. You can come and go as you please, especially if want to check out other attractions.

These are just a few of the offerings that the Chicago Navy Pier offers, and there are numerous others that you can explore. Consider putting this on your list of stops the next time that you are in town.

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