Three Days in Chicago with Kids

Chicago is the third largest city in the United States, and receives recognition as being the ‘Best Big City in the U.S.’. Having visited number one and two, I can say this is definitely true (shhh don’t tell them I said that). Chicago is a huge and diverse city to visit. From incredible food, architecture, and lots of world-class attractions and museums – it is perfect for a family trip. 

We chose to visit Chicago in summer, and I am so glad we did. The weather was absolutely perfect, it was warm and windy (holding true to the name of the Windy City). There are SO many things to do in Chicago it can be hard to decide what to do, but I did my research and narrowed it down. We had an incredible trip and Chicago has earned a top spot in our family travels!

I have compiled a list of the three A’s: Accommodations, Adventures, and Appetite!  If you have any questions about Chicago or our trip please send me an email!

Accommodations

Our family stayed at the incredible The Guesthouse Hotel in Chicago, one of the best accommodations we have ever had on our travels! Located on Chicago’s north side in Andersonville, The Guesthouse Hotel offers spacious one, two, and three bedroom suites complete with gorgeous full size kitchens, modern relaxing living areas, separate bedrooms, and private balconies with a grill. This isn’t just a place to stay, it truly is a home away from home. Chicago is a city of neighborhoods and The Guesthouse Hotel is definitely in one of the best locations!

We stayed in a three-bedroom suite, and let me say… I wanted to move in. Everything is decorated beautifully from the furniture to gorgeous photography of Chicago, the beds were comfortable and cozy, large bathrooms (our shower had FOUR shower heads!), and a balcony to have our morning tea outside. We felt as if we were living in Chicago, not just visiting, and that really added to our experience.

This is no ordinary boutique hotel, there is a huge library room where you can pick out a book and cozy up by the fireplace in the lobby. We were about a 15 minute easy drive to downtown Chicago, I would highly recommend The Guesthouse Hotel for your stay in the Windy City!

Adventures

Bahá’í House of Worship – Located in Wilmette, it is the second Baháʼí House of Worship ever constructed and the oldest one still standing. This is a beautiful place near Chicago that is worth the visit. The gardens are so tranquil and the building is beautiful.

Skydeck Chicago – Located in Willis Tower, The Skydeck is open year-round, seven days a week. At 1,353 feet in the air, Skydeck has incredible panoramic views of downtown Chicago. Willis Tower is not only the tallest building in Chicago but the third-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere! We, of course, had to step out onto the Ledge. It’s glass boxes extend out 4.3 feet from the Skydeck. You are given 90 seconds inside to take photos and video – but don’t worry, if you need more time you can get back in line to go again! We went at 9:30 AM and had no one in line… so naturally we went in the box 3 times!

Color Factory – Also in Willis Tower, this is great stop to do after visiting Skydeck! Color Factory is a burst of color and sweets, and is fun for the whole family! Immerse yourself in colors and tastes that match them (sounds strange – but once you visit you’ll get it!). A visit to Color Factory includes surprise giveaways, sweet treats, and complimentary digital photos that capture every step of your journey through the experience. Yes – complimentary! You get a QR code upon your arrival and in each of the 14 rooms there are cameras set up in the most Instagram-worthy photos and all you have to do is swipe your card – and BAM, you get a countdown to set your pose. All the photos are delivered to your email at the end of your visit. We enjoyed taffy, pop rocks, ice cream, and so much more on our visit – highly recommend!

Millenium Park – Millennium Park is a can’t-miss attraction for your trip to Chicago. Located in the heart of downtown, Millennium Park is hope to the famous Cloud Gate (aka “the Bean”), Crown Fountain, and Maggie Daley Park. It is very easily walkable, and offers amazing views of the city.

White Sox Game – You cannot visit Chicago without a trip to the ball park! This baseball crazed city is one of the most fun places to attend a game, and we were fortunate to be in Chicago when the White Sox played the Yankees! White Sox fans are very enthusiastic, making the game that much more fun. Seated behind home plate, we had an incredible view and expreience. The icing on the cake? The White Sox won, and we watched a home-run get the crowd on their feet – with fireworks to boot! I would highly recommend a visit to Guaranteed Rate Field in the south-side of Chicago on your visit! My daughter became the biggest White Sox fan in the stadium that night, leading cheers and yelling “Go White Sox!” at the top of her lungs. Needless to say, the energy in the stadium is a vibe!

Brookfield Zoo – Also known as the Chicago Zoological Park, Brookfield is a zoo located in the Chicago suburb of Brookfield, Illinois. It houses around 450 species of animals in an area of 216 acres (so yes, it is HUGE). We started our morning feeding giraffes, walking with wallabies, and cuddling with goats. In the afternoon we took a ride on one of the largest hand-carved wooden carousels in the country! The zoo is very big, so plan for at least a half-day here.

Sloomoo Institute – Slime, slime and more slime! The Sloomoo Institute was an incredible stop on our visit to Chicago! Let me start by saying I had no idea there were so many textures to slime. With over 25 slime vats with different texture and scent combinations, you can also walk in over 350 gallons of slime, Lake Sloomoo. My daughter and I got slimed and that was definitely a core memory that has stuck with her (and me!). Each ticket includes access to their DIY Bar where you’ll design a custom 8 oz slime and choose from 40+ colors, 60+ fragrances & 150 charms. This may have been one of my kiddos favorite stops!

360 Chicago – 360 Chicago’s observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views from 1,000 feet above the famed Magnificent Mile. he famous Tilt is located here, and is not only Chicago’s highest thrill ride, it’s one of the highest thrill rides on the planet. Our whole family went on Tilt and it was exhilarating! Children must be 42” to ride. You have the ability to step off the ride at any time, but I dare you to stick it out – your adrenaline will be pumping! Tilt is as described, you are “tilted” out over the city – giving you a view straight down to the street! After your ride, head to CloudBar for a drink overlooking some of the best views in the city!

Oak Street Beach -A short walk from 360 Chicago is Oak Street Beach. Want to swim in Lake Michigan with an insane view of the Chicago skyline? This is the spot for you!

Appetite

Giordanos – You cannot go to Chicago without trying some deep dish pizza! Giordanos has been serving Chicago-style deep dish stuffed pizza since 1974. I had never had deep dish before and was not sure if I would be a fan (you know, I love my NY style pizza!) – BUT… I was blown away! Giordanos makes some of the best pizza I have ever had! Their signature Mozzarella cheese is specially produced for Giordano’s by Wisconsin cheese makers using only the very best milk from hard working, local farmers. It takes 45 minutes for each pizza to be made, so allot yourself enough time because you must try it!

Not only is the pizza incredible, but the staff went out of their way to chat with our girls about their travels and really felt like family to us!

Luke’s Italian Beef – Chicago dog anyone? I love toppings on my hot dogs, so this was an exciting stop for us. Luke’s Italian Beef is a long-time establishment with a reputation for providing highest quality food, excellent customer service and speedy delivery. All true! The food was excellent, the interior was fun and quirky – I loved it. Give me all the Chicago dogs!

Summer House Santa Monica – Summer House Santa Monica is located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. The California inspired foods go hand in hand with the beautiful interior that makes it feel like summer all year! The interior space of Summer House is stunning, it is bright and breezy – you can’t help but feel joy upon entering. Their ingredients are sourced from local grower partnerships and sustainable products. Everything is fresh, and the food was delicious! Notably – the Rosé is exquisite and refreshing.

Our kid’s favorite part? Cooking their own pizza’s in the kitchen with the chef! If your child selects the pizza option, they have the ability to go to the kitchen and press the dough while chatting with the chef, or they can make it table side! This upscale dining establishment is a great stop on your visit to Chicago! And save room for dessert, they make some of the most fabulous cookies you have ever seen! There will be a location opening in Disney Springs Fall of 2023 – so be on the lookout!

Sugar Factory – If you have a sweet tooth, this will be your haven in Chicago! Take everything you know about dining and throw it out the window – Sugar Factory is not to be outdone. From their generous portions to goblets of drinks and self proclaimed “insane” desserts, this is an experience like no other. With an extensive menu, there is something for everyone. We started off with the Cali Love goblet, be sure to have your phone ready – it is poured table side! Our girls split the rainbow sliders, I feasted on the trademarked Flaming Hot Cheetos Burger, and my husband got the Spicy Penne Vodka. Every single thing was delicious… but make sure you save room for dessert because… they are HUGE and delicious and everything you’d hope a dessert to be! We got the Cookie Monster Milkshake which is not only a milkshake, but also came with a cupcake, donut, and cookie. Drool.

Until next time…