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57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: 773-684-1414
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Probably the biggest draw on the south side of Chicago is the Hyde Park area, where the Museum of Science and Industry looms large on the neighborhood’s western edge. This massive museum was originally built in 1892 for the Chicago World’s Fair the next year, and it’s the only surviving building from that event. The MSI has long been a favorite with families, serving up the best of science and technology with over 2,000 different exhibits. Some of the highlights here include the museum’s interactive displays on the history of aviation and an authentic German U-boat that was captured during World War II. And with its child-friendly atmosphere, and eye-popping visuals, your kids will be having so much fun that they won’t even realize that they’re learning something until it’s too late.
Willis Tower Skydeck (formerly Sears Tower)
233 S. Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: 312-875-9696
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At over one hundred stories and nearly fifteen hundred feet tall, the Willis Tower has held the title as the tallest building in the United States for the last 35 years, and for much of that time it was the tallest structure in the entire world. Every year, over a million and a half people from all over the world visit the Observation Deck on top of the building. Once at the top, visitors can check out the displays and exhibits about the history and development of the city, including "Knee-high Chicago," which was built right at eye level for youngsters. Of course, the view from here is spectacular, and there are even special interactive video screens that let people know exactly what they’re looking at. On a clear day you can see 40-50 miles in every direction. That’s all the way into Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana!
Ogden Slip (Near Navy Pier)
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-222-9328
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Maybe the best way to start any tour of the city is to do it the same way the explorers Marquette and Joliet did back in 1673, up the Chicago River. On one of Shoreline Sightseeing's Architecture Cruise, visitors can experience all the wonders of downtown Chicago. Among the highlights on the cruise are Bertrand Goldberg’s futuristic Marina City Towers, the Wrigley Building, and 333 West Wacker Drive, with its distinctive curved facade. In addition to its Architecture Cruise, Shoreline also offers cruises on Lake Michigan, as well as a combination cruise which hits the highlights both on the Lake and along the River.
Six Flags Great America
1 Six Flags Parkway
Gurnee, IL 60031
Phone: 847-249-3118
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Located about forty-five minutes northwest of downtown Chicago in the town of Gurnee, Six Flags serves up its trademark mix of thrills and entertainment throughout the spring and summer months. There are over 100 rides here, with a heavy dose of scream-inducing coasters that are sure to satisfy even the most hard-core adrenaline junkies. For those of us who would prefer to take a walk on the mild side, there’s plenty to choose from as well, including the new Wiggles World attraction. The rides here cater specifically to the younger set, and are a nice balance to the high intensity rides in the other parts of the park. Throw in a few shows, and the Hurricane Harbor Water Park, and it sounds like the whole family is gonna go home happy.