Mentioned by Tripster Travel Guide
11 Entertaining Things to Do in Chicago with Toddlers
"There is no admission fee to enter the Navy Pier, which offers free fireworks shows throughout the year and hosts a lineup of free entertainment and music each season. Head to the Navy Pier to see local arts and crafts vendors presenting their wares and to enjoy the scenic views of Lake Michigan."
"Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions, and one of the most popular destinations in the Midwest. While there are fees at many of the attractions at Navy Pier, there are some that are free. One of the best reasons to visit is the view, which is (of course!) free!"
"You have two choices here: you can either take a selfie from afar, with Navy Pier and its massive Ferris wheel in the background, or you can buy a ticket and take the ride, snapping a selfie from 150 feet up in the air."
"875 North Michigan, previously known as the John Hancock Center, was built by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. The tapered design of the building, with huge X-bracing on the exterior, makes this building stand out from the pack. Tourists flock to this building to visit the 360 CHICAGO observation deck, which offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Michigan."
"Sporting a unique tubular support system and multiple novelties, this 100-story skyscraper is one of Chicago’s biggest attractions. When its construction was completed in 1968, it was the second tallest building in the world. The skyscrapers’ stylish X-braced exterior has won various awards from the American Institute of Architects and major publications."
"The Signature Room is on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Building. The views over Navy Pier and the entire downtown area are nothing short of spectacular."
"No trip to Chicago would be complete without a stroll up Michigan Ave and the Magnificent Mile, so head up there after the aquarium. Most of the shops here are super high-end (think Gucci), so if you’re like me, you’re mostly window shopping, but it’s still fun to walk along and enjoy what is Chicago’s version of NYC’s Fifth Avenue."
"Take transit (or walk) up Michigan Avenue north of the river to shop the Magnificent Mile. If you’re not in the mood for shopping, check out Navy Pier which is a Chicago Landmark and offers a variety of attractions for all ages to enjoy."
"If you’re looking for a different sweet treat this summer, then head down to Ohana Ice & Treats. The concept here is simple – simply grab a pot, fill it with shaved ice, and choose your flavor!. This is one of the best desserts in Chicago for those intensely hot days, as the fresh ice will cool you down like nothing else can."
"With more than a dozen locations in Illinois, including Evanston, Naperville, Mount Prospect, and Bolingbrook, Andy’s is spreading the love of frozen custard throughout Chicagoland. Frozen custard is creamier than traditional ice cream, with more butterfat and less air. At Andy’s the slow-churned custard is made fresh hourly to maintain the rich texture."
"With five Chicago-land locations, Andy’s is very accessible. The Jackhammer is one of many flavors of concretes. Choose from a list of over 25 seasonal toppings to add to a frozen custard of your choice."
"Classic chocolate and vanilla custard with all the fun mix-ins one could possibly want. From concretes to malts to sundaes, Andy’s offers every possible way for you to enjoy your custard."
"Navy Pier, Beverly, Lombard, & Darien Five flavors in one—that’s really all you need. A Chicago institution since 1926, the Original Rainbow Cone is known for serving a thick stack of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (AKA vanilla with walnuts and cherries), and pistachio ice creams plus orange sherbet atop a sturdy cake cone. While you can get your paws on the prized classic at the spot’s Navy Pier stand, it’s worth making your way to the OG South Side location to marvel, if briefly, in its timeless charm while waiting for your order."
"The Rainbow Cone might be Chicago’s most colorful (and Instagrammed) treat. The cone is piled high with five signature ice cream flavors: orange sherbert, pistachio, strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla with walnuts and cherries, just like it has been since 1926."
"Some trends may be getting old, but this chocolate, strawberry, palmer house, pistachio and orange sherbet cone has been around since 1926."
"Known for its limestone gatehouse and highly decorated columbarium niches, which are composed of photographs, artwork, flags, and other mementos of individuals whose ashes are stored there, this cemetery, established by Chicago's Czech community in 1877, also features storied mausoleums, stained glass images and a special dedication to Chicago Cubs fans. It's a quieter, welcome alternative to public parks that often draw rambunctious young children."
"Wright designed and built his first home in 1889, on the strength of a $5,000 loan from his then employer and mentor, seminal Chicago…"
"There was a time in the 90s when a seat at the United Center was the hottest ticket in town. The Chicago Bulls moved to this arena in 1994 when Michael Jordan was on his strange hiatus in Minor League Baseball, and he’d return to lead them to three straight titles between 1996 and 1998. Out on the east side of the building is a statue in his honour, named The Spirit and showing him mid-dunk."
"Even when the Bulls look lifeless, the “Madhouse on Madison” is always a top contender for most Instagrammed place in the city."