Annual Event: Macy's Flower Show

Important note: The 2019 show is over, but read up so you know what to expect for next year!

I never knew how neat the annual two-week Macy's Flower Show is in Chicago! The theme for 2019 was Journey to Paradisios - Operation: Inspiration.

For starters, Macy's website for the flower show is great. They created a short, entertaining story, had a 360 degree video tour, and nice interactive map.

Noteworthy:

• This is a fun, "we are in the area" event. We live close by so it was easy to pop in to take advantage of it (and maybe scope out some backpacks).
• The experience is enhanced for younger kids if you read the story & watch the video to get them excited for store.
• Macy's creates interactive aspects throughout the exhibits: 
• Count the Paradigms (little aliens) throughout the store [we counted 12, pretty sure we missed another 10-50]
• Selfie area at the teleporter
• Decode the Paradisian secret (we did it!!)
• The store hosts a lot of events and offers throughout the show. To name a few:
• Galactic Characters
• Floral Workshops
• Cooking Demonstrations
• Kids Camp
• Special drinks at the Walnut Room

Age Recommendations:
All ages!

Cost Savings:
FREE!

Location/Transportation:
Loop / Downtown - 111 North State
Plethora of access by L and Bus.

Kid's Jury: 5 stars
The kids liked seeing the story we read come to life, looking for the Paradigms and really enjoyed decoding the alien language! Though we didn't find a backpack we liked, but can't hold that against the flower show.

Activity: Chicago Architectural Center (CAC)

The Chicago Architectural Center opened in their new location at 111 West Wacker Drive on August 31, 2018. The Center is a two level facility where you can visit and explore, register for tours (walking, boat, L, or bus), and they offer school field trips, family events, and day/summer camps.

Bonus: CAC runs my favorite annual event tradition: Open House Chicago.

Today we went to check out the new CAC digs and had a great time exploring their interactive exhibits and gallery displays.

Noteworthy:

• The Chicago Gallery was where we spent a majority of our time as it included a(n):
• Quick video with an Overview of Chicago 
• Interactive Model of the City where you can see the Chicago Fire spread, watch the water turn green for St. Patrick's Day (without battling drunk people everywhere you turn), and find my home at the South end of the map!
• Push "pin" map to mark where you live in the City and/or where you would like to visit.
• Renderings and models of future projects for Chicago.
• Check the site for the timing of their Mobile Architectural Lab - a small desk with an activity and CAC staff member to talk about the day's theme. We learned about Bungalows (did you know there are 80,000 bungalows in Chicago? That's a LOT) and walked away with new artwork for our wall.
• The kids sped through the Rotating Gallery (which looked interesting but had a lot to read). [sad face]
• The Drake Skyscraper Gallery was impressive, though the kids didn't need much time in there. It showcases impressive buildings from around the world and highlights a few in Chicago (rotate based on current projects).

Pro Tip: You receive small "clips" to wear for access to the different rooms. Knowing my children lose everything in a speed that defies logic, I took a picture of them wearing the clips as backup. And the photo ended up being necessary.

Age Recommendations:
All ages welcome, though probably best for kids 5 and over.
There were interactive activities and maps for kids (and adults) and interesting information to read (if the kids allow you the time).

Cost Savings:
Visiting the CAC is very affordable (assuming you are able to get out of there without purchasing anything from their very tempting gift shop).

Click here for current pricing and discounted rates for kids, depending on age.

Location/Transportation:
Downtown Chicago / Loop: 111 West Wacker Drive
As the building is located at Wacker and Michigan, there is a plethora of public transportation available to get there.

Click here for parking and transit information.

Kid's Jury: 5 stars
They had a good time and we enjoyed walking around Michigan Avenue and hopping into a few other places while we were out and about!

They desperately wanted something from the gift shop and I don't blame them. The shop has great books about Chicago (adult and kid options), great city centric shirts, bags, anything you can think of.

Activity: Navy Pier Tips

Navy Pier is the top tourist destination for people visiting Chicago, and I can see why - it has a lot for families with the Children's Museum, a large variety of restaurants and shops, boat tours and cruises, 3D movies, Shakespeare theater, the sparkly new Centennial Wheel, and more.

But bring your wallet. Or, if possible, someone else's wallet.

If you haven't been in a while, Navy Pier is sporting a fresh new look, which has really energized the venue and given our family more incentive to visit.

Not everything at the Pier is expensive. They do a great job of having free art installations located along the pier and within Polk Bros Park.  Polk Bros Park is the entry point of Navy Pier and has a large fountain the kids love to play in (during the summer, so we didn't hit it up today). For Summer 2018, there was a huge bubble-foam machine -- straight from kids' dreams -- fingers crossed that returns in 2019!


Amazing Chicago (year-round):
This afternoon, we went to experience the Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze and their smaller activities: Time Freak and Atomic Rush.

Note: Although the website for Amazing Chicago says "this attraction is not recommended for children under 5...," what they really mean is 10.  When we showed up, the cashier asked their ages and then said they shouldn't go in. 

Which isn't awesome since that was our main reason for going.

However, we competed in several rounds of Time Freak and Atomic Rush and had a blast. While the kids loved this, it didn't take up much time, so is better as an "add on" aspect of your trip to the Pier, as opposed to the reason for your visit.


Chicago by Boat (Summer):
There are all types of boat options:

• Architectural Cruises - great views of the city and great information 
• Cruises - dinner dates on Lake Michigan with beautiful views of the city 
• Seadog - a mega fast boat with little to no information on the city 
• Water Taxi - no information but an inexpensive way to get a view from the river

We did the Seadog once and were disappointed.  We prefer the water taxi or any of the architectural tours.


Centennial Wheel (year round):
While the cost of the ferris wheel was an incredible shock to my ears, I later looked up prices of similar views/experiences to compare.  While it still feels expensive, the cost is cheaper than tickets to the John Hancock and Willis Tower and the view (in my opinion) from the Wheel is much better.

Regardless, here was the conversation in our family after stepping out of our ride:

Kids: "Can we go on that again?"
Me: NO
Kids: "Not today, like again in our life?"
Me: Still No.


Restaurants:
Honestly, you will have a much better dining experience anywhere outside of Navy Pier and would recommend you only grab snacks or a light lunch so you can have a more economical, pleasant, and better tasting eating experience later in the day. The city is known for amazing cuisine, so don't limit yourself to the pier!

Age Recommendations:  All Ages

Cost Savings:
Buying online will save a few dollars per ride.
Check online for more information on rates.

If you plan to visit the Chicago Children's Museum more than 1 time in the calendar year, consider purchasing a membership as certain levels offer free parking (WHAT?) and you will most likely make your money back within 2-3 visits.

Location/Transportation:
Public Transportation options are best via the bus as the L Stops require significant walking (and whining) if accompanied by children. Check the Navy Pier website or app for transportation options.

There is a large, covered parking area as well. The advantage to this is being able to leave your coat in the car (if during the colder months) so you don't have to drag it around with you or rent a locker.

Kid's Jury: 5 stars
They love this place and we like to go for special exhibits and events - but always have to manage expectations so we don't spend (way) too much money.

Annual Event: Bristol Renaissance Faire

Guest Blog Post by fellow Chicagoan, Carrie - view bio
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We had an enjoyable day with friends at the Renaissance Faire, located in Kenosha, Wisconsin. This event is a reenactment of the 16^th century with kings, queens, swordfighters, jesters, even Robin Hood and more on 30 acres of land!

This annual event goes from around the second week of July thru Labor day on the weekends, Saturday/Sunday and the Monday of Labor Day.  It is a fun day get away a little north of Six Flags.

If you are looking for something different, it is an experience to go back in time. There are several kids games, rides, market places, food, shows and people in costumes to keep you very entertained for the day.

Noteworthy:

• Be prepared to bring cash or bring your debit card to use the ATM for a fee!  All food and activities are cash only. The food is great but be prepared for some lines during peak times. Non-Alcoholic Beverages are comparable to airport pricing, maybe more and depending on the day your young one can work up a thirst. 
• Check the website prior to going, you may be able to bring your own unopened bottle of water. 
• Sunscreen is highly recommended.
• I suggest reviewing the map before you go so you have an idea of a plan. However the list of their fun shows are not listed until you get there. Grab a few maps/list of events at the main entrance. Kids had fun looking at the map and picking out what they wanted to do and what area they wanted to go to. 
• Shows can get crowded, if you want a seat suggestion is to get there prior to shows starting. 
• There are porta potty privies (restrooms) and there is one set of flushable privies with a changing station.

Age Recommendations:
Best suitable for ages 5 and up. Unless you have a jogging stroller with huge wheels it will be a challenge to get around for smaller kids.

Cost Savings:
We purchased our tickets online to keep our sanity from the long lines… even with the small ticket fee it was worth it. They do have an online coupon for an adult ticket if you want to purchase your tickets at their box office. This activity can be moderate to expensive depending on how many activities you do and how much you want to eat. Each kids activity/ride (excluding shows) has a fee per child.

Location/Transportation: Kenosha, Wisconsin
Grass lot parking is easy and was affordable. The faire is ~50 miles from downtown Chicago and on a Sunday morning it took a little over an hour to get there.

Kid's Jury: 5 stars
My son loved the Archery, Climbing Tower, Coin Challenge Games, Dig for Treasure, eating a giant turkey leg, and watching the Mud and the Joust Shows! 5 Stars, he would go again.

Suburb Activity: Blackberry Farm

Blackberry Farm -- which is not a location for berry picking -- is a living history museum of pioneer life with a lot fun activities for the kids.

We had a great time exploring our way through hands-on learning at the One-Room School House, Blacksmith Shop, and Early Streets Museum (the boys asked a lot of questions, which was fun to see). Then we took several trips through the pony, steam train, and carousel rides.  Several.

A big bonus of the park is the admission price covers everything, so you can ride that steam train 8,561 times if the kids want! 

After lunch at the Concession area (quick service with hot dogs and burgers), we hit up Adventure Playground (this was a big highlight -- a maze of houses with passageways - many parents were wandering through, looking for their children), saw farm animals at Discovery Barn, and mom enjoyed a well deserved rest on the Wagon Ride after working her legs for three people on the paddle boats.

The park is absolutely beautiful and pristine, making it so peaceful spending time there.

Noteworthy:

• The venue only has a few of the interactive pioneer stations open each day (my guess is to provide a reason for returning).
• While we there (about 4 hours), we waited in 1 line.  One.
• They have refillable water bottle stations!  Bring a refillable container and enjoy being environmental!
• Fox Valley Park District, where the farm is located, is adorable and probably a great way to spend a day or weekend, including: 
• 48 miles of trails for biking and walking
• Splash Country Water Park (across from Blackberry Farm) 
• Red Oak Nature Center, Golf, Disc Golf, etc... 

Age Recommendations: Infant - 12 years old
Based on the crowd, the average age was between 6-8 years old.

Cost Savings:
The affordable admission covers everything in the park, which is such a wonderful perk.

Location/Transportation: Aurora, IL
About a 60 minute trip from downtown with plenty of free parking.

Kid's Jury: 5 stars
The boys each had a blast at the learning areas - both boys would let me know throughout the day when they could hear the blacksmith hammering her tool and our 8 year old wants to return to see the the one-room school house again!

They each loved the Adventure Playground and the train, and our 6 year old rode each and every pony available (real and carousel variety).

Hands-on Learning:

Suburb Activity: Roller Skating

Apologies for the fuzzy photos - there was a smudge on my lens the whole day...

We took a trip (waaay) back in time to my childhood when visiting Fleetwood Roller Rink.  It has everything you hope for and expect: roller skate themed carpet, gaudy twinkle lights, bold paint colors, and top-40 tunes (intermixed with classics like TLC's No Scrubs).

Even one of these!

We really lucked out with the staff while there - the man working the rink took time to teach each child the basics of skating (and getting back up), and even circled back to show our oldest how to skate backward once he (sort of) mastered forward movement.

The man helping mentioned this was not officially part of his job, he just enjoyed it. A success story:

Kiefer skate from Tracy & Kevin Carlson on Vimeo.

Noteworthy:

• Training skates are provided for young skaters, which slows the turning speed of the wheels.
• Group and Private Lessons are offered at a very low rate, click here for info.
• Bring quarters if you would like to use their lockers, as bags, purses, and phones are not allowed on the rink (we learned this the hard way - but managed to get some photos first).
• If you arrive right when they open, you will have a nearly private rink experience (which is great for new skaters....and parents who have not donned skates for 20+ years).
• Food is available in their snack shop (ICEEs, Pizza, etc..)
• Remember to bring long socks for comfort!

Age Recommendation: All Ages!
If this is your child's first time, I recommend the lessons, and with the basics, they can pick it up pretty quickly.

Cost Savings:
Affordable outing, current price details and upcoming events found here.

Location/Transportation
The drive is only 20-30 minutes from downtown and there is plenty of (free) parking available.

Kid's Jury: 5 stars
Both kids loved it and want to return.  Our oldest wants to take lessons, so we'll definitely make another trip back!

Activity: The Honeycomb Project (Volunteering for Families)

Our family has been excited to test out this Chicago Adventure for some time....but due to it's popularity and my forgetfulness to register - it is a tough activity to score.

The Honeycomb Project* is explained best from their site: "The Honeycomb Project is on a mission to engage, mobilize and inspire kids and their families to build stronger communities for all Chicagoans."

There is a large variety of volunteer options, each geared for families, and we selected to help shelter animals at the Anti-Cruelty Society (which has free parking). We made chew toys for the dogs, helped "socialize" some new pups, and had a tour of the facility. The best part (besides free parking) was learning about a Reading Buddy program where the kids can come back and read to the animals!!

To see the upcoming Honeycomb Project volunteer events, click Calendar of Events on their homepage. Options range from helping the homeless, under-served communities, the environment, and more. When you click on each activity, it will provide all the information you need: day, time, location, and full details on the scope/needs of the project.

Noteworthy:

• To Register: Registration opens at 9:00 a.m. (CT) on the 15th day of each month. Spaces are grabbed up quickly so set your alarm like you are registering for a park district class.  
• IE. Registration opens on July 15 for all opportunities in August. 
• Resources: To prepare for the upcoming event, their website provides great information on the issue, including questions and additional resources to discuss as a family.
• Communication: the organization is great at communicating the project and reminders as it approaches - we felt well informed going in.
• Groups: to arrange a group or company outing, email contact@thehoneycombproject.org.

Age Recommendations:
Best for First Graders to Adult.

Our 5 year old seemed to disengage on the task, so we will try a different one or wait until he is a little older.

Costs:
While the activities are free, volunteers are encouraged to donate to the organization to further the mission and capabilities.  Shirts are available for purchase as well.

Location/Transportation:
Near North / Downtown Chicago
Easy access from Red Line Grand Stop or Free Parking at their garage.

Kid's Jury: 4 stars
The kids liked socializing the puppies best and lost focus on the toy-making. Looking around the room, this seemed to be the overall trend with all the adults finishing up the project while kids were running around.


*Why the name Honeycomb Project?
(from their site) "Bees work together to make their hive a place where everyone can thrive. We believe that Honeycomb volunteers, like bees in a colony, can accomplish great things when we share our skills and work together toward a common goal."