School is almost out for the year and the weather is finally heating up in Chicago. This means only one thing for parents…what am I going to do with these kids?!
Don’t worry, we have compiled a list of Aaron Bros. Moving System, Inc.’s favorite, family-friendly summer outings and activities to get you started.
Movies in the Park
Grab some snacks, a picnic basket, and the kiddos and head on down to one of the many Chicago Park Districts that host “Movies in the Park.” This event is celebrating its 16th year across 250 parks and offers cinema classics that the whole family will enjoy such as the most recent installment of “Jurassic World” or the 80’s classic “Beetlejuice.” The best part–as any parent will attest too–is if boredom sets in during the duration of the film, the kids can run free without disturbing the other movie-goers (and you!) For a complete list of participating parks and upcoming movie showings, click here.
The Art of Dr. Seuss Gallery
Who among us doesn’t LOVE Dr. Seuss?! The answer is always “no one, of course!” and now you can view his art work for free at the Water Tower Place located in Downtown Chicago. This exhibit boost special collections, secret art works, coffee table books and rare sculptures. Collectors can even purchase limited edition prints and art pieces. For more information, click here.
DaVinci Machines Exhibition
Also at the Water Tower Place is an exhibit dedicated to the brilliant mind of Leonardo DeVinci. For a small admission fee, you and your family can see 60 exhibits featuring interactive, working machines and models, such as a bicycle, spring powered car, and hang glider. Information on daily hours and fees can be found here.
Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is toting a new look for their Main Barn and new animal arrivals including baby monkeys and baby camels, and we can not be more excited to check them out this summer season! As always, there is no admission fee to tour the zoo and plenty of street parking available to those who arrive early enough. This is a guaranteed way to spend a pleasant day with your family observing many different types of mammals, birds, reptiles and more. To access more information about Lincoln Park Zoo, visit their website here.
Ribbit! The Exhibit
This next family-friendly summer activity is taking you about 25.5 miles west of Chicago to Lisle, IL, home of The Morton Arboretum, and is bound to make all the members of your family croak with delight! Ribbit! The Exhibit is host to twenty-three, 5ft to 7ft sculptures of frogs behaving as humans. The displays include frogs in a trio jazz group, frogs mowing the lawn, and frogs dressed as ballerinas! Are you convinced yet?! Admission is free with the purchase of Morton Arboretum passes. Access more information here.
Bobby’s Bike Hike Chicago: Kid’s Edition
Take a fun and unique bike tour of Chicago geared towards children with the local company, Bobby’s Bike Hike. Called Tike Hike: Kid’s Edition, you and your little ones will get an interactive, educational bike tour of Chicago. Stops include the Lincoln Park Zoo, wishing fountains, and the lakefront by Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Passes can be purchased here and include: the use of a bicycle, a helmet, and a knowledgeable tour guide.
The Tilt
Are you brave enough for the Tilt?! Located at 360 Chicago (formally known as the John Hancock Observatory), observers get to see an exclusively unique, downward view of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and skyline from a breath taking 1,000 feet up! Up to eight visitors at a time can stand in a glass box as it moves and literally tilts your body over and down from the 94th floor at 10-30 degree angles! This moving attraction is the first of its kind and may not be suitable for those faint of heart. Expect a wait time and quite the thrill for those who dare to do it. Tickets and more information can be seen by visiting Tilt! online.
