Area Attractions: Where Life Sparkles (Chicago and Twin Cities Family Activities)

Chicago is the third most populated city in the United States, allowing my 2.5 million neighbors and I to create a thriving town that is full of culture and possibilities.  Like anyone else, I have my own personal hometown favorite places.  From the cuisine to the shopping, Chicago remains to be one the greatest cities in the world.  No one should go their entire lives without experiencing that magic that occurs under these city lights.

1. Crossing the Waters

Chicago is home to some of the most breath-taking architectural and engineering achievements in the entire nation.  One of the top sites to see in this regard is the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Technically classified as a Bascule bridge, this structure carries you across Michigan Avenue, over the Chicago River, and into the downtown area.  It is a well-recognized landmark and is home to numerous historical markers and city-renown sculptures.  The view is magnificent from any point on the bridge, and it also offers ideal opportunities for photographing the city skyline.

2. Exploring City Parks 

Chicago's parks are among the most vibrant and beautiful in the entire region.  Grant Park is famous for being home to Buckingham Fountain in addition to being a charming area to picnic outside of the Art Institute of Chicago.  It is always teeming with life and activity.  Residents often refer to the park as the “Front Yard of Chicago” because of its scenic landscaping that is beautiful all throughout the year.  The Museum Campus also extends across the acres of luscious green space.

3. Capturing Life

Visitors can gain insight into Chicago's booming art scene by making a stop at the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower.  This popular gallery always features the work of local photographers and other types of artists who are working throughout the city.  The Gallery is also located in a central area for shopping, allowing people to explore some of the best parts of “Magnificent Mile.”  The Chicago Water Tower itself is a historic landmark, constructed between 1876 and 1869.  It was one of the few buildings to escape the Great Chicago Fire that occurred in 1871.  

4. A Retreat Away From Home

The Peninsula Chicago is one of my favorite places to get a European-style lunch at, and to occasionally enjoy a spa day at as well.  This picturesque and relaxing hotel is a great place to enjoy an afternoon at on a weekend.  The menus are designed around European dishes, offering both flair and taste.  I found this Chicago hotel using the site gogobot, which offers comprehensive details and user reviews on hotels and restaurants. The location is great for getting out to see the best of the city. It is located on East Superior Street.  

This is only the tip of the iceberg when discussing all that Chicago has to offer, but they are some of my personal favorites. (Kendra)

1) Culture

The Twin Cities have a lot to offer families that are looking to introduce their kids to cultural experiences without breaking the bank. The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra periodically hosts free family-friendly concerts that are engaging, entertaining, and educational. The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, the Weisman Art Museum, and the Sculpture Garden are always free; the Walker Art Center is free on the first Saturday and third Thursday evening. In addition, the Children’s Theatre Company releases $10 tickets on Sundays for that week’s performances.

Photo taken by Nate J

2) Nature

It might be a major metropolitan area, but Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the surrounding communities provide ample opportunities to enjoy the beauty of nature. Hyland Lake Park Reserve, the Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area, and Tamarack Nature Center are all free, as are many more parks and nature centers across the metro. Many host special kids’ events as well. There are many Minnesota State Parks in the metro area that have special events too, and day passes are very affordable.

3) Edutainment

Many places in the area offer amazing educational play activities for kids of all ages. Memberships to these sites provide a great value, and the variety of activities and events means families won’t get tired of repeat visits. Science Museum of Minnesota, Minnesota Children’s Museum, and the sites operated by the Minnesota Historical Society have all been great places for my family in the past.

The Twin Cities has much more free and low-cost entertainment to offer – street festivals on Grand Ave, the Irish Fair, the Winter Carnival, Toddler Tuesdays at the Mall of America, and more! It’s a great place to raise a family and combine the benefits of a small-town feel with the amenities of a metro area.