Chicago is a bustling city that offers a variety of tourist attractions. The metropolis may be a playground for vacationing adults, but the suburbs are for the kids. They are a treasure chest of activities and attractions and offer a respite from the noise of the city. It is a great place to take kids for a vacation.
The Kiddie Land Amusement Park first opened its doors to the public in 1929. It gives enjoyment to both kids and adults in a clean and safe environment. It is the oldest theme park in Chicago. The Kiddie Land Amusement Park includes 30 rides and attractions for kids of all ages.
In line with its goal to provide clean fun in a safe environment, the park enforces a few rules that all visitors must follow, including one on clothing worn by guests. Proper attire for the park is a shirt, jeans or shorts, and shoes. Bikinis and shirts with offensive messages or images are not allowed inside the park. There is also a strict rule on smoking in the park. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas where children will not be exposed to the smoke. The rules may be a little strict, but they are meant to ensure that your kids are in a clean and safe environment.
Kiddie Land Amusement Park
8400 W. North Avenue
Melrose Park, IL 60160
(708) 343-8000
www.kiddieland.com
Shedd Aquarium officially opened on May 30, 1930, and is a national historic landmark. In addition to the original aquarium, it has the Oceanarium and Wild Reef. Shedd Aquarium is a leader in the efforts to save endangered marine species.
Shedd Aquarium has set aside a day especially for preschool kids. Activities scheduled for "Tots on Tuesdays" include story time, arts and crafts, animal touch programs, videos, mascot appearances, singing and dancing. The theme of the activities changes every eight weeks so kids can come back for more fun. The program is created for kids 3 to 5 years old.
Although the Shedd Aquarium is located in Chicago itself rather than the suburbs, it is a destination that should not be missed by anyone visiting the Chicago metropolitan area.
Shedd Aquarium
1200 South Lake Shore Drive
Museum Campus
Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 939-2438
www.sheddaquarium.org
Six Flags Great America, located in Gurnee, Illinois, first opened in 1976 under the name of Marriott's America. It was later purchased by Six Flags, which gave it the name it has today. The park has eight sections, each with a different theme, as well as a 13-acre water park. The park offers areas specially designed for kids as well as entertainment for kids of all ages.
Six Flags Great America
1 Great America Parkway
Gurnee, IL 60031
(847) 625-7518
www.sixflags.com/greatamerica
Children of all ages would love dining in the presence of knights, kings and princesses, along with a host of members of the royal court. Medieval Times offers families a dinner experience overseen by King Philippe and his daughter, Princess Leonore. The meal is accompanied by a royal tournament, during which six knights battle to be the King's Champion. The knights are assigned colors that correspond to the seating areas of the castle, allowing guests to cheer for their own particular hero.
The Schaumburg Castle of Medieval Times is located in the northern Chicago suburb of Schaumburg, Illinois. The castle is immediately recognizable, even from a distance, thanks to its enormous central tower and manicured lawns.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
2001 N. Roselle Road
Schaumburg, IL 60195
(866) 543-9637
www.medievaltimes.com
