It's almost impossible to take a boring trip to Chicago. The city simply has too much to offer. But how many times can you ride to the top of the Sears Tower, see a Cubs game or have deep-dish pizza before you want to venture outside your safe zone? If you're looking for something a little wild in the Windy City, here are a few ideas.
Trace the history of Chicago as you work your way through 4,000 square feet of tunnels and mazes in Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze, located on Navy Pier. Dancing lights in the Rainbow Tunnel, a scary free fall in the Elevator Drop and reflections galore in the Mirror Maze are just a few of the surprises that await. At the end of it all, there's even a fireworks display. And the great thing is, there's no time limit. You can stay and explore all day, if you like. Check the website for more information (see Resources).
You may already know about the Museum of Science and Industry, but have you ever heard of Jolly Ball? It's an oversized pinball machine aimed at promoting travel in Switzerland. A giant ball rolls out of a hotel and follows a travel route through a variety of famous Swiss things: a fondue bowl, a clock, even a bar (after which the ball comes out rolling drunkenly for a few moments). Although it's not something you take part in, you can't help but feel like you're along for the ride. For hours and pricing, see the museum's website (see Resources).
While the bar scene in Chicago is always hopping, you can go hunting for spirits of another kind with Chicago Ghost Investigations. Twice a day, a group takes a trip to investigate the paranormal. Sometimes it's an old bar where dead dancers still "appear" on stage, other times it's a mobster hangout from the days of prohibition. Those who join in are given not only ghost sensors and cameras, but are taught the finer arts of talking to the dead. It's all in fun, of course, but that's the point. Hours and days vary. See the website (in Resources) for more information.
Opera might not be your music of choice, but what if it's performed by puppets? That's what happens when you visit Opera In Focus: Puppets act out scenes from famous operas. Usually you'll sit through three to five scenes, all of which are introduced by a narrator who explains the action that's about to take place. The puppets' movements are made to copy those of real-life performers--it's fun, but it's not a parody. After each show, you are treated to an explanation of how the puppets operate and shown the backstage area, where the strings are pulled, so to speak. Check the opera's website for days, hours and costs (see Resources).
