CHICAGO - festive family fun
Want to soak up Christmas cheer in the city but stay warm at the same time? Do you have a group of varied age-ranges to entertain? Check it out.
The Field Museum is just south of downtown and always decorates for the season. They offer an amazing array of exhibits. My personal favorites are anything with dinosaurs but you really can’t go wrong with whatever you choose, they are all well curated.
But what Chicago has been buzzing about is the Science of Industry’s Christmases Around the World exhibit! Through January 7th, it features trees decorated for all around the world. With 50 trees, and a main tree scaling 4 floors(!!) This exhibit is a must see on my list this year. Photos with Santa are an option as well, but photo opportunities end on the 23rd.
Just a bit northwest, check out Macy’s on State street. Their festive window displays, Santaland on the 5th floor, and focal 45ft. Christmas tree in their Walnut Room restaurant on the 9th floor will leave you beaming with cheer. Keep in mind: everyone and their mother try to visit Santa this time of year. To avoid long lines try to arrive at store opening. Once the wait time goes past 45 minutes Macy’s has set up a number to text and estimate your wait time – handy right? Walking up and down State street is always enjoyable and with their outdoor speakers chiming Christmas music, you feel like you’re living in a Hallmark movie. Or take a stroll west on Randolph to see an adorable cuckoo clock above an Argo Tea and Coffee shop.
Last post I mentioned the ChristkindlMarket, a German market in the Daley plaza downtown. BUT this year they opened a new location in my neighborhood of Chicago, just outside of the Wrigley Cubs Stadium. With an ice rink and condensed shops, you’ll find a less crowded but just as fun experience. I’m always up for the more neighborhood feel over tourist trap. It is an annual Chicago tradition for most locals. (Ice skating is a $10 skate rental and $3 fee for rink entry.) Be sure to check out the trip back in time when everyone bought gifts for loved ones in little shops and sang carols.
My picture-perfect way to end the festive fun is a visit to the Water Tower Place with your family. The historic Water Tower stands tall and proud, twinkling with lights as horse-drawn carriages parade around the surrounding area. A Ghirardelli shop is just across the street so be sure to swing in there for some holiday cheer! Walk down N. Michigan just a ways to stumble upon Fourth Presbyterian Church. Their courtyard silences the noise of the city and has a way of capturing peace and tranquility that will be sure to refresh your spirit. And if anyone in your party insists, maybe indulge them in wandering around the American Girl Doll (or Lego store) across the street from you at the Water Tower Place.
I would love to hear some of your holiday traditions with family. Hope you rest in this busy season and are able to hold your loved ones close.
Cheers from Chicago,
Ashley
