I'm headed to Chicago for a long weekend with my family (kids are 7 and 9) ... a few questions:

We're staying at the Palmer House ... any reasonable parking nearby?

We went to the Museum of Science and Industry last year ... we'd like to try either Field Museum, Adler or Shedd ... any thoughts on what kids would like the best?

thanks!

My daughter (who is 8) and I did both the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium two weekends ago (Field first, then walked over to Shedd). Although we liked the Field, the Shedd was hands-down her favorite. She is a huge animal lover, especially those who live in the sea, so that made a difference. We spent about an hour or so at Field, and like 2 1/2 at aquarium. She does enjoy history, but nothing really caught her fancy at the Field. She said she liked it, but the Field did not make her "top 5" list of the many things we did that weekend (the Shedd did make her list). I supposed it really depends on what your kids are into; I think children enjoying both.

Millenium Garages are a few blocks away and you can park underground there for $20-25 for 24 hours. That's the best rate I've found in that area.

With my grandkids- the Shedd has been the favorite of those three. They also loved Soundings- a restaurant in the Shedd.

Part of the Shedd is under construction, but the rest is open.

http://www.sheddaquarium.org/Oceanarium_Reimagined.html

We went approx 6 months ago, but my 9 yr old daughter loved Shedd. I'm assuming you already went to Hancock Tower (I prefer it over Sears) &/or Navy Pier. Also, if you a girl you have to do the American Doll Store (dinner or lunch)

If you want to do the American Girls Store, and include lunch, you need to book it in advance.

The Palmer House has a weekend special that includes parking. You might want to check that out. They also have self park for $35 per day but I'm not sure where the garage is. My kids always liked the Field Museum as much as the Shedd. But they were very ibto the Egyptian exhibits.