slipperblue

Thinking of going to Chicago for the day to visit the new Millineum Park with the family (kids in elementary school). Is "the bean" still being polished or is it ready to be seen in it's glory? Any suggestions on what else to do right in the immediate area? Are there things we can do in the park? What about hotels (may decide to spend the night) & restaurants within walking distance? We'll probably visit in late August??

exiledprincess

Slipperblue, the Bean is partially finished and is partially-unveiled. I went past yesterday and people were lined up to touch it.

There is a new exhibit in Millennium Park: Revealing Chicago: An Aerial Portrait by Terry Evans. The Crown Fountains are great - a big plus is that kids (and those young at heart) splash around in them. Cool way to cool off.

In the immediate area: the Art Institute is just to the south of Millennium Park. One of the greatest treasures Chicago has.

The Shedd and Field can be easily gotten to by the free trolley (it stops at Millennium Park) or a short bus ride or cab. You could even walk there, if you so desire, but it's a little far with elementary kids, I think.

And the (rightfully-so) highly-regarded Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise boarding is only 3 blocks to the north at the NE corner of the Chicago River.

Don't know when in late August you are coming but we have our Air and Water Show then which is a great treat for the kids.

Restaurants: Corner Bakery, Park Grill, Marshall Fields (State and Randolph) has a food court in the lowest level.

Hope you have fun deciding how to spend your time here!

CAPH52

As for restaurants, I'd also recommend
The Burghoff on Adams. They have good, kid-friendly lunch specials (such as turkey meatloaf with mashed potatoes) and great root beer that they either brew themselves or is specially brewed for them.

There's always a line at lunch-time but it moves pretty quickly. Last summer we went fairly early (maybe around 11:30) and didn't have to wait at all.

seetheworld

Slipperblue, here is my "trip report" from my family trip to Chicago last summer. There is so much to choose from -- Have fun!

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...1&tid=34528750

slipperblue

Thanks for all the suggestions, and especially the link for seetheworld's trip report. Wow - how long were in you Chicago? Now I'm thinking maybe we will spend a night. I really want to do the Architectural Tour and renting the quadbike sounds like a great idea! I'd love to see a game at Wrigley, but those tickets seem so hard to come by. I guess I should check ebay??

seetheworld

Hi Slipperblue -- we were in Chicago a full week and believe it or not, there are still plenty reasons to go back for another visit

We had to purchase tickets on e-bay but it was hat day, so I was able to justify the cost

Whatever you do, you'll have a terrific time!