Sure, Michigan Avenue and Museum Campus can be fun with family the first time they visit. But there are so many other ways to show off the city, and you’ll want a few game plans tucked away in your pocket for when the parental unit is knocking on your door. Follow our lead, head out and show them the city sights and in no time they'll feel like true Chicagoans.
Take them on a cruise
It’s a classic but for good reason–your parents will love taking in the cityscape as they ride on the water during one of the many river cruises. A favorite is the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s River Cruise, where you’ll learn about some of the true creators of our city while enjoying the lovely view.
Educational family drinking
Put back a few rounds while learning something new at one of the many brewery and distillery tours in Chicago. Many local spots offer up free or low-cost tours of their facilities where you can learn the science of drinking and enjoy a taste of the wares after. If you prefer pints, check out Revolution or Finch’s tour. If spirits are more your style, visit Rhine Hall or CH Distillery.
Go green
The hustle and bustle of city life can be overwhelming for visitors, so catch some tranquility and a bit of peace and quiet at one of Chicago’s lovely conservatories. Both Lincoln Park and Garfield Park offer up beautiful botanicals in the heart of the city. If you’re heading north, the Chicago Botanic Garden is a perfect way to spend a bit more time with nature.
Take them out to the ball game
Even if Mom and Dad aren’t Cubs or Sox fans, they’ll still have a fun time at a local game. You can usually find cheap White Sox tickets at the box office or buy bleacher seats on the street for Cubs games. First round of peanuts and Cracker Jacks are on Dad.
Parent-friendly dining
Waiting in line for hours in a loud, flashy, packed restaurant isn’t usually a favorite pastime. So take them to a calmer spot that accepts reservations, with a menu that aims to please many palates and none of that pesky communal seating that Mom hates. Some of our favorite parent-friendly spots around town include GT Fish & Oyster, Maude’s Liquor Bar, Vera, Salero, A10 and Osteria Langhe.
Enjoy the drive along Sheridan Road
If you've got a set of wheels handy, take them for a spin along Lakeshore Drive then head up north and follow Sheridan Road. You can dig your toes into the sand at a few beaches in Rogers Park, enjoy the scenery as you pass through Evanston and the Northwestern campus, take in the beautiful architecture at the Baha’i House of Worship in Wilmette and catch a concert at Ravinia. Mom will love wine and cheese on the lawn.
Take a ride on the Brown Line
It's cheap, the view is beautiful (especially when you ride into the Loop) and to end the trip you can ride up to Lincoln Square for German food and beers on Gene's rooftop.
A whole new world
We’re a city of diverse neighborhoods so it’s easy to take your parents on a trip around the world without even leaving the city limits. Obviously Chinatown is a great spot to enjoy cuisine from all different regions. And Pilsen is a perfect place to learn about Mexican art and culture while enjoying some seriously great tres leches cake. Grab a plate of pierogi at Smak Tak in Jefferson Park or a dosa and chaat at Uru-Swati on Devon Street. Your parents will enjoy the extra dose of worldly culture and you might even get to enjoy a new neighborhood yourself.