The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of Chicago's most well known kid-friendly attractions, but there's lots more for families to do in this area. To get here, take the Red Line or Brown Line train to either Armitage or Fullerton Avenues. Busses 11, 22, 36 and 151 all stop in this area too.
Address 2574 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614-2314 Map, Tel 773.975.4055 Call, Transit El stop: Brown, Purple, Red Line (Lincoln); Bus line: 11, 74, Hours Closed Mon
LMNOP specializes in sophisticated, tasetful children's clothing. Expect to find brands like Flora & Henri and Cakewalk. This is a great place to come if you have a big budget and you are looking for clothing that is fashionable and a little out of the ordinary. There is a small play area in the back to help keep kids busy while you shop. more
Address 2205 North Halsted, Chicago, IL 60614 Map, Tel 773-281-5583 Call, Hours Open 7 Days Website
Piggy Toes prides itself on having the largest selection of European children's shoes in Chicago. There is an excellent selection of brands like Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Oilily, and Umi. Best of all, kids can play in the small play area while you shop in the adjoining mom-sized shoe area. more
Address 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614 Map, Tel (773) 755-5100 Call, Website
This museum is all about getting kids to engage with nature at their own level. The butterfly haven is a colorful and warm respite from cold chicago winters, and the indoor water play area and "habitat" playground let kids run and play even when the weather is terrible outside. For us, though, the hi-light was the regular opportunities for kids to get up-close and personal with real animals. Not only were there lots of terrariums and aquariums at kids-eye-level, but the kids got to touch a turtle, feed a frog, and even watch a butterfly release. more
Address 2300 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614 Map, Tel 773.348.8886 Call, Website
This classic French Bistro, just at the edge of the park, is a good choice for well-behaved kids and grownups. Crepes and quiches or french fries work well as menu choices for kids. The steak dishes are very popular for adults. more
Address 2114 N. Halsted Street, Chicago IL 60614 Map, Tel 773.327.1400 Call, Locations See website for Lakeview and Old Town locations, Hours Open 7 days for breakfast and lunch; 24 hours on Friday and Saturday Website
This casual restaurant focuses on simple, but excellent food. My ricotta stuffed french toast was light and fluffy, and covered in fresh berries. Waffles and pancakes too were far better than average diner fare. This is the kind of restaurant that makes you feel like you've joined the neighborhood. Brunch is served until 3pm, and eating breakfast items at lunchtime can be a great way to help kids have fun in a restaurant. more
Address 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago Map, Tel 312-742-2000 Call, Cost Free, Open 365 days Website
The Lincoln Park Zoo prides itself on offering something for everyone, from animal exhibits to paddleboats to spray fountains and even a carousel. The hilight for our city-living family, though, was the small farm within the zoo where my kids got to feed the cows, visit a Pig and her newborn piglets, and see an owl up close. more
Address 1630 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 Map, Tel (773) 772-2815 Call, Website
If you want to dress your baby more like a hip rockstar and less like a little cherub, this is the store for you. Psychobaby has funky clothes, shoes, modern toys, classic books and accessories for babies, toddlers, and big kids. Located in the Bucktown area of Chicago's near West side, not too far from the Loop more
Address 1963 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614 Map, Tel 312-943-0436 Call, Hours Call in advance for hours. Closed Mon & Tues
Madison and Friend's two retail stores sell upscale fashion lines & denim for everyone from babies to adults. Their outlet has some real deals on brand names like Diesel, Ella Moss, Lili Gaufrette, and Splendid. more