No family should skip a visit to Chicago's Millennium Park with the kids. This is a destination that both kids and parents can enjoy, and a great way to add some free-time to a trip downtown. The park often hosts free events for kids. If you plan to spend time in this area, also print our itinerary for Chicago Loop With Kids

Millennium Park

Address 201 E. Randolph Street, Chicago, Tel (312) 742-1168 Call, Hours Daily 6am-11pm, Cost Free

Start your day with playtime at Millennium Park. During the summer, expect to find outdoor music or to stroll through the park and enjoy public art displays and incredible architecture. Kid will love playing in the water at the Crown Fountain towers and running around the mirrored "Cloud Gate" sculpture.

Art Institute of Chicago

Address 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, Tel 312-443-3600 Call, Hours Daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's days, Cost Adults: $12; Kids 12-18 $7; Under 12 Free

The Curators at the Art Institute have gone to extra effort to make the museum fun for kids. Ask at the information desk for one of the several booklets designed to help kids enjoy the museum, or start your visit down at the Kraft Education Center where kids can touch the artwork and even create some of their own.

Daley Bicentennial Plaza in Millenium Park

Address 337 E Randolf St, Chicago,

If your kids need a little more activity before heading into the Art Institute, Daily Park playground is a great place to get it

Heaven On Seven - Wabash

Address 111 N. Wabash, Chicago, Tel (312) 263-6443 Call, Hours Breakfast and Lunch Mon-Sat

This popular and casual Cajun restaurant is a great place to bring kids. The Po Boy sandwiches are a delight for grown-ups, but there's also a fun children's menu including items like mini-corn dogs and cheese grits. Our kids also loved the eclectic decor

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