Chicago's Near North Side encompasses Miracle Mile shopping, some of the best hotels in the city, the historic Water Tower, and John Hancock Tower.
Address 43 E Oak St, Chicago, Illinois 60611 Map, Tel (312) 642-6403 Call, Website
If imported European clothing or high fashion lines are your style (or your child's), this is the place for you. Expect to find fashionable brands like Diesel, Ella Moss, Lili Gaufrette, and Splendid. There is also a denim store for adults. more
Address 228 E Chicago Ave, Chicago Map, Website
Seneca Park, which features a shaded lawn, is a nice place for a picnic. There is also a functional (if unimpressive) play area. more
Address 30 West Huron St, Chicago, Illinois 60654 Map, Website
Whole Foods Markets are always a great place to pick up healthy snacks and breakfast items at grocery store prices (instead of concession stand prices). I also enjoy the selection of local cheeses, baked goods and other items... as a parent, it's hard to make it out to all the restaurants or bakeries that might feature these items, and I might otherwise miss them now that I travel with the kids. An in-store dining area makes this an easy place to have a quick meal. more
Address 520 N Michigan Ave # 300, Chicago, IL 60611 Map, Tel (312) 494-0760 Call, Website
This huge lego store has lego models, an area where kids can play with legos, the best lego selection you'll find anywhere. The store is located inside Westfield Shoppingtown. While you are there, ask for diretions to the two Lego murals inside the mall. more
Address 600 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611 Map, Tel 312.280.7774 Call, Hours Brunch Sat & Sun; Lunch & dinner daily, Entrance Rush & Ohio; 2nd floor Website
This well-known Cajun restaraunt serves a wide variety of po-boy sandwiches and other delicacies like fried green tomatoes and grits. The kids menu continues the Cajun theme without straying too far from childhood standards. The atmosphere is casual enough for kids and carry-out is available more
Address 900 N Michigan Ave, #L5 22, Chicago, IL 60611 Map, Tel (312) 440-9550 Call, Website
If you have forgotten an essential piece of baby gear, this is an excellent place to buy what you need. From strollers to sippy cups and toys, has all the high end baby gear a parent might want. more
Address 401 E Illinois Street, Chicago Map, Tel 312-410-7310 Call, Hours 6am-Midnight Daily Website
Fox and Obel, Chicago's premiere food market, is the perfect place to pick up a picnic lunch. In the cafe you'll find cold and hot sandwiches, salads and pizza. You can pick up a variety of sides in the market too. more
Address 301 East North Water Street, Chicago, IL 60611 Map, Tel (312) 464-1000 Call, Website
This large hotel caters primarily to conferences, but you'll find it comfortable for a family trip too. The location, a few blocks off of Michigan Avenue does mean that you'll be doing some walking when you want to catch a bus, but you'll also have beautiful views of the river from the hotel's towers. more