Family Fun

This Best Western is located across the street from the Grant Park Bandshell and approximately 18 miles from O'Hare International Airport. The hotel is also within half a mile from Soldier Field, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, State Street, and Buckingham Fountain. Magnificent Mile is one mile away, United Center and the Shedd Aquarium are two miles away, and Wrigley Field and US Cellular Field are three miles from the hotel.Hotel amenities include the outdoor pool and sun deck, exercise room, and deluxe continental breakfast. The hotel also offers valet laundry service, 24-hour front desk service, free weekday newspapers, safety deposit, valet parking, and free local calls (up to 30 minutes). A restaurant, Fornetto & Mei, serves food all day and provides room service to the property.All rooms feature cable TV, dataports, hairdryers, coffee/tea makers, irons and ironing boards, and additional in-room toiletries.

While no longer the world's tallest building, the Sears Tower still stands proud. High-speed elevators climb 110 stories to the observatory deck, and when clear, the view from 1,454 feet can be stunning. Enjoy bird's eye views of Lake Michigan, both the North and South Sides of the city, the surrounding suburbs and, on a clear day, parts of Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan. The Skydeck Tour also includes a multimedia presentation and an exhibit with information on the Sears Tower and other architecturally significant buildings. The Skydesk also offers Glass Balconies, also known as "The Ledge." On the 103rd floor of the Sears Tower there are balconies with see through walls, ceilings floors, so it is like you are standing on air. If you are brave enough to venture out, the balconies offer a spectacular view of the city as well as the streets bellow.

Nestled on the coast of Lake Michigan, this indoor aquatic world the John G. Shedd Aquarium is home to more than 650 species of fish, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, birds and mammals from across the globe. Explore Caribbean waters at the 90,000-gallon coral reef exhibit, or watch whales and dolphins play during marine mammal shows. Eat at Soundings restaurant, where you will find a panoramic view of Lake Michigan, or in the Bubble Net food court. Aquatic souvenirs are available in the gift shop. See website for package deals, visitor info, maps, membership details, and events calendar. The Aquarium opens daily at 9am.

This museum makes science fun with interactive, educational exhibits that stretch the imagination. Spend time in a 16-foot heart as you learn about how yours works. Find out how technology has influenced history by stepping back in time on 'Yesterday's Main Street'. Watch action-packed films in the museum's giant-screen Omnimax Theatre or take a ride down a coal mine. And don't leave without picking up some great souvenirs at The Big Idea museum shop. Omnimax requires additional fee. Parking available in underground garage.

Bacino's claims that its pizza is heart healthy, but don't bet your pacemaker on it. The taste of Bacino's signature spinach pizza is excellent. What the unassuming decor lacks, the restaurant makes up for in the quality of its food. Some even say that it gives other pizzerias a run for their money. Certainly, locals flock here - the size of the weekend crowds reflect this. You may have to wait, but if you are in Lincoln Park craving pizza, this is the place to go.

Travel from ancient civilizations through modern times, viewing remnants of bygone cultures and traditions. Get the inside story on Sue, the largest and most complete T-Rex dinosaur skeleton, or view preserved man-eating lions and other animals. For a truly subterranean experience, check out the Underground Adventure, an exhibit dedicated to soil and how it sustains life, or just relax at one of several places to eat. Free for members, teachers and military personnel. Chicago residents receive a discount. See website for online ticketing, visitor guide, and extended hours.