by Cynthia Warso

Created on: March 15, 2009   Last Updated: April 16, 2011

Families traveling to Chicago with kids in tow need this insider's guide to the best places to go and what to see, do, and eat. Chicago is a world-class city with fabulous architecture, a gorgeous lakefront, and food and cultural gems that rival NYC and LA any day. The choices are many, but to sort it out for you, here are Chicago's greatest hits - a top 40 list of kid-friendly attractions for you and your family to explore. Various options are available for handicapped or special needs children (check out the website easyaccesschicago.org for a quick rundown of the major sites and what they provide for handicapped visitors).

• Museums and Zoos

Field Museum

1400 South Lake Shore Drive

(312) 922-9410

www.fieldmuseum.org

Natural history museum. In addition to showcasing people and places from around the world, kids will love seeing the bones of Sue, the world's largest, most complete T-Rex dinosaur.

• Museum of Science and Industry

57th Street & Lake Shore Drive

(773) 684-1414

www.msichicago.org

Science museum. Features scientific discoveries, a trip into a coal mine, gadgets and gizmos, and a walk-through human heart. Don't miss the exquisite Colleen Moore's Fairy Castle in the Thorne Miniature Rooms.

• The Art Institute of Chicago Museum

111 South Michigan Avenue

(312) 443-3600

www.artic.edu/aic/

Art museum. One of the finest collections of Impressionist paintings in the country. The Touch Gallery and BigSmall Gallery are great tactile and visual stimulation for children.

• Chicago History Museum

1601 North Clark Street

(312) 642-4600

www.chicagohistory.org

History museum. Kids can learn about Abraham Lincoln, experience what its like to be a Chicago Hot Dog, and loads of other hands-on activities.

• Shedd Aquarium

1200 South Lake Shore Drive

(312) 939-2438

www.sheddaquarium.org

Aquatic life museum. The Wild Reef sharks and the Oceanarium will thrill your kids.

• Adler Planetarium

1300 South Lake Shore Drive

(312) 922-7827

www.adlerplanetarium.org

Astronomy museum. Daily show "One World, One Sky" features Big Bird and Sesame Street characters.

• Robie House

5757 South Woodlawn Avenue

(773) 834-1847

www.wrightplus.org/robiehouse/robiehouse.html

Historic house museum. Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece of the Prairie Style! Fantastic tours, some especially for children with a Junior Interpreter as your guide; themes include Wright 3 based on the popular children's book, Geek tours, and special Halloween tours in October.

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