PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

While the name has changed from the Chicago Historical Society, the game is still the same, offering an in depth look into how our home town has begun and right up to the present. While it’s certainly not the largest museum in town and kids may want to leave after a couple hours, it’s right by the completely free Lincoln Park Zoo and the beach. Therefore, this museum is located in an ideal location for spending the perfect day with your family, providing perhaps a new appreciation for where we call home.

Exhibits include just about everything you could ever want to know more about, from how the settlers lived, dioramas regarding the Great Fire, to cool Al Capone type stuff and just about everything else. A lot of dedication is focused on Abe Lincoln as well, including the bed he died in. Exhibits like the race riots and footage from the notorious ‘68 Democratic Convention are also present, and while not pretty aspects of our history, are important nonetheless and offer learning opportunities.

Since its grand reopening, many new exhibits and features have been added to delight young and old. Seeing the first El Train is pretty cool, and the Children’s Gallery is a must see. Also, seeing stuff from the World’s Fair and the old Riverview Park is especially cool, as is the Jazz Room, as well as lots of other iconic imagery, including all the sports memorabilia!

What is truly impressive is how so many immigrants and minorities are thoroughly represented, offering a plethora of information for kids and perhaps will even swell their souls with pride. It is so refreshing to see a place that displays how important every contribution made has had a direct impact on our city.

As far as food goes, there is a Wolfgang Puck cafe inside, and while the food is absolutely delicious, I can’t see wrangling younger children in there, and it kind of breaks the budget for families anyway. Pack a lunch instead. Remember, you all can always enjoy it at the nearby zoo or beach!

Oh and also, Chicago residents who have a library card can stop by the library and check out a museum pass at the counter! It’s good for 4 people, gets you in for free and lets you bypass the lines!