The Ultimate Dad-and-Daughter Weekend In Chicago
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Spending time away from home for some one-on-one time with your daughter can be an important and memorable experience for both of you. Especially if you’ve set your sights on achieving the elusive Best Dad in the World status, take your elementary school-aged daughter to Chicago for a weekend of fun! Here are ideas for cool things to do for every type of daughter.
American Girl Doll Store
Spoil your little girly girl or history enthusiast at the American Girl Doll store in Chicago at Water Tower Place. Even if you don’t want to purchase a new doll or the vast array of accessories, the store has a museum-like feel. Be sure to check out the full line of historical dolls and absorb the background information that gives life to these characters.
A hair salon and café offer other fun ways to spend some time in the flagship store and enjoy the American Girl Doll ambiance. The salon offers doll hair styling, ear piercing and other services for prices starting at $10. The cafe serves brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner — at prices ranging from $17 to $22 per person.
Some popular downtown Chicago hotels offer American Girl store packages, and many of these packages include a bed for your daughter’s doll (that you get to take home!) as well as snacks, movies and other fun extras.
Legoland Discovery Center
Spend some time at the Legoland Discovery Center to unleash the creativity of your budding architect or sculptor. Visit the Jungle Exhibition, the 4D Cinema and get some building tips from a Lego Master Builder. Also be sure to allow enough time in your visit to enjoy the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride and the Technicycle Ride.
In fact, if you’re interested in enjoying the attractions at the Legoland Discovery Center, you’ll need to be accompanied by a child aged 3-12. That’s right; adults without a child are not permitted admission during regular hours. (Although, special Adult Nights are offered for kid-less Lego fans.)
To avoid the crowds, try hitting this attraction after 2 p.m. or visit on a Sunday. Buy tickets in advance to save money and ensure you get inside at the time you want.
Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry can keep you and your science-minded daughter engaged and fascinated for the entire weekend. But be sure to check out the Live Science Experiences and explore the interactive Coal Mine exhibit for a truly special day. Just be aware that the Coal Mine exhibition is not accessible to strollers, Segways or wheelchairs.
If you have a bit more time, another cool exhibit for your visit is “YOU! The Experience,” an interactive exhibit that allows you and your daughter to explore how your voice, vision and brain will change and consider other aspects of what’s in store as you grow. This museum also has an Omnimax theater and several special exhibits.
Whether you decide to visit one or all three destinations, you and your daughter will have an unforgettable experience in the exciting city of Chicago.
