While navigating a bustling city like Chicago without a car may seem overwhelming, there's a convenient and family-friendly way to explore its wonders and surrounding areas: by train. Embarking on a train journey allows parents and children alike to enjoy the view, ease of transportation, and endless possibilities for discovery. So, hop aboard and join us as we embark on a memorable family adventure exploring Chicago and its surrounding areas by train.
Chicago's public transportation system, including the iconic "L" trains and the Metra commuter rail, connects various neighborhoods, suburbs, and attractions, and Amtrak service will take you even further! The options for train-bound adventure allow families to reach their desired destinations without the hassle of traffic or parking concerns. The frequency of train services ensures that you can plan your itinerary with ease and spend more time enjoying the sights.
Exploring By "L" Train
Chicago's diverse neighborhoods are brimming with culture, and exploring them by train is a fantastic way to immerse your family in different communities.
Here are some more of our favorite neighborhoods accessible by the L train:
- Lincoln Square (Brown Line): Located on the North Side, Lincoln Square is a vibrant neighborhood known for its strong German heritage and welcoming family-friendly vibe. Take a stroll down Lincoln Ave to explore unique shopping and dining options, head to Welles Park which offers a great playground, nature play space and plenty of space to picnic, or visit the Sulzer Library for an activity or to find something new to read.
- Logan Square (Blue Line): Take the Blue Line to Logan Square and explore this eclectic neighborhood known for its historic boulevards and thriving arts scene. Discover local breweries, cozy cafes, and unique shops along Milwaukee Avenue. Be sure to check out the famous Logan Square Monument.
- Pilsen (Pink Line): Head southwest on the Pink Line to Pilsen, a vibrant neighborhood rich in Mexican-American culture. Explore colorful murals, visit the National Museum of Mexican Art, and savor authentic Mexican cuisine in this artistic and lively community.
- Hyde Park (Red/Green Line): Located on the South Side, Hyde Park is home to the prestigious University of Chicago and offers a mix of academic and cultural attractions. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry, stroll through the beautiful campus, and enjoy the scenic views along Lake Michigan.
- Andersonville (Red Line): Travel north on the Red Line to Andersonville, a welcoming and diverse neighborhood known for its Swedish heritage. Explore Clark Street, lined with unique shops, charming cafes, and delicious Swedish bakeries. Don't miss the annual Swedish Midsummer Festival in June.
- Chinatown (Red Line): Located on the city's South Side, Chinatown offers a vibrant atmosphere, rich heritage, and an array of culinary delights. Stop at the Chinatown Gate which is a symbol of good luck, and head down Wentworth Avenue to discover a wide range of stores selling everything from Chinese herbs and teas to traditional clothing and home goods and explore the Chinatown Square Mall which offers multiple levels of shopping and dining options. Take a break at Ping Tom Park along the bank of the Chicago River which offers a great spot to play and relax
These neighborhoods offer distinct atmospheres, cultural experiences, and attractions, and they are easily accessible via the "L" train. So, hop aboard the train and embark on an unforgettable journey through the diverse and vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago.
Exploring by Metra Train
Escape the city's hustle and bustle by boarding a Metra train and journeying to the scenic suburbs surrounding Chicago. The train journey itself becomes an adventure, offering scenic views and the opportunity to relax and bond as a family. Here are some of our favorite destinations accessible by Metra and be sure to check back as we will be adding more this summer:
- BROOKFIELD ZOO - Located just outside of Chicago, Brookfield Zoo is a world-class destination that offers an unforgettable wildlife experience for visitors of all ages. Spanning 216 acres, this renowned zoo is home to a diverse array of animal species from around the globe.
- DUPAGE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM - For more than 30 years the DuPage Children's Museum has been "inspiring families to laugh, learn, and love spending time together." The museum is host to exhibits and experiences that inspire creativity, critical thinking, and family conversation.
- SCI-TECH HANDS ON MUSEUM - Home to over 200 interactive STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) exhibits that inspire education and imagination. Every exhibit is a mini-experiment with information about what to DO at the station and a scientific explanation for what is happening. Bring the entire family! Young and old minds alike will discover science in the world around them.
- MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY - This has been a long family favorite for many reasons and is a museum that has grown with our family. Initially, we visited it as part of our "train adventures" and while we still love the train exhibits, we keep discovering more and more as our children get older. Metra provides a very easy way to get to the museum all year long.
- KOHL CHILDREN'S MUSEUM - It is known as the "Place Where Awesome Lives" with 17 permanent exhibits to explore and the current BUILD IT exhibit which allows visitors to play & create with a variety of building blocks. The museum is open until 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays and more information about exhibits can be found here.
- OAK PARK - If you haven't visited Oak Park then I recommend it! It is a great area on the edge of Chicago and easily accessible without a car. Oak Park is home to great local shops like the Sugar Beet Food Co-Op and The Book Table and attractions such as the Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio, Ernest Hemingway Birthplace and Wonder Works Children's Museum.
- 2TOOTS TRAIN WHISTLE & GRILL (Glen Ellyn) - If you have a train fan of any age in the house then 2Toots needs to be on your list! This is the only restaurant where "all the seating is on the tracks" and the food is delivered by train to your table! Hosting a menu perfect for a family meal and a nostalgic feel 2Toots Train Whistle & Grill in Glen Ellyn is very easy to get to from Chicago.
- CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN - Immerse yourself in the serenity of the garden's meticulously curated displays, tranquil lakes, and enchanting walking paths. The walk from the Braeside station to the entrance of the garden is quite enjoyable and peaceful too. Just follow the path right to the entrance! In the summer months, you can also choose to exit at the Glencoe station and board a trolley bus which will shuttle you to the entrance.
Exploring by Amtrak
Some of you may know that our family has a deep love for the game of baseball, so these Amtrak adventures we have taken won't be too much of a surprise! All of these destinations offer great family spots to explore and GREAT ballparks if you wanted to catch a game:
- Chicago to Milwaukee: Hop aboard Amtrak's Hiawatha Service and embark on a delightful day trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Enjoy the scenic journey along Lake Michigan's shoreline as you travel approximately 90 miles north from Chicago. In Milwaukee, explore the historic Third Ward, visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, sample local craft beers at renowned breweries, and indulge in the city's famous cheese curds.
- Chicago to St. Louis: Experience the charm of the Midwest by taking the Amtrak Lincoln Service or Texas Eagle route from Chicago to St. Louis, Missouri. Traveling approximately 300 miles southwest, you'll discover iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch, explore the vibrant Delmar Loop district, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the city. Don't forget to try the St. Louis-style barbecue and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront.
- Chicago to Detroit: Embark on a captivating journey from Chicago to Detroit on the Amtrak Wolverine Service. This approximately 280-mile trip takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Michigan. Once in Detroit, explore the revitalized downtown area, visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, and learn about the city's musical legacy at the Motown Museum. Indulge in the city's burgeoning culinary scene, including its famous Coney dogs and Detroit-style pizza
Exploring Chicago and its surrounding areas by train opens up a world of possibilities for family adventures. From the bustling streets of the city to the serene suburbs and nearby states, there's something for everyone. The convenience, affordability, and stress-free nature of train travel make it an excellent choice for parents seeking to create lasting memories with their children. So, gather your loved ones, plan your itinerary, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Chicago and beyond.
All aboard for some unforgettable adventures!
