Nothing prepared me for the rush I would get from a recent trip to a high-ropes and climbing park. Not just personally for being able to navigate this 40-something, out-of-shape body through a complex course high off the ground, but also for the sense of admiration while watching our oldest child challenge themselves too. We were both a little apprehensive going in, but our backs were straight and heads held high on the way out. This was a fairly new adventure for both of us but we were determined to push our limits physically and mentally and we can't wait to do it again!
If you are looking for a way to test yourself, add more activity to your routine, and have tons of fun with your family at the same time, then check out these great options for climbing parks and centers in and around Chicago!
Maggie Daley Park Climbing Wall
337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
This is the first ever climbing park in Chicago and the two impressive structures offer three types of climbing - bouldering, top rope, and lead-harnessed - for everyone from beginners to advanced climbers. Reservations are not needed, but you will need to call to make arrangements if you are wanting certifications or classes with an instructor. This climbing park is outdoors and is open daily from late May to Labor Day weekend. If concerned about the weather, or if you have questions, you can reach the park at (312) 552-3000.
First Ascent Block 37
108 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602
This was actually the very first place we gave climbing a try with the kids. We found ourselves with time to kill between lunch and a movie, so we wandered around until we came to this place and I asked my favorite question: "Do you have programs for families or children?". First Ascent went above and beyond to make us newbies feel confident to give it a try. You can get a Day Pass or 10-Pass if you just want to do your own thing after a quick tutorial and video, or you can book a private guided session for a more hands-on lesson on climbing. If the Loop is not super convenient for you, no worries, First Ascent also has locations in Humboldt Park, Avondale, and Uptown. Days and hours vary by location, so be sure to check the one closest to you for correct information.
Brooklyn Boulders
100 S Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60602
Opened in 2014 in the West Loop neighborhood, Brooklyn Boulders offers a robust selection of youth programs - with summer camps, youth/teen programming in the evening/after school hours and BKB Adventure Days for when school is not in session. Climbing programs for kids at BKB instill confidence, build diverse skill sets and teach what it means to fail, try again (and again) and find success. Memberships and Day Passes are available for families, students and individuals. If you would like to learn more, you can contact Brooklyn Boulders at (312) 268-0002.
ClimbZone
2500 W Bradley Pl St, Chicago, IL 60618
ClimbZone is a family entertainment center that is pretty unique and truly created with kids in mind! It does have laser tag, bumper cars and a small arcade, but the stand out features are the 65 themed climbing walls, soft climbing play structure for the younger kids, zip line and high-ropes course. Kids can climb a piano keyboard, stack of blocks and toys or even Mount Rushmore! Pricing is broken down into varying daily packages based on what you plan on doing, so it is very easy to skip the arcade style attractions and just spend your time climbing and navigating through the ropes course. I will warn you that this not a "stop for an hour" kind of place. Plan on several hours, pack a lunch and maybe bring something to read or work on if you don't want to climb with the kids. They do have a cafe that serves snacks and drinks, plenty of tables and chairs and benches throughout the facility. You can also leave as a family and come back on the same day, just keep your bracelet on until you are truly "done". Memberships at varying levels are also available for a duration of three months.
To learn more you can visit www.climbzone.us or call (773) 455-0555
The Forge: Lemont Quarries (aka The Forge)
1001 Main St, Lemont, IL 60439
Another outdoor adventure spot but this one is incomparable to any other, not just in Illinois, but in the USA. The Forge is a genuine, jaw-dropping adventure playground - for all ages, all skills, and all levels of adventure. This is definitely a place where you and your family can spend an entire day and still want to come back for more! Climbing here includes high-ropes, climbing walls, bouldering, and zip-lining and has elements and options for all levels of experience. Plus their instructors and staff are highly-trained and will put you through the paces of a trial on the low ground before turning you loose in the park. There are height and weight guidelines for the climbing and zipline elements, so think of this section as a place for upper elementary-aged kids and older (52" is the minimum/6'6" is the maximum height). Do not worry about the kids who do not quite meet the requirements yet because on the other end of the park is a Kids Adventure Zone. This section is ideal for kids ages 3 to 13 and is only 12' off the ground and safely netted for adventurers to climb, zip, and balance their way through a one-of-a-kind playground. Also available at The Forge is kayaking, fishing, biking & hiking trails, archery, laser tag, axe throwing and so. Much. MORE!
Check out www.forgeparks.com for the full scoop, see their event schedule (think races, concerts, yoga, etc), and plan your own visit.
The Forge: Lemont Quarries - The Largest Adventure Park in the USA! - Click here for a limited time deal
1100 Ogden Ave, Western Springs, IL 60558
This zipline and treetop adventure park will have you and your kids maneuvering through the canopy of Bemis Woods Forest Preserves. Options at Go Ape are suitable for tiny treetop adventurers (2+ yrs) all the way to adults who want to test their limits 30 feet in the air. Definitely plan on spending 2-4 hours here, especially if you choose the Treetop Adventure package which takes at least 2 hours to complete. Smiles. laughter and a sense of accomplishment can definitely be found here as a family.
Find the details, along with locations across the county at www.goape.com
