If you’re looking for fun things to do as a family, look no further than to digital creator Meggan Teague (@mamaknowschicago). The Near North mom of Ruby, 6, knows the city and its treasure troves inside out. She originally started her community to connect with moms and meet up at kids classes. Now, thousands of moms turn to Teague to make their lives easier with her curated recommendations of where to eat, play and explore with kids.
How do you curate all these plans?
For my weekend plans, every time I see something I screen shot it or save it then it’s already ready to go when I do the weekend plans. Except for my weekend round ups (which sometimes take a break when I’m really busy or traveling) I visit every place I recommend.
What are some of the best ways to take advantage of free things the city has to offer?
The playgrounds, splash pads, beaches, farmers markets are the best for kids!
What’s the perfect Chicago day for you?
Any Saturday visiting the Green City Market is the perfect start to my day eating breakfast there and getting all the goodies. I would love to sit outside then maybe visit a museum and get some ice cream! My favorite location is the Jeni’s at Connor’s Park in the Gold Coast. If I were to have a moms day, I would take a cooking class at Bettis followed by a Matcha at Doma cafe.
For families that don’t live downtown, what would top your list of staycation activities?
The Art Institute, Color Factory, Chicago Architecture Tour and of course, dining out!
What are some uniquely Chicago things families can do?
Take the water taxi to Chinatown, explore ping Tom park then get Boba and dinner! We also love this ice cream field trip in the summer and hitting some iconic spots like Margie’s and Eli’s ark in Wicker Park.
What are some hidden gems in Chicago that entertain families?
I would say exploring Chicago neighborhoods like uptown, Chinatown, Logan Square west town! I think we often forget Chicago’s unique neighborhoods are amazing – one thing we did recently was going to Jack Walsh park and the 606.
Real Talk with Meggan Teague
Your to go coffee order:
Matcha latte with almond milk – my favorites are from Dollop Coffee and Doma cafe
Your favorite place to eat out with your family? Robert’s Pizza
Cubs or Sox? Phillies haha I grew up in Philly suburbs, but my husband is a Sox fan!
What do you put on your hot dog? Chicago style
Your personal saying: Do something that makes you happy every day.
Your secret obsession: smoothies from Chicago Health Foods – Ruby and I both dream about the pumpkin spice one come fall.
If you could change anything about your life, what would it be? Move back to Streeterville (we only moved to our new neighborhood this fall, and I miss are old area so much) so many families with young kids.
