Why are there more than 30 million Instagram posts about #SundayFunday? Because that’s what Sunday is all about! It is a time to unplug from social media (once you post that IG pic, of course), catch up with friends and family, and rejuvenate yourself for the new week ahead. Since the Bears aren’t predicted to win the Super Bowl this season (maybe next year?), you might want to find some family-friendly activities other than watching the game.
Pinstripes
Locations in Northbrook, Oak Brook,
South Barrington and Chicago
There’s something special about Sunday brunch. Maybe it’s the mimosas or the fact that you can wear PJ pants and no one will even blink an eye. What makes this traditional brunch even better? When you dine at Pinstripes and your kids are so busy bowling that you can lounge on the couch and truly savor your meal. Bottomless Brunch prices and hours vary based on location, but all spots serve up an expansive buffet including waffle, omelet and meat-carving stations.
Water Taxi to Chinatown
Chicago
Sit back, relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the best city in the world on Chicago’s popular water taxi from mid-March through November. Take a trip directly from Ogilvie/Union Station to Michigan Avenue, the Riverwalk or Chinatown. There are so many delicious restaurants to choose from for Sunday dim sum, such as Ming Hin, Phoenix and Triple Crown. If you don’t want to have a sit-down meal, stop for a refreshing bubble tea at one of the many stands or grab a delicious treat from Chiu Quon Bakery, Chinatown’s oldest bakery, while exploring Chinatown’s colorful and exotic sites and playing at Ping Tom Memorial Park. $9 all-day pass.
Hamill Family Play Zoo
Brookfield
Is your favorite playspace closed on Sundays? Don’t fret! One of the best playspaces in all of Chicagoland is open 365 days a year—the Hamill Family Play Zoo at Brookfield Zoo. Animal lovers of all ages will enjoy intimate animal encounters, nature-based learning opportunities and much more. The play zoo also has a vast outdoor area that can be enjoyed in all types of weather and has limitless learning and play opportunities, from fort building to scavenger hunts—even visits from the peacocks that roam the Brookfield Zoo. There is also a convenient nursing moms’ room inside. $3; zoo members receive half-price admission. Free for all visitors from Nov. 1-Feb. 28.
The Zone
Mount Prospect
Once the sun starts to set, the “Sunday Scaries” definitely ramp up. I mean, who wants a fun and carefree weekend to end? Work off your Sunday night anxiety by exploring the parkour obstacle course at The Zone in Mount Prospect. This Park District facility has open play in the fall every Sunday from 4-6 p.m. for kids to climb, jump, tumble, flip, run and get totally tuckered out and relaxed for Monday morning. Instructors are on hand to help facilitate open play and answer questions. $10 per child.
