Moving to a new town is both exciting and scary, especially for my family. We had been so comfortable in our old hometown with our favorite places to go and eat. As recent Southwest suburban newbies, we feel a little โlostโ in our new โhood. Where do we go to play? What are some top family-friendly places to eat? Over the next few months, we hope to find the answers to these questions, as we are more than eager to explore the area and discover new family favorites.
Here are a few places that have caught our eye and are on our must-visit list:
5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn
No doubt about it – we love children’s museums that encourage learning through play. A definite win-win for kids and parents. As the Chicago south side leader in play-based education, we have this museum high on our must-see list. With an art studio, water play area, the ability to climb a โtreehouseโ or build a construction project, I have a feeling my kiddos will be preoccupied for a few hours.
11 S. White Street, Frankfort
Another children’s museum in the area? Score! As Will County’s first children’s museum in the area, who could resist two floors of hands-on fun โฆ in a trolley barn?
12700 SW Hwy, Palos Park
With fall fun such as Pumpkin Days and Pumpkin Playland just around the corner, now would be a great time to see some of our favorite farm animals including cows, sheep, goats and chickens.
Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens
7402 W. Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights
When we need a dose of nature, we hope to check out the park’s woodlands, prairie, wetlands, gardens and 10-acre lake. They even have a waterfall! Their nature center also offers a Little Explorers program with different nature-based themes. The kids would love this!
20831 S LaGrange, Frankfort
As a mother to two train lovers, we were so excited to see a train restaurant close by. All Aboard Family Dining not only serves family favorites such as chili, burgers and fries by train, but the restaurant also has a playroom with fun things like trains and a chalkboard wall. The kids may not end up eating!
What other Southwest suburban activities or restaurants should we add to our list?
