Spring is almost here, and in Chicago, that means celebrating the end of hibernation. With the Polar Vortex behind us, it’s time to get back out there and explore the wonders of the Windy City. Whether you live here or are visiting for Spring break, here are four fun family events to do with tweens and teens in Chicago this spring.
If your kids love animals, get tickets for the new Sea Otter Encounter at the Shedd Aquarium
My teen and I are avowed otter fans, so of course we were otterly delighted to learn about the new Extraordinary Experience at the Shedd that gives guests a new way to interact up-close with these adorable animals.
The otters are still adjusting to their new schedule so the program is being rolled out in waves. (Pun intended.) You can find the schedule and get your tickets, which are $109.95 for adults (12+)/$94.95 for children (6-11)/$64.95 for members and includes general admission and express entry to the aquarium, here. (If they’re sold out, fear not! Sign up to be notified as they’re opening more dates on an ongoing basis.)
It’s open to guests 6 and older, and children 6-11 must be accompanied by a paying adult and parents/guardians must sign waivers for participants who are 17 or younger.
If your kid is into tech or fashion, head to the MSI to see the new Wired to Wear™ exhibit
The Museum of Science and Industry Chicago unveils the first-ever exhibit dedicated to wearable technology on March 21st, Wired to Wear™. The 8,000 square-foot exhibit features more than 100 items that illustrate how merging technology into clothing will transform what we wear into devices that will make us healthier, stronger and smarter.
Items include Gravity Industries’ Jet Suit (pictured above) which can travel more than 30 miles per hour and ascend to 12,000 feet, Nike’s self-lacing shoes featured in Back to the Future Part II, and Project Unicorn by teen disability activist Jordan Reeves.
Guests can also take part in Makers United, a design experience where guests will build their own wearable product.
Find more info at msichicago.org.
If your kids love Disney, don’t miss A Whole New World with Alan Menken at the Auditorium Theatre
Want to go the distance and get one jump ahead? Then get out there, seize the day and make plans to see A Whole New World of Alan Menken at Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre on March 30th at 7:30 p.m.. Doing so will take you from zero to hero. As you share part of your world with them, your kids will have to admit that mother knows best and they will feel badly for the poor, unfortunate souls who didn’t get to see this beloved songwriter perform.
Did you catch the references to nine different Menken songs in that paragraph? There will be all that and more, including a sneak peek at new music. Get the details and tickets here.
If your tweens and teens love being active, lace up your shoes for the Race to Wrigley 5K
Chicago Cubs Charities hosts the Race to Wrigely 5K for the 14th year in a row on April 27. It’s great event for all ages and a great chance to celebrate the return of baseball season! Participants run through Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood and the Wrigley Field concourse, crossing the finish line near the Wrigley Field Marquee.
That experience is reason alone to run but it also benefits a great cause. Proceeds will go to Cubs Charities’ Diamond Project, which aims to expand baseball and softball opportunities for all Chicago children.
To register or get more details, visit www.racetowrigley.com.
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