Best things to do in Chicago?

What are the best, not-to-be-missed, things to see and do in Chicago?

• We are taking a 3 generational "girl" trip to Chicago April 4-7. My mom (68), my 3 daughters (26, 21 and 8 - nope, not a typo! - daughter #3 was a BIG delightful surprise!!), and I (47) have never been to Chicago. We are looking for some suggestions as to what are the best things for first time visitors to see and do in Chicago. Also, any hints and tips for getting around in "the big city" - we are from "small-town" Michigan. Thanks for any family friendly ideas you have.

• Answer:

  If you're into museums, check out the city pass link below. For the price of about 2 museums, city pass gets you into Art Institute, Field Museum, Museum of Science & Industry, the aquarium, planetarium, and Hancock Observatory (very very tall building). The second link below lets you search to find places to eat, things to do, events that are going on during the dates of your travel, etc. The third link is for public transit in Chicago. Some areas are safer than others (south side of Chicago can be sort of iffy, but most of the downtown areas and a good portion of the north side are pretty safe). The 'System Map' link is a great map of streets, and where the trains/buses run along them. Cabs are very plentiful anywhere downtown, you can hail them anywhere. If you need a cab further out in the city and don't see them cruising around, might be a good idea to call for one. I think 312-TAXICAB usually works pretty well. Hope you have a great trip! I absolutely love Chicago, have lived in the city for 5 years, and grew up in the suburbs.