20 Best Summer Programs In Chicago, IL (2022 Updated)

Do NOT do business with this school. I enrolled my middle schooler in a drawing class in the spring – it cost $300 for a week of 2 hour per day classes. The “instructor” showed up, gave them the option to draw what they wanted, then had them “share out” at the end of each class. With a BREAK in between. No instruction, no critiques. We’ve gotten more valuable classes from the park district for 50 bucks. To add insult to injury, they offered me a second class for another $300 which I declined. For the past seven months, I get a bill and freaking COLLECTION notice every month with threatening language for that 300 bucks. I’ve called, emailed – everyone is going to “look into it”. I’m done trying – wouldn’t do business with this organization again if they were giving it away for free. Buyer beware.Kim Reynolds

Hi!! My name is Katherine Nicholson. I visited SAIC today. Willow and Ahmad toured me throughout the campus; special thanks to them, because both of them were incredibly kind and assisted me with all of my questions, no matter how specific. To say the least, I was floored. All of the buildings were wonderfully designed, and the classrooms were very obviously arranged and built specifically for artists. The dorms were so spacious too!! As someone who's visited many other colleges, such as SCAD, MIAD, Columbia Chicago, and UIUC, School of the Art Institute of Chicago immediately goes at the top of my list. I am excited to apply here, and all-the-more inspired to keep working on my portfolio.Kit Nicholson

Over $5,000 per class? I researched on payscale and college factual websites and the ROI (return on investment) for this school is abysmal. Forget it. Over $50,000 a year just for tuition and then what? A ton of debt and a degree with a "fancy" name? It's all very well to be a "creative type" but my god be pragmatic too. My artist teen was interested in SAIC and visited but decided not to apply choosing a state school that is half the price and still offers all the art classes she wants for her focus.BMF

I had an amazing experience at Booth. The program and culture live up to the mantras of "Challenge everything" and "Independent thought" in my experience. Personally, I was drawn to the fact that there is no one path at Booth — you're not forced into a cohort, you're not told which classes you have to take, you're not assigned to study teams and instead, you have the freedom to chart your own course (within some guidelines of course!) and you gain much wider exposure (e.g., taking classes with 2nd years). Looking back, the LEAD course was extremely helpful and I apply those lessons about leadership and self-awareness everyday now. The student culture is very strong (and different than what many perceive) — it's a bit different from other schools where there's a concentrated campus that everyone lives near and again, things aren't dictated for you. I was incredibly impressed by my classmates — not just their intelligence and career drive but also their passion for traveling and experiencing the city of Chicago. I did not find it to be competitive at all – I think because of the grade non-disclosure but also in recruiting, I had so much help from my classmates. A bit about my experience: I was a career changer. I worked in HR before and worked in consulting afterwards (boutique/startup firm in Chicago). My course specializations were Strategy, Economics, and Marketing. I was very involved with the Admissions team while there, serving on the student adcom, leading tours, planning admit weekend, etc. I also loved the Business Solutions Group where I worked on a pro-bono consulting project for a non-profit education company. I lived in Hyde Park (rare for Booth students, but I loved it). My advice to future applicants: engage with the Booth community as much as possible. Visit campus, sit in on a class, talk to students and alums, connect with the alumni group in your closest city. Be prepared to have reasons for "Why Booth" beyond just the finance reputation and flexible curriculum.Jefri Tamba

The best business school in the galaxy. What makes Booth special is its relentless focus on rigour and compelling logic in pursuit of understanding business. The MBA program is ranked number 1 by The Economist and Businessweek. More than 600 students matriculate each year and join an alumni base of over 45,000 world-wide. The school features and extensive collection of modern art. Architecturally, the building echoes the gothic University of Chicago style in the Rothman Winter Garden. The over hangs in the back give tribute to the Robie house in the back, designed by Frank Lloyd WrightZvi Goldstein

Austin Golsbee is the economics teacher that is Arrogant and example of was wrong in today’s society that someone like this has position of influence on people . He only likes to look at one side and doesn’t look at all the information. he likes to brag about what he has accomplished. The only thing he has accomplished is a bad education stay away from the school they will miss inform you and give you are useless education. I would not allow anyone in my family to enroll in this school . Even on a full scholarshipBrian H

This is school is a place you need to work to get where you are going. My only issue is the education program which the teachers seem to think its okay to grade papers weeks and weeks after. This is so frustrating and then when you reach out to others, they are about as helpful as a blind horse. This school needs to work on pleasing the students and helping them grow and not just focus on themselves. I don't think its right for a teacher to wait till the last week in school to grade 6 papers, our school semester is only 12 weeks long, how does not grading something for 6 week justified? Its frustrating. But as I'm reaching the end I grow excited knowing that I worked through all this mess to better myself and my success, I feel dealing with Kendall has made me stronger and knowing that life is not fair and that it will suck sometimes. You just need to push through and finish so you can move on from the past and be better.Jennifer Green

This is a review of the cooking classes that Kendall offers. I've been to several of them (knife skills, sushi, and couples' brunch) and enjoyed the final products that we made. However, their facilities are not really designed for classes. You are literally in an industrial kitchen, with pans hanging from the walls, and it's tough to see and hear the instructor. My sushi class was taught by a French chef with a very thick accent, and my couples' brunch class was really a group of about 10 folks per table working together (so much for "couples".) The cooking equipment isn't great, either – we were using pans that were so curvy from use that they wouldn't even lay straight on the grill. They do have lots of Groupons or other deals for classes, though, which makes the classes affordable.Emily Seto

We enjoyed the culinary camp for a week. Learned many things and at professional facility. The evening events were good as well. The instructors provided great references and skill improvement for the students. The assistants were mostly helpful. There was one that needed to not be so arrogant and bossy, instead should have put the energy to helping the class. In the end it was a good experience and the food which was prepared was great. The final day everyone got to try the other classes (baking, world cuisine ) meals as well. We will put this on the list for next year to review the new organization's changes.Brett Hayes

I have been a student of DePaul University – Law College since 2019. Before joining DePaul I was contemplating between DePaul and other Universities, I am so happy I made the right choice to join DePaul. Not only is it a prestigious University with many famous alumni names, but also because it is a University that has made the list of the top best Universities for many years. Depaul has the best facility you can hope to study under, the administration are very helpful and my advisor, is one of the best, always available whenever I needed assistance, guidance or help. If you are a graduate of DePaul, you can be sure that employers will want to add you to their staff. Being part of DePaul, is being part of a large educational family. There are two campuses, the main one is located in Lincoln Park and the other one is located in the Loop, right in the heart of the business hub, if you are attending College of Law or College of Business. There are two huge libraries in the Loop campus, with access to Starbucks, as well as to, Barnes and Nobles. In both Colleges you have cafeterias amd study lounges. There is a Toastmasters club at DePaul and many other groups and clubs to join. Also, DePaul offers a help center, fpr students who may need extra help with certain classes, as well as, a writing center for whenever you need your essays reviewed, with feedback and assistance in improving it before submission. With all of the above and more, I could not possibly list all of the things DePaul os known for, or offers, but I can tell you one thing, if you happen to choose DePaul and become accepted, be sure you are part of the many successful people who will graduate with pride. DePaul is my University and hopefully it will be yours.Yazan Al-Khuzai

You can be a full fledged patriotic American, but just because your parents travel and you may have a foreign transcript (from high school/ middle school) you are deemed an international student. To add insult to injury this particular issue entailed the student already having graduated from a neighboring community college. Yet still, they are deemed international. An obvious protocol set in place to guzzle money out of the student. Wasn’t even thrilled about their level of academics to begin with, so not having this school as an option isn’t a loss in the slightest for our family. I appreciate their immediate display of a lack of sensical protocol, because it made us deem this school unfit without wasting any further time. Thanks DePaul!The RE: Brand

Hispanic Heritage event went on without a hitch. Free of Problems and controversy. Entertainment was Great Food was Awesome. The Highlight was the introduction of the Main Speakers The New Era Young Lord's. Also some Associates and Friends from there Early Year's. The Bomba group provided good Entertainment and a Festive Atmosphere. In the Middle Sixties you could count the Minorities attending DePaul. The all played on the Basketball team. Vast improvements have been made. Opening Enrollment and and Opputunity. We can Thank Groups like the Young Lord's who brought to the light the Contridiction's. Great Job Latino Students.Rory Guerra

I recently received a class schedule (non-credit) brochure in the mail from Harper College and found a mosaic class taught by artisan and glass artists Urii Guchenia and Nathalie who has her very own studio in Willowbrook. The class was very inexpensive and well worth it! Kristin the librarian was very efficient in sending us a friendly email reminder along with the campus map to find the building where the class was. The class was held in “The Make Shop” within the library. All supplies were furnished and setup for us. Nathalie and Urii gave a us brief history of glass mosaics and were so helpful while we created our pieces. They had a vast array of glass tiles in every color imaginable! It was so much fun and gave us all a whole new appreciation of mosaic artisanry!Michelle Foy

A place where I got the opportunity to make wonderful memories that will be with me forever!! A place which helped me find my hidden passion and persistently encouraged me to work for it!! All along with a beautiful campus, excellent faculty and staff, and interesting engagement activities!! The professors, academic advisors, and counselors helped me excel in classes, motivated and kept me on track for the completion of my degree in a timely manner, and most importantly helped me make my mind to work for a specific major rather than remaining undecided! All in all, if I succeed in my career years later, Harper will always be a crucial reason for my success!! Thank you Harper for everything and I badly miss you!!Prerak Patel

Please do not go to this school, its terrible! I went here for 3 years and obtained an associates degree in Arts meant towards a bachelors degree back in 2014 but my experience was horrible. Me being black and African, they denied me an opportunity to use the Chemistry Lab to work on an idea that I wanted to prove yrt they were allowing other students to use it. Yet, the school used me to advertise in the Daily Herald News Paper as an immigrant that goes to their school doing athletics. I did athletics (Track and Field and Cross-country) for 2 Years.Turyamusiima Livan

The University of Chicago Booth campus is one of the oldest higher learning institutions in Chicago. The Campus is spread across the South Hyde Park and surrounding neighborhood. Had a chance to stop into the Harper Building and the welcoming atrium and staff. The administrative staff here are very friendly and knowledgeable. The students come for undergraduate or the prestigious grad school at Booth. The world class research institution is considered one of the top universities in the Midwest.chad svastisalee

Pleased to visit one of the most important Universities in the World! Its gardens, its period buildings keep an incomparable history with other universities! All its facilities are in favor of encouraging research and studies! Impressed by its majesty in knowledge and educational experience! This is part of the quality of its professionals that make them competitive worldwide!miguel chang

I enjoy the mix of old buildings and new ones. Going in the old buildings, is like go into a time capsule. Student's seem to enjoy the campus, as well as residents of the neighborhood. Enjoy the small businesses surrounding the campus. Their are several things to do, you just have to venture out and find them.Jerome Scarborough

Forever captivated by the beauty and history encapsulated in the Art Institute. Not a place to visit too often as the gallery is largely full of permanent installations, but there is always some sort of special exhibition/gallery taking place when they are open. Entire building is extremely clean with staff and maps scattered around in order to make your experience more enjoyable. Many famous works that one recognizes from pop culture or past studies are able to be seen here. One of the top art museums in the world and an undeniable staple in Chicago’s history. Do not miss out on viewing everything it has to offer. Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$16–20Dylan Ivanov

Thia museum was enormous and I am pretty sure a week in this place still wouldn't be enough time. I wish I would have had more time to appreciate each piece but what I did see was amazing in every single way. The museum is beautiful, spacious, and clean. They have attendants in every room to help you find your way. I would absolutely recommend a visit here and be prepared to spend the way and wear comfortable footwear. They have 4 levels and multiple buildings and wings. I typically don't use elevators unless its a high rise but I did today. There are multiple entrances and exits as well. Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$21–30Cassie Ware

The "One Hour Tour" is excellent! We found ourselves very short on time the day we were meant to visit the museum (about an 1hr 15min). Luckily, on the visitor's map there's a "short on time" suggestion page of the museum's highlights. It was perfect. It included a lot of the most well known pieces you can't miss (Rodin, Tiffany window, Picasso) and we still had time to see other rooms. This museum is not to be missed but if you feel like an hour is too short, do it. It's worth the trip and tickets are discounted. Visited on
Weekend

Price for adult entry
$11–15LatinaLibra

The Academy shaped the way I see and make art. While at time a bit disorganized and unstructured (a lot of empty time where students are encouraged to work independently), this school made me realize I want to make films for the rest of my life. The teachers are this school are very invested in their work as well as the work of their students. I feel very lucky to call myself alumn.Grace Melon

This school is a unique environment where students not only receive exceptional training in their discipline but, because of the structure of the program, they are also able to excel academically, due in no small part to the passionate teachers, very small class sizes, personal attention, and outstanding administration of this school. I could not be happier with this school!Karen Sugay

I recently attended the CAA production of 'Sense and Sensibility'. It was a wonderful, fast paced production, and totally well acted in a nifty black box theater. This school continues to surprise me with their performance and visual arts productions. I think it is a gem right in our midst. If you haven't seen this school, you should look it up!Christopher McKinney

As a proud alumni member of the class of 2005, I had a great educational experience at this school. The teachers truly care for the well-being of their students and know them on a personal level. The Christian atmosphere is truly contagious in a good way of course. The academic program prepares you for either heading into the work field or college. The extra curriculars are fabulous as well, I was involved with theatre programs as well as a scholastic bowl team. Do not let the price of tuition scare you, they offer many scholarships and financial assistance where needed. If I was still living in the western Chicago suburbs, my own two children would attend here in a heartbeat. It is nice seeing some teachers are still there when I was a student, shows you how much the staff love working there. Some have moved on, whether by choice or other means, but parents looking for a great, private school option for your high school age kids, please consider this school.Vera Sultz

I'm a former student, parent, and now Trustee, so I'm a little biased here. But knowing the school so well, I can recommend it without reservation as a place that transforms students academically, spiritually, and physically. My firm also works with Higher Education clients and the name "Wheaton Academy" is known for its mission (growth through relationships, excellence and service for God's glory) and the quality of its students from coast to coast. Visit!Chris Grant

Wheaton Academy is a special place. Not only is it beautiful on the outside (grounds, buildings, and campus) but it is even more beautiful on the inside (the people). The faculty, staff, and admin team are incredible people that focus on loving kids and seeing them succeed. Relationships, Service, and Excellence to the glory of God is evident in every way.Justin Bahorik

I went to this school back in 2015-2016. I was living near the school at the time, but I had to move over 4 hours away after escaping domestic violence. This school hires professors that do not want to see domestic violence victims succeed. Put your money elsewhere. Here is my story: Even with my broken wrist, I managed to complete the courses and coursework, and for a time, the professors were understanding of my situation, since I was not cleared to go back to work yet and was relying on my financial aid to pay for basic things like my phone and my health bills related to my wrist. I ended up getting cleared to go back to work, and had the job opportunity of a lifetime present itself to me. I accepted so I could get back on my feet. However, this was around the same time I had to complete one of my first residency requirements. My student adviser at the time was willing to work with me and found a course that I could take to meet my work life needs. However, it was the only option available to me. Since I had to leave for training for two weeks, the work campus did not allow personal business to be conducted on their computers, which included school work. I emailed my professor, and explained to him the situation that I was going to be gone for training when the class began and explained to him my predicament, asking for a compromise so I wouldn't lose my job. Part of the coursework was to attend GoToMeeting lectures. However, due to the nature of my work, I was unable to stream these lectures as no recording cameras were allowed. I explained all of this to him in e-mails. He did not listen to my emails, giving me responses that made it seem like he wasn't even reading my e-mails, and forwarded me back to the student adviser and washed his hands of it. Ultimately, after enduring a layover at an airport after training had finished, this professor expected me to attend a Go-To-Meeting class with two hours of sleep, then berate me for my lack of participation, after explaining to him my job's requirements and rules, and what had happened since a hurricane caused a delay and lengthy layover on my flight. Thankfully, I am working now, but I wished I never had attend this school. This school only put me further in debt and now I can't even attend the school I want.Reika Chan

I attended 9-11 years ago, so hopefully this has changed. The school psychology program was weirdly punitive. They shamed people for not knowing things like how to dress professionally instead of giving them concrete advice for what they expected. (This is classist.) They required us to be over-the-top obedient to professors and supervisors, even if they were doing something unethical. Meanwhile, they taught how kids do better with a strengths-based approach in which they are listened to. This is true and does not stop when a person turns 18. The professors make students retake classes and redo practicum hours for disagreeing or expressing concern. So students have to pay extra money to learn to suppress their critical thinking. They encourage students to think about "best practices" in their first year practicum. But in the second year their response to problems at practicum sites is "that's just how it is". I was discouraged to get involved with anything "political" like the teachers' strike and campaign to replace campus police officers with counselors because "no one will want to hire you". Their answer to disparities between wealthy suburban districts and underfunded districts like Chicago's was "don't work at CPS if you don't like it". 0/10 Do not recommend.Erin Rusmi

From the Counseling Psychology program perspective, my experience have been exceptional! From the knowledge of the professors to the structured placement process and classroom agendas, I love it! It has been a life changer for me, considering what I’ve learned during my 2 1/2 years here. The instructors are very knowledgeable and have experience on the subjects they’re teaching. You are provided a professional development coach to help maintain stability in classes and graduate on time. Someone is always there to answer questions or help in ways they can. All staff is professional and lead towards the process of your professional development as well . Classes are flexible and class sizes are comfortable ( max 15 students unless blended). I’m currently considering my Phd from here as well.Nia85 Moons

My experience at Merit was awful and honestly disappointing. I attended a summer camp there and many of the music teachers were extremely unprofessional and inappropriate. One of my encounters with a flute teacher (I think her name was Susan Crandall) was particularly harsh. She told me that I "sucked" at flute, and was put into the highest band at my high school because people "felt sorry for me." Her words were very cruel and discouraging; she was insulting. I told my parents about what this teacher said and they called Merit many times but nobody answered, even though the school promised us an explanation. Obviously Merit had no explanation for what had happened. There had been various encounters before this one, too. This teacher wasn't the only person who I had seen act unprofessionally. If you/your child is interested in taking music lessons, do not go to Merit. It is a waste of money and time.Annika Failla

Our toddler has been in Ms. Annaeka’s class for several sessions, and I can’t say enough about her. She’s a wonderful teacher who understands and appreciates young children, and she’s worked incredibly hard to make virtual classes during COVID a good experience. Our son looks forward to class each week and is developing a love of music and movement thanks to Ms. Annaeka! If your child or family has the opportunity to take one of her classes, I highly recommend it.Jenna Boyle

Merit has been a great experience for both my girls. My oldest met some wonderful instructors and friends And is now in cello performance with Northwester. My youngest has been willing to continue voice lessons that she had loss interest in. The summer program help rebuild her confidence and encouraged her to stick with it. The instructors and students really came at the perfect time for my girls. So happy to have Merit as a program for my girls!Dr. Holliday

The oldest planetarium in the western hemisphere but not necessarily the best. The whole experience is marred on reaching when you realize there's a city $25 parking for any spot. You can enter with either prepaid tickets or buy them at entry, but the signs are not always clear and thus time the staff wasn't either, so if you're buying at Adler, don't go up the steps to the dome, but instead the lower entrance to the right. Don't expect to spend more than an hour and half at most for the exhibit viewing because it's smaller than it looks and the prepayment website will keep crashing if you're trying to book a show that's full (instead of just letting you know). Showtimes vary, so plan ahead and either finish first or at the end of your visit so you aren't wasting time twiddling your thumbs.Vazir Fatehi

We were very excited to visit and it was a nice museum. Some displays could use some upkeep, as things were broken or out of order. Overall we were pleased with our experience. My three kids all had fun. Please be advised that you cannot change your show time, and you must arrive early for it. Once they close the doors you cannot enter. Unfortunately we were stuck by a train and missed our first show. Parking was kind of crazy. All of the attractions in close proximity means you spend about 15-20 mins just trying to get to the parking lot which costs $25 by the way. The view of the city skyline is also beautiful.Katie Schetter

You have to stop by the Adler Planetarium if you ever decide to tour Chicago, Illinois. The facilities are beautiful on the inside and out. It the Adler Planetarium is one of the major attractions of Chicago. The view of the city is amazing inside the planetarium and at the top of the stair at the front entrance. There is a wonderful film that focuses on the cityscape that I highly recommend. If you have found this review helpful, like and share the review. Thanks and have a great day!Richard Whittington

I really appreciate the movie and the interactive model of Chicago which was very well done! The upper exhibition itself needs more work, better display and little bit of creativity – it is just tuns of texts and pictures on not very sustainable materials. The biggest paradox was that the main exhibition was about the climate change and how people should care more about the planet 🌎 at the same day in the same Centre of architecture where they have this important topic displayed, they printed huge window banner stickers to promote the exhibition and I wonder – how much water did you use to print it? Why do you need to print it so big? How you will recycle ♻️ it? Institutions which presents these topics should become leader in the innovative thinking and showing people and we can do better together… I was very disappointed about this.eva gartnerova

Chicago Architecture Center is a creative space in a wonderful location at Michigan and Wacker, with a variety of excellent walking, bus, and river boat tours highlighting essentials of Chicago by volunteer docents. With that, you get a passionate Chicagoan tour guide who made it a point to spend hours and hours on learning details and specifics about these tours. The docents are what stands the CAF (Chicago Architecture Foundation) tours apart from the competitors, both on the riverboats and on foot. We have enjoyed every experience, including an annual Open House Chicago. Thank you, CAF!Mila F

If you are interested in #history and #architecture, this is the right place for you. It's not big and fancy, but you can see the history of #Chicago with a large model of the city and the entire history of the city is explained through video and color and visual technology. The first floor is where visitors can shop and see the model of the city of Chicago in all its details. Also, on the second floor, visitors can view and compare famous building models on a scale.Amin A

This is a huge and beautiful park that I've visited a couple of times and each time has been a little bit different because of the rotating exhibits and gardens. The walkways are wide and the trees are not densely packed so you will have large open areas with no shade. The west side of the park is much more prone to mosquitoes so prepare yourself if you venture on that side. The art exhibits that are incorporated within the park are absolutely beautiful, and the park is large enough you wouldn't be able to get to everything in a full day there. My only complaint is that the park lacks enough signage so while there are many things to explore, you will get lost trying to find them and/or frequently encounter other lost guests who ask you for directions.Diana L

If you love the outdoors then this is the place for you. You can rent bikes to ride through the pathways which is pretty cool. The sculptures are amazing and beautiful, the detail is very excellent. My mother came along and she is 80, while they offer wheelchairs at no cost it was disappointing that they do not offer motorized chairs which would have been so much more convenient. This would be a great enhancement to the beauty of this place for those who need it. The majority of the art is on another side of the part which they advised was viewable from your car. It really isn't. You have to find parking and then walk to the art. On a hot day this can be a bit much. Overall it was a great family day and experience.A J

We went to see lights at night at the arboretum.What a great walk through lighted trails!! Synchronization music and lighting was beautiful and worth it to watch and listen. Very nice one mile walk, enjoyable view with campfires set up to warm up, and hot drinks stops for those that need warm up from inside 😀. Warm restrooms were also available. Overall perfect evening, glad we were able to make it before the end of the season. Tickets were selling out on line very quickly. So if you are planning next year to visit you better grab tickets before they sold them out!!!barbara quintanar

This place has an internal parking lot which I wish I knew earlier. Also, it's better if you buy your tickets in advance otherwise you'd have to wait in a long line. This museum is a must-visit, only that if you're an adult, I would recommend to start your visitation with the third floor instead of the ground floor. On the third floor, you get a lot of hands-on with science stuff and recent technology. You get better exposure and can take better pictures. Come prepared to spend like 2-4 hours. It gets chilly inside at times. Of course, they have paid exhibitions which you can choose as per your liking. We went for amazing hikes in North America paid exhibition and the experience was spectacular. We were seated in a four-storey dome-based theatre with a movie experience so unique by far. Overall, the museum experience is worth the money, it's so much better for the young kids but the adults can enjoy it as much. Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$21–30Yansi Keim

A truly excellent museum. I live in the DC area and have grown up near the Smithsonian, a very high quality and free set of museums in the Washington DC area…. This museum is of the same if not higher caliber of museums than any other I have ever experienced. The UBoat exhibit is deep in information and interesting. The entire museum is excellently curated and each exhibit area is worth the cost of admission. I highly recommend this museum if you are within an hour or so drive. Whether it is space, farming, transport, or general science, this museum has it all. Of course, being in the Midwest, the trains featured here are truly impressive, but what really stood out to me was some of the Apollo mission artifacts and history that was on display. Even with 4 and 6 year old children we still managed to spend 6 hours here without running out of interesting things to see! Great for adults and children. Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$21–30Chris Hennen

Very fun place to spend 6 hours or so. I definitely would encourage anyone to see a movie on the globe theatre, and the interactive exhibits they have at the time. We were lucky and got to see the Lego exhibit!! So wonderful! There are a few little eatery's and places to grab drinks/coffee. We went on a Saturday and it was quite busy. If you are looking for smaller crowds I would say to go during the week. Lastly- prepurchase your tickets online and download them to your phone LITERALLY no waits and quick entry!! Visited on
Weekend

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$21–30Nikoli Ellis

Both of my children attend the lycee and we couldn't be happier with the level of education they receive there. He teachers are very experienced, dedicated and the program is very structured. The community is diverse, strong and very supportive.Diana Toscas

This school has been a great experience for me. I have been in this school for 10 years and i never regretted being here . I had such a great time with all the international students who were there with me .Kevin pak

Independence, worldliness and critical thinking, all in a close knit and warm community. Quelle combinaison formidable!Barbara Higgins

It was an amazing trip! We paid out of state fees and we paid for all the special exhibitions. It was worth it. It took us all day to be able to get through the whole place and all the exhibitions. Chairs or benches available in every room. Stairs and elevators are available as well. Restrooms are super clean and you can find them near every area or exhibition. You can bring your own food and they have a few big cafeteria areas inside and outside to enjoy your break. Parking is not very close; we walked a few blocks to be able to get to the first available parking lot and paid $25 all day (not so bad for a Chicago parking space!). It is a great place to visit with kids or without kids. Visited on
Weekday

Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$31+Cecilia Gillhouse

Visited with the city pass/go city and my group of 16 Girl Scouts. Definitely go when the doors open at 9:00 to visit exhibits and beat the crowds. You can easily spend 2 days here soaking up all the information and displays… we spent 4 hours and saw the top must sees per our girls. Wild Color exhibit was a hit and I highly recommend adding it to your visit when you get your tickets. There were teen volunteers who did a great job with stations around the museum quizzing people and giving information/activities a bit more in depth. Bathrooms were all very clean and the museum was spotless in regards to cleanliness. They do have 2 nursing/pumping rooms for Moms that had a sink, outlet, and comfy chair. Wait time
No wait

Reservation recommended
Yes

Price for adult entry
$16–20Camerron Wettern

Such a spectacular place to go to!! I visited many museums since I was child but this field museum something beyond. There were many exhibits throughout. We spent around 3hrs and tried to make sure we went through all exhibits. We came to visit chicago from Canada and got a city pass which allowed us to all the exhibits. Even though I don’t have city pass the entry ticket is affordable and worthy. The Egypt mummy exhibit is one of it and wonderful as I am interested since childhood. You have cafe to sit and eat if you are hungry by the whole walking. Made sure you wear comfy clothes and shoes and all set to walk through out and enjoy such a treasure. Highly recommended place for kids to be as they get to know lots of things, educate as well as interesting.Mounika Reddy Dhonuru

A wide collection of species from all over the world. It is a bit smaller than other aquariums I've been to but it's activities really make up for it. There are a lot of interactive activities for families, couples, groups, and people going alone. Best time to go is about May- October which is when most, if not all, interactive touch the animal exhibits are open. Very expensive if you are either not a resident or if you decide to go on a regular price day. Check the calendar before planning your trip so you don't miss out on the discounted/free days. Once you get there definitely check out the animal meet-n-greets (which are often free) or the aquatic mammal shows put on by the trainers. The 4D experience is alright, but to be honest not very much worth the price. It's about 15 min long and plays out like a documentary. You get 3D glasses but they're not very good quality and they also use the same pair on multiple crowds. Not much goes on and if you're expecting to get splashed with water, it's mostly just bubbles. As a chicago native I would always recommend this to someone visiting but just be prepared to spend a good amount.Angie Conejo

Love this aquarium!! First time taking the kids and they enjoyed all the exhibits. Favorite part was the dolphin show! I wanted to add a note about the lockers because I couldn’t find any information if lockers were available or where to put our coats. There are a bunch of lockers located by the main lobby, they are $8 to rent for the day. The bigger ones are big enough to fit a smaller rolling luggage bag, a backpack and a coat. We were taking the train home right after so had our luggage with us, was convenient to have the lockers available!Elizabeth Gray

I went here with my family during the week and it was timed entry, which helped with the crowds earlier in the day. We spent a little over 3 hours there and by the early afternoon, it was pretty crowded. We saw all the attractions (no movie or shows), ate lunch in the cafeteria and went to the gift shop. There were a lot of great photo opportunities and it looked like all of the exhibits were open. The cafeteria offers awesome views of the Chicago skyline too! My family and I had a great time!Karen Kendzierski

Beyond Borders is brilliant and beautiful beyond belief. Vespertine, perhaps because I saw it first, was breathtaking, It has amazing costumes, exactly the right lighting, musical authenticity from the redonro,a lute like istrumet from the 1600s and simply remarkable dancing. Ensemble performance is remarkable in Suite Saint-Saens which has a series of individual performances that highlight the amazing talent of so many of the dancers. It also contains one of the most romantic and personable pas de deaux Ive ever seen. Colorem displayed ensemble precision as well as remarkable technical versitility with groups of three and four dancers. Don't take my word for it – just go! Beyond Borders is brilliant and beautiful beyond belief. Vespertine, perhaps because I saw it first, was breathtaking,  It has amazing costumes, exactly the right lighting, musical authenticity from the  theory, a lute like instrument from the 1600s, and simply remarkable dancing.  The second half, in which the dancers strip their elegant attire for flesh colored leotards is startling – and great! Ensemble performances set off Suite Saint-Sans, in addition to individual performances that highlight the amazing talent of so many of the dancers.  It also contains one of the most romantic and personable pas de deux I've ever seen. Colorem displayed ensemble precision  as well as wonderful technical versatility with groups of two, three and four dancers. Don't take my word for it – just go!Chelsea Baylor

This review is about the performance of the Joffery Ballet company at the Auditorium Theatre: A visual delight! This historic theater is what all theaters should wish to be. It is a must see. Designed by Louis Sullivan and Dankmar Adler it opened Dec 1889. The goal was to create a people's theater open to all Chicagoans and to grab the attention in the bid to host the 1893 World's Fair. It is such a delight that the Joffery Ballet (Chicago) performes the "Making a new American Ballet" which is all about the Chicago World Fair and a poor immagrant family and widow mother as a sculptoress who is making a world's fair sculpture. The immagrants are all dressed in brown tones and at the holiday party scene when the Great Impresario and apprentice appear bearing gifts and brightly colored. The dynamic of dance, costume and music delight all! The music is still traditional nutcracker and the story follows the basic story line of nutcracker with a few twists such as Buffalo Bills Wild West Show and Dragons! Just know when you go to this theater the Nutcracker story has changed. Sit back and do enjoy and do new twist to an old holiday story. Enjoy the setting of the theater which just continues the story itself as it is played out on stage by this highly skilled perfect technique dancers.Kentee Pasek

It’s difficult to express my level of disappointment in the “new” version of the Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet. My family was incredibly excited to see this show and we all, along with other guests I spoke with, left so disappointed. Many guests walked out before the show was over. Simply put, if you want to see the Nutcracker, do not see this version. It’s depressing, drab and will leave you wondering why this was even called The Nutcracker. The orchestra was excellent but the “twist” on a holiday tradition is awful. Do not spend your money.Autumn A

Morgan Park Academy is an AMAZING school! I was very concerned with the transitions over the past 6 years but Morgan Park Academy has sustained the unanticipated changes very well. The results are apparent in its students. Academy students are extremely motivated and polite and most importantly, they know how to speak with confidence to their peers, teachers, and adults. I am always impressed when I speak to any Academy student. The small class size allows each student to learn how to properly express himself or herself with ease and diplomacy. The teachers know each student not only by name, but also by background and personality. This education is second to none and I am thrilled that my children are being mentored by the best of the best.Amy DeLaney

Beware. Teachers at MPA do not have to have a teaching certificate. The facilities are antiquated and falling apart. Campus is located in a dangerous neighborhood in the south side of Chicago. MPA is all about making money. All other private schools are a better option.Steven Edward

It is funny, most of the elite private schools have instructors with no "teaching" certificate, but we do not chastise them. And, we all know what a great job public schools do with teachers who have teaching certificates. Morgan Park is a GREAT school!Brittany Jordan