Meet the parents

I'm forever telling non-Chicagoans that my city has so much to offer. That a great new restaurant opens nearly every week and that I never run out of things to do here. Yet, when the time comes to show off my city and plan a weekend for visitors, I struggle to think of activities to fill a weekend.

I rely on publications like TimeOut Chicago, emails from DailyCandy or an occasional RedEye to help me plan my weekends. But not everything featured is family-friendly or relevant to my visitors. This summer, when my boyfriend's mother came to visit, I made a list. These activities are fun and family-friendly.

Architecture boat tour and Navy Pier

The Chicago Architecture Foundation also has other walking tours.

Art Institute. Rooftop area is very cool. Also, other outside gardens and spaces. From here we go to Millennium Park, the Bean, etc.

Other museums: MCA, Field, Shedd, Adler Planetarium

Green City Market (Wednesday and Saturday a.m. Out-of-doors during the spring/summer/fall)

Hancock Building Signature Lounge for a drink (I've never been to the restaurant, but I've heard it's nothing special. That's probably why I've never been...)

Sears' Tower (Aka Willis' Tower) for an amazing view! I first visited the Sky Deck when I was about five-years-old. I've never forgotten it.

Garfield Park Conservatory on far west side

Frank Lloyd Wright houses and tours

Street festivals

Movies in the Park in the summer (Check out the Chicago Park District. The schedule changes from year-to-year.)

Concerts in Millennium Park in the summer

Concerts @ Ravinia in the summer

Kayaking on the Chicago River. You could try this at another time of year, but I recommend summer.

Canoeing on the Chicago River