Chicago is a world-class city known for its architecture, Lakefront scenery, and sports teams. Like in all great cities, it is peppered with little secrets only the locals know about. Read on to discover our first Hidden Gem for the city of Chicago.
Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
Location:
125 W Fullerton Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614
Discovered by:
Juliet Perrachon, co-founder of Bebe Voyage, lives in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. She just discovered this little oasis recently after living there for 3 years!
Why We Love It:
Chicago is famous for its architecture and this is an important example of Prairie School landscape architecture, designed by Alfred Caldwell. It’s the perfect union of pretty architecture and nature. This little pond feels serene, away from the hustle and bustle of the busier areas of Chicago. It’s also a few minutes walk to the Lakefront where you can go to afterwards.
Why It’s Kid-Friendly:
This little spot is amazing for little climbers with imaginative minds.
A fair warning: This spot is not very stroller-friendly due to random steps to walk over. You can do this with a partner who can help you carry the stroller across difficult spots, or just bring a baby carrier for babies. Early walkers might enjoy this outing as well. It’s fun for kids of all ages to spend this serene time in a beautiful spot of Chicago.
Tips & Important Details:
Parking isn’t always easy in Lincoln Park. We recommend parking where you can, and going for a nice walk in this area with a stop at the Alfred Lily Pool. You have the free Lincoln Park Zoo right next door, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum–ideal for small children–just across the street, and the Lakefront with striking views of the skyline only minutes away.
If your little one needs the loo, you can walk over to the Lincoln Park Conservatory which is next door and free.
Cost:
Free!
Kids are always hungry! Know anywhere to eat nearby?:
If you walk over to the Lakefront after, the newly opened Lakefront Restaurant has unbeatable views. If you head over to the zoo and it’s nice out, another restaurant with a view is Café Brauer. Finally, another local favorite across from the zoo and Cummings playground is RJ Grunts, which is a wonderful option for kids.
About Juliet: She is the Co-Founder of Bebe Voyage. Chicago is the city she currently calls home and her dream travel destination with her kids is Nicaragua. You can find her on Instagram @julietperrachon.
We are continually adding to our list of Hidden Gems, so, if you have a favorite secret spot that we need to know about, please fill out our form and it will be written about for the Bébé Voyage community.
And be sure to let us know how your trip goes if you’re able to make it to this secret location! We love to see where our members go and hear about new and exciting places to travel with bébé. Use the hashtag #bebevoyage on any social media to share your trips or tips with us too. Happy travels!
