Museums

A couple weekends ago the in-laws came for a visit to celebrate a couple birthdays with us.

We spent a day downtown making our way through Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum.

On a side note, I checked the camera battery before we left, and somehow by the time we made it into the aquarium, it was nearly dead, so I only got a couple shots. 

To get into 3 exhibits (which is just about enough when you go on a packed weekend) it's only $8. It's probably one of the least expensive things to do in Chicago. It's free on Mondays and Tuesdays from Jan-March, but I'm not sure if that's for everyone or only Illinois residents.

Next time we will be buying our tickets ahead of time. We waited in line outside (freezing) for about 45 minutes as all the people who were on their game made their way into the warmth.

Matt and I will be heading back sometime to check out the other exhibits.

The Field Museum was really interesting, a little more expensive, but packed with a whole day's worth of exhibits. We really tried to do too much with too little time.

With a little one (and the other men) we got downtown late and had to battle the crowds to get in.

By the time we all had tickets, it was after noon, and the museums close at 5. 

Also, if you plan to spend a day around the museum area, be aware of the food options. Besides a hotdog stand, there's nothing within walking distance. 

There's a McDonalds in the basement of the Field Museum, and a cafe on the main floor.

It's a little hard to plan and coordinate for 7 people, but I think we managed the best we could.

That night we celebrated birthdays with presents, a delicious chocolate-peanut butter cake, and ice cream. 

It was nice to have family with us, even if it was only for a couple days.