On The Go Chicago

Like most Chicagoans, I have made the yearly migration indoors!  Winter is when my research skills get put to the test trying to find new, fun, mom and kid friendly spots to spend our days.  On one of our first days of rain, I headed to Family Grounds (3652 Lincoln)with a few girlfriends.

I have to say that Family Grounds lived up to the hype.  I give it “Two Umbrellas Up!”  I was pleasantly surprised at how clean, friendly and yummy it was.  My visit started off a bit rocky.  It was sprinkling outside, I had to make SEVERAL laps around the block to find parking and when I got there I was told I had to wait because they were at capacity.  The good news is the wait went quickly, the staff offered to get me a drink since my hands were full feeding my baby, and they had a great little coloring area that kept my toddler entertained while we waited.

Once my friends arrived, we quickly made our way into the play area.  I was actually able to chat and enjoy my tea for over an hour while my toddler played with some of her friends in the play space.  Family Grounds delivered on their promise.  I had a comfortable place to sit and enjoy some mommy time, while still being able to keep an eye on my toddler.

The play area isn’t huge, which is great for keeping track of your little one.  That being said, I think older kids may get bored after a shorter period.  The space seems geared towards toddlers and pre-school age children.

They offer Intelligentsia Coffee, which my coffee connoisseur friends told me was delicious.  I had a piece of banana bread that was equally delicious.  They have a large menu of drinks, pastries, sandwiches and kid pleasing snacks. Prices were reasonable too, kid’s sandwiches start at only $1.50.

The $7.95 for 90 minutes of play is less than many other indoor play areas in the city, and $3.95 for a sibling is a bargain.  The play area was clean and the staff was amazing.  They even have a spare set of clothes in case you need them.

They have a Fit Mama’s Club workout on Fridays at 8am and live music each Saturday at 10am.  Afternoons are not as busy as mornings.  This place is getting very popular, so if you come in the AM on a rainy day, you might have to wait.  They are planning to put an online reservations system in place soon.  For now, waiting seems to be the norm.

All and all I was impressed and will definitely be going back this winter.