Your kiddos will learn valuable life skills and have tons of fun at these top Chicago-area businesses.
Best Day Camp
JCC Chicago Apachi J Camps
JCC Chicago offers 10 Apachi J Camps in Chicago and the suburbs with a variety of classes, activities, field trips, and more.
Best Overnight Camp
JCC Camp Chi
Lake Delton, Wisconsin
This camp features more than 40 activities, including archery, canoeing, digital photography, horseback riding, and dance.
Best Indoor Playspace
Little Beans Cafe
1809 W. Webster, Chicago; 430 Asbury Ave., Evanston
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Your kids will love exploring the ninja course, gym, karaoke room, and more, and parents will love the cafe with coffee, food, and adult beverages (Evanston only).
Best Kids Clothing (City) | Best Toy Store (City)
Little Threads
2033 W. Roscoe St., Chicago
Whether your kiddos have outgrown everything in their closet or you need to find the perfect gift for that upcoming birthday party, visit this shop (which is celebrating 15 years in 2019) for the coolest clothes and toys for kids. Little Threads also hosts Storytime on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. and Music & Movement with Michael’s Music Machine on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m.
Best Kids Clothing (Suburbs)
Maya Papaya & Tony Macarony
1901 Central St., Evanston
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From tops and dresses to coats and PJs, you’ll find fun and funky items for kids ages 0-12 here.
Best Toy Store (Suburbs)
Becky & Me Toys
620 Grove St., Evanston
For the fifth year in a row, you have named this toy store, which “is committed to encouraging play that is real (not virtual), that is active and creative, and that is focused on the concerns, ideas and interests of children,” the best of the best.
Best Kids Haircut
KidSnips
Various
Make your child’s haircut experience fun with a visit to this salon featuring video games and car-shaped cutting chairs.
Best Kids/Family Photographer (City)
Wildwood Photography
2138 W. Roscoe St., Chicago
Now located in Roscoe Village, this repeat winner is all about creating connections and preserving treasured memories.
Best Kids/Family Photographer (Suburbs)
Julie Kaplan Photography
1201 Cambridge Court, Highland Park
From newborn sessions to senior portraits, Julie Kaplan will capture all the stages of your child’s life.
Best Swim School
Goldfish Swim School
Various
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Goldfish’s The Science of SwimPlay® philosophy builds life skills (both in the water and out). The school is also committed to a max 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio and flexible class times, and features a shiver-free 90-degree pool.
