Today, we’re excited to announce the release of our fifth book: Colorful Chicago – Explore & Color! The educational and creative way to explore Chicago. Let your mind wander through the neighborhoods of the city map followed by the whimsical illustrations now from home and then when you can, on the go!
When we learned that Chicago has culturally rich multi-ethnic communities filled with authentic food, a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, incredible public art, accessible public transportation and a FREE zoo we had to explore and thus became Colorful Chicago.We had been visiting Chicago for years (since a few of use grew up in the Midwest!), but realized we never truly got to know the city beyond the typical attractions. Let us convince you too. For instance, did you know Chicago has 77 diverse neighborhoods, 580 public parks, 225 music venues, 250 theaters, 56 amazing museums, and 8 major sports teams (Go Blackhawks!)? Neither did we! There is so much you can do and see.
Start with a few of Chicago’s quintessential landmarks. First, visit the historical Chicago Water Tower one of only a few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire. Second, head to the free Lincoln Park Zoo and finally from there take the L Train to Millennium Park where you can see your reflection in The Bean. Discovering the hidden gems as you explore Chicago are truly the exciting part. For instance, enjoy the culture and folk art at the only National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture in the USA located in Humboldt Park. You’re guaranteed a big smile as you locate Dorothy, the Tin Man & their friends at Oz Park. And by all means, find the historic starting point of famed Route 66 (hint it’s near The Art Institute). These are just a few ideas to get you started!
In light of our current COVID situation, we also believe that Colorful Chicago is the perfect way to explore Chicago without leaving the comfort of your own home. For example, you can attempt to make your own Chicago-style hotdogs at home and color along to capture your results. In addition, you can explore some great Chicago landmarks from home. In spite of the stay at home order you can explore some of our favorite locations virtually. First, the Museum of Science and Industry is offering Science at Home projects for kids. Second, the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust has virtual tours of the iconic Prairie-style Robie House. And finally you can still explore the amazing works at The Art Institute of Chicago virtually. As a bonus, here is a link to all digital experiences thanks to ChooseChicago.
However, if you’re feeling the need to get outside, we’d recommend the following locations in the book that you can enjoy and more importantly, social distance from others whilst you explore Chicago. One of our favorites, especially for it’s amazing views of the Chicago skyline, is Promontory Point. Located just off the southern point of the Lakefront Trail, it offers several secluded locations for a picnic or a walk. Conversely, if you’re looking for something in a more urban setting, take The 606 trail, which is a beautiful pedestrian path on an elevated track reclaimed from a defunct railroad that cuts through the NW neighborhoods of Chicago. Finally, if there is a pooch involved, we recommend a trip to Montrose Dog Beach in the Uptown neighborhood. Nothing beats fresh air and a happy dog after an exhausting game of catch (or at least that’s what our shop dog says)!
Ready to get creative and explore Chicago? Grab your colored pencils and sneakers (when you can)! Check out Colorful Chicago – Explore and Color for more information.
Last but absolutely not least! For every copy of Colorful Chicago sold a donation is made to the Chicago Parks Foundation. Why? We feel strongly that parks build community, and strong communities build fabulous cities. Chicago has hundreds public parks offering swimming pools, free bocce courts, evening basketball leagues, summer kid programs, boat docks, driving ranges, and acres of green grass to have picnics with friends. All this and everything else that parks offer makes Chicago a fabulous city.
Happy Exploring!
