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Guide To Ukie Village: West Town Family Fun

The East Village, Ukrainian Village and Wicker Park neighborhoods, which are renown for their independent leanings, immigrant populations and hipster appeal, are also home to many family-friendly spots, especially during the summer.

Commercial Park

1845 West Rice Street
Chicago, IL 60622
commercialpark.org

This much-loved park, playground and garden is thoughtfully supported by a neighborhood group known for helping families join together as a community. The clean playground is home to swings, slides and much more to entertain the kiddos and help them burn some energy. In addition to the playground there is also a party room, gymnasium and volleyball nets available.

If you're looking for a little water in your playlot for those extra hot days, check out the nearby Snowberry playlot at 1851-57 W. Huron St. which is fitted with a small spray pool.

Jerry's Sandwiches

1938 W. Division
Chicago, IL 60622
Sunday-Wednesday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Thursday-Saturday: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m.
www.jerryssandwiches.com

Jerry's is one of my favorite family-friendly restaurants in the neighborhood. While it's hard to pick which amazingly delicious sandwich I would like to eat, finding something for a kiddo to enjoy is a piece of cake. Their menu is full of options for each sandwich component and their sides are full of kid-approved items like mac and cheese. During the summer their outdoor seating makes a perfect setting for an early evening weekend dinner.

Wicker Park Farmers' Market

1500 N. Damen
Chicago, IL
Every Sunday from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Wicker Park Farmer's Market

It's a farmers' market adjacent to a playground. Also known as Sunday morning perfection. The market offers a wide selection of produce from local farmers, including a healthy dose of organic fruits and veggies. For those who can't wait to make something out of their purchased ingredients, you can pick up a crepe from Flip Crepes who's on hand to make something sweet or savory and brew a cup of coffee for you while you shop. The kids will love being able to see food presented in such an appealing way, without the harsh overhead lighting and overly processed food section. You can also send the kids to the playground with your spouse as you leisurely select the perfect berries and beans.

Suzuki-Orff School of Music

1148 West Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL
Hours and prices range based on class offering
www.suzukiorff.org

A renown music school offers remarkable music classes for kids. Their Baby Steps program caters to children ages 6 months to 4.5 years. They take their own approach to music to help little ones enjoy and appreciate music from a young age. Classes will provide each child with skills that are built upon in each subsequent session. Being less trafficked than other programs in the city, your kids will get more individualized attention and be able to better enjoy the music around them.

Lindsay Cohen is the General Manager of FamilyFinds.com Chicago's source for family-friendly daily deals. She lives in Chicago with her husband and 2-year-old son.
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