Downtown Chicago - Beer-centric kid-friendly

Discussion in 'Great Lakes' started by fAtHanD, Jul 16, 2013.

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  1. fAtHanD

    fAtHanD Crusader (443) Mar 7, 2007 Michigan

    The family and I are taking the train from Michigan this weekend to Chicago to hit up the aquarium and some of the museums. We are stating downtown 2 blocks from Millennium Park.

    I am looking for a good brewery and/or a restaurant with good beer in the immediate area that is kid-friendly.

    Can someone please recommend something?
     
  2. mjm47

    mjm47 Initiate (0) Mar 30, 2010 Illinois

    The immediate area is a bet of a desert for kid-friendly and good beer. You could head up to Grand & State and go to Rock Bottom or you could head west on Randolph across the river & go to Haymarket (although I'd call first to inquire about children).
     
  3. rxeight

    rxeight Initiate (0) Feb 5, 2012 Illinois

    Goose Island clyborn is on the family friendly side for a brew pub.
     
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  4. danimalarkey

    danimalarkey Initiate (0) Mar 3, 2008 Illinois

    But could hardly be considered the "immediate area" of Museum Campus or Millennium Park.

    Miller's Pub is probably the OP's best choice -- yelp indicates that children are allowed, but I'd call first to confirm.
     
  5. fAtHanD

    fAtHanD Crusader (443) Mar 7, 2007 Michigan

    After re-reading my post I think I came across as having younger kids than do. I have 10 year old twins so Miller's looks like it would work.

    Thank you all for the suggestions.
     
  6. thibom

    thibom Aspirant (210) Oct 13, 2009 Illinois

    Hi there,

    I have been to all of the places discussed so far (and I have a child)...they are all decent options. Rock Bottom and Goose Island are probably the most family friendly of the bunch, and Haymarket is pretty close behind. Miller's Pub, while a Chicago institution, is darker than the others and probably a bit less inviting for kids.

    Enjoy our city!

    Matt
     
  7. crowdedstr

    crowdedstr Initiate (0) Feb 24, 2011 Illinois

    The Gage
     
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  8. Monsone

    Monsone Pundit (786) Jun 5, 2006 Illinois

    Rudy's Burger Bar is pretty decent for beer too and should be fine with 10yr olds. Miller's is totally old school but decent tap options. Gage is upscale with good options as well and the prices to go with it.
     
  9. DLDlulz

    DLDlulz Zealot (614) Feb 15, 2012 Illinois
    Trader

    Take the mile walk west to Haymarket. Been there with my 5yo countless times(before 7pm) and always welcomed.
     
  10. adamk1978

    adamk1978 Initiate (0) Nov 22, 2010 Indiana

  11. Gonzoillini

    Gonzoillini Initiate (0) Oct 15, 2008 Illinois

    Based on your location I'd say Jake Melnick's would be your closest / best option.

    Solid tap list, good to better food, and a kid friendly atmosphere (as long as your not there late at night like most places).

    http://www.jakemelnicks.com/

    If you are willing to go a little farther then Haymarket is the obvious answer. Solid hoppy / Belgian style offerings and good food as well. Same thoughts about going earlier rather than later.

    Cheers!
     
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  12. MarcatGSB

    MarcatGSB Initiate (0) Jan 8, 2011 Michigan

    Local Option...every needs a Gwar baby.
     
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  13. Summer78

    Summer78 Zealot (592) Jan 18, 2013 Illinois
    Trader

    Haven't been but Howells and Hood has many taps, if you don't want to travel. Otherwise, I second everyone else's suggestions
     
  14. DarkMagneto

    DarkMagneto Crusader (491) Apr 17, 2007 Illinois

    I'd vote for Hackney's in Printers Row or walk 1 mile west to Haymarket.

    Food sucks at Millers. Seriously sucks.
     
  15. anticipation23

    anticipation23 Initiate (0) May 2, 2013 Wisconsin

    Sweetwater is a few blocks up on Michigan and Water, they've got a huge tap list and serve menial enough food that it'll satisfy any palate, young or old. I highly recommend stopping in, definitely kid friendly and right around the Museum Campus.
     
  16. daniloknezic

    daniloknezic Initiate (0) Dec 19, 2009 Illinois

    children are fine at both places.
     
  17. spicoli00

    spicoli00 Pooh-Bah (2,305) Jul 6, 2005 Indiana
    Pooh-Bah

    unlike a lot of non-kid friendly bar states (i'm looking at you indiana), you can bring your kids into almost any bar downtown. Though not a brewery, Monk's pub always has a good draft list, decent food and stuff the kids will eat.

    http://www.beermenus.com/places/1808-monk-s-pub
    (looks like a bit a beligian tap take-over)

    that being said, Haymarket would probably be my first choice given your situation. also, if you are close to a blue line stop, piece and revolution are a short ride away (maybe 20 minutes) from the loop. both definitely worth the trip.
     
  18. owen49

    owen49 Devotee (362) Jun 13, 2009 Ohio
    Trader

    I used to live in the Museum Campus area and have kids. Hackney's and Kroll's are both good choices.
     
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