This place is small, but man, it's awesome, and makes for a killer photo op, especially if you're into weird roadside stops. The Skunk Ape is basically Florida's very own version of Bigfoot, and this is one of the few places that you can buy some bizarre merchandise dedicated specifically to him.
Also, you can buy blow guns. Guys. Blow guns. To hunt the Skunk Ape with.
It's not uncommon to hear people say that the Art Institute of Chicago is their favorite art museum in the country, and when you visit, it's easy to see why. For one, the place is freakin' massive. Seriously, don't go unless you have several hours to spend.
The permanent collection is great, but they also have a fantastic rotation of special events, lectures, and exhibits.
Another hidden gem in Chicago, this park is completely Wizard of Oz themed, with statues of all the major characters, though the wicked witch is sadly lacking.
Fun place to take the kids, as there's a really nice playground and a bunch of kickball games happening all the time.
Absolutely beautiful, and a must-see for visitors. The Chicago River is especially awesome on two occasions: at night when the city is all lit up and the lights are reflected off the water, and on St. Patrick's Day, when it's a bright, neon green.
Take the water taxi if you want a really fun trip. It's only a few bucks and your kids will think it's a fun ride.
You might not think that a beach on Lake Michigan would be nice, but it surprises even me. On a hot weekend in the summer, North Avenue beach can get slammed, and with all the babes in bikinis, rollerbladers, and kids playing in the water, you'd never know you weren't in Southern California.
If you go, try and hit it on a weekday when it isn't so crowded.
Really beautiful conservatory that not nearly enough people visit. It's like walking into a jungle in the middle of Chicago. It's open every single day of the year, they have great holiday setups, and not only does it act as a conservatory, it's also a place where you can pick up some classes on gardening as well. Highly recommended!
If you didn't visit Party Source, you'd never even know this place existed. It's tucked way in the back of the store, but it's a really neat little brewery with a bar, lots of good stuff on tap straight from the brewers.
Really solid venue, loads of space, and always something neat going on. Just got back from the yearly ScareFest event, which was double booked with a country music concert in the attached stadium. If it wasn't for the strange mingling of bloody cosplayers and confused dudes in cowboy hats, you'd never know. The place is huge.
Food options leave a bit to be desired unless you're into mall restaurants.
The gallery is small, but filled with lots of really awesome art. Major bummer that it's only open half the week, but if you find yourself in town between Wednesday and Saturday, definitely go.
They've become pretty well known for their "offbeat and immature" art, but thats what makes the place great. Every year they do a "Boobies and Wieners" show, which is exactly what it sounds like.
Pretty much a must-visit when you're in New Orleans, not only because it's such a striking cemetery, but because it's worth seeing the beloved grave of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau and the future final resting of place of Nicholas Cage - a huge freaking pyramid. It's hilariously out of place.
A word of advice - no matter how drunk you get in the French Quarter, do not attempt to visit the cemetery at night unless you're on a guided tour with a large group. This place gets dangerous after dark, mostly because thieves know there's some easy tourist targets to hold up.