About

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Baby Got Chi is your go-to guide for exploring Chicago with a baby (or toddler) in tow—without sacrificing your sanity or your standards.

Because let’s be honest: not all “kid-friendly” places are actually enjoyable for parents.

This blog is built on one simple idea:
👉 you shouldn’t have to choose between a place that works for your kid and a place you actually want to be.

Here, you’ll find honest, real-life recommendations for:

Cafes where you can drink your coffee while it’s still hot
Restaurants that won’t make you feel like a burden with a stroller
Neighborhood guides designed for low-stress outings
Play spaces that are actually clean (and worth the trip)

Every place is rated using a simple system that looks at:

👶 Kid-Friendliness
☕ Parent Enjoyment
🚼 Ease Factor (because logistics matter)

No fluff, no generic lists—just places I’ve actually been, with the details I wish I knew beforehand.

Who’s behind Baby Got Chi?

Hi, I’m a Chicago-based mom navigating city life with a baby and a toddler.

I started Baby Got Chi because I couldn’t find the kind of resource I needed:
something honest, specific, and designed for real life with a baby—not just theoretical “family-friendly” lists.

Most days, I’m figuring out how to:

get out of the house without overpacking
find places where both my baby and I are happy
and make city life feel doable (and even fun) in this season

This blog is a collection of what’s worked.

How to use this site

If you’re new here, start with:

“Best of” lists for quick ideas
Neighborhood guides when you want a plan
Individual reviews when you’re deciding between spots

And if you’re heading somewhere new, check the ratings first—they’re designed to give you a quick, honest read on what to expect.

A quick note

This is a growing project and a personal one. Everything you see here is based on real experiences, and I’ll always keep it honest—even when a place is popular but not that baby-friendly.

If you have a favorite spot I should check out, I’d love to hear from you.