Family Grounds Cafe

All of us have heard of Family Grounds Cafe located at 3652 North Lincoln in Chicago, but many of us are just stepping out for our first visit. Literally located just below the Addison/Lincoln El Stop it is not only convenient to public transportation but also has a FREE parking lot if you drive! The great news is that Family Grounds has fabulous coffees, teas, drinks for mom and dad and plenty for kids and they also have a good selection of pastries and healthy sandwiches and 'alternative' chips. The play area is delightful with a Victorian Cottage, a Pet Hospital, a work table and a Little School Room. There is a separate area for the tiniest of visitors. The space is well lit, SUPER clean and carpeted so only sock feet are allowed (socks are mandatory!). The price is right at $7.95 for the first child-almost half of the other local play areas plus you can relax with a warm cup of coffee and read a book or work on your laptop. If they are busy they enforce a 1.5 hour time limit, if not, it is flexible. After 2 hours your tike will be worn out anyway. The only bummer is they are open from 9-5 Monday through Friday and 9-1 on Saturdays. Don't they realize we would love to hang out at night (maybe an 8pm closing) and later in the day on Saturdays too! They are really missing out on some big business closing so early. Working parents barely have a chance to visit on those hours. The other suggestion is a Community Board. As a parent I LOVE to look at other opportunities for my child whether it be dance, language, babysitters, etc. A community board is the ideal place for them to share that and Family Grounds has plenty of room.