The Choo Choo in Des Plaines

You don't have to go very far to give your kids a taste of nostalgia. The Choo Choo Hamburgers on Wheels has been around since 1951 and is located at 600 Lee Street in Des Plaines (thechoochoo.com). Open from 10:30 to 3 most days (Thursday and Friday until 8pm) you and your kids will delight in the food brought out on a circular track that runs around the dining bar. There are also booths which give you more comfort and a view, but there is nothing like sitting right in front of the train as it passes. There is a free kiddie ride in the restaurant as well. The place is VERY small and always crowded so don't be offended if there is a little bit of a wait. They ONLY take CASH! But not to worry, the prices are extremely reasonable and the menu, of course, caters to kids with hot dogs, hamburgers, shakes and fries.