Academic Activities in Chicago, IL

Starting to think about preschool or looking for meaningful ways your little one can connect with other children their age? Then Broadway Prep is for you! Developed by a professional performer turned child development specialist, Broadway Prep combines the creativity and energy of our Broadway & Me classes with a play-based curriculum that gives children the opportunity to learn through child lead explorations. Each week, Broadway Prep teachers bring the show of the week to life through music, dance, dramatic play, and process art activities. Snack time, sensory play, outdoor adventures (weather permitting), and of course, bubble time, round out the daily routine. WHY CHOOSE BROADWAY PREP? ✔️ Small Class Sizes (No more than 12 children per Day) ✔️ Low Teacher : Student Ratio (max 1:5) ✔️ New Broadway Show each week! ✔️ Play-Based Arts Curriculum developed by a professional performer turned child development specialist ✔️ 1 or 2 Day Enrollment Options ✔️ Drop-In Friendly Broadway Prep is a GENTLE SEPARATION CLASS. Designed specifically for children ages 2-4 years old, Prep provides a fun and supportive environment where little ones (and their parents) can adapt to being on their own in a "big kid" class at their own pace. While the goal is drop-off, we understand that for many children, this will be their first separation experience. Parents will be allowed to stay in class with their child for as long as necessary and Prep teachers will work with parents to create a drop-off routine for each child that ensures both kiddos and their parents are comfortable. Parents and caregivers whose children feel comfortable being dropped off are welcome to stay at Soul City and hang out while classes are taking place but it is not required. There are plenty of comfy couches, tables where you can work remotely, and free wifi!​ With flexible enrollment options, you can join us 1 or 2 days per week or drop-in as your schedule permits. Stages is committed to making our quality arts integrated early learning experiences available and affordable for all families. For information about tuition assistance and free classes, please visit our Tuition Assistance Page

Starting to think about preschool or looking for meaningful ways your little one can connect with other children their age? Then Broadway Prep is for you! Developed by a professional performer turned child development specialist, Broadway Prep combines the creativity and energy of our Broadway & Me classes with a play-based curriculum that gives children the opportunity to learn through child lead explorations. Each week, Broadway Prep teachers bring the show of the week to life through music, dance, dramatic play, and process art activities. Snack time, sensory play, outdoor adventures (weather permitting), and of course, bubble time, round out the daily routine. WHY CHOOSE BROADWAY PREP? ✔️ Small Class Sizes (No more than 12 children per Day) ✔️ Low Teacher : Student Ratio (max 1:5) ✔️ New Broadway Show each week! ✔️ Play-Based Arts Curriculum developed by a professional performer turned child development specialist ✔️ 1 or 2 Day Enrollment Options ✔️ Drop-In Friendly Broadway Prep is a GENTLE SEPARATION CLASS. Designed specifically for children ages 2-4 years old, Prep provides a fun and supportive environment where little ones (and their parents) can adapt to being on their own in a "big kid" class at their own pace. While the goal is drop-off, we understand that for many children, this will be their first separation experience. Parents will be allowed to stay in class with their child for as long as necessary and Prep teachers will work with parents to create a drop-off routine for each child that ensures both kiddos and their parents are comfortable. Parents and caregivers whose children feel comfortable being dropped off are welcome to stay at Soul City and hang out while classes are taking place but it is not required. There are plenty of comfy couches, tables where you can work remotely, and free wifi!​ With flexible enrollment options, you can join us 1 or 2 days per week or drop-in as your schedule permits. Stages is committed to making our quality arts integrated early learning experiences available and affordable for all families. For information about tuition assistance and free classes, please visit our Tuition Assistance Page

In the heart of downtown Chicago, the American Writers Museum celebrates all genres of writing through interactive exhibits and programming. From Twain to Tupac, there's a story here for everyone. Discover for yourself and visit today! Named Illinois' Best Attraction by USA Today and One of the 10 Best New Museums in the World by Fodor's. Flexible Date Entry

I am the only person in the US, and possibly the world, that offers this experience. It is both a demonstration and an interactive opportunity where you'll have tons of fun learning about the history of cheese magic and getting to try it yourself. And then you get to eat your fortune!

A 60-75-minute guided, behind-the-scenes exploration of the historic Chicago Theatre, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Stand on the famed Chicago theatre stage and discover the backstage artist signatures, including from legends like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Dolly Parton** Access to the grand lobby with its famous marquess, the auditorium with its classic atmospheric design, the iconic Chicago theatre stage and backstage areas including dressing rooms** Learn about the theatre’s unique architectural features, like a stunning French Baroque design, ornated plasterwork, and the gran chandelier along with its rich history and cultural significance* *Tour content is subject to change. There is no stage or dressing room access on concert days. Photo restrictions may apply.

From the Gotham chaos in The Dark Knight to the explosive battles of Transformers, Chicago’s skyline has played a starring role in countless blockbusters. On today’s Chicago Film and Television Tour, you'll explore the city through the lens of movie magic. Begin at one of Chicago’s most iconic theaters, seen in The Blues Brothers and Transformers. Stroll through downtown streets flanked by skyscrapers featured in the Joker’s money truck chase scene in The Dark Knight. At Union Station, relive the dramatic staircase sequence from The Untouchables, where Kevin Costner’s character battles criminals as a baby carriage tumbles down. Visit the University of Chicago, whose Gothic architecture and academic prestige have made it a popular filming location. Along the way, admire Chicago’s rare mechanical lift bridges and architectural wonders that make the city a perfect backdrop for filmmakers. In Chicago, every corner holds a scene, and every street tells a story—waiting for you to explore.