We've been here a few times now. They have a children's area in the back of the conservatory. Check out their website for occasional free activities for the kids too. Kids seem to really enjoy walking around and seeing all the different kinds of plants/trees (imagine what it is like from their perspective). Mostly stroller friendly (except for the fern area). They do a nice job around the holidays as well. I haven't been there during the warmer months but i know they also have a great outdoor area.

Other than being Water Tower Place this is simply an indoor mall. If you have daughters there is American Girl which can get busy on the weekends so just plan accordingly. There is a big glass elevator that can be amusing for kids and escalators all the way up to the top. No real play area and each floor is small so not even a ton of room to run around for kids. Easy place to duck in to if you are walking Michigan Ave in the winter and need a break from the chilly weather.

My daughter has not used the kids area yet but for potty trained kids i know it's great. they have made their store very child friendly with random kid play areas scattered throughout. Their dining area is great too: cheap food and options for babies as well. They have a little play area in the dining section.

In the warmer months Oakbrook Mall is great for the kids to simply run around and they have a bunch of water fountains to look at and throw pennies in to but there is no children's play area. I'm still hopeful that they will take an idea from Old Orchard Mall and put in a small outdoor play area for the kids that doesn't take away from the landscape they have already provided but will provide a place for kids to get some of their energy out.

we live just around the corner from the wildlife center. I would rather drive a little further and go to Cosley Zoo but for a quick trip out this will do. Be careful if you have a bad reaction to poison ivy since you can get it very easily walking along these trails. If you are in the area stop in but I wouldn't make a special trip to come here.