My first advice is do not become a Cubs fan. White Sox all the way.
I'm an outcast with my family tho.
Also, you will find the Chicago Sports teams have rabid fans throughout the area.
We held up my Nephew's graduation reception while the Blackhawks were playing on TV.
Everybody wanted to watch the game. Unbelievable.
The suburbs of Chicago are really unique...get familiar with surrounding areas.
Medina Country Club is one of the nicest.
Must make a trip into Chicago for Museum of Science and Industry.
Free admission on Wednesdays I think. It used to be that way.
Art Museum, Planetarium, Wild Life Museum and Aquarium are all along the lake.
Suggest using care on the South Side of Chicago...not invitingly friendly.
Take buses or the 'L' to get around. You won't be sorry.
North Lake Shore Drive has some great stops:
http://www.travelchannel.com/destinations/us/il/chicago/articles/what-to-do-on-lake-shore-drive
Get a map if you're driving. Parking is pretty difficult inside the city but sometimes at the right time of day, it's OK.
You will not believe the things that you can do in the Chicago Area.
I love going there but the winters and the wind kicks up pretty strong inside the city high rises.
If you ever want an suggestions of eating, where to stay overnight and anything that you think I could
help you find...please mail me.
I'm excited that you're moving there especially with all your family. Brookfield Zoo was at one time one of the
best Zoo's I had ever been too.
Also, I was in 7th through my Soph year living in a town called Itasca. Nice small town at the time. Just east of
the Medina Country Club.
It was fun telling you all about this and hope to keep in touch.
Dave