When our girls were younger, we would take the Metra from Round Lake to Libertyville, walk around the downtown area and then eat at one of the many restaurants. We’d hop back on the train and head for home and our girls would rave over and over about how much fun it was. In fact, if your kids are small enough, you could convince them that you went to the “big city” without having to drop a lot of money. Kids love trains, adventure and eating out. We are lucky to have many commuter lines in the suburbs. Here are five kid-friendly stops along the Milwaukee North Metra Line for you and your family to make a fun day or evening of.

Kid-friendly Stops Milwaukee North Line Metra Line

1. Whistle Stop Cafe in Fox Lake
15 E. Grand Ave., Fox Lake| 847-587-5654

Locals and area residents agree that if you are in Fox Lake, you have to stop into Whistle Stop Cafe just down the street from the Fox Lake Metra station. This adorable little cafe serves both breakfast and lunch, but breakfast is what everyone talks about. Known for their friendly staff, there is a huge selection for even the pickiest eater.

Whistle Stop also made our list for Fan Favorites Best Pancakes in Lake County.

2. Miller’s Dog and Sud’s in Ingleside
517 Washington St., Ingleside| 847-587-6808

Located directly across the street from the Ingleside station, Dog and Sud’s can’t be missed, especially with kids. Known for their hot dogs and root beer floats, Dog and Sud’s has been at this site since 1967. One tip, it’s cash only–but the prices are very reasonable.

You can read our review of Miller’s Dog and Suds here. Miller’s was also voted as having one of our Best Milkshakes in Lake County as well.

3. Dalton’s Cakes in Grayslake
970 Harris Rd., Grayslake | 847-223-2344

Located across Route 137 from the Prairie Crossing station outside of Grayslake, Dalton’s is a local favorite for cakes, cupcakes and more. They offer classes for kids birthday parties as well, which might even make a fun train ride/birthday party event. You can read Heather’s review of Dalton’s Cakes.

4. Artist @ Heart in Libertyville
344 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville | 847-816-4865

Just down the street from the Libertyville station, Artist at Heart has art classes for children and adults alike. They offer drop-in art studio times where kids can create things like canvas painting or ceramics painting. They also offer classes for all ages as well. By the way, you will pass Lovin’ Oven Cakery on the way to and from the art studio, so you might need a cupcake. Or two.

5. Jewett Park Tree House in Deerfield
836 Jewett Park Dr., Deerfield | 847-317-2555

Literally across the street from the Deerfield station, Jewett Park is a wealth of fun activities for kids and adults. With open space, ice skating in the winter, a pool and many other activities, there is something for everyone in your family. For year-round fun, try the Indoor Treehouse inside of the community center. With slides, tubes and play mats, it’s perfect for kids to burn some energy after that long train ride. Check the website before you go for times and age requirements. Check out our review of Jewett Park here.

What train station stops are your family’s favorite?

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