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Walking in a Wrigleyville Wonderland: When Kids are Welcome

When to Bring the Family!

By Debra Flanagan, Macaroni KID Chicago Northside December 11, 2024

This Guide has been generously sponsored by Almost Home Tavern and Grill

KEVIN! 🎄 Get ready to feel like you’re Home (Alone) for the holidays… Our Home Alone Pop Up is back for the Season Nov 15! Step into Kevin’s world with a fully decked-out space that brings the magic (and mayhem) of the beloved Christmas classic to life. From twinkling lights to familiar scenes and iconic props, every corner will transport you back to those unforgettable holiday moments. Enjoy seasonal cocktails and bites inspired by the film—think hot drinks with a kick, holiday-inspired snacks, and sweet treats that will have you saying, “Keep the change, ya filthy animal!” Whether you’re looking for a cozy night out or a place to embrace your inner child, join us for a nostalgic holiday experience you won’t want to miss! Kids welcome from 11am-9pm daily!


There is plenty of time and opportunity to bring the family down to Clark Street and enjoy all the holiday pop-ups til at least New Years. Most of the bars/restaurants do allow kids up to a certain hour, so you can create your own family-friendly crawl.

Almost Home Alone
3801 N. Clark St.
Children welcome 11am-9pm daily
Step into Kevin’s world with a fully decked-out space that brings the magic (and mayhem) of the beloved Christmas classic to life. From twinkling lights to familiar scenes and iconic props, every corner will transport you back to those unforgettable holiday moments.



Elf'd Up
3485 N. Clark
Children up to 6pm Mon-Thurs and 2pm Fri-Sun
Next to Santa Baby is Elf'd Up. If you are a fan of the movie Elf, you'll love this tribute to the film and all things sweet. If you are lucky, you may even run into Buddy. Go for weekend brunch and dare to try Buddy’s Breakfast Pasta that includes spaghetti, topped with maple syrup, chocolate fudge, and mini marshmallows!

Noche Buena Christmas Pop-up at Moe's Cantina
3518 N. Clark St.
Children up to 9pm
Children are welcome before 9pm, and at least this past Friday night, it was not too crowded. However, they do take reservations for both high top tables or their fire table-centered couches. Whether you are there with kids or not, be aware the holiday music played at a moderate volume is replaced by a rather loud DJ at about 10pm.
The food menu includes really good nachos, amazing elote, a great variety of tacos (the shrimp are my favorite), and even kid menu options. Each one of the holiday cocktails is delicious. Stick around for churros for dessert, or continue wandering through Wonderland.

Rudolph's Bar
3660 N. Clark St.
Children up to 8pm
Celebrate the season at Rudolph’s Bar at Lost Never Found! Immerse yourself in wall-toceiling Christmas decor, endless Insta-worthy photo ops, and festive cocktails that’ll make your spirits bright. This over-the-top holiday experience is perfect for bringing your crew together to sip, snap, and dig into delicious eats that’ll keep the night going. Whether you’re naughty, nice, or just here for the drinks, LNF is the place to make your holiday unforgettable!

Santa Baby
3505 N. Clark St.
Children up to 8pm
Santa Baby is probably the most well-known pop-up on Clark Street, as it's glittery facade could be mistaken for something on the Las Vegas Strip. If you can manage to get a reservation at Santa Baby, you will be impressed by the decorations covering every inch of the interior and exterior, and your kids' minds will be blown by the over-the-top milkshakes. If you can't get a reservation, you can still take pictures in front of the castle-like entry. In December, all reservations and walk-ins will be subject to a cover charge. The cover charge is per person, starting at $5 for ages 12 and above. Dates subject to change.

Santa's Workshop at Old Crow Smokehouse
3506 N. Clark St.
Children up to 9pm
Next door to Moe's Cantina is Old Crow Smokehouse. The Old Crow Smokehouse has some larger-than-life size decorations including a giant rocking horse that you can climb on top of for a great family photo. Best of all, join Santa in his sleigh on the rooftop!


More Pop-Ups Worth Seeing

Christmas Club
3460 N. Clark St.
Children up to 7pm on weeknights and 5pm on weekends
Special appearances by Santa and other Christmas characters.

8 Crazy Nights
3441 N. Sheffield
Call for children hours
Hanukkah themed.

Jingle Junkie
3478 N. Clark St.
Children welcome anytime
Cozy ski lodge theme.

Ugly Sweater Bar
3481 N. Clark St.
Children welcome anytime on weeknights, up to 9pm on weekends
Christmas cajun style!