Chester

[Col&Ali]

Didn't Steak & Shake open a restaurant in Chester? Might be fun for the kids

[debs2028]

We do have a steak and shake ( frodsham street )

[shack69]

In my view chester zoo is one the best zoo's in the world and I know its not cheap but it is a great day out (even if wet).
You can do a guided walk of the walls with a centurion if you want. Also if you have nice weather then you can walk the canal to dee and round the race course, this gives a different view of the city.
The children may like crocky trails which is an out doors play area.
There is the National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port, if that floats your boat.
If you face a day in Liverpool then you could buy a merseyrail family ticket (max fam 5) £11 which allows you unlimited use of merseyrail all day (after 9:30 weekdays).
If you want to do something different then you could see if a walk to hilbre island would work for you (very tide dependent).
For a little more adventure you have GO Ape in Delamere forest.

[Blue nose]

Depends on the weather but my kids love sailing on the river. Lots of different types of boats but prefer DH having to row.

[merlinsmum]

We don't live far from Chester. Once we downloaded a treasure hunt (you pay a few pounds and print it off at home) and went off around the walls searching for clues - the kids loved it and we all learnt quite a lot! My kids are big fans of Hickories down by the river for food. The Grosvenor museum is quite good too (and free I think) with some hands on activities. The zoo is awesome as everyone has already said. If you have a car, you could also visit the Pontcysyllte world heritage site (walk over it if you are brave enough) and go onto Llangollen.