Best Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Chicago for Kids and Families
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
Lauren LaRoche has been a working writer and journalist for more than 12 years. When she’s not writing, she and her husband are chasing after their dog and three children in Chicago. Her career includes work in marketing, in graphic design, and as a lifestyle and events editor for CBS Chicago. To check out more of her writing, visit her website at ldesignchicago.com.
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
For holidays, weekends, birthdays, Grandparents' Day, or any old day, we've created the ultimate list of fun things for grandparents to do with kids. From weekend sleepovers to afternoon visits, there's something on this list that will appeal to grandkids (and grandparents) of every age, interest, and physical ability.
This list is sure to keep kids (and grandparents) entertained and making marvelous memories. Because let’s face it, while kids never get enough time with grandma and grandpa, sometimes the generation gap can make it hard to think of things to do together.
We've got more grandparent suggestions, from 101 Questions To Ask Grandparents About Their Lives to the Ultimate List of Cute and Unique Grandparent Names, all in our Mommy Poppins Parenting (and Grandparenting) Guide.
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
Our favorite Christmas tree farms near Chicago turn picking out a tree into a memorable holiday adventure. Many of these adorable Christmas tree farms near Chicago also have festive treats, gift shops, and hayrides out to the fields. Whether you’re looking to grab one that’s pre-cut, fresh from the farm, or to cut-your-own Christmas tree, this list has them all. While many of the farms offer saws and twine to cut and transport your tree, but you’re also welcome to bring your own to help avoid lines and keep the wait times with little ones to a minimum. A few farms, noted below are also pet friendly.
For more festive, holiday fun, check out our Holiday Guide for Kids.
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
If you’re looking for the ultimate list of holiday and Christmas lights in Chicago neighborhoods, we’ve got you covered. From the city to the 'burbs, these houses, streets, and neighborhoods go all out with their impressive self-made holiday and Christmas lights displays. Some homes on this list are best viewed from the car, while others encourage you to get out and walk. Many homes and streets feature light-up tunnels, visits from Santa, and treats for the kids. We’ve also noted which shows on the list are synchronized to music and what radio stations to tune into.
For more holiday light displays, check out this mega list, Where to See the Best Holiday and Christmas Lights in Chicago. More holiday fun at our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Activities for Chicago Families.
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
Don't feel like cooking? Check out our list of kid-friendly restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago.
If spending days and hours in the kitchen preparing for Thanksgiving isn’t your thing, there are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago where you can dine-in or order a take-home meal. From traditional Thanksgiving menus to family-style brunch and more, we’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Chicago. These Chicago restaurants are also kid-friendly with special kid's menus and pricing for all your little turkeys.
For year-round dining, check out our Kid-Friendly Chicago Restaurants Guide.
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
Nestled 25 miles from downtown Chicago is the quaint and vibrant town of Elmhurst, Illinois. If you’re looking for a new train town to explore, Elmhurst is a quick ride from the city and many of the main attractions are walkable. Make a day or a weekend out of exploring all Elmhurst has to offer for families. Between kid-friendly museums, state-of-the-art playgrounds, and family-friendly breweries, there is something for kids and adults to enjoy in Elmhurst.
Check out our Visitors Guide for more neighborhoods to explore near Chicago.
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
Located about 30 miles from downtown Chicago, Schaumburg is a quick weekend drive from the city or surrounding suburbs. If you live in Chicagoland, you’ve likely heard of Schaumburg's big attraction, Woodfield Mall. But, Schaumburg has tons of other fun and family-friendly places to explore, too. From outdoor activities to LEGOLAND, you'll find plenty of fun things to do with kids in Schaumburg. And for more things to do in Chicago neighborhoods, check out our Visitors Guide.
Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on
Grandparent names can be as unique and special as the bond they share with their grandkids! What grandparent names does your family use?
Grandparents can have a special bond with their grandkids—and that unique relationship calls for an extra special name. Many grandparent names have cultural or family significance while others are made up by the first grandchild...possibly whatever they can pronounce at that age! From grandpa to pawpaw, and all the adorable names in between, we’ve rounded up the ultimate list of grandparent names, including both traditional and unique options.
For more fun with grandparents, check out this list of 50 Fun Activities for Grandparents To Do with Kids. To get to know grandparents better as people, we've rounded up 101 Questions To Ask Grandparents About Their Lives.