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Lauren LaRoche

Lauren LaRoche's picture

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.

Latest posts by Lauren

11 Swimming Lakes Near Chicago To Cool You Off This Summer

Lauren LaRoche's picture Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Sun, 06/16/2024 - 12:54pm

Little girl running on the beach. Photo courtesy of Visit Lake Geneva

When talking about swimming lakes near Chicago, we wouldn't blink an eye if your mind automatically goes to a certain great lake. After all, it's hard to miss. While Lake Michigan is absolutely on this list, we've also found 10 other spots near Chicago worth a try. Most of the swimming lakes, quarries, and swimming holes listed below are located in a suburb within 30 miles of the city and promise lots of summer memories for kids. Grab your beach towels and enjoy a day in the sun at one of the swimming lakes near Chicago below.

For more fun by the water check out our round-up of the Best Beaches in Chicago for Families and top Sprinkler Parks and Water Playgrounds near Chicago.

Read more.

Door County With Kids: The Best Things to Do in Door County, Wisconsin

Lauren LaRoche's picture Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 05/24/2024 - 11:07am

Jacksonport Farmers Market. Photo by Mike Tittel, courtesy of Destination Door County.

Door County, Wisconsin has five state parks, 300 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 19 county parks, and 14 charming towns and villages. If that's not enough reason to plan a summer getaway here, how about dozens of festivals, a thriving arts scene, countless restaurants, and so many outdoor activities you'll have to decide what to do first? 

The idyllic peninsula is a five-hour drive from Chicago—and worth every mile. This guide has everything from what to do, what to see, and where to eat to help you make the most of your family trip to Door County, Wisconsin.

Looking for other vacation spots near Chicago? Check out this guide to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, these fantastic weekend getaways, and this Midwest travel guide for more ideas. 

Read more.

40 Classic Outdoor Games for Kids: Backyard Games, Playground Games, and More

Lauren LaRoche's picture Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Thu, 05/16/2024 - 11:33am

Jump rope solo, skip with siblings, or round up the whole gang for double dutch.

It's hard to beat classic outdoor games for kids when it comes time to entertain them during the long school-free summer months, at birthday parties, or when they've spent too much time on screens. From hide-and-seek to ghost in the graveyard, these outdoor games are sure to keep your crew, and whichever neighborhood kids stop by, busy for hours. Best of all, you can play almost all of these playground and backyard games listed below without spending any money. Time to  load up the sunscreen, head outdoors, and play!

If you don't mind getting wet, check out these Favorite Water Games to Play With Kids, and keep the party going in the great outdoors with one of the activities from our Guide to Outdoor Activities for Kids.

Read more.

19 Things To Do with Chicago Babies Before They Turn One

Lauren LaRoche's picture Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Sun, 05/05/2024 - 10:07am

Take your little one for a splash in the Crown Fountain. Photo by Sandor Weisz

If you think finding things to do with a baby in Chicago is too much to handle, think again. While the first year can be a wild ride filled with sleepless nights and seemingly endless diaper changes, it's also a time filled with family fun and exploration. If you live in Chicagoland, there’s no shortage of great things to do with babies. These outings help keep wee ones entertained—and parents sane.

If you haven't been able to explore the city as much as you would have hoped, now's the time to get out there. This list of activities is all outdoors and every item on this list is perfect for babies under one. From the zoos to the beaches, here’s our round-up of 20 things every Chicago baby should try before their first birthday. 

Read more.

Visiting the Bristol Renaissance Faire in Kenosha, WI with Kids: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Lauren LaRoche's picture Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 04/26/2024 - 10:31am

People enjoying the Bristol Renaissance Faire. Photo by Joseph Gage via Flickr

The Bristol Renaissance Faire is a magical realm that comes to life each summer. Step through the gates and be transported to the year 1574 where the streets are bustling with villagers, nobles, and performers in elaborate costumes.

You'll find different play spaces, interactive kid's areas, playgrounds, shows, interactive performances, food options, rides, games, shops, and a benevolent queen who rules over her kingdom. If you're planning a visit to the Bristol Renaissance Faire with kids, these insider tips will make the most of this enchanting adventure. 

If you're looking for other exciting family adventures in Wisconsin, opt for a weekend in Lake Geneva or Madison. Want to try something else? These family day trips and weekend getaways are the perfect fit for more family adventures.

Read more.

Chicago Public Schools Calendar: Start & End Dates for 2024-2025

Lauren LaRoche's picture Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 04/05/2024 - 12:09am

As you start planning the year (think family vacations, summer camps, and weekend getaways) having the Chicago public schools calendar handy is key! Many districts have released their calendars for t

Read more.

Best Things To Do With Kids (Plus the Best Hotels) in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Lauren LaRoche's picture Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 03/22/2024 - 1:07am

Lake Geneva is known for its crystal-clear waters and offers a range of water activities. Photo by Joseph Gage, via Flickr 2.0

Lake Geneva hotels are a must when looking to spend time in this stunning destination that's a short drive from Chicago. The perfect spring break destination or weekend getaway that offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and beautiful scenery, Lake Geneva has become a popular vacation spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without hours in the car or expensive plane tickets.

Read more.

Top Toddler and Preschooler Birthday Party Places in Chicago

Lauren LaRoche's picture Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 03/01/2024 - 2:33pm

Kids under a parachute. Photo courtesy of the Purple Monkey Playroom

These toddler birthday party places offer everything from themed parties to music lessons, bouncing, pretend play, and much more for Chicago families. 

Read more.

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