The Best Books of 2017

To say 2017 was a strange and divisive year would be putting it mildly. The good news is that the past 12 months saw the publication of several phenomenal books that can appeal to a variety of readers, from your in-laws on the opposite end of the political spectrum to your best friend’s sulky teenager. Whether you’re […]

5 Things to Do: Dec. 15-17

As December rolls along, enjoy holiday fun at Chicago French Market, Northbrook Court, and Gorton Community Center. Plus, skate with Santa in your best “Star Wars” gear at Westfield Old Orchard and explore seasonal masterpieces at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago. Jinglefest Dec. 16 Chicago Visit Chicago French Market for cookie decorating, photos with Santa, a Santa […]

4 News Stories That Got Us Fired Up This Week

There’s a lot of noise out there. The world is moving fast, and passions are at an all-time high. We think the best way forward is to read, listen, and, when you get fired up about something, don’t just sit there, do something about it! Here are a few stories in the news that have […]

5 Things to Do: Dec. 8-10

This weekend, continue your holiday shopping at the One of a Kind Holiday Show and Brushwood Center Holiday Art Market and Open House. Or, take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season with a new Medieval Times show, a holiday festival in Skokie, or a concert in Highland Park. One of a […]

5 Things to Do: Dec. 1-3

Kick off December with annual holiday events like Joffrey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” and Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo. Plus, don’t miss concerts by Northbrook Symphony and Old Town School of Folk Music, and tour the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. “The Nutcracker” Begins Dec. 1 Chicago The holiday season in Chicago isn’t complete without Joffrey Ballet’s […]

6 Ski Resorts 3 Hours or Less From Chicago

A ski slope in your own backyard? Total pipe dream. A mountain within driving distance? Start packing up the car — each of these five wintry wonderlands is within three short hours of Chicago. Wilmot Mountain Wilmot, Wisconsin (Drive time from Chicago: 90 minutes)   Wilmot has been a destination for family skiing, snowboarding, and […]

5 Things to Do: Thanksgiving Weekend 2017

Before you dig in to those Thanksgiving leftovers this weekend, keep the holiday fun going with annual events at The Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago Botanic Garden, and Lincoln Park Zoo. Plus, shop local on Saturday and enjoy a dance party (complete with indoor snow) with your kiddos. 26th Annual Wreathing of the Lions Nov. 24 […]

5 Things to Do: Nov. 17-19

This weekend marks the beginning of annual holiday favorites like Illumination at The Morton Arboretum and “A Christmas Carol” at Goodman Theatre. Plus, don’t miss the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, a brand new production from Cirque du Soleil, and a new exhibit at the American Writers Museum. “Crystal by Cirque du Soleil” Nov. 16-19 Hoffman […]