12 Hotels That Practically Double as Museums

Artwork in hotels generally comes standard with the territory — just like the robes and slippers. At most hotels, though, the art is just that — standard. But some go above and beyond, curating remarkable and unique collections, and showcasing some remarkable artifacts. These 12 U.S. hotels boast collections so impressive they could double as […]

4 Romantic Weekend Getaways Near Chicago

It’s winter in Chicago, which means if you’re like us — and everyone else in this city — you’re ready to get away. This Valentine’s Day, why not hit the road with that special someone for a cozy and romantic weekend escape? Here are four hideaways where you can retreat and recharge, all far enough […]

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 […]

17 Podcasts and Audiobooks That Will Make Family Road Trips Fly By

Road trips — like all travel with kids — can be both joyous and maddening. On one such trip, I’ll admit that I began answering the age-old “Are we there yet?” question with “Yes” no matter where we actually were. I told my kids “Yep, we’re smack-dab in the middle of bustling Nashville,” as we traveled down a […]

5 Reasons the New Navy Pier is Thriving

Since becoming a nonprofit in 2011, Navy Pier has embarked on a total transformation both outside and in: not only is its physical space undergoing a makeover, but it’s quickly becoming one of the city’s hottest cultural scenes. In this case, change is a good thing — a very good thing — and it’s safe […]

4 Under-the-Radar Wine Vacations in North America

Envision the ultimate wine vacation and you probably think of Burgundy’s chateaus, Tuscany’s rolling hills, or perhaps Bordeaux’s new La Cité du Vin. Closer to home, there are the big name wineries in Napa and Sonoma along with plenty of smaller boutique favorites to discover. However, great wine is now being produced in so many more […]

Don't Throw Away Those Eclipse Glasses...

The eclipse may be over for those of us in the United States, but on July 2, 2019, there will be a solar eclipse visible in Asia and South America where many people don’t have the resources to get special glasses to see the phenomenon. Astronomers Without Borders is soon announcing a collection program that […]