Daytripper: Fashion Outlets of Chicago

Looking for designer wear but want to shop smart? The new Fashion Outlets of Chicago has everyone from practical moms to fashionistas buzzing. Getting There Construction and confusing signs mean you should pre-map the route (we took an impromptu tour of O’Hare). Once the roads are complete, it should be easy-on, easy-off, but not quite yet. […]

Major League Spring Break in Arizona

It’s a whole new ball game for the legions of Chicago Cubs fans that head to Arizona every March for spring training. After more than 60 years at the same stadium in Mesa, AZ, the Cubs are moving three miles away to a brand new ballpark. “It brings the best of what Cubs fans love […]

Weekend Getaway in Charming Charleston

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend for two or a getaway with the girls, the charming intracoastal city of Charleston, South Carolina may be the perfect place to relax, unwind or fall in love again. It’s known for its well-mannered hospitality and well-preserved history, but what you’re sure to fall hard for are the unique […]

8 Indoor Activities to Cure Cabin Fever

Baby, it’s cold outside. But when the weather outside is frightful, your kids don’t need to be frozen out of fun. After the coldest December in decades, and then a record-breaking January, moms and dads may get the chills over how to entertain the kids on another day of canceled school or a weekend of […]

5 Destinations for a Last-Minute Ski Getaway

The Polar Vortex may be gone, but we are still in the thick of winter. Why complain about the weather when you can enjoy it? Take advantage of the cold and snow by making tracks for a ski resort. Here’s a look at a few favorites, near and far, to fit every budget. Close to […]

Family Voluntourism: Vacations that Do Good and Feel Good

Amy Kaplan wanted something different for her family’s most recent vacation. The Riverwoods resident, her husband and three daughters had helped out at local soup kitchens during prior holidays, but for their winter break she sought a service trip that was culturally and physically immersive. “I wanted my girls (ages 13, 11 and 7) to […]

Festive Weekend Getaways

You don’t need to book a cruise or a week at Club Med to give your kids a holiday adventure. In fact, a memorable holiday weekend is just a short car ride away. Here are four family venues just perfect for jumpstarting your holiday season with activities for all ages—snow or no snow. Starved Rock […]