Within Evanston’s 8 square miles, there lies historic shopping districts, a picturesque downtown and unique dining experiences. You can find anything, from beaches and festivals to an art center and vegetarian café, all tucked into this vibrant community. 1. When Northwestern University was founded 160 years ago, the first class had 10 students. Now the […]
If you could pick 10 dream destinations to visit over a lifetime with your family, what would they be? We made a list and checked it twice. Some take you across the country, others around the world—and, in our opinion, each of them takes you to one of the most exciting places on the planet. […]
Lake Forest marked its 150th anniversary in 2011, celebrating a rich history of gentleman farms and classic estates. Now home to 20,000 people, Lake Forest retains its small town charms. Lunch Sit beneath the towering Elm trees on the patio overlooking Market Square, and enjoy the Van Doren Club. If the kids are hungry, send […]
For many Chicagoans, the last Sunday in September means the Apple Cider Century bike tour in Southwest Michigan. Bryan Volstorf, director of the Apple Cider Century and executive director of Three Oaks Spokes bike club, says Chicagoans make up well over 60% of participants for the event, which attracts 6,000 riders. What’s not to like? […]
Chicago’s North Shore offers plenty of water play alternatives to a trip to the beach. If you’re looking for a local waterpark, you’re sure to find one on this list that’s close to you. Before you go, consider: 1. Your kids’ ages: It’s worth the effort to do a little research before you fork […]
Michelle and Tom Holleman longed to take their three children to Paris, but like many families, the Highland Park couple found hotel costs to be a major obstacle. “You can’t all be in one room. And if you’re overseas, you want to stay for more than just a few days,” Michelle says. A vacation home […]
Everything old is new again with generations of family-run businesses, renovations that honor tradition and recreation facilities that celebrate the land. Glenview House With a menu focused on farm-fresh produce, more than 100 kinds of whiskey, and a selection of more than 100 beers, there is something for everyone at the newly renovated Glenview House. The decor […]
Every summer, thousands of New Yorkers stream out of Manhattan for the sandy shores, shopping and relaxation of the Hamptons. And we have our own summer paradise, located a mere 100 miles from Chicago in Harbor Country, Mich., where people retreat to second homes in the tiny towns along the eastern shores of Lake Michigan. […]
Summer is the time for family vacations, and whether by choice or necessity, sometimes those vacations involve a road trip. If piling the children in the car and driving for hour upon hour seems daunting, don’t despair. As a veteran of many family car trips, including one of 4000 miles with 9 children, I would […]
Whether you’re looking for great deals on a “stay-cation” or economical ways to show visitors a good time, there are plenty of cheap-to-free options.
