Holiday Family Fun at Oakbrook Center

November 27, 2017 By

Oakbrook Center in Oak Brook is an outdoor shopping center that has over 150 shops and plenty of dining options, but for the winter holidays they’ve added some extra family fun with a glass house for Santa filled with decorations, an interactive activity, and a digital countdown to Christmas, and an outdoor ice skating rink. […]

Santa HQ at Fashion Outlets of Chicago

November 21, 2017 By

Visiting Santa is a memorable time for kids during the holidays so why not make the most of the experience? Santa HQ at Fashion Outlets of Chicago offers a chance to chat with Santa and take photos, but there’s so much more to do. Kids (and adults) will be delighted by the sight of Santa […]

All Seasons Apple Orchard

October 14, 2017 By

Autumn in the Parisi household means apple picking. We have gone apple picking every year since Cooper was born and some of my favorite photos of the kids are from our apple picking adventures through the years. If apple picking isn’t a tradition in your household you should consider starting it now. One of our […]

Free Chicago Museum Days – Fall 2017

August 25, 2017 By

I’ve probably mentioned this before, but I think fall – especially early fall – is the sweet spot when it comes to visiting museums and other attractions in the Chicago area. Summer tourists are gone, kids are back in school, and school field trips are rare in the beginning of the school year. All this […]

Origami in the Garden at the Morton Arboretum through October 22, 2017

July 1, 2017 By

The Morton Arboretum prides itself on being a living museum and that’s a beautiful thing about visiting. It’s never exactly the same, with trees growing and changing throughout the season. Each visit is a different experience, not only because of the living things, but because they are often displaying new exhibits. P.S. Looking for more […]

Chicago Free Museum Days – Summer 2017

May 24, 2017 By

The end of the school year is RIGHT around the corner. Filling the summer with family time, fun, and educational experiences is easy in an amazing city like Chicago, but it’s NOT always easy on the wallet. Thankfully, there are plenty of attractions that are free every day, and many that offer free or discounted […]

Free Chicago Museum Days – Spring 2017

March 28, 2017 By

It’s hard to keep kids busy and find things to do during spring break and summer vacation, and it’s even harder on a budget. Broaden your horizons and learn about everything from astronomy, to Chicago history, to various cultures, and do it all for free. Most free days only apply to Illinois residents with valid […]

Staycation Recommendation: Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament {Giveaway}

March 13, 2017 By

Spring Break is approaching quickly (despite today’s snowstorm), and if you haven’t planned for a tropical vacation or some other trip outside the area, may I suggest you enjoy an afternoon or evening of your staycation at a tournament in the medieval age? We had an opportunity to visit Medieval Times last week and even though […]

Crazy January Holidays and How to Celebrate Them

January 3, 2017 By

Okay, I’ll be honest: January is my least favorite month of the year. The holidays are over and there’s just not much going on. It’s cold and dreary out, plus it’s also cold and flu season, so we’re not getting out much. Sometimes you have to make your own fun and one great way to […]

Chicago New Year’s Eve Events for Families 2016

December 29, 2016 By

2016 sure has been a roller coaster. Every year has it’s high and low points, but it seems like 2016 has had some unusually deep valleys for many people. It’s time to say goodbye to 2016 and hello to 2017 and hope for a better year for everyone. Celebrate with the kids at these family-friendly […]

Indoor Trick-or-Treating 2016

October 27, 2016 By

FINALLY! The forecast for Halloween looks great. Is it just me or does it seem like it rains every Halloween?? The nice weather is great, but it’s nice to have indoor options too in case it’s too cool or too dark, or your kid’s costume just doesn’t work as well outdoors. Here are places you […]

Free Chicago Museum Days – Fall 2016

September 9, 2016 By

  Summer is sliding away and it’ll be fall (officially) very soon. Spend your fall exploring Chicago attractions for free! Most free days only apply to Illinois residents with valid identification and only apply to general admission, not special exhibits or events. Adler Planetarium – September 12-16, October 10, November 11, December 3-9. Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool– […]

Fourth of July Parades & Fireworks – 2016

June 22, 2016 By

The Fourth of July is a celebration of independence and freedom, but also of family and summer. Plan to attend some of these parades and fireworks shows to make your Fourth truly explosive! Before attending, PLEASE check the link. Some events may be cancelled or postponed depending on the weather, and even though I do […]

Chicago Area U-Pick Strawberry Farms 2016

June 15, 2016 By

June = juicy strawberries! We’re getting plenty of sunshine and rain lately and that helps grow some delicious strawberries. Spend a day in the sun and let that strawberry juice run right down your chin, but be sure to pick plenty for baking and freezing. Don’t forget your sunscreen and cash (many farms only accept […]

Free Summer Reading Programs 2016

May 16, 2016 By

Just because school will be out for the summer doesn’t mean reading should stop. Reluctant or voracious, or somewhere in between, your child will love receiving rewards and treats offered by these local and national reading programs. Sign your child up early and READ! Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Triathalon Opening Ceremonies at Barnes & […]

Chicago Area Easter Egg Hunts 2016

March 10, 2016 By

Spring! Easter! They’re nearly here. Whether the Chicago weather gets the message or not, head outside (or inside, or into the pool, in some cases) to search for some Easter eggs.  These are just some of the hunts in Chicago and the suburbs. Have a favorite one that’s not listed? Let me know and I’ll add […]

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