Giddy up to theses local horseback riding stables and farms! Local farms and stables in the Chicagoland area offer horseback riding lessons and pony rides, for your younger equestrians. My three kids love grooming and petting horses as well as going for pony rides and horseback rides, as they are getting older. Visiting farms and stables give children the opportunity…
“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow. It’s what sunflowers do.” – Helen Keller. Brighten your day by getting lost in a maze and cutting your own fresh flowers at these local sunflower fields! These sunflower fields near Chicago include mazes, u-pick, and more. Be sure to bring bug spray, sunscreen, and sunglasses when winding through the…
Pick a sunny, summer day and head to one of these U-Pick blueberry farms, all just a short drive away. Blueberry picking generally starts in mid-July and runs approximately 3-4 weeks. Blueberries freeze nicely, so you can enjoy their deliciousness (and antioxidants) year-round. But where to find blueberry picking near here? We’ve rounded up all the blueberry U-Pick farms within…
Brainstorming ways to a-MOO-se your kids? Take a day trip to a local farm! There are a lot of great options in the Chicagoland area for barnyard animal lovers. Along with animal visits, many of these local farms help educate kids about nature, growing food, and history. (If you’re looking for a hands-on activity right now, check out local U-Pick…
Looking for a fun hike with breathtaking views? Check out these waterfalls in the Chicagoland area! My kids love hikes with a destination. Finding the hidden waterfall and then wading in the creeks below, is right up their alley. These waterfalls are so beautiful and peaceful, but can be a fun place to explore with kids of all ages. Remember…
Find a strawberry picking farm a short ride from the suburbs of Chicago and get some great tips for u-pick strawberries! Picking start dates included.
I just bought two kayaks for the price of one . . . canoe believe it??? Mom joke aside, get in on some waterfront fun and rent a kayak, paddleboat or canoe! These local spots are great for spending the day outside and on the water. Kayaking, canoeing, and paddle-boating are memorable ways to explore nature with the kids and…
Are you feeling hot, hot, hot? Splash pads and spray parks are the perfect way for families to cool off in this summer heat. Young toddlers can explore the spouts and sprays, while big kids can drench themselves with dumping buckets. Some of these locations are even fenced in to contain your littlest runners. We have the biggest list of…
#Shoplocal! Local produce, products, and much more at farmers markets all around the Chicagoland suburbs. Head out with your children to pick out fruits and vegetables that are locally grown and products that are locally sourced. Kids often become adventurous eaters when they are part of the picking, planning, and preparing, too. Many farmers markets have live music, food for…
My favorite memories of my dad and I were fishing off the dock or by the pond at the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve. There’s something about fishing that lures families together to create memories outdoors! It isn’t just teaching your child to fish that creates a bond. It’s the calm, quiet moments in nature. This peaceful tranquility is something my…
Let’s slow down time, get all dressed up, and have afternoon tea with kids at these elegant, yet kid-friendly establishments throughout Chicagoland. Afternoon tea is such a lovely experience to share with your children! These local, charming venues hold tea times specifically for children. The food, ambiance, and tea choices cater to kids. Afternoon tea would be a great way…
We have the scoop on sensory-friendly events for children with special needs! These all-inclusive events are often limited to smaller group sizes to help reduce noise and activity, while increasing engagement and the ability for kids to move about. There are many new options of theaters, play places, museum times, and movie screenings that accommodate special needs. My whole family…