arlington heights

4th of July Fireworks, Parades, and Events for 2026 in Chicagoland

It’s time to celebrate like it’s 1776! 4th of July fireworks are everywhere throughout the west and northwest suburbs, so get ready to ooh and aah at the skies this…

Girl sitting and smiling in a lifejacket in a kayak on a placid lake.

18 Scenic Spots with Canoe, Paddleboat, and Kayak Rentals

Get your family in on some local waterfront fun and rent a kayak, paddleboat, or canoe this summer! These nearby spots are great for spending the day outside on the…

12 Scenic Places to Rent Paddle Boats in Chicagoland

Get out on the water this summer and enjoy some family fun with paddle boats. These parks and recreation areas throughout Chicagoland offer families the opportunity to soak up the…

25 Family-Friendly Spots to Kayak in Chicagoland

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful paddle through calm waters or an exciting outdoor adventure, kayaking is a fantastic way to explore nature this summer. These spots throughout the Chicagoland…

Where to Find Outdoor Movies in the Park All Summer Long

Pack your picnic blanket and your popcorn: summer is outdoor movie season! Larger-than-life movie screens throughout the western and northwest suburbs will fill with new family-friendly favorites and blockbuster hits.…

28 Outdoor Farmers Markets: What’s Changed and 2026 Opening Dates

Local farmers markets are popping up everywhere this spring and summer, and we know we’re not the only ones excited about it. Locally grown fresh produce, artisan foods, and food…

60 Places That Open Early for Kids Who Wake Up Ready to Play

When my kids were younger, they were early birds! In those days, I remember it being a challenge to find a kid-friendly spot that opened up before 9:00am. By the…

pool membership near me, little girl floating in a pool while sitting in an inflatable duck

68 Local Pool Memberships to Guarantee Summer Fun in 2026! Find Opening Dates, Early-Bird Info, and More

If your family is like mine, you may find yourselves eagerly anticipating the hot summer days that are sure to be full of sunshine, swimming, and fun. For those days…

65 Local 5K Races and Kids’ Fun Runs to Support Amazing Causes and Get Your Family Moving

What better way to build community, support local and national charities, and encourage active lifestyles for your family than participating in upcoming fun runs or 5Ks? There are several opportunities…

four girls with their arms around each other wearing vacation bible school t-shirts with smiles on their faces, ready to start VBS for the day

VBS Near Me: Where to Find a 2026 Vacation Bible School

Each summer, churches across the area host week-long Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs filled with faith and lots of summer fun. During these camps, children enjoy crafts, games, music, and…

These Sensory-Friendly Events and Special Needs Activities Invite All Kids to Play

Play is for everyone! It provides us the opportunity to explore our senses, develop emotional responses, and build social interaction. This list highlights indoor and outdoor activities and events that…

100+ Easter Egg Hunts for Kids, Teens, Adults (and Even Dogs!)

Easter egg hunts for kids are everywhere in the western and northwest suburbs, so we’ve rounded up great spots for you to race around and gather all the eggs you…