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…
Nature centers are the perfect stop for any wildlife lover. These family-friendly stops are a win no matter what the weather. Bundle up to go outside in the winter, cool off inside during the summer or do both. They’re a hit year-round. No matter what mother nature has in store for us, you can stop in to one of these…
With three kids at home, we are constantly rotating what’s in our closets and toy bins. Thanks to these great resales, it’s out with the old and in with the new (to you!) You’ll find great deals on new or gently used children’s clothing, gear, toys, books and more. You may even decide to consign things you no longer need….
Get outside and explore a new park while hitting the story trail! Sometimes called Storybook Walks, these trails let park visitors read a storybook by moving from page to page along a walking path. At these local parks, families will find Pete the Cat and other family-favorite books to enjoy together as they stretch their legs and practice their reading…
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…
Keep your eyes on the sky this Fourth of July! The western suburbs have quite a few 4th of July fireworks displays returning in 2021, and even a few parades, too! Watch marching bands stroll the streets of downtown neighborhoods, then pull up your lawn chair to oooohhh and aaaahhhh over the colorful firework displays. We’re grateful to be able…
Summertime temps are here to stay, so cool off at these local pools offering day passes throughout the summer. We all have our favorite spots, but don’t forget to check out the great pools in neighboring towns, too. Many pools are still adjusting since Illinois officially moved into Phase 5 on June 11, 2021, so make sure to click the…
Pool memberships are a cost-effective way to maximize your summertime fun! In light of the new Phase 5 guidelines for Illinois, we recently revisited all the pools offering memberships and found lots more summer fun to be had. Check out all the offerings! Please note: This article was revised on June 11, 2021, to reflect new Phase 5 guidelines that…
After a quieter summer in 2020, it’s no surprise that we cannot contain our excitement for what’s in store in 2021. Strawberry picking, water parks, children’s museum, fishing, outdoor concerts, the list goes on and on. We’ve created one HUGE summer guide for all your family-friendly fun, so don’t forget to bookmark this page. We’ve linked to all of our…
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…
Tee up to a family-friendly game of miniature golf this summer. Even your littlest golfers can navigate past the water features, over train tracks and score a hole-in-one. Make it a competition, or simply practice putting while enjoying a beautiful summer day at these miniature golf courses in the western suburbs. Mini Golf Courses in the Western Suburbs Hours and…
Summertime movie deals are back! After being closed for much of 2020, movie theaters will certainly need a spot on your summer bucket list. Take a break from the heat and cool off at these heavily-discounted family-friendly movies. Will you get tickets to one of your favorites, or a new-to-you movie? Either way, don’t forget the popcorn. New this year,…