Metra Stations Worth the Stop in the Suburbs
Are you looking for something truly unique to do with your kids? Take a trip on a Metra train! There are 11 different train lines to choose from, each with multiple stops that are sure to entertain your kids.
45+ Splash Pads to Visit this Summer in Chicago
Splash pads are the best summer water activity to do with young kids! It doesn’t take as much work as it does going to a beach, and there’s no safety worries as there are with swimming pools. Instead, your child gets to run around the entire zero-depth splash pad, with lots of water play activities and spray features!
Top Beaches around Chicago and the Suburbs
I think many are surprised to learn how many amazing beaches we have in the city and Chicagoland area. Not just on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, but also on the suburban inland lakes and quarries. Read on for the best beaches around Chicago. Which ones will you be heading to this summer?
Best Farmers Markets in Chicago and the Suburbs
It’s Farmers Market season and boy, do we have some good ones all over the city of Chicago and around the Chicagoland suburbs! So get outside and support these local vendors for the freshest produce, handmade goods, artisan crafts & jewelry and so much more.
13 Unique and Affordable Attractions Your Kids will Enjoy
Are you looking for something different to do with your kids? Chicagoland is filled with so many unique and out of the ordinary [and affordable!] attractions…. you just have to know where to find ‘em!
Zoos to visit with your kids in Northern Illinois, Chicago and Beyond
From large popular zoos to the smaller and more intimate ones, there are a lot of options around Chicago and in Northern Illinois to visit a family-friendly zoo with wildlife species, educational programs and other children activities and attractions.
Local Farms in Chicago with Live Animals
I think for some, it can come as a surprise that there are so many local farms in the Chicagoland area. Well, surprise! No matter where you may live, I guarantee there is at least one animal farm near you. So take a day with your kids to visit one of these educational and interactive centers.
30+ Nature Centers in the Chicagoland Suburbs
Nature centers are probably the most underrated forms of family-friendly entertainment and activities. Educational exhibits, hands-on interactive learning, indoor and outdoor programs… and all for FREE — what’s not to love about it!
20 of the Best Playgrounds in North and Northwest Chicago and Suburbs
Thanks to @upon.the.wildflowers, I’ve put together this amazing list of outdoor playgrounds in the North & Northwest city and suburbs! No longer do you have an excuse that you can’t find something new and exciting to do outdoors!
20 of the Best Playgrounds in Lake County IL
Thanks to @lcparkmom, I’ve put together this amazing list of outdoor playgrounds in Lake County IL! No longer do you have an excuse that you can’t find something new and exciting to do outdoors!
Restaurants where kids eat for FREE
Eating out as a family is NOT cheap. But having a meal out can be a great way to spend time together; so here are places in the city and the suburbs that offer FREE meals for kids!
Windy City Bulls
Have you been wanting your kids to experience a basketball game, but don’t want the hassle of all that the United Center brings? Then a Windy City Bulls game is perfect for you! It’s all the fun and excitement of a game, at a more affordable price!
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10+ Malls with [Free] Play Areas for Kids
Mall play areas are a great place for an exhausted parent to sit back and relax while their kids let out some energy. And the best part about it is they’re FREE!
Free and Affordable Places to Take Your Kids When on a Budget
Taking your kids on adventures gets expensive. Luckily, Chicago and the suburbs have so many affordable hidden gems that you can take your kids to— many of them for FREE!
6 Library Cafes in the Western Suburbs of Chicago
Library cafes are located in public libraries, offering coffee & espressos, tea, pastries and other small snacks and drinks, for parents that just want to be able to sit back and have a refreshment while the kids enjoy the library.
Best Kid-Friendly Libraries in Chicago and the Suburbs
Libraries have become so much more than a collection of books & materials. They also provide an area of imaginative play and exploration for little kids. It’s a great option for parents to get their kids out of the home and in an educational setting. And it’s FREE!