Lauren LaRoche

Lauren LaRoche has been a working writer and journalist for more than 12 years. When she’s not writing, she and her husband are chasing after their dog and three children in Chicago. Her career includes work in marketing, in graphic design, and as a lifestyle and events editor for CBS Chicago. To check out more of her writing, visit her website at ldesignchicago.com.

Latest posts by Lauren

Swimming Spots to Host a Pool Party for Your Chicago Kid

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Sun, 06/25/2023 - 8:35am

These swimming spots are perfect for summer birthday parties. Photo courtesy of the Whealan Pool Aquatic Center

A swimming party is the ultimate perk of being a summer birthday kid. For the parents, these outdoor pool and water park birthday party rentals means there’s no mess or chaos at your home and no need to hire additional entertainment. The kids get 2 hours of private pool play with their closest friends and family.

In addition to the pools on this list, many of the splash pads featured in this guide also offer private rentals for the younger kiddos.

For more summer fun, check out our guides for the Best Outdoor Water Parks near Chicago and the Best Outdoor Pools in Chicago. And don't forget to check out our Kids' Birthday Party Places in Chicago Guide for more ideas.

Things to Do with Kids on Navy Pier in Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 06/23/2023 - 1:32pm

Rides, a children's museum, and more on Navy Pier. Photo courtesy of Navy Pier

Navy Pier in Chicago is a must-see for kids. There's so much to do there, from the carnival rides and games to the indoor attractions like the Chicago Children’s Museum. Best of all, Navy Pier itself is free to walk around (admission is required for museum and rides). With sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, Navy Pier offers some of the city’s best vantage points.

One of the best parts about Navy Pier is its location. You’re within a couple of miles of several Chicago museums, Michigan Avenue, Millennium Park, The Bean, Maggie Daley Park, and more. Before or after you’re Navy Pier visit, check out our guides to the ultimate Chicago weekend with kids and 100 things to do in Chicago with kids before they grow up.

Best Outdoor Water Parks in Chicago for Family Fun

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 05/05/2023 - 10:12am

Stay cool with an outdoor water park near Chicago.

Water parks near Chicago add to our beat-the-heat arsenal of amazing beaches and splash pads. If a day at a Chicago water park is on your summer bucket list, we’ve got you covered. From great local pools with amazing slides to giant water amusement parks, we’ve rounded up our favorite water parks near Chicago. These water parks are jam-packed with lazy rivers, slides, splash pads, beaches, and diving boards. There’s something for everyone, from thrill-seeking teens (and adults) to the smallest water-loving toddler. It's time to start splashing at the best outdoor water parks near Chicago.

Best Fun Restaurants for Kids' Birthdays in Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 04/28/2023 - 7:09pm

Plan your birthday fun at one of these Chicago restaurants. Photo courtesy of the American Girl Cafe

If you’re looking for a fun and festive restaurant to celebrate your child’s birthday in Chicago, you’ve come to the right place. We have restaurants for a fancy, kid-friendly tea, train and animal lovers, and more. From over-the-top desserts to interactive experiences where kids can make their own pizza, these restaurants are great for your family or a small group of friends.

For more birthday party inspiration, check out the best indoor party spots for Chicago kids and our birthday party guides here. More fun-themed restaurants are on this list of interactive dining experiences for kids.

Best Farms for Family Fun and Entertainment in Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 04/21/2023 - 10:08am

Farms near Chicago offer animal experiences and more. Photo courtesy of the Double J Riding Club

There are plenty of farms with family entertainment near Chicago, whether that means a petting zoo, pony rides, or pick-your-own berries and other seasonal fare. If you’re looking for the best Chicago family farms for kids, we’ve got you covered. From hand-picking flowers to milking a goat to hayrides, these local farms have something for everyone in the family.

Fresh air and time spent in nature are so important for kids of all ages. As urban dwellers, it can be hard to give kids a farm-to-table experience without spending hours in the car. Whether it's picking apples, taking a train ride, or learning how to care for (and cuddle) adorable baby animals, we know the best spots for your family to get their farm fill, right here in (or very near) Chicagoland. Check out our list of the best Chicago family farms to visit with your little ones.

Fun Budget Weekend Getaways for Chicago Families

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 04/14/2023 - 7:17pm

St. Louis has tons of kid-friendly things to do. Photo courtesy of the City Museum in St. Louis

Budget weekend getaways from Chicago mean that your family vacations aren't limited to longer school breaks. Chicago is home to some world-class tourist destinations, but it’s also within a short drive to even more sights, museums, sports teams, and nature adventures. If you’re looking for a quick and budget-friendly weekend getaway near Chicago, this round-up is for you. We have staycation and road trip ideas in nearby areas that don’t require thousands of dollars worth of plane tickets or passports.

For more budget-friendly travel ideas for Chicago families, check out our guide to tent camping near Chicago and our Midwest Travel Guide.

Best Stroller-Friendly Hikes and Trails Near Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 04/07/2023 - 10:46pm

Stroller hikes make it easier to get outside with babies and toddlers. Photo courtesy of the Morton Arboretum

Stroller hikes allow us to get in some exercise and scenery without carrying a three-year-old all the way back to the car. If you've ever been hiking with little kids, you know that having a backup for when their legs get tired is as important as bringing snacks. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite kid-friendly stroller hikes to help you out. These hikes swap steep inclines and rocky terrains for smooth, paved, or gravel surfaces that make it easy to push a stroller with kids. You’ll get your steps in while taking in beautiful sights and the kids get outdoors, away from screens. These strolls are perfect for littles still in a stroller and siblings who want to get their wiggles out without the need for hiking gear.

Looking for more kid-friendly fun outdoors? Check out our round-up of kid-friendly hikes for after the stroller days come to an end and this list of best outdoor adventures for kids.

Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour is Coming to a Theater Near You

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Thu, 04/06/2023 - 7:00am

Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour is a fully immersive musical extravaganza traveling across America this year! Photo courtesy of Shore Fire Media

Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour is coming to a city near you. The show is making a stop in Houston on April 15th before heading to San Antonio on April 16, and continuing across the country from there. One of our writers had the privilege of seeing the show when it stopped in Rockford, Illinois, and her family had a blast while she got the scoop on everything parents need to know about this show. Hot take: If you have a little Blippi fan in your home, this show does not disappoint.

From the songs you can sing along and dance to, to the adorable kids (and parents!) dressed like Blippi, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about this fun and interactive show. Read on for the details on this show that's sure to delight your favorite preschooler.