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

Best Things To Do With Kids (Plus the Best Hotels) in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 03/22/2024 - 1:07am

Lake Geneva is known for its crystal-clear waters and offers a range of water activities. Photo by Joseph Gage, via Flickr 2.0

Lake Geneva hotels are a must when looking to spend time in this stunning destination that's a short drive from Chicago. The perfect spring break destination or weekend getaway that offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and beautiful scenery, Lake Geneva has become a popular vacation spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without hours in the car or expensive plane tickets.

Top Toddler and Preschooler Birthday Party Places in Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 03/01/2024 - 2:33pm

Kids under a parachute. Photo courtesy of the Purple Monkey Playroom

These toddler birthday party places offer everything from themed parties to music lessons, bouncing, pretend play, and much more for Chicago families.

Top Spots for Laser Tag and Paintball Fun for Kids in Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 02/16/2024 - 9:03am

Three boys having fun at an arcade. Photo courtesy of Laser X in Addison

Get ready to have the ultimate showdown at our favorite spots for laser tag and paintball in Chicago with kids.

If you have energetic kids who love to run, strategize, and engage in friendly competition, laser tag and paintball are the perfect activities to keep them entertained. Chicagoland offers plenty of venues that accommodate kids, and the best part? All of them promise thrilling experiences and unforgettable memories. To help you plan your next outing, we have compiled a list of the top kid-friendly spots for laser tag and paintball in Chicago.

The Best Winter Day Trips from Chicago for Families

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 01/26/2024 - 8:22am

TIme to get out of the city and make some snow angels. Glacial Park photo courtesy of McHenry County Conservation

These day trips from Chicago are perfect for that post-holiday stretch when you need to get the kids out of the house. Because winter in Chicago can feel long... really long. A change of scene can be just the thing!

We've rounded up day trip options that are great whether you're up for a short drive or want to take a full day to explore. From museums to outdoor snow fun and nearby states to visit, these are the best winter day trips from Chicago to take with kids.

For more travel guides and winter activities, be sure to explore our Chicago Family Travel Guide. Looking to stay local? Check out our winter activities guide for kids here.

Top Christmas Tree Farms Near Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Sun, 11/19/2023 - 1:16pm

Cut your own tree this year at one of these Christmas tree farms near Chicago. Photo courtesy of Comstock Images

Our favorite Christmas tree farms near Chicago turn picking out a tree into a memorable holiday adventure. Many of these adorable Christmas tree farms near Chicago also have festive treats, gift shops, and hayrides out to the fields. Whether you’re looking to grab one that’s pre-cut, fresh from the farm, or to cut-your-own Christmas tree, this list has them all. While many of the farms offer saws and twine to cut and transport your tree, but you’re also welcome to bring your own to help avoid lines and keep the wait times with little ones to a minimum. A few farms, noted below are also pet friendly.

For more festive, holiday fun, check out our Holiday Guide for Kids.

Elmhurst with Kids: The Best Things to Do in Elmhurst, Illinois

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 10/06/2023 - 3:49pm

Butterfield Park is one of several great outdoor spots in Elmhurst. Photo courtesy of the Elmhurst Park District

Nestled 25 miles from downtown Chicago is the quaint and vibrant town of Elmhurst, Illinois. If you’re looking for a new train town to explore, Elmhurst is a quick ride from the city and many of the main attractions are walkable. Make a day or a weekend out of exploring all Elmhurst has to offer for families. Between kid-friendly museums, state-of-the-art playgrounds, and family-friendly breweries, there is something for kids and adults to enjoy in Elmhurst.

Check out our Visitors Guide for more neighborhoods to explore near Chicago.

Schaumburg with Kids: Best Things to Do in Schaumburg, Illinois

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Sat, 09/30/2023 - 12:52am

Try one of Schaumburg's outdoor activities. Photo courtesy of the Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm

Located about 30 miles from downtown Chicago, Schaumburg is a quick weekend drive from the city or surrounding suburbs. If you live in Chicagoland, you’ve likely heard of Schaumburg's big attraction, Woodfield Mall. But, Schaumburg has tons of other fun and family-friendly places to explore, too. From outdoor activities to LEGOLAND, you'll find plenty of fun things to do with kids in Schaumburg. And for more things to do in Chicago neighborhoods, check out our Visitors Guide.

The Ultimate List of Cute and Unique Grandparent Names

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Tue, 09/05/2023 - 10:30am

Pick out a grandparent name befitting their special relationship with the grandkids. Photo by André Sala

Grandparent names can be as unique and special as the bond they share with their grandkids! What grandparent names does your family use?

Grandparents can have a special bond with their grandkids—and that unique relationship calls for an extra special name. Many grandparent names have cultural or family significance while others are made up by the first grandchild...possibly whatever they can pronounce at that age! From grandpa to pawpaw, and all the adorable names in between, we’ve rounded up the ultimate list of grandparent names, including both traditional and unique options.

For more fun with grandparents, check out this list of 50 Fun Activities for Grandparents To Do with Kids. To get to know grandparents better as people, we've rounded up 101 Questions To Ask Grandparents About Their Lives.

Lauren LaRoche

Latest posts by Lauren

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