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

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 Summer 2025

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.

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.

Kid-Friendly Spas and Kid Spa Parties in Chicago

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Fri, 03/17/2023 - 1:03am

Hit the spa with your kid for a spa party in Chicago. Photo by Lisa Gagne for Canva

Some salons and spas in Chicago offer services for kids, perfect for birthday parties, celebrating a special occasion, or as a bonding activity over manicures. Whatever the reason for treating your kid (and/or yourself!) we've rounded up some of our favorite kid-friendly spas and spa parties in Chicago. From mommy and me spa days to birthday pedicures, these are some amazing spas, nail salons, and spa party venues. Many of the kid-friendly spas below offer private kids spa parties and there's also a mobile beauty bar that can deliver a spa party at home.

For more birthday party ideas check out our favorite Indoor Kids Birthday Party Venues in Chicago and the Ultimate List of Birthday Party Entertainment and Rentals.

Exploring the New Houston Family Play Tree House at Lincoln Park Zoo

Submitted by Lauren LaRoche on Tue, 02/28/2023 - 10:58pm

The Houston Family Play Tree House at Lincoln Park Zoo. Photo by Lauren LaRoche

If you’re looking for a free outing in Chicago, the Lincoln Park Zoo is likely already high on your list. The new Houston Family Play Tree House has recently opened in the zoo, making it an even more fun place to explore with kids. Plus, the tree house is located indoors, making it a great stop even if the weather isn’t optimal for walking around the zoo.

This accessible play space is replacing the former Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo and has play features that appeal to children up to about the age of 10. For more fun with kids in Lincoln Park, be sure to check out our Lincoln Park neighborhood guide for some great places to check out with kids before or after your zoo trip.

Lauren LaRoche

Latest posts by Lauren

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