Are you planning a holiday staycation with your family or friends this Christmas? If so, it’s the perfect time to get together and take the festivities to another level!

The first step to planning it is finding the ideal hotel room. But once you have that, how do you spend the rest of the day?

Here are a few ways you can bring up the spirits and make your holiday staycation more special for everyone!

Have a Christmas Movie Marathon

A staycation means you have lots of time to spare, so why not go on a movie marathon? You can put on classic Christmas movies that everyone can enjoy, no matter what age.

If you want to add a fun twist, you can pick films across the years and watch them chronologically, from oldest to newest. You can also consider watching special Christmas episodes of your favorite shows, whether it’s reality TV, drama, or even animations.

Set Up a Makeshift Fireplace

If you’re booking a large room, you might want to consider setting up the place to make it more festive. Since it’s the winter, a great option to add is a makeshift fireplace.

Although a real fire would boost the ambiance, being outdoors isn’t something everyone is fond of. According to statistics, almost 90% of people in the U.S. have gone on a staycation and would do it again!

A few ways you can prepare this is by putting it on the TV or creating one from scratch with boxes or an iPad or laptop. To add to the vibe, you can also prepare hot chocolate and cookies for everyone to enjoy as you gather around the faux fire.

Do a Gift Exchange

They say Christmas is the season of giving, so a gift exchange would make the perfect activity during a holiday staycation! Not only do you get to take something home, but it’s also the perfect time to talk to each other and showcase appreciation.

You can come up with different ways to give the gifts. For example, have everyone write a brief letter to the receiver and guess who gave it.

Consider Crafts or Board Games

If you’re in the mood for more activities, you can consider doing crafts in the hotel room. It can be something as simple as making cards or baking simple treats if the room has a kitchen.

Another option is to play board games with a festive twist to it. This way, you can really get into the spirit while making the most out of your staycation.

Turn Your Holiday Staycation Into a Fulfilling Memory With These Tips

Going on a holiday staycation with friends or family is a great way to strengthen your bond in a new space. Moreover, you can consider it as an extra activity if you’re visiting an unfamiliar city. This way, you can still keep it intimate and special for everyone while getting the most out of your trip!

Traveling with your pet is nothing out of the ordinary in this day and age. According to statistics, about 78% of Americans travel with the same sentiment.

When you go around with your pet, you want to be sure they have just as good a time as you do. Luckily, Chicago is one of the perfect places to make this happen!

To kick off your plans for the day, here are a few pet friendly Chicago activities you want to try.

Stroll by the Navy Pier Boardwalk

Before you take your dog out, you want to be sure you make your hotel room pet-safe and comfortable for them. This way, they won’t feel too overwhelmed around the city.

A good place to start is at the Navy Pier, which is known for being a pet-friendly locale aside from being one of the most popular sites in the city. With lots to see and do, it makes a great place to stroll with your pup and take the time to capture photos with some of the most iconic Chicago backdrops!

You can also be on the lookout for activities you and your dog can participate in to help them enjoy their time outside even further.

Dip Into Waters at Doggie Paddle

The city offers indoor fitness centers for dogs, such as Doggie Paddle, where they can learn to swim. Not only does it help your pup get the exercise they need, but it also lets them cool and interact with other dogs and people.

Other similar places include rentable private dog parks and pools if you prefer to swim together with your dog. Some places include Sniffspot and Swimply.

Get Fit at Public Parks

You and your pup can get your daily exercise in by visiting some of the city’s best parks. it‘s also a great place for your pet to socialize with other dogs and stay active.

A few places you want to check out include Jackson Park and Wiggly Field. You can also look into pet-specific playgrounds where you can leave your pup for a while to let them spend time with other dogs.

Grab a Bite at Pet Restos

You will most likely find lots of pet friendly Chicago restaurants and cafes, from fine dining to casual cozy options. Consider places that offer a dog menu, like Park & Field and Barrio. This way, you and your pup can enjoy a fun meal together before you move on to other activities!

Enjoy the Fresh Air at Mercury Cruises

Lots of pet owners recommend trying pet friendly Chicago cruises if you’re interested in a unique way to go around the city with your pup. It’s an experience of a lifetime not only for you but also for your pet!

Mercury Cruises is one of the popular options. They let you know about some of Chicago’s sites and their history and even point you to some places your dog would love.

Other options include Seadog Cruises and Shoreline Sightseeing. Keep in mind that they have different routes, so consider your choice based on where they go around.

Join Your Furry Friend in Exploring Pet Friendly Chicago Activities

You and your puppy can enjoy your out-of-town trip together with the right pet friendly Chicago activities. It’s a great way to get closer to your pup and help them experience just as many new things as you, making memories you will treasure forever!

Are you planning to take a longer stay at a hotel? Perhaps you need to make an extension or simply want more time away from home. Whichever it is, we have a few tips to help you!

A month long hotel stay sounds like a long time, especially if you’re not a frequent traveler. But how do you make sure you stay comfortable throughout the time?

Here are six quick tips to consider to improve your experience.

1. Set a Clear Budget

Before you decide to stay at a hotel for a month or longer, you should have a clear budget. This way, you only consider options that you can comfortably pay for. So, you should also account for other expenses, including extra days at the hotel, additional facilities, and more.

If you need a place to start, you want to evaluate how much you’re willing to spend for a night. On average, you can expect to pay a rate of around $170. From there, you can decide how much more or less is a good amount for you.

2. Choose a Convenient Place

You want to be sure you pick a hotel at a convenient location, especially if there are fewer amenities. This way, you can have a good lifestyle during your stay.

As much as possible, choose a place that’s close to different commercial establishments and attractions. It includes malls, parks, restaurants, and the like.

3. Consider Hotel Amenities and Services

A hotel’s amenities and services can determine how comfortable your stay will be. At the same time, it can determine whether or not your pay was worth the cost.

When deciding on what to include, you should consider your needs. Do you need access to fast internet? A personal kitchen in your room? Laundry services? Make sure you pick a place that offers everything, if not most, of what you need without being too expensive.

4. Have Your Own Food Supply

A good way to save on overall costs is by bringing a food supply. It means you have to prepare the meals yourself, but it allows you to reduce the total expenses and allocate more funds towards different activities and needs.

You can also consider bringing pre-cooked meals and microwavable options. Otherwise, be sure you scout the area for your dining options to prevent overspending.

5. Pick the Perfect Room Size

If you’re staying at a hotel for a month or longer, you want to be sure the room is the perfect size. Try to consider what you take with you or what activities you want to do. This way, you have a good idea of how much space you need.

6. Declutter Often

You want to keep your space clean as often as possible. Not only does it allow you to feel comfortable, but it also keeps you productive each day. It’s helpful especially if you’re planning to work at the hotel during your stay.

With National Camp Day just around the corner, you want to consider looking for great places for camping. If you’re headed to Chicago for it, you’ve come to the right place!

The city offers a diverse array of activities. Although you can’t exactly camp inside Chicago, there are lots of nearby locations to consider.

Keep reading to find out some of the best places to check out for camping near Chicago.

Indiana Dunes State Park

If you’re looking for a fairly nearby place, the Indiana Dunes State Park is the best place to start because it’s less than an hour away from Chicago. This way, you can easily head back to your Chicago hotel or explore the city afterward.

Lots of people tend to visit the park to enjoy the view and ambiance. But you can also set up your tent at specific campsites that sit close enough to the beach.

Big Foot Beach State Park

The Big Foot Beach State Park is a great place to check out during the summer, especially if you’re coming from Chicago. Here, you can get lodging with the campsites available. Moreover, lots of them have electrical hookups!

Kankakee River State Park

If you’re a fan of the water as much as the land, the Kankakee River State Park is the perfect place for camping near Chicago. Only an hour away, you can enjoy the wonders of nature in both ways, wet and dry.

They have over a hundred campsites, allowing you to choose between a place that’s electrically-equipped or more primitive. Either way, you still get to enjoy anything from kayaking and fishing to hiking and horseback riding.

Illinois Beach State Park

Also being an hour’s drive away, you can consider the Illinois Beach State Park if you want a close-to-authentic camping experience. When you choose to stay here, you get access to showers, firewood, and electricity. Moreover, you get to enjoy the nearby beach and explore the dunes, forests, and more around the park.

Camp Sullivan

Another nearby location made perfectly for campers is Camp Sullivan. Not only is it half an hour away, but it’s the ideal site for campers looking for a smaller space. You get access to an indoor climbing wall, bunkhouses and cabins, and other amenities.

Regardless of the size, it allows you to enjoy the typical camping experience, especially when you bring your own tent or RV!

Camp Aramoni

If you want something more modern, you can consider Camp Aramoni for its glamping style. You get your own tent with amenities that top a hotel stay while enjoying the outdoors. It may feel different from the typical camping experience, but it’s best for those who consider camping an unwinding time rather than an activity.

Consider Going Camping Near Chicago

Whether you want to unwind or spend time with friends or family, camping near Chicago is a fun activity to try. With all the sites you can choose from, you can enjoy a diverse camping experience while still being able to enjoy the Windy City and what’s beyond it.

The art scene in Chicago is one of the most diverse options you can find in the country. It’s because they aren’t limited to the art of the area, but even beyond it!

Moreover, it’s a great way to add color to your trip. Even so, you might wonder, where can you find them?

Here are a few places you can find the best art in Chicago!

Art Museums

You’re likely to come across several types of museums around the city. It’s safe to say there’s a museum for almost everyone, no matter what age or niche.
The following are a couple of must-see options if you’re looking for art museums:

The Art Institute of Chicago

As one of the grandest museums around the city, the Art Institute of Chicago is a common recommendation – and for good reason! It features a broad collection of pieces from local and international artists alike, going over 260,000 works.

Museum of Contemporary Art

If you want to take your trip a step further into the art scene, consider checking the Museum of Contemporary Art. While it’s a smaller collection, it offers lots of shows and installations covering fashion, music, media, and more themes. So, you get to enjoy art in itself while getting introduced to rising artists and talents of different niches.

National Museum of Mexican Art

The National Museum of Mexican Art is one of the largest collections of Mexican art in the country. Additionally, it’s a significant institution when it comes to voicing Mexican culture in the U.S. through art, highlighting Chicago’s cultural diversity.

Art Galleries

You can find art almost everywhere in Chicago. Aside from institutions dedicated to them, they also have art galleries across different neighborhoods.
A few of those distinguished art districts and centers are as follows:

Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center is known for being a contemporary art hub in the city among others. Here, artists can gather and bring their ideas to life. Moreover, they get to connect and build their network in the field.

River North

River North is a neighborhood that offers lots of galleries. So, it’s perfect if you want to enjoy diversity and browse through several types of art and sites. It includes glass objects, Tibetan and Cuban prints, modern paintings, and more.

West Loop Art District

The West Loop is often known for its food options, but its art scene is just as diverse! Moreover, you can find the galleries tucking amid buildings, adding to its ambiance. Because of this, you can enjoy a hotel in the West Loop without worrying about being too far from art sites.

Public Art

The moment you step into Chicago, you will notice art pieces on almost every street. Not only do they represent the city, but they also recognize and honor local artists!
The following are some places you can find them:

Pilsen Murals

The streets of Pilsen are popular for being one of the most vibrant in the city. You can catch street art that has been up since the late 1960s showcasing Hispanic heritage as much as identity. Even the station is a work itself, with rows of paintings by local art students put up!

The Loop

Chicago’s downtown area, the Loop, features several stunning public art that go from block to block. You can find anything from sculptures to mosaics and more. It makes a great place to see if you want to go through art, architecture, and world-class dining.

Cloud Gate

You might know Cloud Gate for its iconic sculpture, the Bean. It offers the perfect backdrop for photos by the Bean or within it. Despite its simplicity, it gives you a unique experience through kaleidoscopic reflections and other park activities.

Check Out Some of the Best Art in Chicago

Ranking the Best Art in Chicago will take you days with what the city offers. With this, you can explore almost every type of art out there! So, it can help you get inspiration and feel Chicago on a deeper level.

The fall calls for the season of pumpkins. That means you want to consider looking up where to find pumpkin patches in Chicago if you want the perfect backdrop.

Moreover, these are a great site for autumn activities and events, especially when you’re in the mood to see what the outdoors has to offer.

In that case, here are a few places you can find pumpkin patches in Chicago and what to expect from them.

Didier Farms

When you visit the Didier Farms, you might notice different autumn-related festivities. A few of them include pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and even a petting zoo.

If you catch the farm on a weekend, you can try out some of the farm hosts’ treats, including funnel cake, corn dogs, jams, jellies, and more fall delicacies. It’s great for sharing with friends and family or taking home for yourself!

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up

One thing about Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up is that it’s not exactly a farm. Instead, it’s a pop-up that features fall activities and food trucks serving some of the best fall snacks.

Here, you can choose a pumpkin from a selection of over 10,000 pre-picked options. At the same time, you can check out the corn maze and go through different fun activities, from ax throwing and carnival games to fortune telling and gem mining.

Lincoln Park Zoo

If you’re looking for a pumpkin patch that’s only a few minutes away from Downtown Chicago, you want to consider the Lincoln Park Zoo. Moreover, it makes a great place to see if you want a place close to your Chicago hotel.

They offer almost everything you want to see in a fall festival, such as live music, harvest mazes, and bounce houses.

Aside from fall festivities, you can also enjoy some of the park’s iconic features. This way, you get to discover Chicago in two different ways at once.

Sonny Acres

If you’re looking for a place for pumpkin farming, Sonny Acres is one of the top places to see, especially because they’ve been around since the 1880s. Next to having one of the oldest pumpkin patches, you can find different activities during the fall.

A few things you can expect to see include food trucks, giant slides, live music performances, and pumpkins that go acres long!

Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm

Bengtson’s is popular for lots of reasons. But when you visit during the fall, their pumpkin patch is a must-see if you’re nearby.

Although it requires you to trek to the farm, you can find more fun stuff waiting for you at your destination. Some of these include kiddie coasters, petting zoos, haunted barns, and more.

You can find lots of rides that make it feel like an amusement park, allowing you to enjoy the fall festival to its fullest.

Richardson Adventure Farm

Compared to other pumpkin patches in Chicago, you might wonder what makes an adventure farm so special. The key word is adventure, so you can find rides and activities that go beyond what most fall festivals offer.

This spot features one of the largest corn mazes, huge corn pits, a 50-foot-tall observation tower, and other sites. You can also enjoy anything from pig races and rolling inside huge balls to a giant trampoline and paintball shooting gallery.

Check Out Different Pumpkin Patches in Chicago

Visiting pumpkin patches in Chicago can offer you the perfect backdrop for the fall. But aside from photos and videos, it also lets you enjoy fall festivities like a local.

With this, you can make the most out of your autumn season trip while making sure you get to go around the Windy City as much as you can.

Halloween is one of the most festive times of the year. Lots of people go out of their way to prepare for different events and festivals.

So, parties are a common way to spend time with friends and family during this season. But if you’re hosting your own hotel Halloween party, where do you begin?

Here’s a quick guide on how to plan a party everyone is sure to remember!

Set Your Goals

To kick off your party, you want to start by identifying your goals. Is your Halloween party open to friends or only family? Are you celebrating a day or week before Halloween?

These act as your outline when setting the rest of the party, from the schedule to the activities. It helps to create a draft of everything you need, including the guest list, to picture the party.

Although you can proceed without plans, it’s one way to ensure you allocate your resources efficiently and take away the guesswork during the process.

Pick a Theme

Once you have your goals, you want to decide on a theme for the party. Halloween doesn’t always have to be about spookiness. It can also be about costumes of varying concepts.

Take your time when picking the theme to ensure everyone attendee would be comfortable with it. This way, you can ensure everyone has a good time during the party.

You also want to choose your Halloween party theme based on the creativity and cost, or even how family-friendly it is!

Consider the Budget

Whether you’re planning a small-scale or large party, it’s important to keep your budget in mind. It’s because this is the key factor in helping you achieve your prepared goals.

If you’re planning a hotel Halloween party, you should consider other rates that might incur during your stay. Doing so can help you set a proper budget and prevent hidden fees from adding up to your bill.

Send Invites

When everything is settled, you prepare and send your invitations. Make sure that these include the time, date, location, and theme of your party.

Try to keep your invites in theme to let your guests get an idea of what to expect even before reading the details of the party. You can also make it like the traditional cards or as an e-invite.

Prepare the Room

Give yourself time to prepare the room before the party starts. You can book the hotel room a day in advance to dedicate the day to preparations. But if you’re on a budget, consider going early to set it up.

As much as possible, try to get everything done before guests arrive to really bring the party to life. You can also ask for extra hands if it’s necessary!

Stay Festive with a Hotel Halloween Party

A hotel Halloween party can be just as fun as a regular one. The only difference is that you get to enjoy a staycation at the same time! The key is to know how to plan and host it. This way, you can ensure everyone has a great time while maintaining organization throughout the night.

Did you know that nearly 3 in 4 Americans drink at least a cup of coffee each day? That counts for people who make it at home, purchase it, or drink it when they travel.

If you’re one of those people, you might want to know where you can get the best coffee when you go from place to place. But when you’re in the West Loop, where should you look?

Here are some of the best cafes in West Loop, Chicago you have to try yourself!

Sawada Coffee

If you’re interested in the works of a popular latte artist, Sawada Coffee may be the perfect place for you. It holds a tiny spot at Green Street Smoked Meats and features drinks with unique combinations of green tea, vanilla syrup, and more.

Vietfive

Although it’s fairly new, Vietfive has been gaining its share of social media buzz for having a cool space and one-of-a-kind drinks. A great example is their iced ube latte, which showcases a fun shade of purple you normally wouldn’t find anywhere else.

Morgan Street Cafe

The Morgan Street Cafe sits close to the Mary Bartelme Park. So, it makes a great spot for coffee and breakfast or lunch if you arrive a little later.
They have a wide variety of coffee to choose from that pair nicely with a quick breakfast or the best meal to cure a hangover from the previous night.

Osmium Coffee Bar

If you’re a fan of strong coffee that reflects in the ambiance of the shop, check out Osmium Coffee Bar. Aside from their drinks, the cafe features neon lights and graffiti-filled walls. So, it makes a unique backdrop for people who like a funkier and louder vibe to their typical cozy coffee shop.

Cupitol Coffee & Eatery

Cupitol advertises itself to be a restaurant, bakery, cafe, and exclusive bar all in one. You can find a broad range of coffee and desserts that go well with various breakfast and lunch meals.
The all-day lounge is perfect if you want to satisfy your cravings in a single sitting. Moreover, it’s within proximity to other restaurants in the area if you’re looking for other places to dine later.

Froth

One of the best things about Froth is that they offer a unique approach to their drinks. To be specific, their menu is a combination of coffee and cocktails! They also have a cozy space and an outdoor patio if you want a fresher vibe.

La Colombe

Despite being a few blocks away from bigger names in the market, La Colombe gathers attention for its style. It gives off an industrial vibe mixed with a sleek European feel, making it a great backdrop for relaxation.
Besides being a fashionable space, it also serves trendy, artisanal drinks that you can have with different pastries and snacks.

Warm Up with These Cafes in West Loop, Chicago

You can enjoy different experiences as you fulfill your caffeine needs with all the cafes in West Loop, Chicago. It’s a great way to enjoy the city’s food choices and backdrops. At the same time, satisfy your cravings and keep yourself warm as you explore the rest of the neighborhood!

The Windy City is one of the best places to visit all year round, knowing there’s always something special in store. But when the leaves turn golden and the weather gets chilly, it adds a unique touch to what Chicago has to offer.

With all the sites to see, you might wonder, what are the best things to do in Chicago in the fall? If so, you’ve come to the right place!

Keep reading for a quick checklist of different ways you can enjoy the city during fall.

Visit Parks

Fall in Chicago usually runs from late September up until early November. So, October is the best time to visit if you’re interested in viewing the parks in the area.

Each park is great on a regular day, but during the fall, it showcases a color and vibe you don’t just see anywhere. It also makes a great place for strolling, taking photos, or sipping warm drinks.

Check Halloween Festivities

Halloween usually comes during the fall, so you will likely come across festivities within the city, especially in popular attractions. It’s also hard to miss, given how grand the locals celebrate it!

Halloween in Chicago means tons of artistic sites and displays, along with tours and festivals of different themes. You can also check out the zoos and await night-time activities on the streets.

See Pumpkin Patches

Chicago features pumpkin patches at the peak of the season. If you make it in time for the festivals, you’re sure to catch these in the area.

Aside from regular pumpkin patches, they also feature a Halloween-themed one, with carved jack-o-lanterns lighting the city after dark.

Go on a Boat Cruise

The fall is a great time to go on a boat cruise if you’re not fond of the hot weather and find the winter too chilly to be in the water. Not only do you get to see the city in awe as the colors shift to oranges and reds, but you also learn more about Chicago’s popular landmarks.

As you go around in the boat, you can also decide what other places to visit once you get off. You can choose what more you want to see as you go through glimpses of them from the water.

Attend a Culinary Festival

The cold weather is a great time to have food and drink to bring people together. It’s also one of the best times to experience the city’s signature events: the Chicago Gourmet.

Here, you can enjoy a plethora of activities centered around food, like a beer festival and burger competition. Moreover, they have other similar events that are just as fun, such as an apple festival and wine and beer tasting experiences.

Watch Theater and Films

If you’re visiting Chicago in the fall, it’s the perfect time to see live theater shows and film fests. You can find lots of exciting shows and theatrical events during this season. At the same time, if you visit in October, you get to witness the longest-running film festival and competition in North America!

Enjoy Chicago in the Fall with These Activities

Make the most out of your trip to Chicago in the fall by looking into seasonal activities around the area. With this, you can ensure you get a good look around the city while allowing yourself to indulge in festivities made for autumn.

Are you going on a trip as a working mom and taking your family with you? If so, you want to keep a few family travel tips in mind to maximize your experience.

The key is to have plans set beforehand. This way, your family can continue with the vacation even when you head out for work. But how do you begin?

Keep reading to learn ways to maintain work-life balance when you travel with your family!

Plan a Schedule of Activities

Before you leave for the trip, it’s good to plan a schedule of activities for your kids ahead of time. So, they can use it as a guide when you’re working. At the same time, it lets you ensure you get to spend the fun stuff with them.

Keep in mind that having a schedule also keeps your trip organized. While you can have a few spontaneous activities here and there, it helps to consider a plan to maximize your free time!

Pack All the Necessities

Make sure you pack all the necessities for your job and your family vacation. By having everything organized in place, your family won’t have to keep asking you for what they need.

You also want to create a physical packing list of what you bring to the trip. So, you can refer to it again before you go back home.

Consider packing them in different bags to ensure you don’t forget anything later. It can also set the mindset that work and your personal life stay separate.

Set Clear Boundaries

It’s important to set clear boundaries when you’re on a family trip but have to work in between. This is also a crucial part of maintaining work-life balance.

You want to communicate with your colleagues when you’re available. So, you can make sure that you’re fully engaged when it comes to family and vacation time.

Pick the Right Accommodations

The right accommodations can help you make sure you have everything you need to focus and relax when it’s needed. At the same time, it lets you and your family make the most out of your stay.

Try to look for a hotel that offers different fun facilities. A few examples include a gaming space, swimming pool, open garden, and more.

Book in Advance

If you’re going around the city with your family, you want to consider booking places in advance. Through this, you can stick to a clear schedule and ensure you don’t miss out on too many family activities.

As much as possible, only book places that you can fit your schedule best. You also want to consider those that allow refunds if you fail to show up.

Consider These Family Travel Tips as a Working Mom

Going on a family trip as a working mom means being clear about how your time will be spent. You want to look into different family travel tips that focus on helping you maintain work-life balance. So, you can spend quality time with your family while ensuring you fulfill the duties of your job!