As summer winds down and the back-to-school season approaches, it's not just backpacks and school supplies that need attention—your home does, too. A few simple organization, cleaning, and maintenance tasks can help reduce morning stress, streamline daily routines, and set your family up for a successful school year.

Filling in for the great Sue Moss this weekend, Chicago hits an All-Star high this weekend with several signature summer festivals (Gospel Fest, anyone?) as well as being the center of the women’s basketball universe as host for the WNBA All-Star Weekend at the United Center!

Imagine this: It’s a warm summer day at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Avenue. As you and your kids walk through the North Lawn, a small, mesh-covered, conservatory-like sanctuary rises in the distance. It’s shaped like the Garfield Park Conservatory, but much smaller.

My friend Amanda lives in Wicker Park, and we get together as often as our schedules allow. Recently, we decided to go to the all-day breakfast at Café Robey, on the ground floor of the historic, 12-story, 1920’s-era Art Deco The Robey hotel, to catch up. The resulting meal warranted a full review for Dean’s Team Chicago!

Unfortunately, many of the things we learned as kids about cleaning and cleanliness are just plain wrong. In fact, some of it can make things worse! So, which are true, and which are myths? Let’s find out...

Not every home improvement project has to cost thousands of dollars to make a big impact. In fact, a few smart updates totaling around $500 can dramatically improve your home's appearance, attract more buyers, and even increase its perceived value. Discover which budget-friendly improvements deliver the biggest return.

This weekend is literally jam-packed with amazing summer festivals and other events that you’ll be hard pressed not to find something to do. So, get out there and enjoy Chicago’s summer before it’s gone!

For more than 100 years, the Maxwell Street Market, between South Halsted Street and South Union Avenue, has featured an eclectic mix of arts, crafts, resale items, live music, and street food.

“Five flavors. One unforgettable experience.” Welcome to #NationalceCreamMonth! Recently, my kid and I took a mini-vacation to New Buffalo, Michigan. It’s our mini-Mayberry, complete with a main street, quaint shops, and friendly townspeople...

The heat and humidity have finally arrived in the Midwest and the Chicagoland area. Unfortunately, our flower containers which have been thriving with little care can start wilting! Plants in the ground tend to have longer roots that can reach moisture deeper in the soil, but pots, window boxes and hanging baskets dry out more quickly. Here’s a few tips on how to prevent that...

Thinking about selling your home this summer? Discover practical tips to boost curb appeal, create inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, and attract more buyers during one of the busiest seasons in real estate.

It’s time to fill our bellies this weekend as two very popular food festivals are serving up a food frenzy of some of the best food this city has to offer as well as other events for those who want a more laid-back weekend!

Nearly every Tuesday in July and August, against a backdrop of Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park offers crowd-pleasing, free, family -friendly movies presented on a state-of- the-art, 40-foot LED screen.

It’s hard to believe that Lincoln Park’s R.J. Grunt’s is 55 years old in 2026. I grew up with the Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE) flagship restaurant’s funky, wood-paneled, devil-may-care vibe and 70’s décor after a trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo or the Chicago History Museum, both of which are nearby.

Many of us have switched to liquid soap for washing our hands and bodies. But it wasn’t all that long ago we were using bar soap—and almost everyone in the family used the same kind, in the bath, shower and sink. What if I told you it’s still good to hang onto some of that old-fashioned soap? It has many uses you might not think of, like...

Looking to give your home a fresh new look without spending a fortune? These 15 clever IKEA hacks are packed with budget-friendly ideas to maximize storage, add style, and make any space feel more functional. Whether you're a homeowner or renter, these creative DIY projects will help you transform your home with ease.

One of the best times in Chicago for the summer is experiencing the Fourth of July here. However, this weekend is even more special. Not only does the Fourth of July fall on Saturday but we’re also celebrating America’s 250th Birthday! It doesn’t get any better than this!

As the USA celebrates its 250th birthday, the history of our heritage and diverse culture is omnipresent at Chicago’s iconic museums 365 days a year...

DO YOU REMEMBER…your first Original Rainbow Cone? Your first slice of Lou Malnati’s pizza? For me, a suburban kid, I’d never had either until my first visit to the Taste of Chicago in Grant Park...

It’s always best to use natural products in the garden. We know how dangerous pesticides can be, especially to living beings closer to the ground like pets and children. It turns out there is a useful pantry staple I would think 100% of you have: white sugar! Sugar, used properly, won’t harm your plants and you don’t need much to...

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, fire up the grill, and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or an intimate patio dinner, creating a welcoming outdoor space doesn't have to be complicated. With a little planning and a few thoughtful touches, you can make every gathering feel special while making the most of your home.