Every summer has a story, and thanks to social media your adventure is completely shareable. Whether you’re just looking for something beyond the ordinary to do or looking to never forget your stunning surroundings, these postcard-worthy hot spots around Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan are sure to pack a punch on your Instagram feed.
Want to have a good laugh that quickly turns to a look of horror? Play a little game of Worst Neighbor Story Ever with a few fellow Chicagoans. That one time the guy downstairs faked a robbery and then had a four-hour fest smashing the remaining furniture in the middle of the night (yeah, that really happened) will look like absolutely nothing, I promise. But be prepared, because the look of horror might come when you realize that you yourself have committed some of the Worst Neighbor crimes, without even meaning to.
On the slight chance you’re looking to get back in the good graces of those living around you, or if you’re looking to start off on the right foot after moving into a new home, give one of these ideas a go.
Between doting on his adorable twins, planting roots in the same town where he grew up, and establishing relationships with clients that extend well past closing day, it’s clear that Zak Knebel is a family man.
With a business background and a knack for real estate, Zak joined @properties and considers one of his most defining moments as starting the SWK Group with Patti Sprafka Wagner. While Zak may be all about others, this week we’re getting to know him.
In July and August, we’re headed to Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana for our second annual @properties Home for the Summer tour. While we’re excited to give you a sneak peek of some of the beautiful properties we have to offer in these resort home communities, we’re also excited to spend some time in the sun.
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Sometimes, food tastes better by the water. Luckily for residents and visitors in Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan, there are plenty of opportunities to dine al fresco or with a Lake Michigan view.
Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner, here are four spots to enjoy your next meal with a view.
In July and August, we’re headed to Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana for our second annual @properties Home for the Summer tour. While we’re excited to give you a sneak peek of some of the beautiful properties we have to offer in these resort home communities, we’re also excited to spend some time in the sun.
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If there’s one thing Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana are known for – besides the white sandy beaches, gorgeous scenery, and exceptional homes – it’s the libations.
Known as the “Napa Valley of the Midwest,” this region of resort towns offers breweries, distilleries and wineries alike. Whether you’re looking for a daylong adventure, perfect wine and food pairings, or a leisurely afternoon with friends, be sure to check out some of our favorite spots for summer sipping.
Whether taking a tour of Wrigley Field, selling a million-dollar home, running a race with his husband, working on the latest @gives back event, or walking in Chicago’s Pride Parade as a board member for the Illinois LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Olin Eargle keeps busy.
While we don’t fully understand how he juggles it all, one thing’s for sure; the streets of Chicago are significantly better off with Olin Eargle strutting down them.
It’s no secret we have heart eyes for all aspects of Chicago, and Logan Square is no exception. We’re thrilled to announce a brand new office at 2291 North Milwaukee Avenue! From sipping a pour-over on a coffee shop patio to racking up a Divvy at the Blue Line stop to standing in line for a mango paleta from a cart on Milwaukee Avenue, it’s easy to see why Logan Square was named one of the coolest neighborhoods in the country.
The next time you find yourself in this neighborhood, here’s what you can’t miss:
Your dresser is jam-packed with college sweatshirts, your car still sports the sticker of your favorite 2008 presidential candidate and three days a week, you pull out reusable totes your mom brought back from a random charity golf outing. Now it is time to display your love for the place you love most. Here are 12 ways to show your affection for Sweet Home Chicago with these essential Chicago decor pieces.
You’ve heard it on the playground, on your super-secret Facebook mom’s group and at every kid’s birthday party you’ve attended so far – applying to public schools in Chicago is more rigorous than completing college applications (and, yes, that includes Kindergarten). While you might find your child is 8459403th on the waiting list for your top-choice school, or that your Excel spreadsheet is packed full of great options, many parents who’ve been there will tell you that the best information you will get happens on a tour through the hallways, gymnasiums, cafeteria, and classrooms.
“Chicago has so many amazing public schools to offer that are sure to fit the specific needs of each child. Take tours and see for yourself,” advises CPS parent and Ravenswood Elementary tour guide Stephanie Mandrell. “Don’t just rely on what you hear or read on the internet. Not every school is the right fit for every child so do your research, tour the school, and find the one that best fits the needs of your students and family.”
We checked in with parents, teachers and school tour guides and reviewed this great guide by Raise Your Hand and consulted with CUE resources for questions parents might ask to make the med school…erm, preschool…selection process a bit smoother, and to help you get all the information you need to make the right choice for your child. There’s a lot here and it is certainly not comprehensive. Of course, you will choose the right questions to ask (or email as a follow-up to the tour) based on your student’s needs.
In July and August, we’re headed to Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana for our second annual @properties Home for the Summer tour. While we’re excited to give you a sneak peek of some of the beautiful properties we have to offer in these resort home communities, we’re also excited to spend some time in the sun.
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The mention of a farmers’ market conjures images of freshly picked produce, handmade jams and jellies, and locally-sourced meats and cheeses — all at your fingertips on a sunny day.
In Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan, it also brings to mind food trucks, artisans, live music, and weekly yoga. From the taste of homegrown flavor to enjoying those sunny summer days, farmers’ markets have a lot to offer for early risers and midday visitors alike.
Before those dog day of summer, find your way to any (or all!) of these hand-picked local farmers’ markets: