Cindy Richards is the mom of two who gets her muse from traveling the world, usually with one or both of her kids in tow. In addition to writing the Suitcase Packin' Mama blog and travel stories for Chicago Parent, she writes the TravelingMomwithTeens blog at TravelingMom.com, where she also serves as editor. She is a long-time journalist who has worked as a reporter, editor and/or columnist at the Chicago Sun-Times and the Chicago Tribune, as well as serving as an editor at Chicago Parent. She teaches in the graduate school at Northwestern University's elite Medill School of Journalism, has won many awards for her writing and been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize.

Past articles

Showing 1 - 10 of 151

 

Three short road trip ideas for Chicago families
March 22, 2013
Whether your family wants to commune with nature, take a thrill ride or discover a new city, there are plenty of options within a half-day's drive of Chicago. 

Family ski deals make a winter trip affordable
December 5, 2012
Taking a family to the slopes can be a pricey endeavor. Check out these deals at ski resorts across the country. 

Tweens ski for free in Idaho
December 5, 2012
Kids ski for free at most of the state's ski areas, making a winter trip more affordable for families. 

Northern Michigan is full of winter fun for families
December 5, 2012
Families will find plenty to do during a winter trip to Michigan. 

Wisconsin: short drive, good skiing for families
December 5, 2012
Our neighbor to the north boasts 30 downhill ski and snowboard areas. There's sure to be at least one that fits your family's skills and needs. 

Happy Travel Tuesday
November 27, 2012
If you're planning to travel any time soon, today is the day to book your flight.  

Win a 4-Night Stay at a Family-Friendly Residence Inn
September 28, 2012
Enter to win a 4-night stay at a Residence Inn by helping Chicago visitors feel more like a local. 

Elkhart Lake for weekend family vacations
September 13, 2012
Elkhart Lake in Wisconsin has everything Lake Geneva has without the crushing crowds or inflated prices. 

There's no better deal than free
September 6, 2012
The easiest way to make traveling with kids affordable is to do the free stuff. Or at least stuff that's free for kids. 

How to Make a Visit to Orlando Affordable
August 6, 2012
Orlando is at the top of many Top 10 vacation wish lists, and heading there doesn't have to wipe out the kids' college funds.