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intro

fashion

beauty

dining

home

recreation & fitness

entertainment

kids

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2012Everyone needs a friend that’s “in the know.” She’s the gal who will tell you where to get a dress hemmed, an entertainer for your kid’s birthday party or the sweatiest workout.

Consider us that friend.

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When our readers filled out the second annual “Best of” survey this year, they shared where their kids learned to swim, moisturizers that they can’t live without, the most delicious pizza and favor-ite Chicago and North Shore museums. We love the anecdotes, testimonials about great service and passion that people shared with us.

It’s that passion that gives us hope our neighbor-hood businesses continue to be vibrant parts of our communities. When hundreds of our readers care enough to tell us about products they love, and lo-cal stores that provide the best service, it’s a good sign that people want their hometown favorites to succeed.

And, we’re more than happy to share the infor-mation. Here are our reader’s picks for the Best of 2012 in fashion, beauty, dining, entertainment, home, fitness and kids.

p h o t o s b y n a t h a n i e l p e r r y

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fashionB y e v a n g e l i n e p o l i t i s

BEST2012

BEST “WhEn you havE To aSk, you can’T afford iT” accESSory: Designer Bag

When splurging is the objective, our readers whole-heartedly picked a designer bag as their lux item of choice. from a petite Alexander McQueen clutch to the oh-so coveted Hermes birkin bag, nothing compares to the feeling of sporting one of these bags.

Reed Krakoff handbag, $1,090,

neiman Marcus

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BEST accESSory on a BudgET: scarf Versatility is the key to purchas-ing a budget-conscious acces-sory and what could be more multipurpose than a scarf? It can serve as a pop of color when wearing a solid knit top or as a snuggly wrap on a cool night. And then there are the dozen different ways to tie it—you certainly can’t do that with a pair of earrings.

erika Konury Hand painted silk scarf, $88,

avenue Fashions

BEST Tailor/drESSmakEr:chriS kondoS couTuriEr Wilmette resident Chris Kondos has been creating custom evening and wedding gowns from her Linden Av-enue boutique for decades. Conve-niently located just steps from the el station, our readers picked this cou-turier as their chosen expert when it comes to both alterations and custom clothing designs. 407 Linden Ave., Wilmette , 847-256-0107

BEST STorE To Shop aT for a SpEcial occaSion: neiman marcus Readers also had several other favorites stores:

our readers have fully embraced this summer’s obsession with bright colors. Pairing a juicy or-ange skirt with a hot magenta top is sure to brighten your attitude even on the dreariest of days.

BEST faShion TrEnd you’vE EmBracEd ThiS laST yEar:

oui Madame

Neiman Marcus

Nordstrom

the Lake forest shop

saks

CUsP

15%

10%

10%

10%

24%

31%

color Blocking

parker two-tone dress $242,

neiman Marcus

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best personal shopper

our readers recognized two local ladies as their

go-to style mavens.

chicago: Julie WatsonJulie Watson and her team are devoted not only to help-ing you build a wardrobe that suits you, but also to making sure you’re having fun in the process. she will identify your “shopping personality,” purge

your closet of the unflat-tering and the ugly, and shop alongside you (or for you) to fill any gaps in your

wardrobe. 900 North Michigan Avenue, 5th Fl., Chicago, juliewatson style.com

norTh ShorE: rachel hershinoWfor fashion advice, our readers also flock to Rachel Hershinow, owner of stella in evanston. Her store’s eclectic collection of clothing and accessories and her fun sense of style is a knockout combo for fashion excellence. 2116 Central St. Evanston, stellaevanston.com

BEST onlinE dEal WEBSiTE: rue la la

Diane Von furstenberg, stella McCartney, YsL, Lilly Pu-litzer—you name the designer and Rue La La has it. they of-fer private sales in clothing for women, men, and kids; home

goods; and travel. once you’ve signed up, you can check out

their newest sales everyday at 10 a.m. Cst.

ruelala.com

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BEST STorE for WorkouT cloThES and gEar:

lululemonoriginally known as “the” place for

yoga gear, Lululemon can now dress you for almost any activity ranging

from swimming to running. founded in Canada less than 15 years ago, the retailer has since spread all over the continent—with eight stores in the

Chicagoland area alone. 1622 Sherman Ave., Evanston; 2176 Northbrook Court,

Northbrook, lululemon.com

BEST local ETSy STorE: stacy Bankier Design After stacy bankier designed and made a necklace for her sister’s 40th birthday, she couldn’t stop. soon this Deerfield mom’s etsy site was up and running. Diamond pavé charms hang from delicate beaded chains—her pieces are the perfect gift to celebrate a loved one’s special day. etsy.com/shop/stacybankier

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beautyB y L a u r a H i n e

BEST2012

8% facial cleansers

37% facial moisturizers

29% make-up

12% hand/body

moisturizers or cleansers

8% hair products

2% nail polish

5% misc.best beauty

products you can’t

live without

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BoToxby blocking nerve impulses and stopping muscle contrac-tion—which is what causes the frown-like line between your eyebrows—botox causes the wrinkle to relax and soften. Great in small doses, but let’s avoid the frozen face look.

SmilE and GrEaT aTTiTudEA positive spirit, lots of water and clean living were the kinds of answers given by a lot of readers. We love the reminder that friends and sleep are great anti-aging tools, too.

Topical TrEaTmEnTSfrom Retinol creams to oil of olay sunscreen, we got lots of responses. the most popular: Kiehls and Arbonne anti-aging creams. but remember, those night creams only work if you’re also using a sunscreen during the day!

BEST plaSTic SurGEon:dr. michaEl Byun

Another split vote between “Don’t do it,” and “No one,” to women who were quite com-

mitted to their doctors. Dr. Mi-chael byun, who practices in

Northbrook, received the most reader votes. 1775 Walters Ave.,

Northbrook, 847-513-6899, chicagocosmeticsurgery.com

best anti-aging strategy

the women of the North shore fall into three distinct camps

when it comes to trying to not look their age, with very little

crossover. A gentle reminder—if you’re committed to a smile

and great attitude as your aging strategy, you might also remem-ber the sunscreen. And if you’re sure a botox injection is the an-

swer, don’t forget that attitude is more important than age.

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BEST BEauTy SErvicE you can’T livE wiThouT: Mani/PediMani/pedis rule with our readers. If you’re giv-ing up something, it’s not your nails. As far as which nail salons were most popular, it seems most women choose somewhere nearby. We had nominees from Lake forest to Libertyville, evanston to barrington! Interestingly, haircuts, highlights and blow-outs received very few votes. We’re guessing because hair care is considered a necessity, not a luxury.

ThE moST popular producTS

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery

Concentrate

Arbonne Revelage Intensive Nighttime

brightening serum

boots No. 7 exceptional Definition Mascara

Moroccanoil treatment

Light

MAC Pro Longwear Lipcolour

diningB y J u l i e C h e r n o f f

BEST2012

BEST claSSic pizza :Lou MaLnati’sBoth the Chicago-style deep dish and thin-crust pizzas were cited as yummy. loumalnatis.com (Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Highland Park, Lake Zurich, Lake Forest, Libertyville, Lincolnwood, Northbrook, Park Ridge, Wil-mette)

BEST gourmET pizzaunion PizzeriaIt’s the wood-burning oven that seals the deal. Don’t miss the Lamb Sau-sage. 1245 Chicago

Ave., Evanston, 847-475-2400, unionevanston.com

BEST TakE-ouT pizzaHoMeMade Pizza CoMPany It’s always better when you bake it at home… with a little help! homemadepizza.com (Evanston, Glencoe, Glenview, Lake Forest, Winnetka)

best pie… pizza, that isIn its most basic form, just dough, sauce and cheese, but it inspired more entries than any other category. We are serious about our ‘za!

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BEST local chaintoM & eddie’s

tomandeddies.com (Deerfield, Vernon Hills)

BEST TrickEd-ouT BurgEr edzo’s Burger sHoP

Another popular category, but edzo’s proved the little engine that could. once you’ve had one of eddie Laken’s griddled beauties

(with a side of truffle fries and a Nutella milkshake), you will truly understand. 1571 Sherman Ave., Evanston, 847-864-3396, edzos.com

BEST naTional chainFive guys

fiveguys.com (Evanston, Deer Park, Glenview, Park Ridge, Wilmette)

edzo’s

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BEST BARISTASWe denizens of the Northern Suburbs care about our caf-feine. And we really appreci-ate the people who make it happen—the ones who an-ticipate our order and know us by name, not to mention pull a mean macchiato. Here are some of your favorites:

DANIEL at Linz & Vail 2012 Central St., Evanston

LAURA at Plaza del Lago Starbucks 1515 Sheridan Rd., Wilmette

JAKE at Dempster/Chicago Ave. Starbucks 528 Dempster St., Evanston

MALLORY at Peet’s 1622 Chicago Ave., EvanstonBEST DINING DESTINATION

EVANSTONWith a ridiculous number of new restaurants this year (Taco Diablo, Hota, Terra, Creperie St. Germain, Todoroki, Aus-tin’s Tacos, Soulwich… you get the idea) and a plethora of old favorites, Evanston was your choice for where to dine.

BEST BREAD: HEAVENLY HEARTH The place for our daily bread. Their consistency is amazing… I’ve never had a bum loaf. Ar-tisan bread baking at its finest. Apparently you all agree! 1101 Central Ave., Wilmette, 847-853-0200

Heavenly Hearth

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rESTauranTS SinglEd ouT for ThEir grEaT cockTailS

dePot nuevo 1139 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette

LiBertad 7931 Lincoln Ave., Skokie

triFeCta griLL 501 Chestnut St., Winnetka

The Classic Margarita at

Depot nuevo

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good graPes 685 Vernon Ave., Glencoe

sCHaeFer’s9965 Gross Point Rd., Skokie

viniC 1509 Chicago Ave., Evanston

Winnetka Wine sHoP726 Elm St., Winnetka

BEST gifTaBlE chocolaTE: BeLgian CHoCoLatier Pironthe Piron brothers (Bob and fred) start with the highest quality Belgian chocolate and the freshest ingredients. the best part? It’s all handmade, on premise. Hand-dipped dried fruits, delicate truffles, nutty barks… they’ve got it all. 509 Main St. #A, Evanston, 847-864-5504, belgchocpiron.com

favoriTE cockTailS:

vodka MartinisWith or without frou-frou additions, you like vodka. You really, real-ly do. In Lemon Drops

or with tonic, Grey Goose or Ketel one,

you like them all.

best wine storeRemember what I said about vodka? Ditto for wine. Luckily, the North Shore has a bunch of great stores with a real depth of wine knowledge.

your favoriTES for SErvicE and SElEcTion:

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homeB y k r i s t i n a t o B e r

BEST2012

SomEThing old: VillagE TrEaSurE houSEWith an ever-changing col-lection of vintage and upscale furnishings and accessories, Village treasure House lives up to its name. More than just a consignment shop, it’s a local not-for-profit gem, support-ing 15 local agencies with over $1 million in grants since 1998. 1460 Paddock Dr., Northbrook, 847-832-1030, villagetreasure-house.org

SomEThing nEw: PEachTrEE PlacENominated by read-ers for a second year in a row, there’s no doubt owner Lucy Callahan has perfected her trade.

best place to buy a tchotchkeWith a vast and dynamic array of tabletop, decorative acces-sories, linens and gifts, you’re always sure to find that perfect something to dress the table or top the mantle. 303 S. Happ Rd., Northfield, 847-249-2626, peachtreeplaceonline.com

nEw kid on ThE Block: gifTEdopened by local mom and art-ist Megan stockton, Gifted of-fers an array of products for every age and price range. And if it can be done, they will find

a way to customize the product for that spe-cial touch. 840 S. Waukegan Rd., #111,

Lake Forest, 847-235-2573, giftedlakeforest.com

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running waTEr:BiShoP PlumBing

since 1921, bishop Plumbing has made more than 75,000 service calls—everything from leaking toilets to sewer backups to sump pumps and renovations—often in the middle of the night or height of a storm. bishopplumbing.com

carPET SPillS:kaShian BroThErS

for 100 years, Kashian brothers has been sell-ing and servicing fine flooring products—not a small achievement on the North shore. Wheth-er it’s carpet clean-up after the big party or mending divots in your wood floors, Kashian is on our readers’ speed dial. kashianbros.com

ElEcTrical ShorT:dEErfiEld ElEcTric

Readers and builders alike on the North shore turn to Deerfield electric, knowing that for 50 plus years, this family-owned business has “the systems, knowledge, experience and manpower to make it work right now.” deerfield-electric.com

handyman rEPairS:mEnSch wiTh a wrEnch

We were tempted to give him the title just be-cause of the name. but some of our readers swear by Mensch with a Wrench as the right guy to call for any small job your husband really shouldn’t do. menschwrenchchicago.com

best emergency services We’ve all been there. Leaking pipes, electrical shorts, busted doors and spilled red wine. Getting the best help right away

can make all the difference.

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Sound inVESTmEnT: room & Board

With its collection of clas-sic contemporary furnishings,

Room and board is the readers’ choice for quality American-

made furniture at approachable prices. over 90 percent of their collection is made in the U.s., with upholsterers, metalwork-

ers and woodworkers from across our great nation. 10071 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, 847-673-

2655, roomandboard.com

hEirloom QualiTy: SawBridgE STudioS

Representing some of the finest independent craftsmen and art-ists in the U.s., sawbridge stu-dios offers one-of-a-kind hand-made furniture and accessories.

While customers can order a piece as displayed in the store, the staff welcomes the oppor-

tunity to alter or custom-design pieces to meet a client’s specific needs. 1015 Tower Ct., Winnetka,

847-441-2441, sawbridge.com

best of “made in america”When it comes to finding the best American-made

furniture and home accessories, we didn’t have to look much further than two local reader hot spots:

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BEST anTiQuE STorE(S):It’s a tie! Whether it’s the sheer number of antiques dealers (over 70) and expansive show-room (over 7,000 square feet) offered at Heritage trail, or the beautifully time-worn and re-purposed furniture and acces-sories at Vintage Nest, readers know these vendors offer just the treasure they’re looking for.

VinTagE nEST 1891 Tower Dr., Glenview, 847-834-0287, vintagenestonline.com

hEriTagE Trail mall 410 Ridge Rd., Wilmette, 847-256-6208, heritagetrailmall.com

BEST dEcoraTing rESourcEEclectic Design Source Mother-daughter team Mar-garet and Mary Rosemeyer have put fun back into interior design. With a new retail store in Libertyville and a full-service design firm waiting in the wings, eclectic Design source is the best-kept design resource our readers couldn’t help but share. 518 Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, 224-513-5413, electicds.com

runnEr-uPJohn Plunkett DesignWhile their retail home furnish-ings store is closed, Plunkett’s design expertise and industry know-how endures under a new business model. Read-ers swear by interior designers John and Valerie Plunkett's abil-ity to bring together high quality and affordability. 1490 RFD, Long Grove, 847-710-7775, johnplun-kettdesign.com

onlinE dESign rESourcES designsponge.comonekingslane.comhouzz.com

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our survey showed that readers are very loyal to their neighborhood floral shop. Here are just a few of their favorites.

Evanston Flowers Flowers 1110 Davis St., Evanston, 847-328-7110, flowers-flowers.com

WinnEktaPrufrock 718 Elm St., Winnetka, 847-784-3400

LakE ForEstLake Forest Flowers 546 Western Ave., Lake Forest, 847-234-0017, lakeforestflowers.com

LibErtyviLLEBuss Flowers 332 N. Milwaukee Ave., Liber-tyville, 847-968-2877, bussflowershop.net

LakE bLuFFTwigs 38 E. Center Ave., Lake Bluff, 847-234-8944, twigsflowershop.com

northbrookEdwards 1353 Shermer Rd., Northbrook, 847-272-4344, edwardsflorist.com

best floral designers

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best family race/event: ricky byrdsong memorial race against HateChoose the 5k, 10k, walk or youth mile on this father’s Day race. In its 13th year, this event honors Ricky byrdsong and proceeds benefit the YWCA evanston North shore. enjoy the scenic evanston lakefront

recreation fitness B y c h r i s t y

c o u g h l i n

best2012

as you race to a best time, or walk at your own pace and en-joy family and friends. stay for the post-race party with music, food and activities for the kids. June, Evanston

runner-up:bike tHe drivethere’s nothing like biking on Lake shore Drive with 20,000 other enthusiasts early on a beautiful, spring morning. bring the entire family for this non-competitive ride and enjoy breathtaking views of the city buildings, lake and parks. Re-freshments, repairs and music line the route. the traditional pancake breakfast is a great way to finish out this awesome event. Memorial Day Weekend, Chicago

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best day Hike:cHicago botanic gardenthe meticulously maintained Chicago botanic Garden offers amazing walks under towering trees, through fields of vibrant flowers and alongside expertly trimmed bonsai. take the long way around the perimeter of the gardens, hug the shore-line of the various lakes, hike McDonald Woods, or explore the Dwarf Conifer or english Walled Gardens. open 8 a.m. until sunset. $20 per car. Mem-bership includes parking. 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, 847-835-5440, chicagobotanic.org

runner-up:kettle moraine state park this huge park stretches from southern Wisconsin to north of sheboygan. the hilly, glacier-formed area is filled with ponds and lakes called kettles. try John Muir Woods, which can be reached from Chicago in about 90 minutes. You’ll feel like you are really “out” without having to travel very far. Plan this outing using the detailed maps provided by the Wiscon-sin state Park system. small user fees to park.

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best spin class:spin bootcamp at revolution spin this popular spin studio offers challenging workouts for all levels and encourages first tim-ers to try indoor cycling. If you’re ready to push to the limit, try spin bootcamp, a 90-minute class that incorporates intervals, weight lifting, body weight plyo-metrics, intense core work and running. Readers swear by this class for a kick butt workout that gets you super fit. 904 Sherman Ave., Evanston, 847-440-4262, revolutionspinning.com

best cHallenge workout: dailey metHod the Dailey Method combines ballet, core conditioning, muscle strengthening, yoga, and or-thopedic exercises. this super challenging 60-minute class strengthens, tones and length-ens the entire body. each set of exercises is followed by a series of active stretches to develop more sculpted and supple mus-cles. Dailey Method devotees swear by this tough class. 410 Green Bay Rd., Kenilworth, 847-920-5260, thedaileymethod.com

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best place to swim:centennial family aquatic centerbeat the heat this summer at Centennial. With four separate outdoor pools, two huge slides, kiddy slides, high and low dives, and several water features, there is something for everyone. this newer facility has clean, well-maintained locker rooms, family dressing rooms, conces-sions, and space for party rent-als. the early morning adult lap swim is like a little slice of heaven with the pink sky and soaring birds overhead. become a member or pay $8 resident, $14.50 non-resident. 2300 Old Glenview Rd., Wilmette, 847-256-9680, wilmettepark.org

runner-up:lake micHiganthe lake promises to be warm-er than usual this summer given the moderate winter. take ad-vantage of the numerous white sand beaches from evanston to Lake bluff. there is nothing like swimming in open water without lane lines, chlorine or crowds.

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best place for kids to swim:big blue swim scHoolthe new big blue facility in edens Plaza was designed for kids, featuring a shallow depth and warm water. founded by national level swimmers, big blue has a proven teaching method and small class sizes.

Parents can watch their kid’s progress through big glass win-dows while siblings play in the kid-friendly viewing area. big blue has camps, swim team and birthday party options. 3232 Lake Ave., Suite 350, Wilmette, 847-729-7665, bigblueswim school.com

E X P E R I E N C E T H E art O F playFall classes for youths and adults now available.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW STUDENTS Mention this ad and receive $50 off your fall class.

Visit our website for more info

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entertainmentb y k e l ly k o n r a d

BEST2012

BEST norTh ShorE muSic vEnuE: ravinia

In a very close vote, Highland Park’s outdoor venue barely edged out evanston’s sPACe for tops in 2012. Why we like it: Ravinia is a summer tradition and a place where you can just be—whether it’s by candlelight or Coors. 200 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park, 847-266-5000, ravinia.org

mark your calendars: With more than a month of outdoor concerts left on the schedule this year, there’s still time to dust off the lawn chairs and pack a picnic.

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BEST chicago muSEum: ThE arT inSTiTuTE of chicagofounded almost 125 years ago, the Art Institute is a favorite of not just Chicagoans, but art lovers from around the world. Why we love it: It’s so acces-sible—from family gallery walks to student classes, there’s no limit to the ways you can im-merse yourself. 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600, artic.edu

mark your calendars: Don’t miss Roy Lichtenstein: A Retrospective—it closes september 3.

runnEr-up:muSEum of SciEncE and induSTry 57 St. and Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, 773- 684-1414, msichicago.org

BEST norTh ShorE muSEum Kohl childrEn’S muSEumDolores Kohl’s vision of en-hancing children’s learning with hands-on fun has won the hearts and minds of many par-ents on the North shore, and is one of the nation’s best chil-dren’s museums. Why we love it: Kids learn without feeling like they’re being taught—and isn’t that the best way? 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, 847-832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org

up and comErmiTchEll muSEum of ThE amErican indian3001 Central St, Evanston, 847-475-1030, mitchellmuseum.org

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BEST communiTy ThEaTEr WriTErS’ ThEaTrEIn a close vote, Glencoe’s the-atrical powerhouse edged the also beloved Wilmette the-atre’s innovative programming for the best of 2012. Known for its top-notch performances, the theater is no stranger to nation-al accolades and recently an-nounced plans for a new space in downtown Glencoe. Why we love it: Artistic Director Michael Halberstam delivers. Period. 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe, 847-242-6000, writerstheatre.org

mark your calendars: the 2012-13 is a gangbuster, with shows including “Hamlet” and “sweet Charity.”

BEST girlfriEnd gETaWay Sundara inn and SpaWe know, we thought the same thing—the DeLLs? Come on, now—that’s kids’ Vegas. but take one look at the breath-taking grounds of this inn and

spa, and you’ll be sending your husband and the kids on their way while you sit back and re-lax the weekend away at this very popular destination. think infinity pool, one-on-one yoga, exquisite dining and the best in outdoor recreation. 920 Canyon Rd., Wisconsin Dells, WI, 888-735-8181, sundaraspa.com

mark your calendars three words come to mind: fall. Color. tour. book a room now!

BEST placE To go on a rainy daynorThBrooK courTA perfect place to wile away a few rainy hours, Northbrook Court has some of the fin-est shopping on the North shore. And with great places to catch a bite to eat and a hoppin’ movie theater, you’ll certainly be entertained. 2171 Northbrook Court, Northbrook, northbrookcourt.com

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BEST comEdy vEnuESEcond ciTy this wasn’t even a contest, and it should come as no surprise— Chicago’s premier comedy club is Numero Uno when it comes to the best in comedy. Why we love it: It’s always funny, making it a go-to spot for those times you are entertaining out-of-town guests. 1616 N. Wells St., Chicago, 312-337-3992, secondcity.com

up and comEr laughing chamElEon 1830 Tower Dr., Glenview, 888-685-2844, thelaughingchameleon.com

mark your calendars:Don’t miss second City’s “100th Revue: Who Do We think We Are?”

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kidsB y B e t h e n g e l m a n

BEST2012

BEST liBrary STory hour:Evanston Public library, Main branch our readers love ePL’s story time programs which include several different classes, drop in times and events. Perfect for children birth through age 6, ePL’s programs are dedicated to inspiring a lifetime love of read-ing. 1703 Orrington Ave., Evan-ston, 847-448-8600, epl.org

runnEr-up:GlEnviEw Public library stories come alive with puppets, props, and more during GPL’s weekly story time sessions. the library boasts additional story-telling programs throughout the year, including a storybook walk through Little bear Park. 1930 Glenview Rd., Glenview, 847-729-7500, glenviewpl.org

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best camps Whether it’s day camp or overnight, we have

the scoop on the best camps around. day camp winnEr:suMMEr stuff Day caMPsLocated in Wilmette and evanston, summer stuff Day Camp pro-grams accommodate children ages 2 through 8. their developmen-tally rich activities and games encourage children to explore, dis-cover and learn while having tons of fun! 404 Linden Ave., Wilmette, 773-981-3442, ssdaycamps.com

runnEr-up:caMP cbG Located in one of the area’s most beautiful settings, Camp CbG in-vites campers to explore the gardens while they learn about science, art, ecology and more. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, 847-835-5440, chicagobotanic.org/camp/summercamp

BEST ovErnighT camp:caMP Echotraditional summer camp for boys and girls including canoeing, sail-ing, archery and more. Dedicated to teaching kids to be independent while also learning how to work cooperatively as part of a group. 3782 S. Triangle Tr., Fremont, Michigan, 231-924-0829, mcgawymca.org/campecho

birthday party entertainers who take the cake

(3-way tie)

nEw ThiS yEar:Mr. sinGEr If your kids like to rock, call Mr. singer. the entertainer and his trusty guitar put on a fun-filled, inter-active performance with song, dance and plenty of instruments for everyone. sharpcookies.net

rEpEaT winnEr:ranDy bErnstEinWith a tap of the wand and a few magic words, Randy bernstein can turn a birthday party into a magical experience your kids will adore. magicbyrandy.com

rEpEaT winnEr:nili yElinbooks come alive with Nili Yelin, a.k.a. the storybook Mom, who turns ordinary stories into real life adventures. thestory-bookmom.com

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Growth sPurts (reader pick )Ages Birth–6.Large indoor playspace with designated areas for imaginative play, art projects and more. 404 Linden Ave, Wilmette, 847-850-9059, agrowthspurt.com

sky hiGh sPorts (editor’s pick)Perfect for kids of all ages, especially the hard-to-please teens.trampoline sports center with private party options and activities. 6424 Howard St., Niles, 847-801-5867, nil.jumpskyhigh.com

blast ZonE (editor’s pick)Ages 4–12Dedicated to being a video-free fun zone. features foam pits, life-size mazes and yes, even bathtub racing.5 Lakeview Pkwy., Vernon Hills, 847-996-0100, theblastzone.com

havE a bashEry (editor’s pick)Ages 3–13Choose your own at-home party adventure, which could include a mobile spa, mys-tery hunt or “survivor”-style games. 847-579-9019, haveabashery.com

best spot for a birthday party

from 360 degrees of trampoline fun to a spa party that comes to your house, we have the 411 on

birthday party fun.

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best outdoor Place spaces and Parks

We climbed, slid and zipped our way through more parks than we can count. We’ve lost sand toys, sandals and

sometimes even our sanity. but nothing beats the smile on our kids’ faces when they climb across the monkey

bars for the first time or make it down the winding slide. No doubt about it, we love our outdoor place spaces and the Chicago suburbs are filled with extraordinary parks that are often under-utilized. Liza sullivan, educational

consultant and founder of throughplay.com, agrees. sul-livan and her toddler helped us compile this list after they visited and played in over 60 parks in the Chicago area.

BEST park for playing “hidE and SEEk”:pEnny parkfeatures all-wood play-structures in-cluding a large castle, life-sized vehicles, bal-ance beam, monkey bars, swings, and stage. Lake and Ashland Streets, Evanston

BEST park To mEET up wiTh friEndSfriEndS park the park is walking distance to downtown Glencoe which has numerous kid-friendly lunch spots. features play equipment designed for social interaction (multiple children can partici-pate in an activity at one time). the entire surface is made sand, making the park one ex-pansive sandbox.Tudor Court and Vernon Avenue, Glencoe

BEST park on a hoT day:liTTlE BEar gardEn parkfeatures an interac-tive water fountain,

maze, large sand area, planting garden and fairytale themed play area. one point of

entry, plenty of hang-ing swings and multiple shaded spots give parents

a chance to relax while they to watch their chil-dren play. 2400 Chest-nut Avenue, Glenview

BEST park for gETTing away from iT all wiThouT gETTing away kEay naTurE cEnTErA tranquil and serene environ-ment allows families the oppor-tunity to slow down, walk to-gether, watch dragonflies, catch minnows, sit by the waterfall and enjoy nature. Hibbard Road and Skokie Boulevard, Wilmette

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beyond excellent care...The AbingTon of glenview

3901 Glenview Road, Glenview, Illinois847-729-0000 • theabington.com

Skilled NurSiNg

Requiring high-level medi-cal care. Medicare certi-fied, insurance accepted. Elegant decor, delicious and nutritious meals, engaging activities, and personal attention in a community of friends.

MeMory Support (AlzheiMer’S)A place of comfort, a place that’s secure and familiar.

rehAbilitAtioN therApy

Regain functions lost because of surgery, illness or accident. One-to-one therapy programs, in-cludes skilled therapists, state of the art facilities, and proven treatment protocols.

reSpite CAre

At home care givers need time off whether for days or weeks.

hoSpiCe CAre

Comfort, kindness, and personalized pain man-agement for people needing special care.

outpAtieNt phySiCAl therApy

Customized programs aimed at achieving out-standing outcomes.

JCAHO ACCREDITED