Cortney Fries

Chicago

Travel Writer at Freelance

Freelance travel writer. Contributor to Chicago Parent magazine, Family Vacation Critic and AAA magazines

Articles

Why Galena Is the Midwest Getaway Your Family Will Love

3 weeks ago | chicagoparent.com | Cortney Fries

The charming town of Galena, Illinois features a lovingly preserved historic downtown with 19th century buildings. Stroll its historic Main Street and feel all the small town feels. Walk the cobblestone streets, sample ice creams and root beers and shop from over 125 independently owned businesses. Learn a bit of history at the Ulysses S. Grant Home, pursue outdoor adventures at Chestnut Mountain and attend a magic show. A family getaway to Galena is about enjoying simple moments and togetherness.
Nature Escape in a Farm Treehouse Near Galena, Illinois

3 weeks ago | chicagoparent.com | Cortney Fries

Sometimes you just need to disconnect from screens and busy schedules to reconnect with your family. I love a good nature escape because it takes you out of your element and into a new, relaxing vibe. And who doesn’t enjoy a treehouse? About a three-hour drive from Chicago, Arrowhead Treehouse sits on a family orchard outside of Galena. Make it your home base for exploring the nearby state park, Apple River Canyon.
For a slice of Parisian charm without the crowds, consider Quebec City

1 month ago | nationalgeographic.com | Cortney Fries

Craving the romance of Paris without the jet lag or legions of other people? The City of Light welcomed nearly 30 million visitors in 2023, and even more admirers plan to travel there since the 2024 Summer Olympics and reopening of the Cathedral of Notre Dame. Canada’s Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with French roots, emanates European elegance yet welcomes about a fraction of the visitors as Paris.
Family Travel Guide to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

1 month ago | chicagoparent.com | Cortney Fries

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a popular vacation destination in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Dollywood theme park, Dollywood’s Splash Country water park and Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner show are some of the top attractions. You’ll also find multiple mountain coasters, mini golf courses, and of course, nature fun in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Make Your Treehouse Dreams Come True Near Smoky Mountains National Park

1 month ago | chicagoparent.com | Cortney Fries

If you ever envisioned your own tree fort with ladders, pulleys and a slide, then you’re in luck because Sanctuary Treehouse Resort in Sevierville, Tennessee, is not only a kids’ but a parents’ dream come true too. Their luxury cabins have special touches that inspire guests to explore and play, even teenagers and adults. You can enjoy the outdoors on rope swings or by a crackling fireplace. There’s a drink chute to drop beverages to family below.
Why Kohler, Wisconsin Is a Hidden Gem for Family Vacations

2 months ago | chicagoparent.com | Cortney Fries

Kohler, Wisconsin is an upscale resort village a couple hours’ drive from Chicago. Best known for its golf courses and spa treatments, adults can find many ways to rejuvenate and relax. Does it make for a nice vacation with kids? I took my 13-year-old daughter to find out. We saw several other children on our weekend getaway to Kohler.
Sorry, Kids—This Kohler Retreat Is Just for Parents - Chicago Parent

2 months ago | chicagoparent.com | Cortney Fries

Kohler is a five-star resort village near Sheboygan, Wisconsin that makes for a rejuvenating adult-only getaway. Grab your significant other and luxuriate in high-end meals and tranquil surroundings. Golfers are drawn to the world-class courses of Whistling Straits and Black wolf Run. Yes, it’s the same brand as seen on kitchen and bath fixtures, so you can bet their spa and in-room tubs and showers will impress you. Read our guide for this parents-approved retreat below.
The 28 Best Things to Do When You Visit Chicago.

Mar 19, 2025 | travel.usnews.com | Sarah Estime |Elizabeth Von Tersch |Cortney Fries

Explore the best things to do in Chicago in 3 days based on recommendations from local experts.
You Can Spend the Night Where Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton Recorded Their Award-winning Music

Mar 8, 2025 | travelandleisure.com | Cortney Fries

Aerial view of Dark Horse Manor in Franklin, Tennessee. . Photo: Courtesy of Dark Horse Manor Dark Horse Estate, a private recording studio in Tennessee, is home to three Airbnbs, and has hosted musical legends like Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, and Shawn Mendes. Accommodations range from The Manor, a sprawling mansion that sleeps 16, and the more Gatehouse and Bunkhouse. Guests can get tours of the on-site recording studios, including the one where Taylor Swift recorded her first album.
Top Midwest Ski Resort Just a Drive Away in Wausau, WI

Mar 2, 2025 | chicagoparent.com | Cortney Fries

If your family loves to ski or snowboard, Wausau, Wisconsin should be on your must-visit list. Four hours northwest of Chicago, Granite Peak boasts Wisconsin’s longest ski season— open mid-November to mid-April. So if you’re searching for places to squeeze in more Midwest skiing, rest assured that you’ll find late-winter and spring slope days in Wausau. Plus, there’s an adorable downtown with tasty restaurants and cute shopping to boot.