Gerrish Lopez

Modern life rarely gives you a chance to pause. Between endless emails, nonstop news and the daily grind, it’s easy to feel stretched thin—mentally, physically, emotionally. When stress piles up and scrolling through wellness tips isn’t cutting it, a deeper reset might be in order. That’s where the best yoga retreats in America come in. You don’t have to know your vinyasa from your ashtanga to benefit. Yoga retreats across the U.S. cater to everyone, from hardcore yogis to total beginners just looking to breathe deeper and sleep better. These retreats are designed for anyone looking to slow down, reconnect and breathe a little easier. Set in some of the most beautiful corners of the U.S.—from the stunning coast of California to the peaceful mountain air of Colorado or the big skies of Montana—they offer space to step away from noise and re-center. The best part? There’s very little decision fatigue. Most retreats are all-inclusive, meaning your meals, movement and meditation are all taken care of. You just show up, unplug and let the calm in. Whether you’re carving out a weekend or committing to a longer reset, there’s a retreat that fits. Here are some of the best yoga retreats in the country. RECOMMENDED: The best wellness retreats in the USA

Atlanta’s restaurant scene is finally receiving the recognition it deserves as a standout culinary city. With the introduction of the Michelin Guide in 2023 and the surge of food influencers drawing inspiration from the city’s vibrant dishes, Atlanta’s food resume is impressively well-rounded. And with a thriving bar scene and nightlife that doesn’t quit, this city knows how to keep things exciting.  There are plenty of options to fuel your way through the city, whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast after a long night out, or a creative take on sushi to tell your friends about. And in a place where Southern food is king, there’s no shortage of opportunities to indulge in fried chicken dishes, shrimp and grits and more. If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, the city offers plenty of chic spots where the food is as innovative as the ambiance. From farm-to-table eateries to menus crafted by James Beard Award-winning chefs, these are the best restaurants in Atlanta right now.  June 2025: For this Atlanta restaurant guide, we’ve done our best to cover it all, from hearty, cheap eats to showstopping fine dining. We’re updating this list monthly so you have plenty of options to get you outside, now that the weather is warming up (for real this time) and since the A’s culinary scene is constantly changing.

Living alone can be liberating—freedom to decorate however you want, eat cereal for dinner (without judgment) and truly live life on your own terms. But without someone to share the cost of rent, groceries or utilities, the solo lifestyle can get pricey. As rent continues to rise across much of the country, single renters are feeling the pinch more than ever. Fortunately, some cities rise to the top when it comes to affordability. RentHop, an AI-powered apartment search platform, has released its annual Singles Index, breaking down the housing burden in major U.S. cities—that is, the percentage of a single renter’s income that goes toward renting a studio apartment. The report blends rent prices with median incomes to spotlight where solo dwellers can stretch their dollars without sacrificing quality of life. While you might expect a few Midwestern staples on the list, there are some surprises too—tech hubs like Seattle and Austin are proving to be more accessible than coastal heavyweights. And these cities aren’t just affordable—they’re packed with culture, cuisine and community, offering the ideal backdrop for an independent lifestyle. So if you're flying solo and want to make the most of your paycheck, these are the top 10 cheapest cities in the U.S. for singles to call home.

“So where are you eating?” This is a question that is regularly asked of both locals and visitors. Everyone has their lists of standards, favorites and new spots to try. The best restaurants in New Orleans keep people coming back again and again—even for generations. Dining out here goes beyond the food; it’s a deep expression of the city’s heritage, shaped by generations of Creole and Cajun cooking and infused with the traditions of all the cultures that make the city great. Iconic restaurants like Dooky Chase’s, Commander’s Palace and Brennan’s aren’t just popular—they’re part of the city’s culinary foundation, turning out classic dishes and legendary chefs who helped put New Orleans on the map. At the same time, the food scene is evolving as new spots and new chefs bring fresh ideas, adding modern flavors to strong culinary roots. Here's where to eat in the best food city in the world. June 2025: Summer is just around the corner, and that means the heat and humidity that we all know and love. Snoball stands are open and buzzing, and many restaurants are adding more salads and chilled dishes to menus. It’s a great time to seek out spicy flavors that cool you down—Saffron and Queen Trini Lisa have plenty of options. And speaking of Saffron, keep an eye out for Kingsway, the new restaurant opening soon from the same team. RECOMMENDED:🍸 The best bars in New Orleans🍩 The best beignets in New Orleans🍳 The best brunch in New Orleans📍 The best things to do in New Orleans🏨 The

No one throws a party like New Orleans. The city lives for music, food and culture—and it doesn’t miss a chance to celebrate any of it. There’s a festival for just about everything here, from jazz and zydeco to gumbo, beignets and crawfish. Whether it’s in honor of a neighborhood, an iconic dish or a musical tradition, New Orleans knows how to turn it into a full-on event. The best festivals bring it all together: great music, incredible food, local art and plenty of dancing. Mardi Gras is the best-known celebration—though Carnival (the period leading up to Mardi Gras) is a whole season rather than a single festival—but it’s far from the only game in town. No matter when you visit, odds are some sort of festival is on the calendar. Spring into early summer is “peak festival season” with French Quarter Festival and Jazz Fest as highlights, but fall is packed with plenty of smaller fests. If you want a true taste of New Orleans, these are the festivals that deliver it all in one place. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in New Orleans

New Orleans has its own unique style, from its music and dining scenes to festival fashion and very local decor. The city’s shopping scene reflects this quirky style with shops that sell everything from vintage gems to contemporary art. The French Market and French Quarter are great for souvenirs, but if you explore a bit further when you’re shopping in New Orleans, you’ll find one-of-a-kind items you won’t get anywhere else. Browse eclectic bookshops, record stores, costume shops, art galleries and clothing shops that ooze New Orleans charm. Big-name brands are around—Canal Place has upscale fashion and the Riverwalk covers outlet basics—but the real appeal is in the local businesses in New Orleans’ unique neighborhoods. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to clothes designed right here in New Orleans. If you want to shop like a local, these are the best places to shop in New Orleans. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in New Orleans

Atlanta attracts a mix of leisure and business travelers throughout the year, so you know it’s always bustling with activity. From historic landmarks and lush green parks to world-class museums and a vibrant nightlife scene, the best things to do in Atlanta will please everyone (kids, too). Atlanta has done well to preserve its history and culture, from its arts and industry to music and theater, not to mention the history of the Civil Rights movement. Once you’ve explored all that Atlanta has to offer, dive into the city’s culinary offerings, where you’ll find a slew of renowned bars and restaurants ranging from local favorites to ones with a coveted Michelin star. No matter what you choose to do, Atlanta guarantees a fun time.  June 2025: It’s an excititing time to be in Atlanta. You can catch a FIFA Club World Cup match, kick off summer with the appropriately-named Summerfest, spend an after-hours evening at the High Museum of Art, stroll an Alice in Wonderland-themed exhibit at Atlanta Botanical Garden and mark Juneteenth at Piedmont Park. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Festival season continues in New Orleans as we barrel into summer with rising heat and humidity. But summer temps can’t stop this city from celebrating. Some of the best things to do in New Orleans in June—like the Creole Tomato Festival—are outdoors, but there are plenty of ways to stay cool, from catching river breezes to enjoying a snoball to taking a dip in a hotel pool. While crawfish season might be winding down, the food scene stays hot. The iconic dining scene is enhanced in June by the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience and Restaurant Week. Otherwise, there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans to feel the city’s vibe. New Orleans’ music calendar is packed, so you can dance the night away to whatever you’re into, from jazz, blues and brass to funk, soul or hip-hop. History buffs will find plenty of stories throughout the city, from museums and historic homes to cemeteries and neighborhoods. The unique art and architecture of New Orleans is a feast for the eyes, and outdoor activities abound. Here are some of the best things to do in New Orleans to soak up the culture and flavors of the city. This guide was updated by New Orleans-based writer Gerrish Lopez. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: Where to stay in New OrleansRECOMMENDED: The best hotels in New Orleans

There is a neighborhood and bar scene to satisfy every kind of night out in Atlanta, you just have to know where to look. Looking for an epic dive for a night out with friends? Bars in Edgewood and East Atlanta have the go-to spots. In the mood for an upscale vibe with high end cocktails to match? Midtown and Buckhead have you covered, including some of Atlanta’s best bars that we’ve listed below.  Of course, we can’t forget Atlanta’s institutions, bar mainstays that’ve now survived new development, recessions and economic booms, plus a whole pandemic. Iconic Atlanta bars like Northside and Eddie’s have seen Atlanta through many stages, and we thank them for their ongoing service.  That doesn’t mean that we don’t celebrate the newcomers—some of the best bars in Atlanta are bringing a new flavor to the city, making for a robust nightlife scene with as many options as there are flavors at your favorite wing spot.  May 2025: We’ve refined our list for this Atlanta bar guide while doing our best to cover it all, from dives to sports bars to upscale spots. We’re updating this list monthly so you have plenty of options to imbibe this spring. 

Las Vegas has plenty of places to grab a drink. It’s a city built on vice, after all. But what visitors are finding out is that Vegas is a much more sophisticated drinking city than one would think. Mixologists are digging deep into the ingredient bible and crafting amazing cocktails—some enhanced with theatrics such as smoke and fire. These techniques are not only great for Instagram but purposely add a depth of flavor to enhance the cocktail. Ready for an elevated drinking experience? Below, you'll find the best bars in Las Vegas right now, from dive bars and speakeasies to rooftop lounges and resort bars. Raise your glass to these spots! April 2025: So many bars in Las Vegas are upping the ante and getting more creative with their mixology programs. We’re no longer just a beer and wine and city, and it shows with a couple new openings on this list, including Petite Boheme and Doberman Drawing Room. RECOMMENDED:🍴 The best restaurants in Las Vegas🍤 The best buffets in Vegas🥑 The best brunches in Las Vegas📍 The best things to do in Vegas🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Vegas This guide was updated by Las Vegas-based writer Ryan Slattery. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

The po'boy is the number one sandwich in New Orleans, but it's more than just a sandwich. As with many iconic dishes in the city, it represents history, family and plenty of good times. Generations of locals are loyal to their favorite po’boy shops, many of which are small, family-run operations. Patrons rate their po'boys not just by what's between the bread, but by the bread itself: a po’boy loaf is a particular size and shape, and each shop sticks with its preferred producer, whether old-school bakers Leidenheimer or Gendusa, or the Vietnamese bakery Dong Phuong for a more recent twist. Classic po’boys are stuffed with everything from fried shrimp or oysters to hot sausage, roast beef or french fries, but you’ll find plenty of variation, including some modern and even vegan options. Ask for your po’boy "dressed," which means topped with lettuce, tomato, mayo and pickles. Whatever you’re in the mood for, here are some of the best po’boys in New Orleans. Last updated April 2025: Most po'boy shops offer seating inside, but now is the time to take your po'boy to go and enjoy a picnic and the perfect weather. But don't wander too far from the source, especially if you've ordered a roast beef po'boy with juicy debris.

The South’s largest city boasts a wealth of attractions, historic sites, renowned restaurants and bars, music venues, a vibrant nightlife scene and an eclectic range of entertainment options that draw throngs of visitors each year. For those with little ones in tow, Atlanta can be just as entertaining. There are plenty of family-friendly activities and things to do with kids in Atlanta, with opportunities for kids of all ages (and attention spans) that are both entertaining and educational. Museums and markets can keep both kids and adults busy, while the Beltline, leafy parks and other outdoor activities are perfect for burning off energy. Attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca Cola will hold kids’ attention for hours. Kids can appreciate the South’s rich history and charm, and these things to do with kids in Atlanta will make your next visit a memorable one.

Brennan’s is a must-visit for anyone who loves indulgence, history and a touch of Southern charm. It's also the birthplace of Bananas Foster, the famed dessert that's flambeed tableside. Breakfast service is legendary, featuring iconic dishes like eggs Hussarde and eggs Sardou. The pastel-pink facade and lush courtyard make for the perfect NOLA backdrop, and the chandeliers, white-tablecloth service and lengthy history make Brennan's a timeless New Orleans tradition where every meal feels like a celebration.

Back for its 14th dazzling year, Garden Lights, Holiday Nights glows even brighter with the world’s largest synchronized light and sound curtain, "Nature’s Wonders." This year, the event brings even more magical vibes with new music, new choreography and more lights. Plus, sculptures from Alice’s Wonderland Returns will be lit dramatically, including the towering White Rabbit and the grinning Cheshire Cat.

This might be the most thrilling interpretation yet of the holiday classic. This is The Night Before Christmas as only Cirque du Soleil could imagine. The troupe’s first-ever holiday production, it’s a whirlwind holiday magic and festive fun that is sure to become standard holiday fare.

A round of golf in Truist Park? Yes, this once-in-a-lifetime golfing experience is happening in the legendary home of the Braves. Hit tee shots from the upper deck to custom greens on the field below. A clubhouse festival—featuring music, food, beer and golf challenges—bookends your round of golf.

If you love the 1964 stop-motion animated special, you’ll love this puppet production. Follow Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Hermey the Elf as they set off on a merry adventure, tailed by the Abominable Snow Monster. It’s a holiday tradition that will warm the hearts of misfits of all ages.

Fans of Wicked won’t want to miss this chance to celebrate the release of the new movie. It’s a drag brunch retelling of the story of Oz, with musical numbers from The Wizard of Oz, The Wiz and Wicked. The show features Boy Howdy, EllaSaurus Rex, Guyza Manelli, Hera Kane, Molly ALXNDR and Yutoya Avaze Leon.

Experience the magic of the holiday season and shop for all your friends and family at the Euro-style Christkindl Market in the Buckhead Village District. There will be traditional German festivities with a dose of Atlanta spirit. This is old-world charm that’s just right for the season, with culinary delights and handcrafted treasures galore.

The Fernbank Museum comes alive after hours for the holiday season as WildWoods: Aglow makes its annual return. Glowing displays are installed throughout the natural flora and fauna, creating a magical, zen-like wonderland. Hear original musical compositions as you walk through glowing garden towers, projections of nocturnal wildlife, larger-than-life incandescent mushrooms and more.

The Grammy-nominated guitar virtuoso known for his electrifying solo career and roles in Vulfpeck and Fearless Flyers, drops by The Eastern on his latest tour. He’s been playing sold-out shows around the world, making a name for himself through content creation and fostering collabs with the likes of Apple and CBS.gerr

Touring the world for the first time since 2019, the Prince of Pop is making a welcome stop in Atlanta. Get ready to rock your body to all the hits, as one of the most celebrated voices in pop heads out in support of his latest album. From Cry Me a River to his newest single, “Selfish,” you know Justin Timberlake will bring the energy to this show.

Urban Trivia puts a fresh spin on the classic trivia game, focusing on the latest and greatest in black culture. The game has been such a smash hit that the creators are taking it on the road with a live show. It’s a wild ride that celebrates black culture and will test the audience’s knowledge with tons of laughs on the side.

Back for its 14th dazzling year, Garden Lights, Holiday Nights glows even brighter with the world’s largest synchronized light and sound curtain, "Nature’s Wonders." This year, the event brings even more magical vibes with new music, new choreography and more lights. Plus, sculptures from Alice’s Wonderland Returns will be lit dramatically, including the towering White Rabbit and the grinning Cheshire Cat. 

Need a change of scenery from your home office (let's be real, couch)? Mindspace has you covered this summer with Free Coworking Wednesdays, and it's so much more than just a desk. Every Wednesday in July and August, Mindspace locations across the U.S. are offering complimentary coworking day passes—no strings attached, all perks included. Mindspace is a boutique, wellness-focused coworking space that's growing globally. Free Coworking Wednesdays are your chance to set up shop at one of their beautifully designed, fully equipped workspaces in San Francisco, Miami, Brooklyn or Washington, D.C. for free. Whether you're a solo freelancer, part of a small team or just curious about coworking life, this is a great opportunity to see what working at Mindspace is like and maybe do a little networking, too, without spending a dime. RECOMMENDED: These are the top U.S. cities for business travel—we're not surprised by number one The offer includes all the benefits of a standard Mindspace membership, which means access to stunning shared workspaces with fast Wi-Fi and all the amenities; use of phone booths, lounges and fully stocked kitchens; complimentary coffee, tea and snacks to keep you fueled; and entry to member-only events happening that day. Member events include yoga, networking mixers, creative workshops and happy hours. Photograph: Courtesy MindspaceMindspace coworking space Here’s how it works: First you’ll need to RSVP for a spot at your location of choice. You can attend

July is peak hot dog season. Between the Fourth of July and National Hot Dog Day (a.k.a. July 16), grills across the U.S. are loaded with franks—but which states are scarfing down the most, and what do they pile on top? According to a new survey of over 2,000 Americans by CanadaCasino, Montana takes the title of the most hot dog–obsessed state in the country. The average Montanan puts away 17 hot dogs a month, which adds up to more than 200 per year. That’s nearly triple the national average of seven per month. RECOMMENDED: The best burgers in America—one per state! Wyoming comes in second, clocking in at 13 hot dogs a month per person. Delaware grabs the third spot with 11 monthly dogs per person. And while the national average across all states adds up to about 4,712 hot dogs over a lifetime, Montanans are pushing 10,000—enough to reach the height of 16 Statues of Liberty if you stacked those dogs end to end. Meanwhile, not every state is riding the hot dog wave. North Dakota, South Dakota and Utah are the most dog-reluctant, with fewer than two hot dogs eaten per person per month. So how are people topping all these hot dogs? Ketchup reigns supreme, favored by 53-percent of Americans and taking the number one spot in 23 states including California, Ohio and Pennsylvania. It’s followed closely by yellow mustard (48-percent) and onions (45-percent). Cheese comes in hot at 43-percent, while chili sauce brings the heat for 27-percent—unsurprisingly a big player in Texas-style

Getting ready for 4th of July festivities? The long holiday weekend is just around the corner, and celebration prep is in full swing. When you head out for your grilling supplies, don't forget about your thirst: just in time for the Fourth of July, Starbucks is serving up a festive, limited-edition Frappuccino that looks like a firecracker and tastes like summer. Meet the Firework Frappuccino, a layered, berry-loaded treat that’s only on the menu for one week—from Tuesday, July 1 to Monday, July 7—at Starbucks locations around the country (while supplies last). RECOMMENDED: Starbucks debuts the culty Ube Espresso Martini for summer This colorful blended drink hits the Independence Day trifecta with red, white and blue layers that look like they're straight out of a fireworks show. It's a visually patriotic vibe, but this cool bev delivers on flavor, too. Starbucks starts with its tangy Summer-Berry Refresher and blends it with creamy coconut milk for a smooth, slightly tropical base. It's then poured over raspberry-flavored pearls that burst with a juicy surprise in every sip. A bold swirl of strawberry purée adds that classic firecracker red, while vanilla sweet cream cold foam gives it a silky white cloud on top. The result? A refreshing, tangy-sweet sipper that’s fruity, creamy and totally summer-ready. Whether you’re hitting the beach, heading to a BBQ or just trying to cool off in the heat, the Firework Frappuccino has serious summer energy that will keep you going. It’s

This Independence Day, Spirit Airlines is celebrating American history and affordable travel with a five-day flash sale that includes fares as low as $49 one way to iconic destinations around the country. From now through July 5, you can book a budget-friendly summer getaway to some of America’s most historic and vibrant cities like Philadelphia, Boston and Washington D.C. The travel window runs from July 22 to September 13, 2025, with flights available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays only (blackout dates run from August 27–September 2, over Labor Day weekend). That's a pretty sweet window for low-cost summer travel. RECOMMENDED: These are the most popular travel destinations for July 4th weekend "This July Fourth, we're helping travelers declare independence from high fares with our special five-day offer," said Rana Ghosh, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Spirit Airlines. "Guests looking for a fun summer vacation can take advantage of our high-value travel options to explore some of our country's most notable historic destinations." Spirit's low fares can take you to Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Snap a selfie with the Liberty Bell then eat your way through Reading Terminal Market. Or head to Boston, where you can walk the Freedom Trail and dive into the history of the American Revolution. Then dig into some chowder and soak up the New England charm. Find low fares to Washington, D.C. where you can explore the Nation

In 2025, work-life balance isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a lifeline. With tech burnout, economic pressure and blurred lines between work and home, the question isn’t if we need balance—it’s where we can actually get it. Remote’s Global Life-Work Balance Index, launched in 2023 and updated annually, ranks countries based on how well they support both personal well-being and professional fulfillment. The 2025 edition highlights the growing global divide in how nations treat their workers, and the U.S. isn’t looking great. New Zealand tops the list this year, scoring big on paid time off, public happiness, personal safety and a near-top-tier minimum wage. Most of the top ten is dominated by European nations that clearly value downtime as much as uptime. Canada stands alone as the only country in the Americas to rank in the top ten. So how did the U.S. fare? Unfortunately, it ranked second to last at number 59 out of 60 countries. Only Nigeria scored lower. America’s overall score is a dismal 31.17. While it gets some credit on the happiness index (probably thanks to its cultural resilience and strong community networks), that’s where the good news ends. The U.S. scored painfully low on key factors like minimum wage, sick leave, paid maternity leave and healthcare access—all essential ingredients for a healthy work-life balance. The message is loud and clear: long hours, limited support and high stress aren't signs of a thriving workforce. They’re signs of burnout. Whether you love

If conflicts, mass shootings and political gridlock are making you feel like peace is on the decline in the U.S., you're not wrong. According to the newly released 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI), the U.S. ranks a disappointing 128 out of 163 countries behind nations like South Africa, Kenya and Zimbabwe. The GPI, produced annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace, is the most comprehensive measure of global peacefulness. It evaluates 99.7-percent of the world’s population across three key areas: societal safety and security, the presence of domestic and international conflict and levels of militarization. RECOMMENDED: These are the safest countries for U.S. travelers to visit This year’s report paints a grim picture. Global peacefulness has been declining every year since 2014, and 2025 marks the lowest point yet. With 59 active state-based conflicts, over 150,000 conflict-related deaths in 2024 alone and rising instability in major powers, the world is entering what researchers call "The Great Fragmentation"—a new era of global disorder. The U.S.’s poor ranking is driven by high homicide rates (six times the Western European average), political polarization, gun violence and its extensive military footprint. It sits just below Mozambique and just above El Salvador on the list. By contrast, the top of the list is filled with calm, well-governed countries. Iceland retains its number one spot as the most peaceful country in the world, followed by Ireland, New Zealand, Au

Wondering which airline to book for your summertime excursions? Well, The Points Guy has spoken, and for the seventh year running, Delta Airlines takes the crown as the best U.S. airline. In the 2025 rankings, Delta once again came out on top after TPG's deep-dive into the four categories that matter most to travelers: reliability, cost and reach, experience and loyalty. Why Delta? According to TPG, this win comes down to consistency across the board. While other airlines scored better in individual areas—like Alaska Airlines’ strong showing in customer experience or JetBlue’s stacked economy cabins—Delta rises above them all when it comes to the big picture. The airline bounced back fast from a major IT outage in 2024 and still delivered one of the most reliable operations in the skies. RECOMMENDED: You can now order Shake Shack burgers on Delta flights out of these 7 U.S cities Southwest Airlines made a big move this year, climbing to third place with the lowest cancellation rate and unbeatable value, though its future ranking might take a hit now that the beloved “bags fly free” perk is on the chopping block. Hawaiian Airlines also rose in the ranks, recovering solidly after the Maui wildfires. Meanwhile, United Airlines snagged second place overall, boosted by an improved experience and the strongest loyalty program in the game. On the flip side, American Airlines dropped to seventh place, dragged down by lagging premium upgrades and poor baggage handling. At the bottom a

For years, Chicago’s housing market lagged behind in price growth. Not anymore. In May, home prices in the Chicago metro area rose nearly four times faster than the national average, marking the sixth straight month the city has led the country in home price gains. RECOMMENDED: These are the best Chicago neighborhoods to buy a home in this year That’s according to fresh data from Illinois Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. While national home prices rose just 2.1-percent year-over-year, Chicago clocked an 8.7-percent increase. The median price of a home in the nine-county Chicago metro area (Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties) hit $379,900 in May—its highest monthly median ever. In the city itself, homes sold for a median of $390,000, just shy of April’s all-time high. Even though prices are slowing across the country, Chicago's market isn’t hitting the brakes nearly as hard. That’s what’s creating this growing gap between the Chicago area and the rest of the U.S. So, what’s behind the surge in home prices? Affordability plays a big role. Compared to places like New York or San Francisco, Chicago homes still feel like a deal. Add low inventory, strong local demand and steady mortgage rates, and you’ve got a tight, competitive market. Buyers are showing up ready—and often fighting it out over well-priced listings. Sellers, on the other hand, are seeing big opportunities. Homes in popular neighborhoods like Logan Square,

If you thought Chicago’s mega-hub O’Hare International Airport was the most delay-prone airport in Illinois, think again. A new study by travel company Exoticca analyzed over 7.5 million U.S. flights using Bureau of Transportation Statistics data and crowned another local travel hub—Decatur Airport—as the nation’s most delay-ridden departure point in 2024. RECOMMENDED: Chicago O’Hare is officially the most stressful airport in all of the U.S. According to the numbers, flights out of Decatur averaged a sluggish 32.89-minute delay—the worst in the country. Not far behind were two more Illinois airports: Belleville’s MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (at number 10 with 27.77 minutes of delay) and Rockford (at 19 with 25.92 minutes). All three turned the Land of Lincoln into the Land of Late Departures. To make matters worse, Decatur also saw 2.31-percent of its flights canceled. Belleville was even worse off in this department, with a cancelation rate of 2.55-percent. So what’s going on in Decatur? The small airport handles limited commercial traffic, meaning even minor disruptions—weather, mechanical issues, crew delays—can ripple through the schedule with outsize impact. Fewer flights mean fewer options for rerouting, and fewer staff means slower recoveries when things go wrong. Decatur edged out airports in Plattsburgh, NY; Christiansted, Virgin Islands; Mason City, IA and Concord, NC. the list reads like a who’s who of lesser-known airports struggling to keep flights on time. For

Getting around Chicago just got a whole lot smoother: Chicago Transit Authority just announced a brand-new Regional Day Pass that offers unlimited rides on CTA, Metra and Pace for a full day—all from a single purchase in the Ventra app. This is the first time the city’s major transit agencies have teamed up to offer a truly unified fare option for daily riders. The pass is part of a larger push by the Regional Transportation Authority, CTA, Metra and Pace to make public transportation more affordable and convenient across the entire region. RECOMMENDED: Got opinions about Chicago transit? A new CTA program will actually take your feedback seriously The Regional Day Pass includes unlimited access to Metra, CTA trains and buses, and Pace fixed-route buses for 24 hours. You’ll need the latest Ventra app (that's version 2.2.11) and a registered Ventra card—physical or digital—to purchase and use the pass. "This pass is a huge step forward in creating a more seamless, rider-friendly experience," said RTA Executive Director Leanne Redden. And with summer in full swing, the timing couldn’t be better for locals and visitors alike to explore Chicago without worrying about multiple fares. Here's what Chicago's new Regional Day Pass costs: On weekdays, pricing is tiered by Metra travel zones: $10 for single-zone travel $13.50 for two zones $16 for three zones (Discounted fares apply for reduced fare card holders.) On weekends, the fare is $9.50 flat, regardless of distance. The pass i

Ready for some fireworks? Fourth of July falls on a Friday this year, the first time in nearly a decade. This means it's easier to plan a longer getaway for the holiday, but it also means it's going to be a busy one, as more people will take advantage of the time off. Airfare is up this year—about 3.4-percent higher than usual—according to flight discovery site Going, but plenty of savvy travelers are finding deals. Going analyzed their Flight Alert trends to reveal which spots are surging in popularity for the holiday weekend.  RECOMMENDED: These are North America’s top-searched summer destinations for 2025, says study Chicago, Illinois has emerged as the most popular destination for the patriotic festivities, according to Going. It's no surprise, as the fireworks display at Navy Pier are routinely considered one of the best in the country. Prices are averaging about $502 roundtrip to visit Chicagoland for July 4th weekend.  Coming in second, Denver, Colorado is a draw for nature lovers seeking out mountain views as well as celestial fireworks. The city is also known for its free pre-Fourth bash called Indy Eve, with live music and a choreographed fireworks show Denver’s Civic Center Park. Average roundtrip flights will cost ya $537. Some travelers are making the most of the holiday and heading abroad, such as with number three destination London, UK and number six locale San Juan, Puerto Rico. The former is "perfectly positioned as a gateway for exploring Western Europe, so

Once known as the "Hog Butcher of the World," Chicago is now officially the most vegan-friendly city in America, according to PETA’s 2025 rankings. That’s right—the city famous for deep-dish pizza, hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches is crushing the plant-powered game. This is not just about beans, greens and grains. You can still get a delicious deep-dish pie or an Italian beef—just without the animal products. At Kitchen 17, the pizzas are cheesy, gooey and 100-percent vegan. Buona offers a beefless version of its iconic sandwich and Runaway Cow in Bridgeport serves vegan Chicago dogs and oat milk soft serve Snowstorms that rival Dairy Queen’s Blizzard. Over at the Chicago Diner, the Radical Reuben is a local legend, while Majani brings plant-forward Southern flavors to the South Shore. RECOMMENDED: The 23 best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Chicago Other vegan options that are Chicago to the core include decadent nondairy cheesecakes at Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen, the meat-free Chicago Style Frank at Soul Veg City, the plant-powered Meatball Sub with dairy-free provolone at Native Foods, Soy Al Pastor tacos at Penelope’s Vegan Taqueria and the Buffalo Chicken Eggrolls at Spirit Elephant. "From Chi-town’s meat-free Chicago-style franks to dairy-free deep-dish pizzas, America’s former meatpacking capital is now a paradise for vegan eating with an abundance of animal-friendly restaurants," says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. The recognition might seem at odds with t