The Arboretum of South Barrington sponsored our shopping trip,
but all the opinions are truly ours (because who else would think just like my daughter?)
While preparing for the new school year I almost forgot the most important thing – the first day of school look! Of course, my kids can wear their old ragged shorts and sunburned t-shirts any other day of the week, but the first day is something special. This is the day kids mentally get ready for, and this is the beginning of the new school year (no pressure, mom!).
Lucky me, last week I got a call from the Arboretum of South Barrington inviting me to shop at their place and inadvertently reminding me that I desperately need to update my lovely children’s wardrobe.
The Arboretum is South Barrington’s newest and most exciting place to shop, dine and play. The open-air center is named for the lush treescapes and gardens of its landscape, and for the large tree farm that formerly stood on the site. A mix of shops, restaurants and entertainment options including iPic Theaters, the ultimate cinema experience, and a new great way to go to the movies.
With less than a mile from the four-way interchange at I-90 at the intersection of Illinois Routes 59 and 72 the Arboretum is easy to get to and from any suburbs and offers a variety of shopping options. Located in Chicago suburbs, it is perfect for spending a lazy afternoon or a summer day as a family at – with plenty of walking and running space, plenty to look at, and great dining options.
What should we do first? Kids were excited to watch a movie at the iPic theater, my husband couldn’t wait to check out a delicious menu at the Georgios, and I was thinking shopping… That settles it – shopping! How else would I reward myself for getting the whole family out of the house?
L.L.Bean was always one of my and my husband’s favorites before we had the kids – as their styles always made us always feel outdoorsy plus the quality of anything you buy at this store would affect less us for years. However, what are their kids’ options? 
With my older kids doing gymnastics and swimming great quality performance clothes is becoming a big deal for them – it should fit their lifestyle, be comfortable and durable, and still be exceptionally attractive. L.L.Bean didn’t disappoint us.
Next stop – Crazy 8! This was the place for kids to get crazy with the styles, look for the clothes to show off their unique personalities and with the sale prices they were able to pick a few different outfits.
What do you think about their personalities?
As you can imagine by the end of our shopping experience, everyone was H-U-N-G-R-Y and just as we carried our last shopping bag into the car kids reminded us that they are super starving and will absolutely die unless are fed right this second. No other excuses are required – we headed to the Giorgios. 
With a very comprehensive menu this restaurant and bar is very well versed as it offers upscale taste at a reasonable price. I has been particularly impressed with some Kids Menu find – check out our Corndog! My daughter couldn’t be happier even took this picture all on her own.
Pizza for one , deep dish or thin crust – you might see why the pizza lover in me got all excited and herself an entire pizza (I did share)
And just look around – the atmosphere of Georgio’s is so welcoming it seem perfect for a family dinner or a girls night out.
And if you need another reason for visiting this restaurant, know that since opening in 2002, they’ve been a leader in community involvement and support. Georgio’s donates a percentage of their sales back to local schools, charities, youth sports, and community organizations.
Giveaway
If you live close (within drivable distance ) to the Arboretum of South Barrington in Illinois, hurry to enter our giveaway for a $50 gift card to the Crazy 8 store! Because sometimes we need an excuse to get our family to an awesome place like this
$50 Gift Card to the Crazy 8 at the Arboretum of South Barrington
Oh shopping deals and great food are a few of my favorite things! It’s great how your kids personalities shine through in their clothing selections. Have a great back to school!!
Sounds like a great place to shop and eat! Great for the whole family to get shopping done in one place!
I love places that you can get all of your shopping done at one time. It is hard to find the time to go shopping in general for me!
I love these new outlet centers like this one. It makes shopping so much more fun and interesting. And it looks as though you got a lot of great stuff for the kids.
i love outlet anything. hahaha. you can find some really awesome things
Great post!