Thursday, July 12, 2012

My Summer Must Do's

Does anyone else in Chicago actually stress over doing as many “summery” things during these months, with thoughts of our winters trying to push into your mind?
I honestly have a list of activities I need to squeeze in to make me feel better about accomplishing enough of the fun things that Chicago offers during our summer. Thankfully I have a husband who is generally up for anything.
Here are my must-do’s:
Long Bike Rides- Once you get south of Navy Pier, the path thins, and the views are just so gorgeous. We love to hop on our bikes, and bought a bike rack this year that needs to be put to use on some other trails.
Holstein Park Pool- I absolutely love we have a nearby (free) pool that is great to soak up some summer rays, people watch, and frolic in the cooling water.
Neighborhood Fests- Admittedly, I find that a lot of our festivals kind of all feel the same to me, but if we don’t have anything going on, and there’s a festival within walking distance, it’s a fun way to spend a few hours. We’ve hit up Do Division & West Fest so far this summer.
Ravinia- Hello Beautiful. We need to pack & picnic & get out there.
Music in Millennium Park- All summer there are amazing free shows that are just asking for you to spread a blanket and pop a bottle of bubbly. Last summer we took some friends from out of town with 2 small children, and it was so much fun, allowing the kids to run & roam, while enjoying new music and gorgeous city vies. Although I have enjoyed a quiet lunch in the park, we haven’t made it here for evening entertainment yet in 2012. We will be rockin’ it out to My Morning Jacket in August.
The Beach- I love love love a weekend afternoon on the beach. Put the cubs game on the radio, check out the hot bods playing beach volleyball, and revel in the fact that we have Lake Michigan at our door step.
Movies in the Park- I really wish the Movies were a better selection, but nonetheless, we need to make it to one this summer.
Reading/Picnics/Anything in your local park- Ours is Wicker Park. Get outta the house and plop yourself in a little grassy patch. You won’t regret it.
Go Cubs Go! I’m a fan, and a weeknight bike ride to Wrigley for a game is my definition of a good time.
Other Ideas:
Paddleboarding in Evanston on Lake Michigan, Al Fresco Dining (so many choices), Kayaking the Chicago River,  evening walks for ice cream, Theater on the Lake, Kane County Flea Market, Jazzin’ at the Shedd.
Now get out there are enjoy summer.