Taking Summers in Chicago to New Heights

Since I moved to Illinois, I’ve been wanting to live, or even work at this point, in Chicago. There’s so much to look forward to when you’re such a city person. (That’s me!) I loved being in the middle of everything, always having something to do, and meeting new people.

Covid hit.

My dreams were shattered all together for a chance at living in Chicago. *cue me being exaggerated*

So I decided to make the most out of the summers I did have to explore. There’s honestly so much to do and I feel like we never really have much time. Straight out of graduation, I traveled a little and got a big girl job soon after. I tried my best to make it the best summer ever, especially because places were finally starting to open up little by little.

I set aside a few places I loved exploring and making memories at to help you plan out either a weekend with friends or just a way to always have something to do when you all hang out.

Are you ready!?

Baseball Game: Cubs Edition

I probably went to like four games in a span of two weeks. *NO RAGRETS!* Each time I went was with different friends, so guess who got those large wine jars. This girl! Mostly because I wanted the jar, but it was a bit pricey. For the many games I went to during covid times, I couldn’t get the Chicago style dog. So I’ll definitely be back next season!!!

Let’s Mini Golf

Wilderness Falls

I went with some friends to the batting cages, but didn’t realize they also had a mini golf course. It went through a waterfall looking course and it was so cute to go through. It reminded me of the water roller coaster in Disney that you go through a cave to get to the other side. Maybe my excitement just hits different, but it was definitely a fun experience!

Putt Putt

This location has indoor mini golf routes and a bar. They mentioned we had to split our group because it would be more enjoyable with about 3-4 at a time to compete and just to move efficiently. They give you little cards to keep score and have somewhere to place your drinks around the whole route. The place had a neon sign and a photo opp spot to do your thing! We also had the opportunity to win a free drink if you mini golfed your golf ball into their winner section. Definitely something I’d like to do again in the city.

Game Night

Galloping Ghost Arcade

The most insane amount of arcade games I’ve ever seen in my life!!!!!! There are arcade games like in a maze in this place. We tried cleaning each that we touched because I’m a major germaphobe when it comes to these things, but it was definitely an experience for a good few hours of entertainment. I kid you not, there were hundreds of machines to play on for just an entrance fee.

Bowlero

Bowling night is worth doing with friends! They also have a room next to the bar to just enjoy, play yard games, and eat if you didn’t want to bowl. It was nice to chat with friends and catch up. They also have this giant beer tube to drink from, so we probably ordered about two for everyone to have. I freaking love bowling though. Need to go back for that!!

Explore the Outdoors

Green house

Before entering the ferris wheel part of the touristy spot, there’s a huge green house. It’s so beautiful to look at, enjoy, and just sit around admiring the green world. It’s also a passage way to get to the outside view. I love sitting here because it’s refreshing to just listen to nature, but also people watch if you really wanted to.

Navy Pier

One of the few touristy spots I can come to over and over again and never get tired. It has a whole bunch of restaurants, as well as rooftop views, and you can probably walk mindlessly to whatever you were interested in doing. They also have a few parking garages if you wanted to take advantage of walking in the area. Everything’s pretty much walkable in Chicago, so worth the drive or even train ride, if you prefer public transportation.

Buckingham Fountain

While it’s only lit in the summer, I FINALLY saw it!!! The water rushes up and comes down with a rainbow when the sun hits it. Feels like a fairytale moment, so it was magical. It turns on for just a few months of the year. I would take advantage of it! I loved just strolling through and enjoying the view from Lake Michigan.

Chicago’s Skyline

The Chicago skyline hits a little different every time we go. I honestly try to go as much as I can because I love the outdoors and I’m a sucker for a good view. There’s grassy area to sit by and large steps to distance yourself from the person next to you. What sucks is the minimal street parking. Another option is to park with Shedd Aquarium’s garage, but that can get pricey if you’re not staying in the area long.

As my all time favorite view and potentially *second* favorite skyline, this is it!

The Green River

I know what you’re going to say… the green river only happens in March and that’s not summer, BUT hear me out. This year -2022- felt like this week was summer or like a pre summer with beautiful weather. I FINALLY got to see the green river since I started living here and it felt GOOD. The green river is so beautiful and the experience is even better because I got to do it with friends.

I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to explore Chicago throughout the time that I’ve lived here. It’s been such a fun time to be able to go out with family and friends in these times. We definitely made it possible to still enjoy the little moments. I hope you get to enjoy them too!