Summer is upon us so hang in there because it’s almost that time of year where we can spend our days in the sun without the stress of homework, tests, and our only worry is getting tan. Summer time in Chicago is so much fun because I can always find something to do that will not kill my bank account. Here are a few ideas to help you this summer to avoid spending every day inside with the ac blasting.
Head to the Beach
I figured I get the most obvious option out of the way first. My favorite beach in Chicago is North Avenue Beach because it is huge and has great scenery. I find myself there every year with my friends. It is the place to be on any given day in the summer! (Only if the weather is accommodating of course because in the midwest you never know). I would be wary because it can get really crowded sometimes so if crowds aren’t your thing, I would suggest just hitting up your local pool.
Check out the Brunch Places
Chicago has so many affordable and aesthetically pleasing brunch restaurants with delicious food. Going out to eat is always a solid idea, but brunch just seems like the better idea. For my 18th birthday I went to a restaurant in Chicago legitimately called “Brunch”. The food was amazing and the service was outstanding. Some other great brunch restaurants in Chicago are “ 3 Arts Club Cafe ” and “ The Hampton Social”, however those are more on the pricey side. All in all there are endless options when wanting some good eats in chicago.
Go to the Chicago Botanic Garden
I visited the Botanic Garden a couple years ago for the first time and it was beyond beautiful. It was such a unique experience, one I will never forget. There were so many beautiful flowers, waterfalls, and scenic structures were just unremarkable. Although there is a ton of walking trust me its worth it, and there is plenty of opportunities to capture some instagramable pictures. It is definitely worth a visit at least once this summer.
Shop the Magnificent Mile
Michigan Ave in downtown has so many stores that you are bound to find one that has what you’re looking for. Even if you don’t want to spend a lot of money, it is still fun to window shop and see the beautiful architecture chicago has to offer.
Party at one of the many Street Fests
Chicago always has several fests throughout the summer where you can eat some good food and listen to music. A couple years ago I went to the Wicker Park fest and it was so much fun with the live music and street performers. The admission is usually free, so you just have to pay for food and drinks and is an affordable activity to do in the summer with friends.
Lollapalooza, Need I Say More
I’ve never actually been to lollapalooza yet, but everyone I know that has gone always tells me how much fun it is. I plan on going this year because I love music so much and being able to see some of my favorite artists is something I can’t pass up. I get that this is a lot more expensive than anything else I’ve mentioned, but I definitely think it’s worth it to go at least once.
With all that being said school is almost over and summer will be here before you know it. If you live in the chicagoland area, I hope some of this was helpful in planning your summer bucket list! Summer is the time to be outside with friends and try new things, so don’t waste your days away by staying inside on your phone.
Thanks for reading, V