Hello! If you follow me on instagram (@ourdaysinthechi) you know that I am currently enrolled in an MBA program. I finished my fifth class last week and am on an 8 week break before I go back in September. I had 3 back to back classes and have been in session since right after the New Year so this break is much needed! I wrote a summer bucket list post last year (check my June archive) & wanted to do an updated post for this summer! I’ve got a short amount of time to live my best life! 🙂
Arlington Park is one of my favorite places to spend the day outside. There’s so much to do here with family or as a day date – it’s perfect for any occasion. If you are going with kids I suggest looking at their calendar of events page and picking one of the Family Days. They have pony rides, a band that plays music for kids, bouncy houses, a petting zoo and so much more! You can either bring a blanket to sit on or pre-reserve a picnic table as your spot for the day. For a small fee you can bring a cooler full of snacks, which makes it super convenient. When we go with kids we rarely end up placing any bets, we usually just go by the activities and watch a few of the races!
We found this park out in Schaumburg last year and it was a blast. On the one side is a huge park area with slides, an obstacle course type play area, a huge statue of a bison, along with a nature music area, water area and so much more. On the other side is three miles of walking paths and a nature center. There is plenty of parking but I would suggest bringing with water and snacks as there isn’t anywhere to purchase anything. We’ve been a few times and it’s worth the drive as there is so much to do and explore!
I know, I know, super touristy, but honestly even though I’ve lived in Chicago for close to 10 years now I still love going to see the Bean. Maggie Daley has been fun since I’ve had kids. From the rock climbing wall, to mini golf to the different play areas for kids there’s so much to do. If you have more than one child I do recommend going with another adult, the park is huge and it can be difficult to keep your eyes on more than one kid at a time. If you go on a weekend try not to go when there’s a big event going on downtown, for example Lollapalooza, because it just gets crazy!!
These are just a few of my favorite spots to hang out at when the weather gets warm. I still have a few things on my list from last year, a Chicago Dogs game and a road trip, I’m hoping to knock off both of those too!
Find me on instagram at @ourdaysinthechi!
Until next time!