Archive of the Category 'Our Favorites'

Northside Chicago’s Best Sledding Hills: Thrills for Winter Enthusiasts

Winter is approaching, and Chicago’s residents are fully ready to embrace the snow-filled sidewalks and chilly temperatures. There are plenty of ways to celebrate winter in the city, like ice skating, visiting the Zoo Lights, or attending the Christkindlemarket downtown. But everyone knows the best way to enjoy the frosty weather is to find the optimal sledding hill. 

Though Chicago is not known as a mountainous city, there are nearby hills big enough for a fast-paced toboggan adventure. Here are some of the best places in the city for exceptional sledding. 

Oz Park

Most Chicagoans are familiar with the north side’s Wizard of Oz-themed park. Located in the residential Lincoln Park, each entrance is monumented with a character from the iconic movie. Though Oz Park is most famous for its statues, it’s also known by locals as the premier place to go sledding. 

Just east of Halsted, you’ll find this tremendous hill. Often used as a hangout spot for Lincoln Park High School attendees, Oz Park’s elevated mound turns into a wintery fantasy once December rolls around. Snowfall perfectly transforms this green domain into an exceptional sledding spot for north siders. 

On a typical winter day, you’ll find kids of all ages using cardboard, lunch trays, and more as sledding vehicles, attempting to achieve the perfect ride. Oz Park’s bunny hill is also an excellent option for families with young kids ready for outdoor fun. 

Horner Park  

Over the summer, Horner Park has lively events, athletics, and food trucks. Its gigantic baseball field is home to countless high school teams, and its ample green space makes for the perfect Fourth of July picnic. While this northside park blossoms during the summer months, it’s just as active in December and January. 

Thanks to Horner Park’s massive hill, kids flock in droves to this neighborhood favorite for maximum sledding fun. At almost 60 acres, Horner Park is one of the largest parks on the north side, and its elevated peak is no different. Once the first snowfall hits, the park’s hill turns into a wintery, mountainous slope. Kids and adults alike will enjoy catching air while sliding expeditiously down Horner Park’s iconic hillside. 

Humboldt Park 

Many locals might know Humboldt Park’s eponymous greenspace as the center of the Chicago alligator fiasco. In 2019, residents found a freshwater alligator hanging out in the park’s lagoon. This mishap created a media frenzy and a loving nickname for the lost reptile, “Chance the Snapper.” Fortunately, the park has way more to offer than an alligator headline. 

Humboldt Park also has one of the northside’s favorite sledding hills. Easily visible off of Kedzie Avenue, this immense hill is the premier spot for hanging out, sunbathing, and any wintertime activity imaginable. Once snow starts to fall, the slope becomes the ideal winter wonderland for sledding aficionados. 

Riis Park 

Riis Park is a vast, communal area that rivals Horner Park on the north side. Spanning almost 60 acres, this Belmont-Cragin park has a fieldhouse with a gymnasium, countless soccer fields, and even an ice skating rink. 

Though Riis Park’s sledding hill isn’t the tallest on the list, it still provides an excellent slope for its residents. Its expansiveness means abundant room for snowball fights, snow angels, and snowmen. If you get bored of sledding, you can also walk to the park’s center for a leisurely ice skating adventure. Though you might not get the most intense thrills from its hill, Riis Park is the quintessential place for a well-rounded, wintery excursion. 

Warren Park 

At the edge of Chicago’s northside is Rogers Park. With Lake Michigan at its eastern border and Little India to the west, it’s an essential neighborhood for nightlife, dining, and outdoor activities. It’s also home to a massive green space called Warren Park.

Warren Park sits east of Western Avenue and offers plenty of physical activities for people of all ages. Its nine-hole golf course and putting area are renowned on the northside, while its winding paved paths make for the perfect jog or bike ride. However, Warren Park mutates into a tranquil, snowy escape in the winter. 

Both kids and adults consistently visit the park’s hillside, and its adjacent stairs with railings create a safer atmosphere for parents with young children. If you foresee your children or loved ones having a tough time climbing up and down an icy hill, Warren Park is an excellent option for stress-free sledding access.  

Chicago’s chilly weather might frighten some, but real residents know that there are plenty of outdoor escapades to pursue during the holiday season. If you’re ready to grab a sled and hit the slopes, check out any of these parks for an extraordinary ride. 

Our Favorite Cafes and Coffee Shops in Lakeview, Chicago

Now that the weather is chilling out in Chicago, many will flock to their favorite coffee spot for a warm cup of joe. The problem in the city isn’t finding a cafe to go to but which one to choose from. Especially if you live on the north side, there are sometimes too many options, which makes finding the perfect spot challenging. If you’re a longtime Lakeview resident or happen to be visiting the area, here are some of the finest cafés and coffee shops to patronize. 

Hero Coffee Bar

Founded in 2014, Hero started as an independent shop in the heart of Chicago’s downtown. Through years of perseverance, Hero has grown and expanded through the city’s north side. Today, the coffee franchise has spread across the northside due to its delicious roasts and rustic interior design. 

The Lakeview location is right inside the 2950 North Sheridan building, making it the essential spot for residents and their neighbors. Hero’s menu options will overjoy espresso drinkers; from classic drinks like lattes and cappuccinos to seasonal drinks like the pumpkin pie latte, there’s a coffee option for everyone. There are plenty of bagel sandwich choices, too, if you’re in a hurry and need a quick breakfast. 

Osmium 

Dark Matter is a popular coffee company in Chicago with locations all over the city. Situated right on Belmont Avenue, Osmium is one of the quintessential Dark Matter cafés locals flock to daily. With its delicious drinks and strong cold brews, Osmium is a go-to shop for lounging or getting that quick caffeine re-up. 

Osmium is easy to walk to for those in the Lakeview or Boystown Neighborhood. It’s just a few blocks from the Belmont Red Line, making this café easily accessible to most Chicagoans. Stepping inside Osmium, you’ll find psychedelic wall decor and ample tables for taking a breather or getting some work done. During the summer months, the outdoor patio converts into a perfect away-from-home office, with long, colorful picnic tables for productivity and chit-chatting. 

Of course, the coffee is delicious at Dark Matter establishments, too. They have both single-origin and coffee blends for drip and iced coffee, as well as flavorful and imaginative latte drinks. If you’re ever adjacent to Boystown, you must make a pit stop at Osmium. 

Intelligentsia 

Intelligentsia is a coffee chain that takes itself very seriously. For patrons, this makes for the optimal cáfe experience. This neighborhood spot is a reputable local favorite with perfectly crafted espresso drinks and aesthetically pleasing decor. 

Walking up the busy street of Broadway Avenue, you’ll find Intelligentsia consistently buzzing with patrons. Their drinks are wonderfully caffeinated, and the cafe interior is sleek and inviting, perfect for an effective workday. There are plenty of fluorescent lights and communal tables, which are excellent for meetings or casual hangouts. The coffee menu has all the drink classics, from mochas to lattes to tea drinks like matcha. 

Doppio Coffee House      

Doppio Coffe House, named after the Italian double-shot espresso drink, is a hidden gem with exceptional eats and lattes. Despite plenty of competition, this Chicago husband-and-wife team has created a café staple in the heart of Lakeview.   

Though Doppio is known for its espresso, the shop is also proud of its artisan drip coffee for both service and retail. The café has diverse roasts that range from dark blends with chocolate notes to lighter, single-origin ones. If you show up to Doppio hungry, there are terrific breakfast and lunch options like the ancient grain toast with homemade garbanzo and tahini spread and a decadent avocado toast. 

Doppio is open at six in the morning every day, so make sure to stop by if you’re in Lakeview bright and early. 

Heritage Bikes & Coffee

What if you love caffeine, but you’re also an avid biker? Heritage Bikes & Coffee is the ideal spot for athletes who enjoy the café experience. 

Founded in 2011, Heritage has served the Lakeview community with high-end bikes, general repairs, and, naturally, espresso drinks. When you enter the café, you’ll see mechanics working away while sleep-deprived residents order caffeinated beverages. The interior is cozy and inviting, with some counter and table space for working and hanging. The menu features plenty of coffeehouse staples but also features creative, delectable specials like Heritage’s tart and sweet hibiscus matcha latte. 

Lakeview is definitely not devoid of cafés and coffee shops. If you’re visiting the area but don’t know where to go, start with these four spots for excellent coffee and inviting ambiance. 

Family-Friendly Activities in Lincoln Park Chicago: Fun for All Ages

There are plenty of fun-filled adventures to take your children on in Chicago. Whether you’re taking a trip to Navy Pier or relaxing along the lake, there are infinite spaces in the city for both adults and kids to enjoy. Here are some of the best spots for family-friendly activities on the north side. 

Lincoln Park Zoo 

What would a list about Lincoln Park be without the illustrious Lincoln Park Zoo? Located just north of Armitage and west of the lakefront, this massive zoo has mammals, reptiles, and insects from all over the world. The zoo also has programming designed for kids, ensuring they have tailored learning and exploration experiences. 

Inside the park, you’ll find the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo area, which is filled with interactive exhibits and play spaces. The zoo includes an impressive treehouse for kids to explore and the Wild Sapling Play Forest for climbing and crawling through. 

Alongside the playground, there’s Lincoln Park’s notable Farm-in-a-Zoo attraction. This area allows for hands-on learning excursions for both kids and adults, showcasing real farm animals and everyday tasks farmers do to keep their companions strong and healthy. It’s a fantastic introduction for children excited to interact with cows, chickens, and goats in a safe, controlled environment. 

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum 

One of the most family-friendly museums in the city, the Peggy Notebaert Museum has been a cornerstone in the Lincoln Park neighborhood for over 100 years. 

There are many exhibits to peruse, but the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is the most iconic. This 2,700-square-foot greenhouse hosts over 1,000 butterflies of 40 different species that glide through the space freely and majestically. Kids and parents can see these insects up close and personal, providing an unforgettable and educational encounter for any age. The greenhouse also contains immaculate birds from the southern hemisphere and tropical flora unlike anywhere in the midwest. 

For the family’s youngest members, the museum has a specifically designed play area for toddlers and young children. This playground recreates outdoor habitats indoors, with life-size bird nests and beaver logs for kids to climb and relax in. There are over 25 activities in this play area, too, including unique touchable, interactive games that teach children about our various ecosystems. 

North Avenue Beach 

Before the autumn weather gets too cold, take your children to the lakefront for quality outdoor time. Though many beaches in Chicago exist, the beach on North Avenue has some of the best amenities for family-oriented adventures. 

While swimming and making sandcastles are expected at the lakefront, you’ll also be able to rent kayaks and paddleboards for optimal fun on the water. Lakeshore Bike N’ Tune is also nearby, providing bike rentals and same-day purchases if you need a more stimulating group activity. 

Are your kids into team sports? There are beachfront volleyball nets and equipment rentals, with courts operating for $10 an hour. Even though the summer weather is coming to an end, there’s still plenty to do on the North Avenue shoreline this fall. 

Lincoln Park Conservatory

If your kids have gone through all the Lincoln Park Zoo exhibits and aren’t tired yet, you can walk just a few hundred feet north until you reach the iconic Lincoln Park Conservatory. Located adjacent to the zoo, this conservatory is perfect for kids of all ages and sizes. 

For over 100 years, this humungous greenhouse has hosted thousands of tropical and subtropical plant species from around the globe. Take a stroll through the orchid room and watch your kids admire all the colorful, exuberant flowers on display. 

If strolling through exotic landscapes isn’t stimulating enough for your youngins, there’s a playscape located just outside the conservatory. This play space includes slides, swings, and climbable, rocky formations intended to inspire connection with nature. 

Chicago’s northside is home to unlimited adventures for kids and their parents. With Lincoln Park’s inimitable zoo and sprawling lakefront, it’s almost impossible to run out of family-friendly activities that’ll satisfy everyone. 

The Best Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Lakeview, Chicago

Most neighborhoods in Chicago are full of greenery, but Lakeview stands out as one of the premier areas for outdoor space and scenic foliage. Lakeview, evidently situated right by the lake, has ample trails, walkways, and parks for families and their furry companions to enjoy. If you’re trying to relish the outdoors these next few sunny months, here are some of the best spots to visit. 

Lakefront Trail 

The lakefront trail may be the most obvious answer, but its beauty makes it the top-tier spot for open-air fun. The path runs from the southside all the way to Evanston, complimenting the immense beauty of Chicago’s Lake Michigan. A specific, scenic area between Fullerton and Irving Park in Lakeview has plenty to offer its residents; from large public parks to tennis courts, this northside pathway provides all kinds of recreation. 

The outdoor tennis courts off Waveland Avenue are great for casual play or competitive singles matches. It lands right between Waveland and Irving Park Avenue on the bike path, surrounded by a large softball field and acres of greenery. If tennis isn’t your thing, a picnic in the adjacent parks is also perfect for needed vitamin D exposure. 

North Pond

A little south of Diversey Avenue lies North Pond, a public nature area home to native plants and aquatic life. The perimeter of the North Pond spans 13 walkable acres, with beautiful winding pathways and greenery to walk through on any warm day or night. 

Converted from a dumping ground, the North Pond is special for its biodiversity and migratory bird sightseeing. This Chicago body of water is home to various amphibians, fish, reptiles, and insects, as well as multiple species of geese, ducks, and herons. 

Getting to the North Pond from Lakeview is relatively easy. If you don’t have access to a car, a few different bus routes will lead you to this natural sanctuary. The Stockton and Clark buses running north and south take you right next to the pond, as well as the Fullerton and Diversey buses that run east and west. 

Belmont Harbor 

Heading north on the lakefront trail from the North Pond, you’ll find yourself next to one of Chicago’s largest and most historic harbors. Belmont Harbor, which started being constructed in the early 1900s, is a bustling area filled with tourists, locals, and boaters. 

An AIDS memorial, which doubles as a sculpture garden, adorns the lakefront south of Belmont Harbor. The park spans 2.5 acres, with countless sculptures to represent those living with HIV or who’ve passed from its complications. The memorial’s crowning glory is a 30-foot-tall green man designed by iconic gay artist and activist Keith Harring. The construction of the garden is also a memorium for the Belmont Rocks, a popular meeting place for LGBTQ+ Chicagoans before its demolition in 2003. 

Oz Park

Directly south of Lakeview is one of the northside’s most notable outdoor spaces, Oz Park. Known for its eponymous statues of Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and the Scarecrow, it’s a wildly unique park with incredible summertime amenities.    

Many visit the park for its tennis courts and baseball field, but it’s also a popular meetup spot for dog owners and their pets, students between class periods, and group outdoor exercising.  There’s also a distinctive jungle gym and playground at the park’s center, perfect for adventurous kids from toddlers to elementary school ages.  

Northside neighborhoods have ample green spaces, but living in Lakeview makes those areas way more accessible. If you must leave your air-conditioned apartment this summer, these four spots are crucial for outdoor relaxation or entertainment.

5 Fun Winter Activities in Chicago for 2022

Though people around the world regard Chicago as the midwest epicenter of culture, development, and modernity, visitors are often deterred by the chilly climate. Even some residents will reclude after November begins and wait until the spring lets them return to the city’s scenic lakeside. 

Regardless of the snow and low temperatures, wintertime brings seasonal fun-filled activities for locals and tourists alike. Here are some of the best winter activities for you, your friends, and your family members to enjoy. 

Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park  

If you live in Chicago, you’ve probably been ice skating at Millenium Park once or twice. Though skating at the iconic rink is an essential part of winter, there’s another place where residents have been flexing their Olympic muscles. The Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park is an unconventional rink that’ll bring excitement to one’s normal wintertime activities. 

Aptly named for its shape, the Skating Ribbon winds and twists through this outstanding downtown park. The rink is double the size of a traditional one, allowing you and your friends ample space to practice your moves. Pine trees and other winter foliage can be seen at each turn of the Skating Ribbon, providing the perfect snowy landscape for this adventure. 

Tickets are already on sale, and the rink will be open throughout early March 2023. 

Sledding Hill by Soldier Field

Soldier Field is home to Chicago’s prize-winning football team, the Chicago Bears. During the winter, the field provides another attraction: its adjacent sledding hill. The perfect spot for sledding for kids of all ages is located just south of the stadium.

The hill stands over 33 feet high with a slope that spans 200 feet. At the top, there’s a beautiful view of Lake Michigan, the city’s downtown area, and Northerly Island. It’s one of the most accessible sledding spots in Chicago, with plenty of nearby train and bus stops nearby. 

Curling

If you’ve seen professional curling on TV and wanted to try it out, this winter is a great time to do so. In Chicago, multiple bars have curling lanes available for reservations. 

Kaiser Tiger, one of the city’s most renowned beer gardens, offers attendees a chance to test their potential at the West Loop location. Patrons can reserve a court one week in advance, with 40-minute time slots per team. The outdoor courts are lined with 10-foot-long infrared heaters, optimal for keeping attendees warm as they enjoy this unconventional sport. 

Chicago Botanic Garden

This expansive garden north of the city may be known for its summertime exhibits, but the Chicago Botanic Garden offers plenty during December and January. 

The outdoor gardens are still open during the chillier months, with many colder-climate plants aligning the perimeter of the walkway. There’s also an outer circuit path surrounding the gardens, perfect for exercise, scenic jogs, or a refreshing morning stroll.  

When the snowy weather gets too unbearable, the Chicago Botanic Garden’s greenhouses are open for perusing. One of the glass structures holds the Semitropical Greenhouse with colorful, exotic plants from all over the world. The greenhouse’s temperature range from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the optimal getaway from Chicago’s end-of-year briskness. 

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

In Lisle, Illinois, lies another well-known nature preserve called the Morton Arboretum. The arboretum features wonderful activities in all seasons, from summer to winter. Once the snow begins to fall, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are available on the preserve. 

The snowshoeing season begins after January 7th, 2023, if there are more than four inches of snow. Guests can bring their own equipment, but snowshoes and cross-country ski rentals are available on the arboretum grounds. Trails are marked throughout the terrain, freshly groomed for easy traversing. The Morton Arboretum map also identifies the best scenic trails, allowing guests to see the most beautiful winter landscapes available. 

For those brave enough to face the snowy outdoors, Chicago has countless activities to enjoy during the winter months. Even if you’d rather be indoors, there are infinite opportunities for fun this December and January.  

Our Favorite Upcoming Fall/Winter Events at the Lincoln Park Zoo

If you live in Chicago, you have likely visited the Lincoln Park Zoo. It’s one of the largest zoos in the country, filled with exotic creatures, a farm animal petting zoo, and thrilling attractions. Though visiting a zoo can seem like an experience suited for warmer weather, the Lincoln Park Zoo has many fun events to attend during the fall and winter. Here are some of the best things to do this coming November and December. 

ZooLights

The most visited attraction at the Lincoln Park Zoo is the iconic ZooLights. One of the park’s longest-running events, the wintertime lights extravaganza encompasses millions of LED lights to make magical holiday displays. Though many might be familiar with the event, the zoo is instituting a couple of new features to rejuvenate its usual displays.

Starting November 19th, there will be a new light show at the park, as well as a 20-foot-tall decorated tree outside of the Pepper Wildlife Family Center. Guests can walk around the illuminated park and enjoy snacks and beverages along the way. Tickets will start at $5 for general admission, with free ZooLight days on Mondays throughout mid-November and December. 

ZooLA

ZooLA is the Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual live auction that generates funds for the park’s animal care and general infrastructure. The Women’s Board of the zoo hosts the auction, a group that continuously raises money for the park’s conservation and educational efforts. The board was founded in 1976 and comprised of Chicago’s premier political and business leaders. 

The event always comes with delicious food, quality hors d’oeuvres, and elevated cocktails. Attendees can bid on extensive auction packages, including naming exotic animals in the zoo, yacht cruises, and lavish dinners. Premium ticket packages range from $1,000 per person to $5,000.   

ZooLA will start November 10th, serving food at 5:30 pm and the auction officially beginning at 7 pm.

BrewLights

While the Lincoln Park Zoo is the go-to destination for families, the zoo often provides events specifically tailored to adults. This year, the zoo is putting on the eighth annual BrewLights, presented by Louis Glunz Beer and the Auxiliary Board of the Lincoln Park Zoo. 

On December 1st, guests can enjoy BrewLights alongside the bright LED displays of ZooLights. Attendees can stroll around the park while tasting various beers and beverages. There will be photo opportunities with Santa, carousel rides, snack stands, and more. All tickets sold for BrewLights will go to the Zoo’s Auxiliary Board, which helps to keep the zoo free of admission year-round. 

Adults Night Out: Holidaze 

When November fades into Christmas, more holiday events spring up for adults to enjoy. The Lincoln Park Zoo has a second, 18+ event perfect for Christmas lovers. On December 15th, the zoo will turn into Chicago’s unconventional nightclub, with music, cocktail bars, and decorative lighting. 

Adults Night Out will have a live DJ for guests to enjoy, educational animal chats, and plenty of bars to keep people satiated and having fun. Guests can walk around the park and peruse the wild animals while sipping on delicious holiday ciders, brews, hard seltzers, and wine. A resident artist will make ice sculptures to emphasize the wintertime theme. 

Early bird tickets are already available at $15 per individual, with all the proceeds going directly to the zoo’s upkeep. When early bird tickets sell out, general admission will start at $40 per person.

There’s always something going on at the Lincoln Park Zoo, and 2022 is no exception. This November and December, there are boundless events for the whole family and parents and adults who need a child-free evening. If you live in Chicago or are visiting out of town, make sure to stop by the city’s most attended park this winter.    

Best Activities Around Chicago in Fall 2023

Though summer is a beloved period for Chicagoans, fall can be just as exciting. As the leaves change and the cooler weather sets in, autumnal activities like visiting pumpkin patches or going apple picking rise in popularity. While not every city resident has time to drive an hour away to visit an orchard, some great fall activities are happening inside city limits this year. 

Navy Pier’s Pier Pumpkin Lights  

Navy Pier is almost as iconic as the city itself. With its Ferris wheel and lakeside boardwalk, it’s a quintessential stop for any Chicago visitor. For the third year, Navy Pier will host its Pier Pumpkin Lights event.

Starting October 1st, Pier Pumpkin Lights will be in full effect. The spooky installation includes jack-o-lantern towers, festive light displays, and Halloween-inspired statues. The visual experience spans the entirety of the 50-acre peer, starting from the entrance all the way to the Ferris wheel. Though there aren’t concrete details about this year’s event yet, one can expect various Halloween installations with gargoyles, pumpkins, and graveyard scenes. 

Pier Pumpkin Lights lasts the entirety of October, with haunted pop-up events occurring every Saturday of the month. 

The Field Museum     

The Field Museum of National History is one of the largest history museums in the world. Located right off of Lake Shore Drive, its gargantuan pillars and Greek-inspired architecture is just a preview of the marvels the museum holds inside. Lucky for Illinois residents, the museum has plenty of free days for kids and adults to enjoy this fall. 

For October, there are eight different days that’ll be free to the public. Upcoming exhibits include Native Voices, an exhibition documenting Native American and indigenous peoples’ history through art, music, and poetry. Another new exhibit is Wild Colors, a collection of the Field Museum’s colorful artifacts documenting the color spectrum in nature. Of course, the prized possession is the T-Rex Sue, whose bones are prominently displayed at the museum’s entrance. 

Check out the Field Museum’s website for all their upcoming free days. 

Lincoln Park Zoo 

Roaming around the zoo is a beautiful summer afternoon activity. But Lincoln Park Zoo is also a great place to explore during the fall. With countless autumnal events, this Chicago zoo will be the place to visit this October. 

Before the Christmas lights are strung up around the zoo’s perimeter, Lincoln Park Zoo will host numerous fall events for families to enjoy. Starting at the end of September, every weekend up to December will have the zoo’s well-known fall fest. Activities include pumpkin picking, a harvest maze, children’s slides, rides, and free musical entertainment. Other upcoming events include Spooky Zoo, Haunted History Tours, and a spooky adult’s night before Halloween. 

Museum of Science and Industry

Another renowned museum hosting free days this fall is the Museum of Science and Industry. Located in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, the museum showcases man’s innovations and inventions throughout the years. 

The museum holds some of humankind’s most marvelous creations, like the U-505 submarine and the Pioneer Zephyr, the first diesel-electric hybrid train. Comprehensive exhibits like the Baby Chick Hatchery showcases life’s evolutionary process, documenting the life cycle from egg to adult. There are also incredible photography exhibits, like the Extreme Ice display, which features one photographer chasing the disappearing ice caps. 

Look at the Museum of Science and Industry website for all free dates between October and November. 

Chicago Ghost Tours with Nightly Spirits

There are many thrilling ghost tours in the city of Chicago. One of the premier tours is the Chicago Ghost Tours by Nightly Spirits, which brings guests to haunted hangouts of the city’s iconic gangsters and robbers. 

Take a trip through prohibition-era America, where you’ll find spooky pubs and restaurants with rumored ghostly tales of the past. Alongside a history tour, the experience doubles as a pub crawl, taste-testing drinks and spirits from each bar you encounter. The tour begins in Lincoln Park’s historic Red Lion Pub, which is consistently regarded as a ghost domain since its inception.

Though many might be sad that summer has come to a close, Chicago thankfully has plenty of fall activities for families to attend. Whether you’re a spooky aficionado or a local historian, these events are perfect for autumnal-style fun. 

5 Favorite Free Things To Do In Chicago

There’s plenty to do in Chicago. From seeing remarkable concerts to enjoying delicious food, the city has an infinite list of fun activities. But what if you’re sick and tired of spending excessive amounts of money to enjoy yourself? Here are some fantastic things to do in the city’s Northside that won’t cost you a penny. 

Lakefront Trail 

This one is a no-brainer for Chicago residents. The Lakefront Trail is one of the city’s most iconic and scenic trails, which connects the north and the south sides through a winding, paved pathway. 

You’ll be able to walk, rollerskate, or bike from Roger’s Park down to 71st street on the Lakefront Trail. If walking is getting old, the path intersects with various gardens, tennis courts, and monuments. Off of Montrose lies the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, home to hundreds of migrating birds throughout the year. 

Strolling along the Lakefront Trail and taking in all the beauty of Lake Michigan is the best use of free outdoor time in Chicago. If you’re visiting the city, the first walk you take has to be on this scenic trail. 

Garfield Park Conservatory   

Located on Chicago’s westside, the Garfield Park Conservatory is the best, no-admission plant conservatory in the midwest. Its half-dozen greenhouses are home to native and exotic plants, with mesmerizing glasswork adorning the exhibits. 

Going to the conservatory during the day is a refreshing experience. The light shines through the ceiling windows of the greenhouses and illuminates the colorful, unique plant species. The conservatory spans 12 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits, with rooms tailored to different environments like the desert and prehistoric midwest.   

Lincoln Park Zoo

If you’re walking along one of Lincoln Park’s busy streets, you might hear the roar of a lion far out in the distance. That’s because the center of the neighborhood lies in Chicago’s exciting zoo, with animals from around the globe. 

Founded in 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the most renowned and visited zoos in the United States. The zoo tailors to both kids and adult experiences for an exemplary family visit. The farm-in-the-zoo exhibit has a real barnyard, pigs, goats, and cows. The primate and reptile house are popular zoo destinations, with hundreds of exotic creatures to learn and explore. Alongside its many informational exhibits, the zoo hosts various themed nights, garden tours, movie nights, and more.   

Maggie Daley Park 

Walking around downtown can be exciting for about 15 minutes, then the hustle and bustle of city life starts to feel overwhelming. Luckily, a walk past Michigan Avenue towards the lake will lead you to Maggie Daley Park, Millennium Park’s adjacent greenspace.   

Maggie Daley Park is known for its winding, ribbon-figured ice-skating rink in the winter but also hosts many outdoor activities in the summer. For the kids, a unique play structure with a miniature lighthouse, two climbing walls, and an exhilarating suspension bridge. The park also has lovely picnic areas, tennis courts, and tremendous water features for the adults to peruse. 

National Museum of Mexican Art 

Pilsen, one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods, hosts wonderful activities in the summer and fall. One incredible year-round adventure is visiting the National Museum of Mexican Art, located on 19th street between Damen and Wood. 

The National Museum of Mexican Art was founded in 1987. For almost 35 years, the museum has had a mission to represent Mexican artists both in and outside the community. Its commitment to accessibility and education is apparent in its free admission rate. Today, the museum spans 48,000 square feet and has the United States’ most extensive Mexican art collection, with more than 7,000 seminal pieces from ancient Mexico to the present day.  

Free isn’t always available when exploring densely populated cities in the United States. Luckily, Chicago hosts an indefinite number of accessible tours, visitations, and activities for visitors and residents to enjoy. 

4 Favorite Walking/Biking Trails Near Lakeview Chicago

Now that summer is in full effect in the Chicago area, outdoor exercise and exploration are absolutely essential. There is so much to do in the city; from beach volleyball to bird watching, every type of outdoor activity is readily available. The most popular sport in this midwest city is taking a long bike ride up the many winding, scenic pathways. If you’re looking to bike around Lakeview or just need a decompressing stroll outside, here are some great places to check out. 

The Lakefront Trail

Would a Chicago bike path list be complete without mentioning the Lakefront Trail? This pathway is almost 20 miles long and covers most of the city and the northern suburbs. Its twists and turns align perfectly with Lake Michigan, giving an unbeatable view of Chicago’s beautiful freshwater lake. 

Most neighborhoods can access this path by walking east toward the lake, making it an essential feature for most Chicagoans. For Lakeview residents, you’ll find an entrance on either Belmont or Diversey. An added feature for designated walk and bike paths helps guide different exercisers across the city, making it a safe place to move at your own pace. 

View more information here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/lakefront-trail

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

A train stop or two away from Lakeview is Uptown, a vibrant neighborhood with incredible food and unbeatable architecture. Many residents travel to Montrose beach in the summer, a beach home to a few unique amenities. The Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is one of the most popular spots adjacent to the beach and is a perfect walking trail for a summer morning or afternoon.

The Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is the home to many migrating birds throughout the year. Thousands of migratory species fly in to rest, nest, and mate between the spring and fall. If you’re an avid birder, walking through the bird sanctuary’s enclosed and sandy pathway is the perfect place to spot many different species.  

You can find the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary at 200 W. Montrose Harbor Dr., with operating hours from dusk until dawn. 

View more information here: https://www.lakecookaudubon.org/birding-sites/montrose-point-bird-sanctuary/

606 Bike Path 

If you’re a northside Chicagoan, you’re probably familiar with the 606. Officially constructed in 2015, the pathway’s beautiful elevated trail is a worthwhile adventure for both locals and tourists. 

The 606 spans almost three miles through Chicago’s Wicker Park and Logan Square neighborhoods. Once a former railway, the path has been redesigned for safe jogging, walking, and biking. Each mile of the pathway is lined with verdant greenery, flowers, and ample benches and water fountains. 

The pathway came about when Mayor Emmanual was in office in the mid-2010s. His main initiative was to create 800 new green areas for Chicago residents, which included bike trails, reserves, gardens, and parks. The City of Chicago, The Trust for Public Land, and the Chicago Park District all collectively funded the conversion of the abandoned Bloomingdale Line into what the 606 is today. 

Entrances are located mainly along Bloomingdale street between Ashland Ave in Bucktown and Ridgeway Ave in Logan Square. 

View more information here: https://www.the606.org/

South Pond Natural Area

A tourist favorite, the South Pond Natural Area, connects Lincoln Park Zoo, a winding, walkable pathway, and an iconic view of the city’s downtown. 

Built in 1908, the South Pond is an expansive freshwater pond that spans almost 12 acres. You can easily walk around the pond and see many native plants and animals, with an iconic pavilion at its center that has captured the attention of photographers and architects nationwide. Though gigantic in size, the pavilion’s wood is weightless and transportable. Each plank is made of prefabricated timber and is light enough for workers to easily move and install by hand.

An archway bridges the street with the South Pond and the Lincoln Park Zoo, so pedestrians can take a quick lap around the water before scoping out all the exotic animals. 

View more information here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/lincoln-park-south-pond-natural-area

Chicago has some surprisingly large and aesthetically pleasing walkways and bike trails for a compact city. Outside Lakeview, there are even more green spaces to explore and stroll through. If you’re a northside resident or are venturing to this Chicago neighborhood over the weekend, these four spots are perfect for a summer bike ride, jog, or casual walk.

6 Favorite Dog Parks On Chicago’s Northside

Chicago is a fantastic place to have a furry friend. There are miles of beach-front trails to walk through (including a doggy beach) and ample, secluded spaces for your pet to roam. Especially on the city’s Northside, dog parks are scattered throughout the verdant neighborhoods. Here are some of our favorite parks in Chicago tailored to man’s best friend. 

Wiggly Field 

Chicago’s first designated dog park, this furry-friendly area, is the go-to spot for dog owners in Lincoln Park. Located at the intersection of Wrightwood and Sheffield, this half-acre park is an excellent spot for rowdy dogs to get their exercise.  

Though it’s affectionately known as Wiggly Field, the official city name is Noethling Park, there’s both an asphalt-paved and grassy area of the dog park, perfect for all types of play. Its been a beloved neighborhood staple since the early 90s, with gorgeous trees that create needed shade in the summertime. 

For more about the park’s location and hours, check out the site here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/noethling-grace-park 

Pottawattomie Dog Park

If you live up in Chicago’s farthest-north neighborhood, then you know about Pottawattomie Dog Park. This spot is a Roger’s Park favorite, with a .2-acre play area for dogs of all sizes. 

This dog park has a variety of asphalt and pea gravel for dogs to play on. Amenities include doggy water fountains, benches for the owners, and many shaded areas. It might not be the largest park on the list, but the foliage and residential vibe give this spot a relaxed, homey feel. 

More about Pottawattamie Dog Park is available here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/pottawattomie-park  

River Park 

If you live in Albany Park, you are probably familiar with River Park and its long bike path that follows Chicago’s eponymous river. Attached to the walkway is a smaller, quieter dog park that’s great for nervous pups. 

Known colloquially as Paws Park, this dog-friendly area is located west of the Fransisco and Carmen Ave intersection. If you continue on the path towards the river, you’ll run into the designated dog park. It’s about a tenth of an acre wide but is generally quiet and devoid of overcrowding. After you’re done, you can take your dog through the scenic river walkway for some great exercise. 

Find out the exact location and other park amenities here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/river-dog-friendly-area 

Puptown Dog Park 

Located in the glorious Margate Park, Puptown Dog Park gets its name from the neighborhood it resides in. 

This park is entirely operated by dog owners in the Uptown area, consistently posting updates about missing items, open hours, and more. It’s about one-third of an acre and completely paved in asphalt and gravel. It’s a popular spot in the neighborhood, so expect ample socializing for you and your pup. 

Check out more about Puptown Dog Park here: https://www.facebook.com/Puptown/ 

Portage Park 

Off of Milwaukee and Irving Park road lies Portage Park, known as the original spot of the Six Corners; this residential area is the quintessential northside neighborhood. 

Portage Park is the neighborhood’s name, but it’s also the title of the glorious park that resides in the area’s center. The new doggy play area lives in the north part of the park, adjacent to the tennis courts. The dog park is almost an acre in size, which is one of the biggest in the city. The park is operated by the Portage Park Dog Committee, which manages the park’s cleanliness and organizes dog meet-ups. 

To find out more details about Portage Park and its doggy-friendly play area, check out this site: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/portage-dog-friendly-area 

Wicker Park Dog-Friendly Area 

Wicker Park is a highly populated neighborhood on Chicago’s Northside. Its central location and bustling Milwaukee Ave draw tourists and residents alike. 

The Wicker Park Dog-Friendly Area is inside the actual Wicker Park, right off Damen and Evergreen Ave. The dog area is a relatively tiny portion of the park, which generally suits smaller dogs best. Regardless, it’s a vibrant spot for dog owners and their trusted pups, perfect for socializing and sufficient exercise. 

For more about this park, you can look here: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/wicker-dog-friendly-area 

If you’ve been struggling to find the right dog park in your neighborhood, there are more than enough to choose from.  Here are some of the best northside parks for you and your canine to enjoy the summer.  For even more dog pagerks to take your furry friends check out our new Northside Chicago Pet Guide.