Shake up your routine with these adventurous ideas for your next hang.
Whether you work from home or go into an office every day , the routine of ride at a desk behind closed doors can get a little stagnant . But you do n’t have to go on a big holiday to get out of your oestrus . Have you ever tried being a tourist in your own city ? Take Chicago : There are countless ways to get yourself in the nifty outdoors with your friends without having to step on an aeroplane or take an hours - longsighted route trip-up .
Below , we ’ll dive into all of the incredible outdoor activeness Chicago and the surrounding areas have to extend , including adrenaline - pumping risky venture atThe Forge , an exclusivevending machine papa - up from Mountain Dew , beach picnics , and can’t - miss nature view . And it ’s fourth dimension to get moving : You know the frigid wintertime is get along soon , so we need to spend as much clip alfresco as possible . If you ’re ready to violate up your daily routine , get the good of the sunshine , and try something new with your crew , here ’s what to append to your bucket inclination .
Head out on the water
It may not be the crystal clear water of the Caribbean , but Lake Michigan is remarkably beautiful . Grab your acquaintance , rent a few kayaks , and boat paddle along the gorgeousLake Michigan Water Trail , which offer a stunning 50 - mile stretch to explore and see the city from a new perspective . plainly , you should n’t endeavor to take on the whole 50 miles during one good afternoon excursion : There are plenty of access points for you to insert and exit as needed .
If the physical exercise feels daunting , you’re able to still pass time on the water supply and enjoy the beauty of the metropolis with anarchitectural boat turn . Sure , it might vocalize a little touristy , but when you ’re out on the open pee and see the active building of the urban center from a new vantage stage , you ’ll be glad you hopped aboard .
Chicago is also home tomany , many beaches . The easiest way to get outdoors with your admirer may just be to pop on a washup suit ( or a white if the weather condition ’s moth-eaten ) , catch a cooler with some drinks , and head over to the one nearest you . Do n’t bury your SPF !
Chicago Architecture Center.
Go to a concert
It does n’t matter what eccentric of music you ’re into — whether it ’s punk rock , classic stone , or the latest viral hits , Chicago ’s venues host a broad classification of artists that ’ll entertain and inspire . you may attend outdoor concerts atThe Salt Shedor grab ticket to theultimate punk rock and roll outdoor experiencefrom September 20 to 22 . Or , visitMillennium Parkfor detached out-of-door concert until September 22 .
Get active
Adrenaline junkies unite ! Specifically , they unify atThe Forge , a 300 - Accho deftness dedicated to outdoor activities . Located just 22 land mile southwest of the urban center , it ’s a vacation spot for those who want to rock candy mount , zipline , paddleboard , do axe throwing , and even play outdoor laser tag end .
For something more low - key fruit , you’re able to take a glorious base on balls with friends alongthe 606 , a 2.7 - mile recreational trail . undetermined from 6 am to 11 phase modulation day by day , it ’s perfect for that early first light stroll or nighttime jaunt when you need some fresh air — and is even ideal for commute if you ’re attend to cut back on automobile time .
If you observe yourself somewhere between adrenaline junkie and stroller , you may do a less - challenging rock wall atMaggie Daley Parkor take one ofChicago ’s innumerable bike trails . Ride the 25 - mileRobert McClory Bike Pathfrom Highland Parkallthe way up to the Illinois - Wisconsin state transmission line and proceed on to the Kenosha County Bike Trail for a longer adventure , or hop off whenever you feel like stopping .
Walter S. Mitchell, City of Chicago.
Enjoy flora and fauna
TheChicago Botanical Gardenis a hidden gem . Maybe it ’s because it ’s located in the suburbs . peradventure it ’s because people think , “ Flowers ? So ? ” . But one sojourn and you ’ll be thieve on the true beauty of what our city ’s clime can create . The garden boasts 385 acres to explore , whether you ’re concerned in flush or wildlife . There ’s even a model railroad garden and birding chance ( if you ’re incline into birdcore ) . impart your group to explore together , have a child’s play in the great expanse , and see what nature has to offer .
If you ’re more of an animal fan , pucker your friends for a trip to theLincoln Park Zoo . Founded in 1868 , the zoo is dedicated to wildlife saving and care — so your sojourn is also stomach all the animal you ’re coming to see . Walk around and say hi to the African penguin , white - cheeked gibbons , Puerto Rican parrot , red-faced kangaroos , and many more .
Grab free Mountain Dew and other prizes
Mountain Dew wants to aid you get outside and adjudicate some of these activity for yourself . From September 21 - 22 , inflict the aforementionedMaggie Daley Park climbing wallfor aMountain Dew vending machinewhere you could win free , fun trophy including Mountain Dew feeding bottle and Thrillist - curatedadventure kits filled with everything you call for to have a skilful time with friends , like a custom knoll and the perfect rainproof duck soup blanket . While at Maggie Daley Park , examine your hand at the rock climbing wall or gossip one of the park ’s other attraction , like tennis courts , an 18 - hole miniature golf game course of instruction , and roller steel rentals .
Maggie Daley Park.
Chicago Botanic Garden.