Imagine a place that’s got world-class golfing, high-end spas, relaxing boat cruises, charming shops, breweries, and even skiing. What if we told you there was such a place and that it is only one and a half hour’s drive from downtown Chicago? That place is Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. And as a popular resort town that draws visitors from both the Chicago and Milwaukee metro areas, there is plenty to see and do.
Coastal lifestyle magazines often get the Midwest wrong. There’s almost always a portrait of farmers and hectares upon hectares of corn fields and images of a frozen Chicago. And sure, the sweet yellow crop may be Iowa’s single largest export, and yes, Chicago can and does get incredibly cold in the winter, but throughout the Great Lakes region, there is history to explore and an infinite number of outdoor recreation opportunities.
It’s a theme that Chicago-area residents are well versed in — adventure awaits in any direction you decide to drive.
It may be unfair to describe Downers Grove as simply a suburb. With a location just about 20 miles due west of downtown Chicago, this village of 50,000 residents boasts a thriving local economy, highly ranked schools, and some of the top natural attractions in the metro area. And it’s certainly not flyover country, being the corporate headquarters to some massive publicly traded companies while also having direct access into Chicago via the expressway system and commuter rail.
Old Man Winter arrived in the Chicago area early this year — certainly well before friends and relatives show up for Thanksgiving celebrations. But holiday visitors will quickly learn that Chicagoans won’t let the bitter windchill stop us from enjoying ourselves. There’s always a lot to do in the City of Big Shoulders, so grab your heavy winter coat, lace up those boots, and consider these favorite activities during Thanksgiving break.
With roots tracing back to Chicago’s earliest years, Lincoln Park has always played a leading role in the city’s entertainment, higher education, and civic institutions. Its stretch of lakefront, which prominently features its namesake park, includes many attractions such as the Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Conservatory, among many others, and is as bustling as the busy retail and commercial corridors that cross through the neighborhood.
The relaxing and restorative power of the north suburban lakeshore has a magnetic pull for residents and tourists alike. It’s no wonder why Ferris Bueller and friends stopped at Glencoe Beach to recharge after a “day off” in Chicago, in what would become a classic Windy City movie scene. It’s also why towns like Glencoe have long drawn affluent Chicago area residents. After all, lakefront land on the North Shore is in short supply, and they ain’t making any more of it.
Located just 10 miles west of downtown Chicago, Oak Park is filled with a rich creative history. Not only is the distinct community known for creatives like Ernest Hemingway and Frank Lloyd Wright, Oak Park is truly a classic with a twist. From town functions to lush open spaces, it’s clear to see why so many call this vibrant community home. We’re sharing 10 reasons why we love this town.
Before summer slowly drifts away and we shift our focus to pumpkins and chunky sweaters, let’s make the most of our beloved summer. Take advantage of the remaining sunny days with our end of summer Chicago bucket list.
Hinsdale is one of Chicagoland’s most sought-after suburbs, and it’s easy to see why. Filled with rich history and amenities for all, the picturesque community is home to over 17,000 residents, and @properties is ecstatic to be among them. Here are 10 reasons why we love Hinsdale:
There are few places quite like Harbor Country during the summer. From sun-filled days at the beach to Saturday mornings spent perusing a farmers market, you will have no problem finding relaxation here. Keep reading to learn of the best Harbor Country activities. Continue reading