My first post for you followers is this: How to prepare for your Chicago summer.
Whether this is your first summer in Chicago or your 20th, I'll give you some ideas on how to plan for a great summer, even if the weather isn't always up to par. You'll find lists for activities, new restaurants to hit, plays to catch, what to shop for, and what to do on a night in when it's hailing or storming.
I hope to refresh and add to this summer list in a few months. So, check back once it hits 70 degrees!
A compilation of websites that will assist you on a sporadic night out or a planned weekend with friends or family.
Yelp
I have to give credit to Yelp.com. There was a restaurant that I loved when I first moved here (no longer in business, yikes) that led me to this site. I wanted to share my experience with others and found this site to be both easy to navigate, and just all around helpful for my city search. Want to venture to a certain neighborhood, but not sure what you'll find there? Yelp it! Looking for cool events that may not be posted in the Red Eye or Metromix? Go to Yelp Events. With over 10 filters for price, hood, attire, and cuisine, you'll find what you're looking for AND more on Yelp.com
Poggled
A site that some of you may know about... It's very similar to Groupon, Living Social, etc. but it is only catered to bar deals. You can search by day or neighborhood. This comes in handy when you want to have a cheap night out or you want to explore someplace new-for cheap! There is also an app on your iPhone if you feel so inclined. I believe this site is also offered in other cities.
Brokehipster.com
Don't let the name fool you. You don't have to be broke or a hipster to enjoy the benefits of this website. It will let you know what is free, what is cheap, and on what day/where it's offered. Frisky for some whiskey? You can see what bars make it cheap.
Beer Menus Chicago
Ever wonder what bars carry what beers? There's nothing better than showing up to a bar and realizing you favorite beer is on tap! On beer menus Chicago (also avail in other cities) You can find a bar and see every single beer they carry. What's better than that? I'll tell you what--they also post the alcohol content AND price of the beer. The internet is a beautiful thing. It also gives you the location, hours of operation, website, and a news feed activity. Events and deals are also posted on this site, so if you're inclined to do a tour, it's all here for ya.
Ok ok, so maybe you're not a drinker? Or, your parents and sister are coming to town? Here are some websites to find great activities (not necessarily only for summer, either).
Meetup
I'd like to give some kudos to this website. Although I have been a member of some running groups, I never actually got to go out and run with those members. I had the intention of doing it, but the timing was never right. I'd suggest that if you look through Meetup, you actually follow through because I have heard many good things. You can find knitting clubs, running clubs, dog owners clubs, you name it! If you're new to the city and need an outlet other than work to meet people, meetup is a great way to get started and make some new companionships.
Chicago Festivals
For all of your music festival needs. Here, you'll find information about JazzFest, BluesFest, Taste of Chicago, etc.
Chicago Traveler
No, this website does not make MY blog void, it just adds to more ideas for Chicago fun! It is extremely informative and detailed. For attractions and events, it tells you the exact address, how many people are in attendance, as well as some promo codes for cheaper events. Basically, if you're lazy or new in town, go to this website to easily scan Chicago attractions in one scroll.
Chicago Plays
One of my favorite pasttimes growing up was going to see plays and musicals with my family in Chicago and New York. I can't seem to afford the caliber of tickets we used to get for those plays, but no matter. At Chicago Plays, you can find any theatre with any showing. You can choose by genre (cabaret, children, family, improv) and even outside the city (Berwyn, Oakbrook, etc.) The site also has a blog so you can see what is most raved about if you're having trouble deciding. Be careful, you might find yourself wasting many hours on this site alone. :)
Museums
In all honestly, About.com rubs me the wrong way, I never feel like I'm getting real information. But, give them the benefit of the doubt on this one. A comprehneisve list of all the museums in Chicago with their website link ready for clicking. Note: if you don't feel like losing your kids, the Peggy Notebaert Museum might be your best choice.
More Music!
You'd be surprised with how may concerts there are not only during the summer, but also during the winter and on work days. I love being an adult because I don't have anyone telling me I can't go see a band on a Tuesday night. Metromix gives you a no frills search at your fingertips for everything happening in Chicago. Peruse the calendar, user ratings of venues, what audience is advised, genre, etc. on this site. In addition, I will eventually be adding my own commentary on music events I've attended so you can get the real scoop.
Great comments...Moving tips are great... (boxes can also be delivered to you from a moving company and are cheaper than getting them at Home Depot!) Also fun to read about the Rita ratings around town.
ReplyDelete-Naptown Nancy C.