Last week I gave some suggestions for summer activities for families with kids. Today I’d like to dive into a few things we can do as adults to enjoy the summer. Remember to put them on the calendar and respect those days. Don’t be too quick to cancel them. They have the potential of bringing you rest, enjoyment and memories.
Here are some of our favorite towns and what we enjoy there.
- Galena: It’s about a 2 ½ hour trip from the city. Arturo and I just came back from there! We enjoy walking through Mainstreet, stopping in one of their cute coffee shops to read for a while, going to a wine tasting or visiting one of their many vineyards in the area. This time around we stayed within walking distance to the shopping area so we could come and go as we please. We got a lot of walking in and didn’t have to worry about parking at all. For breakfast, our favorite place is Otto’s Place (make reservations). For dinner, we treat ourselves once to a very good steak at Log Cabin (also make reservations) on Main. In my opinion, the best time of the year to go to Galena is the fall when the trees are changing colors. The view on the drive is breathtaking.
- East Dubuque: While you are in Galena, stop by East Dubuque, just a few minutes away. We like to visit Eagle Point Park, with a view of the Mississippi River and we get to see a few eagles as well!
- Geneva: this is another of our favorite towns. One of our favorite places to eat in Geneva is Livia Italian Eatery. There are also several wine tasting places, coffee shops and small businesses to visit. Check out their calendar so you don’t miss special days.
- Chicago: Of course, Chicago is my favorite city of all! It would take a book to tell you all my favorite places in Chicago. Here are just a few.
There are so many things to do and see around us and I’ve just touched the tip of the iceberg. Don’t see what you like? Do some research. Get creative. It can be as expensive or as inexpensive as you would like. Don’t let time or financial limitations get in the way of making the most of this summer.