When You're a Country Living Gal but Chicago is the Ultimate Summer Vibe

Feeling the itch for a taste of city living? Yes, please.

Well, you're in luck because I've got just the road trip guide for you. Sometimes, even natural babes need a break from the peaceful countryside to venture into the hustle and bustle of city life - but for just a few days though. With car keys in hands, and bags packed, we hit the road for an adventure filled with great plant based food, pretty sites, lots of laughs and great pictures!

Spontaneity and Fourth of July doesn’t match

With three teenagers in tow clamoring for their own space, Scrambling for last-minute accommodations, we grabbed an Airbnb without a second thought—only to get there and realize we were in for a bumpy ride.

Our excitement quickly turned to disbelief as we arrived at the house which was located in a rather sketchy neighborhood. From broken locks to a door that wouldn’t even latch, it was clear this wasn’t quite the cozy holiday escape we’d imagined. With tempers rising and frustration mounting, our Fourth of July getaway was off to a rocky start. But hey, we were determined to make the best of it.

So we tasked the host with fixing all the issues and headed out.

Day 1 - What to see in Chicago?

Chicago's Magnificent Mile was our first destination. It's the heart of the city, boasting high-end shopping and delicious dining options. And speaking of food, we took a stroll down this bustling avenue to try Fons Empanadas close by. The first plant-based empanada shop in America. We literally had one of each, and while the filling flavors were good, the dough was a bit too thick and it was way expensive. So, overrated… moving on…

Headed to Millennium Park (my favorite spot in the city), to snap selfies in front of the famous Bean sculpture, officially known as Cloud Gate. This iconic park is not only a great spot for photos but also offers plenty of green space to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city. On this particular 4th of July day the park was booming with people becoming the best people watching session we had in a while.

Our final stop took us to Navy Pier, and let me tell you, it was a so nice there that day! People flocked to the various attractions, from the towering Ferris wheel to the bustling boardwalk filled with street performers and food vendors. Despite the long lines and crowded walkways, we enjoyed in the relaxed atmosphere, indulging in a delicious sorbet while snapping photos against the backdrop of the city skyline.

Day 2 - A Day Trip to Oak Brook's Retail Oasis

The main attraction? The Oakbrook Center mall, a true shopper's paradise with every kind of store imaginable, from high-end fashion to unique specialty boutiques. It’s got a little something for everyone (and every budget!).

After working up an appetite from our shopping spree, we made our way to True Kitchen, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The menu was packed with plant-based goodness, giving us the best kind of “problem”—figuring out which delicious dish to dive into first. A total win!

Day 3 - Beach Day or maybe not…

We were prepare to spend the whole day at the beach but it was so so cold it was unbearable. We experienced an unexpected cold spell during our visit to Chicago in the middle of summer! One possible explanation for the chilly conditions at the beach could be Lake Michigan's proximity to the city significantly impacting the local weather, especially along the lakeshore. The breeze was way cooler than we liked and the wind moved too fast to stay longer than an hour.

While it's unfortunate that our beach day was affected by the cold weather, it's essential to remember that the weather can be unpredictable, and it's always a good idea to check the forecast beforehand which we didn’t.

Our highlight that day though was visiting Wicker Park and Bloom Plant Based Kitchen. Everything we had was incredibly delicious and the deco was so welcoming.

Day 4 - Our Visit to Garfield Park Observatory

As we embarked on our journey to Garfield Park Observatory, we couldn't help but notice the contrast between the vibrant city and the neighborhood's unexpected appearance. While the surroundings seemed unfamiliar and a bit intimidating at first, we were determined to explore this botanical treasure.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were enchanted. The palm house’s vibrant colors, delicate orchids, blooms and lush greenery everywhere. We wander through room after room, soaking in the incredible variety of plants, each one a reminder of nature’s beauty and diversity. Despite its proximity to the city, we felt such a tranquility during our visit.

As we wrapped up our time in Chicago and began the journey home, I couldn’t help but reflect on how these adventures had left their mark. In a place dominated by skyscrapers and busy streets, we found pockets of nature that reminded us just how refreshing the outdoors can be—even in the heart of the city.

So, for all my fellow country gals craving a little green amid the urban scene, Chicago’s got some hidden gems just waiting for you! From lush gardens and serene parks to gorgeous waterfront views, there’s a bit of nature magic here for everyone. Until our next adventure, happy exploring!