Explore Chicago! It’s your kind of town
Illustration: Megan Strand
By Kruti Soni
Are you tired of always doing homework in your dorm room or apartment? Sick of the same old, boring routine? Exploring the city and developing a sense of culture is an amazing way to spend your weekends.
Museum Campus
Museum Campus is the best place to visit for beautiful pictures of the Chicago skyline. There are endless miles of the Chicago lakefront trail to bike, run or rollerblade along. Check out the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium or the Shedd Aquarium. The museums offer free days throughout the year. So give them a visit, then work out along the lovely lakefront trail when the weather’s nice.
Shopping at Roosevelt Collection
Another fun idea for getting out on the weekends is to go shopping at Roosevelt Collection in South Loop. The shopping center has great stores like H&M, Francesca’s, Ulta and more. You can visit Bridgeport Coffee for some quality coffee while on your day out. It is a great idea for a girls’ day! The boys may be thinking that there’s nothing for them, but that’s not true. There’s a theater to catch a movie with the guys or hit the Haberdash to find a dapper suit.
Federal Reserve Museum
Have you ever wanted to see $1 million in all singles? Head to the Federal Reserve Museum, 230 S. LaSalle St., and your wish will come true! Also dubbed the Money Museum, it is open and free to the public year round. You can sign up for a guided tour or enjoy the museum on your own. Spend a weekend counting money at the museum!
M2 Café
Tired of studying on campus? Head north on Halsted Street and turn left on Jackson Boulevard to find the hippest new café, M2 Café, 850 W. Jackson Blvd. Grab a hot cup of coffee on a chilly weekend morning, plug in your headphones and study on! They have amazing coffee and various options for food as well, so you can easily spend your day there.
Nuevo Leon
Looking for a place to grab a quick lunch with your buddies? Hop onto CTA Bus 60 and head to Nuevo Leon, 1515 W. 18th St. in Pilsen. to enjoy authentic tacos, burritos and other Mexican food that your heart desires. There may be lines during rush hour, so it’s always best to call ahead (312-421-1517). It’s a cash-only joint, so plan accordingly.
Use the list to start making plans for the weekend. It’s easy to get overwhelmed during the week with school, work and other obligations, so don’t forget to treat yourself once in while. Go out and explore the amazing city.
