Creating a Travel Capsule Wardrobe

On September 19, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Travel TipsLeave a comment

Every week or so, I decide that I’m going to go through all my clothes, donate everything I never wear and be left with a perfect capsule wardrobe. Due to my inability to part with clothes I rarely way, it never happens, but the idea behind this obsession has inspired me to pack capsule wardrobes for each of my last few trips. The point of a travel capsule wardrobe is to streamline your packing and allow you to mix and match staple items for multiple outfits while you’re abroad. I used this method for a few of my longer trips and it worked like a dream. Not only was my luggage much lighter, but I had different outfits for every day I was away.

Here are the 12 pieces you can pack to make for 10 days of outfits; aka, the perfect travel capsule wardrobe:

Jeans
Leggings
Skirt
Dress
White Button Up
T-Shirt
Blouse
Tank Top
Cardigan
Booties
Sneakers
Flats

Day 1: Jeans, White Button Up, Flats

Day 2: Leggings, T-Shirt, Sneakers

Day 3: Skirt, Blouse, Booties

Day 4: Dress, Cardigan, Flats

Day 5: Jeans, T-Shirt, Flats

Day 6: Leggings, White Button Up, Booties

Day 7: Skirt, Tank Top, Cardigan, Sneakers

Day 8: Jeans, Blouse, Booties

Day 9: Skirt, T-Shirt, Flats

Day 10: Dress, Booties

The key is to bring mostly neutral colors so everything can mix and match easily. Add in a seasonally appropriate jacket, some jewelry and a purse and you’ll be good to go. What is the best way to accumulate these items for a travel capsule wardrobe, you ask? Well, with the right resources it’s pretty easy and not as expensive as you’d expect. Here are my favorite shopping hacks for buying clothes on a budget:

Raise: Raise is a brilliant way to spend less on your everyday items by buying discounted gift cards through their online marketplace. I’ve used them to buy gift cards for my favorite clothing stores (Gap, Madewell & Nordstrom), and it’s super simple to buy the gift cards, print them out (or download them into the Raise mobile wallet app to keep them handy with all your other gift cards) and use them instantly. If you’ve never used Raise before, use the code WANDER20 for $20 off your next purchase of $40 or more.
Stitch Fix: This online stylist has changed the way I shop for most of my clothes, especially the basics that would comprise a capsule wardrobe. It’s basically a subscription box customized to your shape and style that can come once a month or as often as you’d like. My coworker talked me into trying this service and I have been hooked ever since.
Outlet Malls: So obvious that it has they have to do the trick, outlet malls are my go to when I feel the need to supplement my wardrobe without spending too much. The outlet mall closest to us is the Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont, IL which feature two levels of stores. Outlet malls can be a free for all of bargain hunters elbowing their way to the deals, but sometimes you can find pieces so good it’s worth the fight.

What are the key pieces in your travel capsule wardrobe? What are your best tips for building a wardrobe on a budget?

Top Five Friday, Favorite Female Authors | RebeccaWanderlusting

Top Five Friday #21

On September 15, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Top Five FridayLeave a comment

Favorite Female Authors

I get inspiration for my writing from a lot of different mediums, especially books and magazines. I happen to read quite a bit, so a lot of inspiration comes from the books I read on my commute. I have many favorite authors, but I tend to gravitate towards female writers, as I relate more to their writing style and source matter. Over the years, I’ve collected a few favorite female authors that I can always go to if I’m in need of a strong female voice for inspiration. These women have helped me through hard times, got me through some writing block moments, and have inspired me to keep writing and finding my own voice. I’ve compiled a list of these favorites, along with a book recommendations for each. Enjoy!:

Joan Didion: Ms. Didion is a consistent favorite of mine and I am thoroughly enjoying working my way through her work. I started with “Play It As It Lays”, a fictional tale of life in L.A., and most recently read “South & West” which was a fantastic account of her time traveling through the Southern United States. I love the way Joan Didion writes, with such a cool demeanor and descriptive prose. She will forever be one of my favorite writers and I am looking forward to the documentary that’s being made about her life.
Deborah Copaken Kogan: I first read Deborah Copaken Kogan’s “Shutterbabe” when I was in high school and was instantly obsessed. I have since read this account of her time as a photojournalist through Afghanistan, Russia, Paris and beyond many times. It’s so inspiring. I’ve also read her novel “The Red Book” and loved that as well. It’s an amazing reminder that an author can successfully write fiction and non-fiction, and write them both very well.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: This feminist genius quickly became one of my favorite authors after I devoured her novel “Americanah” in one week. Her voice and characters are so strong. I’ve also read “We Should All Be Feminists”, which is stems from her amazingTED talk, and some of her work for the New Yorker. Chimamanda is an influential feminist voice, and I look up to her in more ways than one. I have to say, I can’t wait to read and be inspired by more of her writing.
Patti Smith: Patti Smith is a brilliant story teller and artist and I thoroughly enjoyed reading her accounts of New York living in both “Just Kids” and “M Train”, which I’ve just started. The way she writes is thoughtful, honest and both ethereal and gritty at the same time. As a woman and artist, she is an inspiration to those who are trying to find their own way within their mediums. She is another strong female voice and I’m looking forward to reading more of her work.
Tana French: This amazing Irish writer wrote one of my favorite books “In The Woods“, which is a psychological thriller set in Dublin. I could not put this book, or its sequel, “The Likeness”, down until they were done. Ms. French definitely knows how to write a gripping story and I love the depth of her characters. She has a few more books that I have yet to read but have the seal of approval from one of my other favorite authors, Stephen King, so I am so excited to get a hold of them!

Who are your favorite female authors? Which books inspire you?

**Links are for your convenience, not my profit.**

An Ode to My Hometown

On September 12, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Illinois, US Travel4 Comments

I grew up in a town called Johnsburg, in Northwestern Illinois. You may know it from the Tom Waits song (“…and she grew up outside of McHenry, in Johnrburg, Illinois”). Born and raised in this petite village, I knew every nook and cranny by the time I was in grade school. In terms of size, it is quite small, with a total of six square acres to its name; most of which is covered in cornfields. I had my first kiss there, my first heartbreak, I wrote my first short story there, and it was my first home base in terms of travel. I always had big dreams of traveling the world and becoming a writer.

As I got older, Johnsburg began to feel smaller and smaller, so I moved to Chicago as soon as I graduated high school. I wanted to get out and live somewhere new and explore the world. Now that I’ve done some traveling, I can recognize how special this beautiful town is, especially to me and who I’ve become. I am always happy to come home for a day or a weekend to enjoy a slower pace, some beautiful landscapes and all that fresh air.

It’s interesting, the pride you gain for your hometown after being away for awhile. It has it’s issues, as every place does, but Johnsburg will always be high on my list of favorite places. I love the cornfields, the bars, the people; I will forever bleed blue and gold (We’re from Johnsburg couldn’t be prouder, if you can’t hear us we’ll shout a little louder!). I love that if I’m ever feeling overwhelmed or just need a break from the city, I can always come home.

This past weekend, Mike and I drove up north to attend one of Johnsburg’s best festivals: Saufen Und Spiel – a nod to the village’s German roots. It’s a three day fest featuring Banjo & Beer Night, Black Light Bean Bag Toss, and the main event: the parade. I try to make it home for this fun fest, because it’s become somewhat of a tradition. I missed last year because it coincided with my Iceland trip. This year, I was not going to miss it for a million bucks because I was so excited to see this little one enjoy the parade:

We got to Johnsburg just in time to head over to our parade spot on the main drag in town, Johnsburg Road. Once we were settled, beers in hand and ready to catch all the candy, the parade began. We waived to the policemen, cheerleaders, marching bands, karate kids, and local government officials driving through in old Thunderbirds. All of which were throwing candy by the handfuls at the kids that lined both sides of the street. It was fantastic.

After the parade and more Sour Patch Kids than anyone should have in one sitting, we walked through the grounds of the festival. The Thunderbirds were lined up in all their glory next to the bevy of bounce houses. There were also a number of different food trucks serving brats and beers and sweets. A few bands would later play on the main stage, which was set back from the food vendors.

We didn’t stay for too long, but it was nice to walk through and see some familiar faces. We went back to my parents to play outside with the little ones and enjoy some cocktails on the porch. The weather was perfect for our day of outdoor activities and they have the perfect yard to run around in. Brody was with us as well and we were able to let him off the leash to run around the yard, which he loved.

I made Mike drive me up to my old high school, which has change quite a bit in the ten-ish years since I graduated. Even so, I was a little overcome with memories as we walked around the grounds. When I went there, the school only had two main hallways and we had to take turns changing the letters on the announcement board out front (now it’s electric). I had a lot of really great and really angsty times there, but I’m thankful to have had the small town high school experience.

After we walked around for a bit and I talked Michael’s ear off about all of my hometown memories, we headed back to my parents’ house. Our dinner featured meat and potatoes and corn of course, and it was delicious (if you’re ever up that way, stop at Stade’s Farm for the best produce you’ll ever buy).

As always, I was sad to go back to the city after spending all day with my family. Luckily, Johnsburg is only an hour and half drive away and we’ll be back again in a couple of weeks for apple picking. No matter where I go, my little hometown will always have a big part of my heart.

Have you ever been to Johnsburg, IL? What do you love about your hometown?

Solo Trip Snapshots

On September 5, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Denmark, Iceland, International Travel2 Comments

It has officially been a year since my solo trip to Iceland and Copenhagen, Denmark, and I’m still in awe of the scenery in both countries. This trip meant a lot to me, as it was the longest I had ever taken by myself. I think it might be cliche to say that I learned a lot about myself on this trip, that it was life changing, but I’ll say it anyways. It would be hard not to visit two completely new-to-me countries and come back unchanged, especially when the countries are that beautiful. Plus traveling alone is always such an empowering experience. I returned from this trip with a little more confidence, perspective and of course the need to book more trips immediately. Now, a year later, I have some more exciting travels planned for the near future, and I’m feeling nostalgic for one of my favorite trips ever. So, without further ado, here are my favorite solo trip snapshots from my trip to Iceland and Copenhagen:

I’ll start with Iceland, the most beautiful country I have ever been to.

My favorite things about Iceland were the waterfalls along the South Coast, hiking Mount Esja, the street art, the people, the hot dogs, the whale watching tours, Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach, Reykjanes Peninsula, and the Black Sand Beach. I don’t think I will ever see such amazing, diverse, and breath-taking scenery again (unless I go back).

In Copenhagen, I was in love with the pace of life, the wine and lattes at outdoor tables in beautiful squares with fountains in the middle. I loved the boat tour along the canal, drinking and reading at Paludan Cafe, playing at Tivoli Gardens, exploring the Norrebro Neighborhood, the museums, the shops… I could go on all day. It is such a beautiful and unique city, and I’m so happy I chose to visit.

Please share your own solo trip snapshots in the comments; I’d love to see them!

Top Five Friday #20

On September 1, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Top Five Friday, Travel Writing1 Comment

Travel Writing Tools

Over the years of writing this blog, I’ve come up with a pretty solid routine for writing and documenting my travels. After some trial and error, I’ve found what works best and what I can leave behind. I’ve found my favorite travel writing tools that I can easily throw into my bag and go. It’s really been made into a science to be the most productive and still be able to enjoy the trip I’m on without getting bogged down trying to record it. Through many adventures, here is what has worked best for me:

Notebooks & Pencils: I prefer to write everything longhand first. For some reason, I feel like this is the best way to go through and write down my adventures of the day, journal-style, without self-editing too much while I go. I’ve gone through quite a few notebooks over the years, and I have to say, there is no better feeling than completely filling up a notebook with my travel stories. Also, I’m a pencil-over-pens girl, always. I just like them.
Camera: I use a combination of my iPhone camera and a D3300 Nikon DSLR camera. If we’re going out for the night, I prefer to leave my big ol’ camera at the hotel so I’m not lugging it around; I’ll just rely on my phone camera for the evening. I like to bring my camera with us for all of the daytime adventures to get the best quality photos. After the photos are taken, I edit them using BeFunky.com, which is a free service, because I can’t bring myself to pay for Lightroom quite yet. I know, I know, eventually I’ll break down and get it.
iPhone Notes: I utilize my iPhone notes to keep a running list of all the stores, restaurants, bars and attractions we visit, as well as what we ordered there or other first impressions. I find this is the easiest and most efficient way to keep track of things, and I’ll go back to these notes when I journal at the end of the day.
Lonely Planet & Online Travel Resources: Of course before I go anywhere, I do some pretty extensive research and make a list of everything I want to see and do. This research helps us streamline our choices when we’re on a trip and ensures that we get to try out everything we want to while we’re there. I make note of operation hours, best times to visit and admission charges to stay on top of things.
Laptop: I used to own a clunky old Dell laptop that I purchased right out of college. I’d never bring this heavy thing anywhere because it only worked when it was plugged in and it was too much to carry. Recently, I upgraded to a Lenovo Yoga, which is very light and thin, and I can’t wait to bring it with on our longer trips to write, research and post from the road.

What are your go-to travel writing tools? What’s your prefered method of documenting your travels?

Trying to Do it All, Lifestyle, RebeccaWanderlusting

A Note on Trying to Do It All

On August 29, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Lifestyle3 Comments

Nowadays, I think it’s very easy to feel like we need to be always be doing something of note. Between social media, blogs, and books detailing the adventures and successes of others, there’s a pressure to jump in and make a name for yourself as well. At least, I know I feel that way sometimes; the pressure of trying to do it all is definitely there. The tricky part is knowing what to go for and finding the time to go for it.

As you probably know by now, I write this blog in addition to working 50 hours a week at my full-time job. I’m not complaining, because I love both equally, but it does get a little tricky trying to plan for both. For example, I work about every other weekend for my normal job, depending on when we have events and whether or not I need to be there for said events. Sometimes I work two weekends in a row and am off three weekends in a row and sometimes I work only one weekend a month. It really just depends. Which, as you can imagine, makes it a little bit difficult to plan little weekend trips unless I know well ahead of time and can request them off. It takes some of the spontaneity out of my travel plans.

But, as I said, I love both my jobs and I don’t think (actually, I know) that I would like to have a typical 9-5 Monday-Friday job. I like that everything is up in the air, most of the time. It only gets a little bit frustrating when I’m trying to plan for a project I need to get done in a specific time frame and I can’t nail down a weekend to go. As a result of these circumstances, I’ve gotten very good at projecting which weekends will be busy and which weekends I can coerce Mike into checking out some new Midwestern destinations. I’ve gotten better at planning larger trips well ahead of time so I can request the days off months in advance so someone can cover for me. It takes some work, but I’m happy to do it. It’s been awhile since I could truly say I like my day job.

While I do think it is entirely possible to have both a career and a successful side hustle/passion project, it certainly does take quite a bit of work and time-management. Being passionate about both things in equal measure is key, and so is having a good support system behind you (thank you, Michael!).

Anyways… those are my musings for today! I hope you can relate and that this particular post lets you know that yes, it’s hard, but you’re not alone in the hustle.

How do you deal with the pressure of trying to do it all? What tools and tricks do you use to be most productive?

Monthly Memo: August

On August 22, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Lifestyle, Monthly MemoLeave a comment

Hello friends! Happy August! Man, this month is juts flying by. With work being so busy and our hectic schedule of weddings this year, I feel like I haven’t been able to slow down and enjoy the summer at all this year. Which is fine, but I still have so much left on my Summer Bucket List that I want to accomplish! Like:

Taking a trip out to the Warren Dunes in Michigan
Going to the Logan Square Farmer’s Market
Doing one of the Architectural Boat Tours on the River & walking along the Riverwalk
Seeking out new rooftop bars to enjoy
Going to some of the street fests in the city

It might be a little too late for the street fests, but I’d like to get to the other few things before Fall begins. We have three more weddings to attend before the year is over and, while I’m having a blast dressing up and dancing with my friends and family, I’m also having a hard time scheduling trips around these special days. So much so that I was thinking about writing a post about making weekend trips out of weddings. Is this something there would be some interest in? (Let me know in the comments).

Besides, or maybe because, it’s been crazy busy this summer, I’ve also been crazy productive. I just finished reading “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero and it was life-changingly good. If you haven’t read it yet, I would 1000% recommend it for everyone. She is so inspiring and the book itself is just one big push towards your biggest goals. For me, it was another kick in the butt to put more time and effort into my writing. I think it’s paying off too, because I was just noted as one of the top 10 travel bloggers in the Midwest to read by ALIVE Magazine! So, that was a very happy surprise indeed.

Reading Ms. Sincero’s book was such a great experience, that I immediately went online and bought a few other books in the same vein to read on my commute to work (“The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck”, “Getting to Yes”, and “Furiously Happy”).

As I mentioned in this post, I am going to be heading to Toronto in a couple of months with Mike and we are so excited to be taking this trip! I’m having so much fun researching places to go and restaurants to try. I’m hoping to get in a few more trips before the end of the year.

What about you? What have you been up to in August? What’s on your end of Summer bucket list?

Top Five Friday #19

On August 18, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Illinois, Top Five Friday, US Travel3 Comments

Things to Do Near the Mag Mile

The Mag Mile (or Magnificent Mile if you’re not familiar) in Chicago is one of the city’s most known and visited tourist attractions. Though no one would claim it to be very original or unique in it’s restaurants and stores, there are quite a few hidden gems to find near this main drag. I recently wrote about this subject for VIVA Lifestyle & Travel and I have to say, going back to explore this neighborhood gave me some serious nostalgia. Here are my top five favorite things to do near (not on) the Chicago Mag Mile:

Enjoy a Rooftop Bar: There are so many fantastic rooftop bars in this area that it’s hard for me to choose which ones to recommend. The ones that I’ve frequented the most are Drumbar at the top of Raffaello Hotel (cool atmosphere and delicious cocktails) and GreenRiver (beautiful view and equally beautiful drink menu and small plates). Besides these two, there are a number of other great hotel and rooftop bars in the area that are sure to provide a bevy of libations and great views.
Take in Some Art: The Museum of Contemporary Art is the obvious fan favorite as far as art and culture off the Mag Mile is concerned. It’s an amazing museum with fantastic exhibits that rotate every six months or so. Besides the MCA, there are few other unique opportunities to take in some art in the area. One of my favorites is the Driehaus Museum, which is a restored 19th century mansion full of beautiful art and furniture of that era.
Shop Off the Mag Mile: If shopping at chain stores is your thing, then you will want to stay directly on Michigan Avenue. If not, you’ll have to wander off the main drag a bit to find some smaller, independent stores. There is a great bookstore, Afterwords, just West of the Mag Mile which includes two stories of books, both new and used. Another gem on the West side of Michigan Avenue is P.O.S.H. on State Street. It’s a wonderful little boutique filled with French knickknacks and local-themed gifts.
Try Some Worldly Cuisine: Chicago is full of restaurants of every origin and taste, and this theme is concentrated in the Mag Mile neighborhood. One of my favorite restaurants in the area is Le Colonial, a Vietnamese style restaurant with French style service. I also really love Gyu-Kaku, a delightful Japanese BBQ joint (I know it’s a chain, but it’s delicious so whatever), and Cafe L’Appetito, an Italian cafe known for their delectable sandwiches.
Hit the Water: Nestled between the River and the Lake, this neighborhood provides ample opportunity to get into the water. Ohio Street Beach, located right near Navy Pier, provides the perfect place to sunbathe and jump into the lake if it’s a hot day. Alternatively, most of the tour boats leave from the river and Michigan Avenue if you’re looking to learn more about Chicago’s architecture and history. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy the area’s waterfronts.

Have you ever visited Chicago’s Mag Mile? What’s your favorite hidden gem in the area?

Save Money While Trip Planning, RebeccaWanderlusting

6 Unique Tips to Save Money While Trip Planning

On August 15, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Travel Tips, Trip PlanningLeave a comment

I’ve touched on this a little bit here and there, but this year did not start out very well. Slowly, each month it’s gotten better and better, due to a change in career, a change in neighborhood and an all-around change in attitude. I think one of the big things that has helped is for the first time all year, I’m planning a trip outside the Midwest. Oh man, it feels so good to be making travel plans again!

Mike and I are heading to Toronto in a couple of months, and planning all the details has been such a joy. More on the specifics of this trip later, but I forgot how much I love looking into new destinations and picking out hotels and restaurants. I got a little bit carried away and started planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta for my birthday in December too.

It was one of my goals this year to visit Canada and Mexico, so I’m trying to make it happen as well. Because I’m trying to fit in two larger trips for the last few months of the year, I’m currently saving up and working on a budget to make it doable. I’m always on the lookout for new ways to save some money, especially when traveling as it’s my most expensive habit. I’ve tried out quite a few different tips and tricks to save money while trip planning and here’s what has worked best:

Be flexible: The best way to start trip planning is by having no plan at all. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you open yourself up to the cheapest options available.
Clear Your Search History & Utilize the Right Websites: Your search history can impede your ability to get the best deal out there on airfare and hotels. Before you start your trip planning online, clear your search history and use the right websites to find the best deals. My personal favorites are skyscanner.com, rome2rio.com, and tripadvisor.com.
Join Ibotta: This app allows you to get money back from your everyday purchases and in the way of rebates, which can be used towards your travels. You can also use it to search for deals on popular travel booking sites.
Check Groupon/LivingSocial: Either of these sites can provide you with discounts on hotel rooms, dining, and activities. We’ve used both to save money at restaurants when we travel or to book tours and attractions.
Master Travel Credit Card Points: I am, admittedly, a novice at this skill, but it’s still a great way to get money back when you pay for trips with your travel credit card. (If you’re looking for a great resource on this, check out The Points Guy).
Use Raise Marketplace: I just started using this online hub for discounted gift cards and it’s quite the handy resource. On it, you can purchase gift card for your trip from airlines, hotel brands, AirBnB, and more for a percentage off the total. As an added bonus, use my code (WANDER20) for $20 off your first purchase (of $40 or more).

How do you save money while trip planning? What are your best travel budgeting tips?

Lincoln Park Conservatory, Chicago, RebeccaWanderlusting

Lincoln Park Zoo & Conservatory

On August 6, 2017 By rebeccawanderlustingIn Illinois, US Travel2 Comments

When I first moved to Chicago almost ten years ago (yikes), Lincoln Park was one of the few neighborhoods I knew of. I would take the red line from the loop up to Fullerton and wander around the area, visiting friends that went to DePaul and lived in the neighborhood. I always loved how many parks and green spaces there were in the area. I actually spent my 20th birthday at the Lincoln Park Zoo for Zoolights, which is a program they put on in the winter months, consisting of light shows and different winter activities. I hadn’t really been back since, up until last weekend when we met my family there to spend the day together.

The whole gang was there, mostly for the kids’ benefit, but I have to say, the grounds at the Lincoln Park Zoo are beautiful and made walking around all day a joy. My niece, who just turned two a couple of months ago, is newly obsessed with animals, especially zebras, so it was fun to walk around and discover with her. She was very excited to see each exhibit we passed and dutifully said hi to each animal.

It was really nice to spend some much needed quality-time with my family, especially in such a gorgeous setting. We got to talk and catch up between popping into each of the separate animal houses. The grounds of the zoo are beautifully landscaped, so we found ourselves stopping frequently to take in the scenery.

After walking around for awhile, we went across the street from the zoo to R.J. Grunts, the very first Lettuce Entertain You restaurant, for some lunch. It seemed we weren’t original in this plan, as there was a bit of a wait, but the food was delicious. It wasn’t anything fancy, we all ended up getting burgers and sandwiches, but it hit the spot after walking around in the heat. The restaurant has a pretty lively atmosphere and was playing all the Motown hits, which I loved.

After lunch, my sister and brother in law had to take the kids home for nap-time, so Mike, my parents and I walked over to the Lincoln Park Conservatory to check it out. I had never been inside, and the lawns outside the actual building were a beautiful hint of what was to come:

Inside the conservatory, besides being so dang hot, was perfect. It was like a little oasis, full of beautiful, blooming flowers and palms. I could have stayed in there all day just wandering around, admiring. There were ponds full of Koi fish and rare orchids, cacti and so much more.

We walked around the conservatory slowly so as to take it all in properly. My favorite room was the one with the totem poles intermixed with the plants (see above). It made me want to incorporate more greenery into our apartment. My mom could tell us what each of the plant were (and whether or not I could keep them alive – the answer was usually no).

Once we were finished walking through the Conservatory, Mike and I walked my parents back to their motorcycle (yes, they drove the bike all the way from Johnsburg to the city) and said goodbye before walking back through the parks one last time.

One of my favorite areas in this part of Lincoln Park is the nature boardwalk, which is situated between the zoo proper and the children’s petting zoo. It’s a complete little ecosystem for native wildlife and provides a beautiful juxtaposition to the bustling city around it. Mike and I walked through it on our way back to catch the bus back home and it’s just gorgeous. The view from the boardwalk of the skyline beyond is perfect.

It was a beautiful day with my favorite people. Now that I know these gorgeous parks are there, I’m excited to go back and visit again when I need some nature in my life.

Have you been to the Lincoln Park Zoo or Conservatory? Where can you find some nature within your own city?