Skip to main content

Things to do Archives - Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/category/chicago-guides/ Thu, 18 Dec 2025 21:59:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 How to Make the Most of Your Apartment This Summer (Without Leaving Home) https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2026/06/01/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-apartment-this-summer-without-leaving-home/ https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2026/06/01/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-apartment-this-summer-without-leaving-home/#respond Mon, 01 Jun 2026 19:19:00 +0000 https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/?p=50 Chicago summers are packed with things to do—but sometimes the best part is right at home. Whether it’s enjoying your balcony, relaxing on a rooftop, or making the most of your building’s pet run, your apartment can be more than just a place to cool off. Here’s how to turn your space into a summer […]

The post How to Make the Most of Your Apartment This Summer (Without Leaving Home) appeared first on Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living.

]]>
Chicago summers are packed with things to do—but sometimes the best part is right at home. Whether it’s enjoying your balcony, relaxing on a rooftop, or making the most of your building’s pet run, your apartment can be more than just a place to cool off. Here’s how to turn your space into a summer sanctuary.

1. Turn Your Balcony into a Daily Ritual
Use it for coffee, Zoom calls, or sunset dinners. Add folding chairs, a plant or two, and string lights to make it feel inviting all season long.

2. Don’t Overlook the Rooftop
If your building has a rooftop deck or shared terrace, take advantage. It’s perfect for golden hour reading, casual hangs, or a quiet escape after a busy day.

3. Keep Your Space Cool and Comfortable
Use blackout curtains, run ceiling fans counterclockwise, and switch to lightweight bedding. If your apartment has A/C, test it early—before Chicago’s heat really hits.

4. Use Amenities Like an Extension of Your Apartment
Pet runs, courtyards, lounges, and fitness centers are all part of your living space. Don’t wait for guests to use them—incorporate them into your daily routine.

5. Host Without Leaving Home
Your apartment doesn’t need to be huge to be a great hosting spot. Try low-key wine nights on the balcony, movie nights in the living room, or quick weekday dinners with a view.

Summer in Chicago goes fast—but you don’t have to go far to enjoy it. From smart layouts to shared amenities, Highpoint communities are designed to help you enjoy every square foot—inside and out.

The post How to Make the Most of Your Apartment This Summer (Without Leaving Home) appeared first on Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living.

]]>
https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2026/06/01/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-apartment-this-summer-without-leaving-home/feed/ 0 50
Fall in Chicago: Best Events and Activities Near Your Apartment https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2025/09/30/fall-in-chicago-best-events-and-activities-near-your-apartmentamp8221/ https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2025/09/30/fall-in-chicago-best-events-and-activities-near-your-apartmentamp8221/#respond Tue, 30 Sep 2025 19:46:00 +0000 https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/?p=36 Whether you’re looking for outdoor festivals, cozy indoor events, or spooky Halloween thrills, there’s no shortage of activities near your apartment. Here’s your guide to making the most of fall in Chicago! Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest (September 26 – October 26) Experience the charm of fall at the Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest. Stroll […]

The post Fall in Chicago: Best Events and Activities Near Your Apartment appeared first on Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living.

]]>
Whether you’re looking for outdoor festivals, cozy indoor events, or spooky Halloween thrills, there’s no shortage of activities near your apartment. Here’s your guide to making the most of fall in Chicago!

Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest (September 26 – October 26)

Experience the charm of fall at the Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest. Stroll through the zoo’s picturesque grounds while enjoying a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and thrilling rides. It’s the perfect autumn event for all ages – and it’s free!

Apple Fest in Lincoln Square (October 3 – 5)

Nothing says fall like apples! Enjoy live music, local vendors, and apple-themed foods and beverages at this beloved neighborhood festival. From cider donuts to apple pies, this fest is perfect for foodies who want a true taste of autumn.

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns (October 8 – 12, 15 – 19, 22 – 26)

Head to the Chicago Botanic Garden for the enchanting Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns. Wander through paths illuminated by intricately carved pumpkins—each a work of art. Enjoy live carving demonstrations, seasonal treats, and plenty of fall magic.

Pumpkin Picking at Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up (Now – November 2)

Celebrate the season at Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up, Chicago’s largest outdoor fall experience. This urban pumpkin patch features a corn maze, photo ops, games, and festive food and drinks. It’s the perfect spot to find your favorite pumpkin and soak in the autumn vibes.

The post Fall in Chicago: Best Events and Activities Near Your Apartment appeared first on Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living.

]]>
https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2025/09/30/fall-in-chicago-best-events-and-activities-near-your-apartmentamp8221/feed/ 0 36
A Weekend in Chicago: Best Places to Explore https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2025/09/16/a-weekend-in-chicago-best-places-to-explore/ https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2025/09/16/a-weekend-in-chicago-best-places-to-explore/#respond Tue, 16 Sep 2025 20:06:00 +0000 https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2025/09/16/a-weekend-in-chicago-best-places-to-explore/ Whether you’re a local looking for a fun filled weekend or planning a weekend getaway to the Windy City, Chicago is filled with endless exciting spots to explore. From beautiful gardens to top-tier dining experiences and iconic landmarks, this guide will take you through some of the best places to visit over a weekend in […]

The post A Weekend in Chicago: Best Places to Explore appeared first on Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living.

]]>
Whether you’re a local looking for a fun filled weekend or planning a weekend getaway to the Windy City, Chicago is filled with endless exciting spots to explore. From beautiful gardens to top-tier dining experiences and iconic landmarks, this guide will take you through some of the best places to visit over a weekend in Chicago.

Garfield Park Conservatory – An Urban Oasis on the West Side

Start your weekend with a peaceful visit to Garfield Park Conservatory, an oasis in the heart of the city that’s especially stunning during the fall in Chicago. As the leaves change color, the outdoor gardens transform into a vibrant display of seasonal beauty, making it one of the best fall activities in Chicago. Inside, the conservatory offers a tropical escape from the cool autumn air with rooms filled with exotic plants and flowers.

Sushi by Bou – A Premier Omakase Experience in Lincoln Park

For lunch or dinner, head to Sushi by Bou in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, where you'll find one of the best omakase experiences in Chicago. Known for its intimate setting and expertly crafted sushi, Sushi by Bou is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy an elevated dining experience in Chicago. With a 12-course sushi omakase, this spot creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere where you can savor a perfectly curated selection of fresh, high-quality sushi.

The Mart – A Historic Landmark with Modern Flair

No weekend in Chicago would be complete without a visit to The Mart (formerly known as Merchandise Mart), a historic and architectural landmark located along the Chicago River. Known for its Art Deco design, this building houses high-end showrooms, offices, and stunning event spaces. However, what makes The Mart truly unique is Art on theMART, the world’s largest permanent digital art projection that lights up the building’s facade in the evenings with breathtaking displays.

Make the most of your weekend and immerse yourself in all that Chicago has to offer—there’s always something new waiting around the corner!

The post A Weekend in Chicago: Best Places to Explore appeared first on Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living.

]]>
https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2025/09/16/a-weekend-in-chicago-best-places-to-explore/feed/ 0 35
Experience the Magic of the Holidays in Chicago! https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2024/12/09/experience160the-magic-of-the-holidays-in-chicago/ https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2024/12/09/experience160the-magic-of-the-holidays-in-chicago/#respond Mon, 09 Dec 2024 20:40:00 +0000 https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/?p=7 Experience the Magic of the Holidays in Chicago! Chicago comes alive during the holiday season, offering endless opportunities to embrace the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking to shop for unique gifts, sip hot cocoa, or bask in the holiday lights, Chicago has something for everyone this December.  Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza (November 15 – December 24, […]

The post Experience the Magic of the Holidays in Chicago! appeared first on Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living.

]]>
Experience the Magic of the Holidays in Chicago!

Chicago comes alive during the holiday season, offering endless opportunities to embrace the holiday spirit. Whether you’re looking to shop for unique gifts, sip hot cocoa, or bask in the holiday lights, Chicago has something for everyone this December. 

Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza (November 15 – December 24, 2024)

Experience German and European traditions at the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza. This iconic outdoor market is known for its charming wood stalls that feature high-quality gifts and delicious food. Shop for unique handmade gifts and indulge in authentic German treats like spiced wine, bratwurst, and warm pretzels. This market is a must-visit spot in Chicago.

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo (Select night through January 7, 2025)

Lincoln Park Zoo becomes a dazzling holiday spectacle with ZooLights, featuring over 3 million LED lights. Stroll through beautifully lit pathways, take photos with massive light displays, and enjoy seasonal treats like hot chocolate and mulled wine. Plus, there are holiday-themed activities such as ice carving demonstrations and visits from Santa. This free event is perfect for soaking up some holiday spirit in one of Chicago’s best attractions.

 Ice Skating at Millennium Park

Glide into the holiday season at the McCormick Tribune Ice Risk, an iconic Chicago experience. Set against the stunning backdrop of Millennium Park, this winter activity is fun for seasoned skaters or those just learning. Afterward, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and walk down Michigan Ave.

Holiday Shows and Performances

Throughout the holiday season, Chicago features a variety of seasonal shows. See classic performances like The Nutcracker at the Joffrey Ballet or A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre. If you’re looking for something more unique, head to The Second City for a holiday-themed comedy show! 

Holiday Tea at The Drake Hotel

Treat yourself to afternoon tea at The Drake Hotel. The beautifully decorated space, complete with live harp music, offers the perfect spot to enjoy a selection of fine teas, finger sandwiches, and holiday-themed tweets. 

With festive lights, holiday markets, and seasonal performances, Chicago offers countless ways to celebrate this time of year. Grab your coat, head into the city and step into the holiday cheer! 

Happy Holidays! 
HIGHPOINT Living
 

The post Experience the Magic of the Holidays in Chicago! appeared first on Point of View: Guides to Elevated Living.

]]>
https://www.highpoint-living.com/blog/2024/12/09/experience160the-magic-of-the-holidays-in-chicago/feed/ 0 7