“I’m in love with cities I’ve never been to and people I’ve never met.”― John Green, Paper Towns
Some times you just know you are going to fall in love with a place before you’ve even been there. That’s exactly how I felt about Chicago. I’d seen so many pictures of the beautiful green river, the bustling city, long sandy beaches and, of course, the expansive lake. It appeared to take the best parts of every city I’ve visited and combine them all in one special spot. Not to mention, one of my best friends moved to Chicago shortly after graduation and I missed her terribly.
Well, after visiting Chicago for about three days, I can tell you I am no longer in love with a place I’ve never been because Chicago definitely has my heart (at least for now). If I could make my perfect city (because let’s be honest there is nothing perfect about the burbs) it would be Chicago. Every neighborhood felt completely different, yet totally relate-able. It was as though I took the sky scrapers from New York, the brownstones from Boston, the ocean and beaches from LA and the cleanliness from Auckland, added a dash of Midwestern charm and voila!
We packed a lot into our mini vacation. Everything from a river boat cruise, to day drinking on the lake. Brunching at the local favorites and dinner and drinks down town. We hit the beach, strolled the streets, shopped the Magnificent Mile, and even caught a country concert. But the best part? Spending the whole weekend with an amazing friend. A, thanks for being my tour guide and hostess throughout the trip, you truly are one of a kind.
So until next time, Chicago I leave my heart with you.
J and I infront of the Chicago Skyline
The Chicago Bean (can you spot us?)
The Beautiful Concert Venue