Summary
In this blog, I will talk about the things you can do in Chicago and its suburbs. Specifically, my focus will be on Austin and its surrounding areas located across the border of central Illinois near the Mississippi River. By understanding more about these places, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect when you visit Chicago. With that said, let’s look at some background information on the City of Chicago first before we delve into Austin!
The City of Chicago was founded in 1833 along Lake Michigan’s shoreline and became Cook County’s county seat in 1837. In 1837, the City’s population of 16,000 was only one-fourth of the population of New York City at the time. In 1871, the Great Chicago Fire burned for two days and had been estimated to have consumed 300 acres and destroyed 3000 buildings. Despite this unfortunate event, there were no deaths recorded. After this terrible incident in history, the City was able to rebuild and began to make a comeback!
Now that you know a bit about the City of Chicago, let’s look at some places in Austin and its surrounding suburbs.
Geauga Lake is located in Aurora, Illinois, part of the Ohio River Valley. A person can reach the lake via Chicago because it is located directly across the river from downtown Chicago. Over the years, Geauga Lake has provided many recreational options, including boating and fishing.
Located in Vienna, Illinois, and known as the “City of Seven Bridges,” is a beautiful riverfront park called John Gage Park. The park features walking trails along the Mississippi River banks and a great view of downtown Chicago. Located in town is a bridge that connects John Gage Park to Clark Street, showing where waterfront activities were once occurring.
For fun entertainment, family-friendly attractions, and places to eat in Austin and its surrounding area, visit one of the many attractions around Austin, such as Lake Travis State Park, located at 901 South Shoreline Drive. Austin’s Lake Travis State Park is a perfect place to spend the day with family and friends. Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Lake Travis State Park is a great spot for swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving, and more. There are many things to do in Lake Travis State Park, such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. If you are lucky to visit at night, you can stargaze at their Observatory Room which gives you a great view of the stars above! The park is open every day except on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. In addition to Lake Travis State Park, there are many other recreation areas in the Austin, MN, Metropolitan area. Such as Chain of Rocks State Park, located at 3001 Hwy 44 N. This park features a concrete playground, picnic shelters, and oak savannah habitat while enjoying the view of river Saint Peter and Mississippi River.
If you are interested in working out, a YMCA is located in Cottage Grove that is open to the public year-round. The Y, which stands for Youth, has many programs, including after-school activities, summer day camps, and more. It is located at 730 East Minnesota Street.
As you can see, Chicago has a lot to offer in terms of recreations for both local and international tourists.