Family Fun Guide: Edgewater
Summer is the best time to visit Edgewater and experience what living by the lake really means. Unlike most Chicago lakefront neighborhoods, Edgewater does not have a park dividing the neighborhood and the lake. This allows for high-rise living with your own private beach, and parks, playgrounds and restaurants right on the water. You can also view the work of local artists through the ongoing Edgewater Artists in Motion program, or come to the Edgewater Arts Festival this month.
Local cup of Joe
Start your morning off right with a locally brewed cup of coffee at Metropolis. Metropolis does "small batch artisan roasting." Try the current featured roast: "Redline Espresso", get the kids a hot cocoa, and then head out into the neighborhood to explore.
Metropolis Coffee Company
1039 W. Granville, Chicago
(773) 764-0400
Mon. – Fri.: 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sat.: 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sun.: 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
directory.chicago.cbslocal.com
Playground with a view
One of my favorite playgrounds in the city is Berger Park. Here you can admire the skyline while your kids sail the high seas on the pirate ship. And don't forget to stop in at the Waterfront Café for a hand-dipped milkshake or other snack. In the evening you can even savor the spectacular view of Lake Michigan while enjoying live entertainment on the lakeside stage.
Berger Park & Cultural Center
6205 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago
(773) 761-0376
directory.chicago.cbslocal.com
Artistic Storefronts
In an effort to beautify the neighborhood, and showcase the many resident artists, Edgewater has taken empty storefronts and turned them into art gallery display space. Stroll the neighborhood on a gallery walk with your kids to view the local artists work. Be sure to check the website for current locations.
Edgewater Artists in Motion
Ongoing
Various vacant storefront locations
Free
edgewater.org/eaim
Sweet Treats and Good Eats
Head south down Sheridan road for a lovely walk in the Bryn Mawr Historic District. Here you have plenty of dining options from Italian to Mexican to Indian, and my favorite: the delectable Flourish Bakery. From my personal fave German Chocolate Cupcake to the Family Dinner or home bread delivery, how could you possibly go wrong?
Sandcastles or Jungle Gym?
If you are undecided on a trip to the beach or the playground, why not do both? At Thorndale and Broadway lies a lakeside playground and beach combined. Here you can build sandcastles, climb the jungle gym and even grill.
George A. Lane Beach and Park
5915 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago
chicagoparkdistrict.com
Heather Earnhart is a free-lance musician living with her husband and two kids in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. Read more of her work on the ChiTown Parent Blog at:: www.chicagoparent.com
