Four Things That Make A Rainy Summer Day Fun In Chicago

By Wendy Widom

Chicagoans who waited patiently for summer to arrive are now grumbling under their umbrellas.

The city and its surrounding areas are experiencing a higher than average rainfall this June, causing both locals and tourists to seek out fun indoor activities for themselves and their families.

Normally June brings an average of 2.7 inches of rain to the area. This year, Chicagoland has already seen 4.72 inches of precipitation. As CBS2's Brad Edwards reports, the weather is even impacting Chicago's riverfront businesses.

Fortunately, Chicago offers a variety of enjoyable indoor activities during the summer months.

Caitlin Giles, writer of the popular Wee Windy City blog, recommends the Garfield Park Conservatory. One of the largest conservatories in the nation, it boasts six greenhouses and offers educational activities for kids and families.

The Judy Istock Butterfly Haven at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is another local favorite. The tranquil space, filled with flowers, birds and butterflies, is "a sure fix for the rainy day blues," says Giles.

Those looking for a taste of Chicago's Broadway scene can head over to Bank of America Theater to see Sting's new musical, "The Last Ship."

Inspired by Sting's childhood experiences in Wallsend, "The Last Ship" centers around an English town dependent on the local shipyard. The show runs through July 13.

If all else fails to cure a bad case of cabin fever, it may help to remember when Chicago temps felt like minus forty degrees.

Take a walk around the city with a cup of hot chocolate from Xoco in your hand and a rain poncho over your back. You'll be glad you did.