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We don’t know about you, but May, for us, marks the beginning of a spring/summer filled with fun activities, cultural events, and spontaneous adventures. So, what are the hottest things to do in Chicago this May that you absolutely should not miss out on? Well, get ready for our editor’s pick of events, lifestyle trends, new shops to check out, and more!

Treat Yourself to a Cruise Ride

The weather is now perfect for us to get on the water. Luckily, Chicago is never short of cruise experiences! Check the seasonal offerings at City Cruises, or try the brand new rewards program from City Experiences. Care about Mother Earth? Get on a yacht with Chicago Electric Boat Company, which also partners with M3 to bring positive changes to our community.

Sunny days and water slides. They may not rhyme, but they vibe! Well, better grab your floaties, swimsuits, and beach towels, because it’s water park season! Raging Waves, the largest water park in Illinois, will kickstart its 2022 season on May 28th. Celebrating 15 years of delivering family fun for all ages, guests will soon be able to experience various attractions including 32 water slides, a wave pool, three kiddie pool areas, relaxing lazy river, 43 private cabanas, and more!

Picnic Under Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossoms are in full bloom now! There is seriously no better time to picnic under the cherry blossoms than mid/late May in Chicago. So, better add flower watching to your things to do list for this month!

Image Credit: Shore Club

It’s here… Yes, you’ve heard it right. Our favorite summertime pop up, Shore Club, is back again this summer! The wildly popular seasonal restaurant and beach day club will be open from May 21st thru the end of September. With unobstructed views of Lake Michigan and fabulous cocktails, guests are transported to the Mediterranean with an elevated menu filled with fresh eats under the sun!

Your pups want to go out too! From dog-friendly restaurants, patios, to the best dog parks, Chicago is undoubtedly a dog-loving city. So, this May, take your fur babies and go on a date with them. I’m sure they’d super appreciate your time and love. If you don’t want to go by yourself, call up a few friends and make it a puppy group date. The furrier the merrier, right?

Ok. We still can’t believe how quickly it went from freezing to blazing, but this temperature is starting to get to us. Luckily, the newly opened cafe is here to replace the heatwave with freshness! Switch into chill mode at Matcha Cita with their delicious cold drinks, smoothies, and desserts. And don’t forget to post for Instagram in their super cute interior!

Raise your hand if you’re a summertime Rosé drinker! After saving Chicagoans throughout the gloomy weather by bringing the summer vibes to town 365 days throughout the year, Summer House is now starting something new and exciting — their own Rosé! Crispy, light, perfect amount of sweet… We fell in love with this bottle of summer freshness right off the bat. Right now, you can only get a taste through in-person dining, but we’re really hoping the Summer House Rosé would soon become available in the retail world!

Image Credit: Ryan M. Beshel

So many good things are returning as our City reopens — one of them being our favorite farm-to-table restaurant, Eden! While originally planned to open mid-May, based on the latest intel will now officially open for breakfast and lunch beginning Monday, June 6, 2022. Dinner service will open late in the month, currently set to June 22nd. As one of the coolest farm-to-table dining concept in Chicago, Eden sources ingredients from local farms and purveyors and spins the freshest items into unforgettable dishes that will surely light up your spring and summer moods.

Chicago’s rooftop is something you must try every summer, at least for once. Raised, Morgan on Fulton… you name it. The option is honestly endless especially with new places opening up. And that view you’d get looking over the city will for sure turn any long day into a beautiful one. Just make sure you grab a cardigan or a wrap — even on the hottest days, it could get windy and chilly when you’re up high.

TOM remains our favorite remote work day location for a reason. This awesome food hall continues to bring in our favorite restaurants so we really can get everything we want in one spot. This May, Time Out Market has recently added four new vendors: Avli, Big Kids, Evette’s, and Lil Amaru. So, if you’re feeling that WFH dread, hop on the train and head down to TOM. Personally, I’m in love with the Latin street food at Lil Amaru!

Who doesn’t like burgers? From veggie burgers to ones with a foreign cuisine zing to them… Chicago has the most diverse burger collections across town. So, this May, get your foodie personality on and start a burger tasting journey. Let us know where you get your favorite ones, too! Because we’re always down to discovering new burgers.

May is AAPI Heritage month, which means cultural events, art exhibitions, and… yes, food! Chicago is never short of Asian fare, so be brave and step out of your comfort zone this May to try some authentic cuisines from AAPI countries. Hey, you might just have found your new favorite restaurant. This year as part of Chicago’s AAPI Heritage month celebration, there will be an AAPI restaurant week where iconic Asian-Pacific restaurants across town come together to sway you off your feet with unique AAPI foods.

Loverboy Meet n’ Greet at Mariano’s Lakeshore East

Join Mariano’s for a meet ‘n greet, tasting event with Carl Radke From Summer House and LoverBoy! If you’re looking for something fun and delicious to do, check out what’s happening at Mariano’s. On Thursday, May 19th, Mariano’s Lakeshore East is hosting a tasting event with the mastermind behind Summer House, bringing you a night full of delicious treats and fun conversations. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcYcXULuvX5/

Check out the “Reflections” Exhibition

Local fine artist and sculptor René Romero Schuler is opening her next exhibition, “Reflections,” at Chicago’s Zolla/Lieberman Gallery beginning Friday, May 20 (through July 30). The gallery will showcase Schuler’s signature figurine artwork, which is equal parts self-portraiture and depictions of the ranging emotions she’s experienced following a challenging childhood. Schuler’s paintings and sculptures are purposely semi-abstract and textured, rendering them open to interpretation by the viewer.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago never fails to impress. This May, check out the newly opened exhibition Forothermore, featuring Chicago artist Nick Cave. Nick Cave: Forothermore is an ode to individuals who have lived their lives as “others” — the outcasts due to different reasons. May it be racism, homophobia, or other forms of bigotry, Forothermore is a celebration of how creativity and art has and will continue to shape a better future.

Stroll Down State St.

Chicago’s coolest block party is back! Sundays on State, voted the “Best New Event of the Year” by Time Out Chicago in 2021, happens on selected Sundays thru the summer. State Street will close to traffic with an expanded footprint from Lake to Monroe and transform into an open street full of surprises. Neighbors from every Chicago community and beyond will once again unite for this free, interactive block party, while safely enjoying art, culture, active recreation, shopping, food, drinks, and local attractions.

Festivals are back, and we’re all ready to get outside for a day of music. Grab your picnic chairs, blankets, and your favorite seltzer pack, because it’s time to have some fun under the blue sky! There are also outdoor art fairs and street fairs happening throughout summer. The possibilities are truly endless!

The beloved Chocolate Festival will return to the historic streets and parkways of downtown Long Grove for the first time in three years, May 20 to 22. After a long pandemic hiatus, organizers of this season’s Chocolate Fest are stepping things up with three days of live music, family activities, chocolate vendors, and chocolate experiences!

Are you obsessed with Bridgeton yet? Well, we are! That’s why we’ve been so stoked about the Bridgeton Experience finally coming to Chicago. Grab your tickets and dress up, because it is time to join The Queen’s Ball and change your fate. Are you born with loyal blood and ready to shine in the dance hall? If not, you better start practicing your curtsy right now!

Featured Image Credit: Shore Club

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It might have taken two months of straight rain and chilly temps, but we have finally arrived at Summertime Chi! Finally, the heat is back, and so is our willingness to venture outdoors for a day spent soaking up the sun, breathing in the fresh air, and indulging in our favorite munchies. However, if you struggle to pack a picnic box, then might as well order some takeout from the best local joints across Chicago? 

1732 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647

1345 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610

When you’re thinking about grabbing takeout, we can bet you’re thinking about the all-time classic combo: a burger and fries. However, at Small Cheval, freshly made burgers and hand-cut fries are their specialties. Here, you get the ease and quickness of takeout without sacrificing quality ingredients and flavor. With two locations to grab food from, Small Cheval is the ideal spot to pick up a mouthwatering meal and head to the park to enjoy it!

 825 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607

There’s nothing quite like a freshly sliced deli sandwich, and it’s even better when you can grab it and go. At Publican Quality Meats in Fulton Market, you’ll find endless possibilities for the perfect picnic sandwich. Porchetta, smoked turkey, creamy cheddar cheese, and endless toppings… a stop at PQM is sure to start your picnic day with a delicious meal. Bonus? There are small parks around the West Loop to enjoy your order in the summer sun! 

1931 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

If you’re an early bird and your picnic day starts with breakfast, check out Brobagel in Wicker Park. With an expansive menu and a location only a few blocks from Charles Joel (Wicker) Park, Brobagel is the perfect place to start your sunny day adventure. Brobagel has been in business since 1983 and is run by three brothers who take their bagel making seriously, using traditional baking styles like boiling the dough in water and baking them on redwood planks. So if your perfect picnic day combines fresh, warm bagels and a walk in the park, Brobagel is the place for you.

Image Credit: The Hat

1604 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

There’s nothing more classic Chicago than enjoying a Chicago-style dog in one of our gorgeous parks. So if you’re craving a steaming hot dog, Italian sausage sandwich, or dripping beef sandwich, check out The Hat just west of I-94. With all the Chicago classics, you know you’ll find something to sink your teeth into without dealing with the hassle of forks and knives. As we dive headfirst into the summer heat, you can also stop at The Hat to cool off with a homemade, fresh milkshake. You can’t go wrong with flavors like fresh banana, peanut butter, and cherry.

400 N LaSalle Dr, Chicago, IL 60654

Love a good light sub? Then check out Hannah’s Bretzel — where classic subs meet pretzel buns. Compared to regular sandwiches, these Bretzels are far tastier, in our opinion. The little joint also uses the freshest ingredients sourced locally and dedicates itself to sustainable practices. You’ll also find a ton of chocolates, chips, and other condiments to add to your picnic basket.

PS: all proceeds made on Friday, May 20th, will be donated to support Ukraine.

3970 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

Sandwiches piled high, crispy, crunchy fries, and refreshing salads. These are just a few things you’ll find on the JT’s Genuine Sandwich Shop menu. While the list seems classic for a sandwich shop, every dish has a JT’s take. With Coney fries with their signature coney sauce, melty grilled cheeses, and creamy, fresh chicken salad sandwiches, no matter what you’re craving for a picnic day, you’ll find it at JT’s. This family-run business features home-style recipes that taste as they came from your own kitchen. JT’s also offers vegetarian options so everyone’s appetite is satisfied!

535 N McClurg Ct, Chicago, IL 60611

Foxtrot Markets are popping up all over the city, but have you checked out what they offer? Featuring grab-and-go foods, a cafe and dining menu, and everyone’s favorite, a curated spirit selection, a quick trip to Foxtrot is the perfect place to start your picnic day. Also, you have to check out the charcuterie selection. With crafted meats and cheeses, a day in the sun will be spent picking at your favorites, savoring every bite. Wine, cheese, and some beautiful summer weather, what could be better?

1512 N LaSalle Dr, Chicago, IL 60610

You can’t say you know Chicago pizzas unless you’ve tried Bob’s. Bob’s pizza, ran by Chef Matt Wilde, offers classics like pepperoni and Margherita, but also a ton of innovative signature pizzas, like the pickle pizza. Trust us. You’d be surprised how the fresh Italian mortadella, garlic, pickles, and dill create the perfect flavor. So, step outside your comfort zone for your next picnic in Chicago, and impress your crowd with Bob’s pizza!

Featured Image Credit: Hannah’s Bretzel

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Have you figured out things to do this May in Chicago? Good! Because it’s time to plan for June and the rest of summer. And don’t tell me you’re not putting a waterpark weekend on your to-do list — because that doesn’t make any sense! But if you need just a bit more convincing to get those swimsuits on… Well, the biggest water park in Illinois, Raging Waves, is opening for the summer season within a week and a half!

Located at 4000 N. Bridge St. in Yorkville, Raging Waves is the largest waterpark in Illionis. For the 2022 season, the park will open to the public on Saturday, May 28, 2022. Celebrating 15 years of delivering family fun for all ages, guests will be able to experience various attractions including 32 water slides, a wave pool, three kiddie pool areas, relaxing lazy river, 43 private cabanas, and more. Thrill-seekers will be able to experience the six-lane mat racing water slide, aptly named Aussie Mat Dash. The first Proslide RallyRACER™ in Illinois and one of three in the world, the Aussie Mat Dash can be found at the south end of the park, near The Boomerang, Cyclone and the Hungry Croc Restaurant.

“We are thrilled to kick off our 15th season and invite families back to Raging Waves this summer,” said Randy Witt, Co-Owner of Raging Waves. “Offering guests the very best in family fun has always been at the forefront for our team at Raging Waves, and we cannot wait for guests to enjoy all that our waterpark has to offer!”

Sitting on 58 spacious acres just 45 minutes southwest of Chicago, Raging Waves is the perfect place for a day trip, weekend getaway, birthday party, youth group outing, scout gathering, family reunion, and more. Nominated as one of the cleanest waterparks in the United States, the park takes pride in maintaining a clean facility for all to enjoy.

For more information, daily operating hours, or to purchase seasonal and daily tickets, visit www.RagingWaves.com or call 630.882.6575. Follow the park on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates and be sure to tag them when you share your fun moments on social media!

Family-owned, Raging Waves is Illinois’ largest waterpark located 45 minutes southwest of Chicago in Yorkville, Ill. The award-winning waterpark was named “Best of the Midwest” by Midwest Living magazine, USA Today rated it “the top Illinois Summer Destination” in 2009, and “Best Waterpark in Illinois” by MSN in 2017. Raging Waves features 32 water slides including 2016’s “Best New Water Ride, Wonambi.” The waterpark also features a wave pool, multiple kiddie areas, private cabanas, and a quarter-mile-long lazy river. Opened in 2008, Raging Waves attracts more than 300,000 visitors a year. For more information, visit www.RagingWaves.com.

Featured Image Credit: Raging Waves

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The NBA on Monday said it’s in the process of gathering more information after veteran point guard Rajon Rondo allegedly threatened a woman with a gun at her house last week.

The woman filed for an emergency protective order against Rondo on Friday in Louisville, Kentucky, a copy of which was obtained by ESPN’s Baxter Holmes. The order was granted later that day.

Her allegations were made in the request for the EPO.

In it, she alleged that Rondo and a child were playing video games on Wednesday when she asked the child to separate laundry. Rondo reacted angrily, according to the woman, ripping the game console out of the wall and smashing several items in the house, leaving the boy and another child there upset.

The woman alleges that Rondo said to her “you’re dead” before leaving the house, only to return shortly thereafter, this time with a gun and demanding to see one of the children. The woman said she grew scared of the situation, so she brought him downstairs, and Rondo pulled him outside, allegedly while still holding the gun, while he yelled at him. He then demanded to see the other child, too, and she also came outside, as Rondo yelled at both of them for being afraid of him, the woman alleged.

According to the EPO obtained by ESPN, the woman called former interim Louisville Metro Police chief Yvette Gentry, who eventually arrived at the house. However, the woman said Rondo wouldn’t allow Gentry inside. The woman said she locked herself in the house with the kids, and Gentry eventually told her Rondo had left, and she had his gun.

The woman filed for the protective order on Friday, saying in it that she feared for the safety of the children and that Rondo has a history of “volatile, erratic (and) explosive behavior.”

The order was granted later Friday, with a judge saying Rondo must stay at least 500 feet away from the woman and the children, and must temporarily surrender any firearms to the Jefferson County Sheriff.

NBA spokesman Mike Bass told ESPN’s Malika Andrews that the league is aware of what allegedly happened and is “in the process of gathering more information.” Messages left by ESPN to Rondo’s representatives weren’t immediately returned.

TMZ Sports, which first detailed the allegations on Monday, reported that Rondo has not been named as a suspect in any criminal report connected to what allegedly happened “at this time.”

Rondo, who is from Louisville and played collegiately at Kentucky, just wrapped up his 16th NBA season. The four-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion played 18 games for the Los Angeles Lakers before a January trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In 21 games for the Cavs, he averaged 6.2 points and 4.9 assists.

Information from ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne was used in this report.

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