Meadow Lake offers an ideal backdrop for grown up time at Morton Arboretum.
I remember asking my mom why people celebrated Mother’s Day and Father’s Day but not Kid’s Day. Without missing a beat, she would say something like this: Honey, every day is Kid’s Day. Now that I am a parent of a very active toddler, I know exactly what she means. I seek out parks with shade to protect Isaiah’s fair skin. I look for places where Isaiah can wiggle indoors when it’s rainy. I even chase Isaiah into sprinklers when I have zero desire to get wet, so the big kids don’t trample him. But every once in awhile, we need to shine the spotlight on fun for grown ups!
Last year we celebrated my parents’ anniversary with a family outing to the Chicago Botanic Garden, and this year they stuck with that outdoor theme. Isaiah and I helped them ring in their 46th anniversary with a day at Morton Arboretum! In the focus-on-fun-for-grownups spirit, here are ways to enjoy the Morton Arboretum.
Relax at the Gingko Restaurant and Café
My parents gave me the idea for this one when they ahem … kind of ditched Isaiah and I at the toddler maze! I found the lovebirds happily savoring treats from the eatery, which has indoor and outdoor seating. Prime spots have a clear view of idyllic Meadow Lake.
Bring out your inner kiddo at the Grown-Up Play Date
The Morton Arboretum’s Grown-Up Play Date is coming up on Aug. 18. Adults will take over the 4-acre Children’s Garden! Parents who need a little break from adulting can get real silly from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. and still make it home at a reasonable hour to relieve Grandma from baby duty.
My very important play date to-do list would include taking a selfie with a garden gnome, riding down the slide and meeting Trixie, the friendly turtle. There are plenty of other options that you could add to your fun list, so be sure to check out how you could tap into your inner goofiness! Oh, and did I mention that there will be booze. The playful event ($25 for members and $30 for non-members) includes one drink ticket for beer, whiskey or wine.
Unwind with a glass of wine and a side of music or art
There are a couple of events that could make for a relaxed sip-a-thon. You could squeeze a little more grown up fun out of August by enjoying the last few dates of the Wednesdays, Woods & Wine series. Live music and a glass of wine in Arbor Court makes for a summery scene from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Tickets ($10 for members and $15 for non-members) include a glass of vino, and you can bring your own picnic, but not outside beverages.
The Wine and Art Walk gives parents a reason to find a babysitter and enjoy a glass of wine during the day. This event is slated for Aug.19-20 from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Art-loving wine enthusiasts can wander around Meadow Lake and take in the juried show that features Midwest artists. The art show is included with admission to the Arboretum and you can buy a refreshing beverage for your stroll.
If you go
Morton Arboretum
4100 IL-53, Lisle, IL 60532
