Ah, those unfettered days of travel. Well, now you roam as a pack animal, but fear not: you still have ample opportunity to stroll to your heart’s content, city and ‘burb alike. Try these spots to walk like you’ve got nowhere else in the world to be (until dinnertime, that is).
Spanning the The 606
Yes, everyone’s been raving about the abandoned Bloomingdale train line-turned-conservationist’s paradise, but with good reason; miles and miles of beautiful, stroller-happy pathways, and more stuff to do in Logan Square and Bucktown than you can shake an artisanal stick at. Pro tip: You’ll never regret hopping off at California for a quick trip to Bang Bang Pie& Biscuits. (Urban babies like cheddar grits.)
1801 N. Ridgeway Ave. to 1722 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago
Hiking in Harms Woods
Glenview, Morton Grove and Skokie locals swear by the 250-acre Harms Woods as a great place to get your fresh air fix. Trails are well-marked and take bikers and strollers alike past golf courses, horse pastures and even part of the Chicago River. And easily accessible to one of those trails? Popular restaurant Hackney’s for a well-earned burger (and maybe even a beer).
Old Orchard Road and Harms Road, Skokie
Coasting the Lakefront Trail
Chicago’s lakefront boasts 18 miles of vehicle-free trails (except, of course, for the multitude of cyclists and Bugaboos), whether you start at the Museum Campus, Belmont Harbor or any point north to Edgewater. There are, quite literally, hundreds of places to stop and snack, play “I Spy” with boats, and enjoy Chicago landmarks that are 100 percent free. (Lincoln Park Zoo, anyone?)
7100 S. South Shore Drive to 5800 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago
Railfanning in Westmont
An insider tip reveals that a truly great walk in suburban Westmont involves walking near the Metra track down Quincy Avenue. Not only are there loads of Mama- and Papa-friendly places to refuel, but parks, shops, fountains and plenty of train sightings ensure a squeal-filled jaunt (as well as plenty of chances to educate your future conductor on proper train safety).
1 W. Quincy St., Westmont
