With the holidays here and end-of-the-year projects looming, who doesn’t need a little R&R? Here are some of our fav places to relax in the city.
Indulge in self-care
Wondering how to get the most bang for your buck at King Spa in Niles? Book the gold aroma scrub — it’s one of the services that gets you free admission next time. Plus, don’t forget your e-coupon.
Do a little retail therapy at Tusk in Logan Square, Englewood Branded, or one of the many thrifting spots around the city.
Have movie marathons at Cinema Chatham, FACETS in Lincoln Park, or the Gene Siskel Film Center downtown.
Dive into a book
Find your next read at Books4Cause Free Bookstore in Avondale, Pilsen Community Books, or 57th Street Books in Hyde Park.
The Poetry Foundation Library in River North has 30,000 titles, is free, and open to the public.
Move
Burn off some steam at MLK Skating in Auburn Gresham — maybe one day we can all be as smooth as City Cast Chicago’s Jacoby Cochran?
Do gentle in-person yoga at Forest Park Library or flow virtually with Sage Gawd Collective founder DuShaun Branch Pollard.
Meditate at the Shambhala Chicago Meditation Center in West Loop for free.
Get outside
Cook County Forest Preserves host hikes, animal walks, and sound baths!
Go park-hopping to see vast green spaces like Jackson Park or the Montrose Bird Sanctuary or neighborhood spots like Hermosa Park. Check out our neighborhood guides for more nature suggestions.
City Cast Chicago’s Simone Alicea at Montrose Bird Sanctuary. (Jacoby Cochran / City Cast Chicago)
