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City Cast Chicago

Kayleigh Padar

Even though my dog prefers to eat at home, I’ve compiled some outdoor patio spots that I think your dogs would love. I’ve included one spot that is dog friendly-ish, and one spot that is totally dog-free, just in case you want a night off!

If you’d like some more options, check out Block Club Chicago’s 

. They even have a checkbox that indicates if the spot is dog-friendly!

 at 3509 W. Fullerton Ave. boasts a 6,000-square-foot beer garden with plenty of tables, lawn games, and firepits. When your pup’s ready for dessert, offer them the

 made with yogurt, bananas, and peanut butter.

🥂Does your dog like brunch? Try Park & Field’s 

, and taste-test a selection of over 70 beers, cocktails, and spiked slushies.

After your dog dips their paws in the water at Montrose Dog Beach, head over to 

at 200 W. Montrose Harbor Dr. for a quick refresh! While you enjoy a salad or fish & chips, your furry friend can order a chicken breast, hamburger patty, or cup of whipped cream.

 even includes craft beer. It’s non-alcoholic, of course, and comes in two flavors: beefy brown ale or chicken porter.

Okay, this is the part of the list where we’re slowly transitioning toward patios with fewer dogs. 

 at 1818 W. 99th St. found a way to make everyone happy. While dogs aren’t allowed on the patio itself, you can drop them off at the “Barking Lot”— a fully-fenced dog park where your dog can hang out while you grab a coffee.

🍋I LOVE when a coffee shop has homemade lemonade. Check out 

 which is freshly squeezed lemonade with strawberry and lavender syrups.

Even dog-parents need a night off once in a while. Take a break on this dog-free patio outside of 

 at 1711 N. Halsted St. This old-school Italian restaurant offers a quiet alcove that’s glowing with fairy lights, perfect for a peaceful summer night.

, which is a grilled Mediterranean Sea Bass filet served with vegetables, or 

, which features sun-dried tomatoes and mushrooms in a cream sauce.

Want to enjoy patio weather, but hate leaving your pup at home? Check out our guide on the best dog-friendly patios in Chicago.

Dog-Friendly Patios in Chicago

Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Patios

Keep It Local

Sign up for Keep It Local from City Cast Chicago

Elizabeth Kauma

The weather this March has been, in a word, madness.

In just 48 hours, Chicago went from temperatures in the low 60s and some of heaviest rainfall on record since 1943 to several inches of snow with temperatures in the low 20s.

While volatile weather is common in March as the seasons transition from winter to spring, this March has been particularly unpredictable as climate change makes extreme weather conditions more common.

But how do you plan for a city where all the seasons can happen in one day? The City Cast Chicago Team has some ideas.

Surviving All Four Chicago Seasons In a Day

Simone, City Cast Chicago Executive Producer

 They are a mix between being indoor and outdoor, highly climate controlled, and free!

☝️ Simone’s pro tip: Don’t drive into puddles. You don’t know how deep they are.

, ducking into Griffin Museum of Science and Industry’s 

 when the weather gets windy and rainy, before ending his day watching the snow while snacking on short rib at 

☝️ Jacoby’s pro tip: Keep a hat and pair of gloves in your coat pocket — you don’t know when you might need them!

, is getting through the rapid weather changes by hanging out in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. She can enjoy the sun by 

 while it is nice, pop into the conservatory to avoid the wind, get cozy during a rainstorm with a book at 

, and keep her spirits high (and body warm) during a snow storm by watching 

☝️ Emmi’s pro tip: Carry a baseball cap always! It will save your hair 

Is Chicago REALLY the Windy City?

How to Survive All Four Chicago Seasons In a Day

Tips and tricks for living your best Chicago life, by locals, for locals.

Chicago Life Hacks

You know it’s spring in the city when street sweepers are out and orange reminder signs are plastered around neighborhoods. Street sweeping started April 1 — here’s how to avoid tickets.

To keep the streets clean and functional, the city uses mechanical street sweepers to pick up debris and litter that collects near the curb.

How Do I Know When My Block is Being Swept?

Don’t try to outsmart the sweeper. Someone always waits and swears they’ll move their car by 9 a.m. Just move it the night before and save yourself the heartache (and money).

What to Know About Street Sweeping in Chicago

Chicago is such an expansive city, and when you’re walking around, it may not always be easy to find a free public bathroom. Here are some different spots to go when ya gotta go.

 in the Loop, previously known as the Sears Tower, has a bathroom on the 103rd floor. I mean, who wouldn’t want to go to the toilet at 1,353 feet 👀

 is an especially great spot for your kids. The mirrors and sinks are designed for children’s height. Plus, there’s a holder to safely secure your child’s new doll.

, this is the perfect place to take a break while exploring the city, especially for a quick and convenient restroom visit. Plus, the building itself is definitely worth checking out!

 is an ideal stop when you need to use the restroom, as there are no codes required — no hassle with locked doors!

There are a couple of good bathrooms at Navy Pier, including one at the 

. And luckily for you, this pavilion is open year-round.

, offer public restrooms, making them great options when you're out and about. However, some bathrooms may occasionally be locked when they shouldn't be, so they’re not always the most reliable option.

Chicago is home to many libraries with free, public restrooms, and the 

 is an excellent choice when nature calls. Another great choice is the library in 

In any city, a hotel can be a great spot to use the bathroom for free. If you walk into the lobby with enough moxy, you’ll make your way to the bathroom with no problem.

Bars in Chicago are the same deal. If there isn’t a bouncer, just walk in like you own the place and you’re home free. And if you get caught … well … ask for the cheapest drink on the menu!

Where’s your favorite spot to go in Chicago?

Chicago is such an expansive city, and it's not that easy to find a free public bathroom. Here are some restrooms and spots to go when ya gotta go.

Free, Public Bathrooms in Chicago

Where To Find Free, Public Bathrooms in Chicago

Find the best of everything that Chicago has to offer.

Chicago’s Best

Chicago's Best

Expecting to have a lot more free time now that 

 in the U.S.? More room on your phone? Here are other apps Chicagoans should have that could at least make your life easier.

The Chicago-based startup hopes to make it easier for people to make friends in the city. Scroll through to find events that interest you with like-minded Chicagoans.

One of the best parts of TikTok? Finding things to do in Chicago. Luckily, The Nudge has ideas for everything from date night to new restaurants in the familiar shortform video format.

Whether you’re tuning into “The Traitors” or awaiting the upcoming season of “The Bachelor,” 

Bracketology TV is the fantasy sports app for reality TV shows

. Draft contestants for different games and compete against fellow fans. Bonus: You can fill out brackets for awards shows.

The app connects people with leftovers that restaurants and grocery stores would otherwise throw away (e.g., day-old pastries, entrees that were returned, etc.). The City Cast Chicago team had a 

 when we tried it out a couple of years ago.

If there’s one thing we know about Hey Chicago readers and City Cast Chicago listeners, you’re all foodies! Beli lets you rank and recommend restaurants — and see what your friends are eating.

City Cast Chicago producer Michelle Navarro’s mom swears by the Pete’s app: You can clip coupons, make lists, and earn rewards!

One of my Near Year’s resolutions is to finally use the Jewel app to find deals and save at the grocery store. Fifty cents off Yoplait yogurt? Paper towels for 90 cents? Say less!

Don’t wait until you have an emergency to download this app: The Flush Toilet Finder app helps you find bathrooms at nearby businesses and 

Whether you need snow shoveled or a pothole filled, make your request to the city’s non-emergency service via their app. Complaining isn’t ideal, 

but it is the way we get things done in Chicago …

Put books on hold and renew titles in the app. Plus, you can check out books with your 

 to borrow e-books and audiobooks from the library.

Upload money to your card and see when the nearest CTA bus or train is coming. You can also purchase Metra tickets on the app.

I toggle back and forth between a few different apps to track the bus, but my favorite is the Transit app, where fellow riders can let you know where buses and trains are in real time.

. If you’re looking for street parking, you’ll need two apps: one to see a map of open spots and another to fill the meter.

Reserve parking spots in garages and lots or valets through this third-party app. You can make hourly or monthly reservations.

Tired of surge pricing on Uber and Lyft? Request a ride in a licensed taxi now or later. You can pay in the app or with cash.

Whether you're looking for a nearby toilet or a cab without surge pricing, these apps will make your life easier.

Apps Every Chicagoan Should Have on Their Phone

What Apps to Use in Chicago (Besides TikTok)

The cold is here, and snow is inevitable. So here’s a reminder on how to safely navigate Chicago’s winter roads.

Before bad weather really sets in, give your car a 

 — check your battery health, lights, brakes, wipers, windshield fluid, and tire pressure. (Pro tip: Make sure you have de-icing windshield fluid.)

: Put a quarter into the tread of your tire and look for George Washington’s head. If you can see any part of the top of his head, you don’t have enough tread, and you should replace those tires.

Planning a trip outside the city and its salted streets? Invest in the right tires — either snow / all-season wheels. Snow chains are legal in Illinois, but are dangerous on bare roads.

Keep your gas tank at least half full to decrease the risk of getting stranded in bad weather.

 in your car in the event you are stranded.

Know your route — look at a map before you start driving to avoid extra distraction on your GPS or getting lost.

Maintain steady speeds and keep extra space between yourself and other cars — no matter what type of vehicle you have.

Be extra careful on bridges and underpasses, which tend to be slickest.

Remove all snow and ice from your windows, hood, and roof before you drive.

If you begin to skid, let off the accelerator and brake, then turn your steering wheel in the direction you want to go.

Tips for Winter Driving in Chicago

If this week has felt like a year between the election 

 the end of daylight saving (yes, the clocks turned back just this Sunday), you’re not alone. We’re reminding Chicagoans what they can do besides doomscrolling in the dark.

Listen, we’ve never felt worse after getting outside. Clear your head at 

 like Montrose Bird Sanctuary, McKinley Park, and Promontory Point. In the mood for a stroll? Check out one of our 

. The rain is set to finally clear up 🤞

Friendsgivings are happening anyway this time of year — why not have a 

 to see your people? Prioritize fun, and plan a 

If you’re looking to give back, get involved with 

And if you’re looking to build community, consider joining groups like 

Room to Breathe therapist Kelsey Schroeder told Hey Chicago that part of election-based anxiety is also “

.” Local professionals like Schroeder can help Chicagoans navigate the uncertainty of a new administration.

Last night’s episode of “Abbott Elementary” couldn’t have come at a better time. If you’re looking for more feel-good TV, we always recommend “

” gives us all the warm fuzzy feelings. And 

, we try to meet you where you are by providing a healthy balance of news, events, and fun. When big news strikes, we’ll be here. And when you need some good news, we’ll still be here.

💌 How do you take care of yourself in Chicago? 

If this week has felt like a year between the election and the end of daylight saving, you’re not alone. 

Chicago Post-Election Self-Care Tips

What Else Chicagoans Can Do Beside Doomscroll

While you’re breaking out the fall outfits, you might also be cleaning out your closet. Here’s what Chicagoans can do with the clothes they’re ready to say goodbye to.

Think of the condition of the clothes you’re giving away — are they wearable? 

Would you give the items to a close friend?

 Did you wash your clothes beforehand? Those are all questions to ask before giving your stuff to a secondhand store.

The free store lets neighbors pick up clothes, books, food, and more. Donate your garments during store hours Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.

 in Northalsted, Andersonville, and Oak Park

Drop off women’s and men’s apparel, handbags, shoes, jewelry, and accessories at the North Side and suburban resale shops. Plus, the stores support LGBTQ health care provider Howard Brown Health.

Give away your gently used clothing and jewelry to the Southwest Side thrift shop on Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

If you want to trade out your old threads for new ones, you’re in luck. There are a few clothing swaps in 

Why stop at your everyday fall wardrobe? Chicago groups are doing special Halloween swaps ahead of Halloween. Head to a 

Who Says You Have to Sort Your Clothes Alone?

If it’s in your budget, you can hire some Chicagoans who are experts in decluttering. Check out the 

While you’re breaking out the fall outfits, you might also be cleaning out your closet. Here’s where Chicagoans can donate their old threads.

Where to Donate Clothes in Chicago

If you are moving this month in Chicago, you’re not alone. The summer months are a popular time to sign a new lease and move into a new place. 

Local real estate broker Andy Svalesen shares apartment hunting tips

Svalesen says consider where you spend most of your time, your budget, and public transportation access.

 if you’re in your late 20s and early 30s

, which means you should diversify where you’re looking for an apartment. Consider working with a broker! Not only do they have access to more listings, landlords almost always pay their commission.

Determining if an apartment is reasonably priced is hard. Svalesen says $2 a square foot is “golden.” That means an 800-square-foot apartment for $1,600 is a good deal in his books.

In this market, you’re going to want to start your search early.

remember to review your rights as a renter

Check that windows close easily, look for water damage, and 

If all looks good, apply right then and there. Not only do you want to indicate you’re an easy tenant, but you want to get your application in early.

One red flag? High application fees. A normal range is between $25 and $85, so if your prospective landlord is charging $200, you might want to reconsider.

✌️ Plus, what to negotiate in your second year

The summer months are a popular time to sign a new lease and move into a new place. We have apartment-hunting tips.

How to Find an Apartment in Chicago

If you’ve been thinking about raising chickens or looking for ways to save money on eggs, here are some tips from Viviana Okakpu of Advocates for Urban Agriculture, who also keeps five chickens 🐥

some of the most permissive urban livestock laws on the books

. But there are some limitations. Chicagoans can’t slaughter animals at home, and animals can’t make “excessive noise” beyond 10 consecutive minutes.

Yes, you can keep roosters, but Okapu reminds you to be mindful of how these crowing boys can make a lot of noise. Check in with your community, whether you’re getting the guys or the gals. Okapu says to consider sharing the wealth (aka eggs), too.

Okakpu feeds their chickens an organic diet of grains and various seeds mixed with oyster or egg shells. “They are one of the most efficient composters,” Okapu told us. And always ensure the birds have plenty of fresh water available.

Caring for chickens is a daily task. Unless you have an automatic chicken coop opener and closer, plan to wake up with the chickens! Similarly, plan your evenings around closing their coop to prevent predators from harming them.

Finally, Okapu has some fabulous names for their chickens. I say, invest a little love in your chickens, too 🧡

other animals you’re allowed to have in your backyard

 and the regulations you should know about.

Moo, bah, and cluck 🎧

If you’ve been thinking about raising chickens or looking for ways to save money on eggs, here are some tips.

How to Keep Chickens in Your Chicago Backyard

How to Keep Chickens in Your Backyard

Get to know the natural side of Chicago: the plants, animals, weather and more that make our city unique.

local life hacks

Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Patios

How to Survive All Four Chicago Seasons In a Day

What to Know About Street Sweeping in Chicago

Latest articles

Your Guide to Dog-Friendly Patios

How to Survive All Four Chicago Seasons In a Day

What to Know About Street Sweeping in Chicago

Where To Find Free, Public Bathrooms in Chicago

What Apps to Use in Chicago (Besides TikTok)

Tips for Winter Driving in Chicago

What Else Chicagoans Can Do Beside Doomscroll

Latest articles

Where To Find Free, Public Bathrooms in Chicago

What Apps to Use in Chicago (Besides TikTok)

Tips for Winter Driving in Chicago

What Else Chicagoans Can Do Beside Doomscroll

Where to Donate Clothes in Chicago

How to Find an Apartment in Chicago

How to Keep Chickens in Your Backyard