Such a ‘Bler: Loyola Park Beach Days

Believe it or not, I didn’t know that Loyola is located next to Lake Michigan arriving on campus freshman year. I’d like to think that you are all in fact better at location research than I am, but just in case, now you know! Ever since I discovered this outstanding cherry on top, I’ve been taking advantage of it as much as I can (when Chicago isn’t freezing of course.)  

The more I think about it, the gladder I am that I stayed in the States this break. My Chicagoan friends have been raving about how I NEED to experience a proper Chitown summer. I completely get the excitement now! On days where it’s just below 90 degrees, do find yourself a good book and pretty tree at Loyola Park. It’s become perhaps my favourite past time. Also featured in the photo above is the Loyola picnic mat that I grabbed from freshman orientation (note!!!)  

What I specifically love about this activity is the fact that the park is next to the beach!! I spent three years of my childhood in Sydney, Australia and at a primary school located right next to a park beach. So being at a university near the water is so nice for me. It’s also just lovely to be able to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago whenever you need. To sit and just sit, watching the waves dance and even take a dip when the water’s just right. Communal picnics and celebratory beach days are also fantastic! The beach is located in between views of Evanston and Navy Pier. My roommates and I spent Fourth of July here and were able to catch glimpses of fireworks happening at both locations! 

I sometimes just come by and people watch. It helps my creative flow as a writer, and I always end up smiling seeing others curled up with a book or throwing a frisbee around on the sand. Families even bring their barbeque and have weekend roasts! 

I recently discovered that events are regularly held here. On one of my afternoon sun-sits, I had a couple of people ask me whether “the show has started?” I of course was super confused but this snap of a chaired-crowd besides a tent kind of explains it. I believe it was a small travelling circus. I was admittedly too wrapped in my book to investigate but it sounded like fun. 

Next time, I’ll be sure to have a closer look! 

HEY, I ALSO MAKE VIDEOS! 

HERE’S THE SUCH A ‘BLER PLAYLIST: