Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
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Local Love List: Parks, Plates, and Places
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items A handpicked list of my favorite local spots—from peaceful parks and playful playgrounds to cozy restaurants and hidden shopping gems. These are the places my family and I keep coming back to for good food, fresh air, and little moments that feel lik...
Sections
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Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Outdoor Activities
I love the playground at Shermer Park in Morton Grove because it feels peaceful, shaded, and perfect for simple, joyful moments with my son. The trees keep it cool even on hot days, and the play area is just right for kids of different ages. It’s cle...
Shermer Park
I love the playground at Jackman Park in Glenview because it feels like a little world of its own, right in the heart of town. My son lights up pretending to be a firefighter or train conductor, and I get to just sit back on a shaded bench and watch ...
Jackman Park
I love the Oak Park playground in Niles because it’s more than just a playset—it’s a welcoming little oasis in the middle of the neighborhood. The playground was recently renovated and offers modern, well-designed equipment like swings, a climbing wa...
Oak Park
I love Glencoe Beach because it’s a stunning blend of nature and thoughtful amenities in our backyard—Lake Michigan lips up against sandy shores, shaded playgrounds, and a vibrant sprayground that keeps my little one laughing while I soak up the scen...
Glencoe Beach
I love the Chicago Botanic Garden because it feels like stepping into a living storybook—385 acres of breathtaking gardens, islands, and natural areas where every path reveals something new. Whether we're wandering through the Japanese Garden’s tranq...
Chicago Botanic Garden
I love the Baha’i Temple in Wilmette—known to many as the Chicago Baha’i House of Worship—because it feels like walking into a living symbol of unity, peace, and wonder. Rising 190 feet above the northern shoreline, its shimmering white concrete faça...
Visiting feels both deeply calming and awe-inspiring. The lush gardens, reflecting pools, and gentle flow of the grounds invite you to breathe and reflect. It’s not just architecture—it’s a spiritual landscape where art, faith, and nature meet. For...
Visiting feels both deeply calming and awe-inspiring. The lush gardens, reflecting pools, and gentle flow of the grounds invite you to breathe and reflect. It’s not just architecture—it’s a spiritual landscape where art, faith, and nature meet. For...
Bahá'í House of Worship – Baha'is of the United States
Restaurants
I love Charcoal Flame in Morton Grove because it’s one of those rare local gems that delivers big-time flavor and a warm, welcoming vibe. Their Greek gyro—made with pork instead of the usual mix—is tender, authentic, and “a run for the gyros of Athen...
Charcoal Flame
I love Al Bawadi Grill because it transports me to the heart of the Middle East—with every bite, the ambiance, and the way they welcome you like family. The menu is extensive and rooted in authentic Palestinian and Jordanian recipes handed down for g...
Al Bawadi Grill
I love Plateia because it reminds me of the warmth and hospitality I grew up with. The food tastes homemade—like someone’s Greek grandmother is in the kitchen, cooking with love. I always feel relaxed there, whether I’m sipping coffee on the patio or...
Plateia Mediterranean Kitchen
I love Mehanata because every visit feels like stepping into a cozy Bulgarian mehana—warm, welcoming, and full of rich tradition. From the moment I walk in, I’m greeted by rustic Balkan décor, friendly staff who know the menu inside-out, and the comf...
Restaurant Mehanata Chicago – Authentic Bulgarian Restaurant ...
Other Food & Drinks
I love shopping at Fresh Farms because it reminds me of markets back home—colorful, busy, and full of flavors from around the world. I always find something special, whether it’s Bulgarian cheese, fresh herbs, or warm pastries that feel like a hug. I...
Fresh Farms International Market
I love Glenview Dairy Bar because it’s that nostalgic, feel‑good ice cream spot that’s been part of our summers since forever. With creamy soft serve, fun sundae options, and friendly, family‑run charm, it feels like a delicious trip back in time . ...
Glenview Dairy Bar