Pretend you are in the Gulf..

Summertime and beaches go together like peanut butter and jelly. I’ve been to a couple beaches in the Chicago-land area including North Avenue in the city. While the city beaches are nice contrasted with giant skyscrapers, they are typically loud and overcrowded. Plus, being from the suburbs, they can be difficult to get to. Let me introduce you to Evanston Beaches.

Evanston has seven well-maintained beaches along Lake Michigan’s lakefront. As an Evanston resident, I purchased a beach pass for the season, but a daily pass can be purchased by anyone. Adults are $8, children 1-11 are $6 and children under one-years-old are free. My two favorite beaches right now are Lee Street Beach and South Boulevard Beach. Lee Street has more going on. Parking is on the street and bathrooms are very close by. You can buy a hot dog, ice cream, pop, or various snacks from the venders by the beach. South Boulevard is more private and offers a lot of parking. Both beaches have lifeguards on duty and are rather shallow, good swimming for kids or just sticking your feet in. Before going to the beach, check Evanston’s website to make sure they are open.  

My friends and I enjoying a Friday afternoon at Lee Street Beach. 

 When I just look out, I feel like I'm in Florida. 

I love how blue the lake looks!

My boyfriend and I enjoying a sunset on the beach.

The best latte you will ever have...

When I started looking for an apartment in Evanston, I first needed to scout out where the coffeehouses were located, and then I wanted to find an apartment within walking distance. Starbucks and I are good friends as I have a personalized gold gift card I’m constantly refreshing. However, if the choice is between Starbucks and a smaller coffee shop I always opt for supporting the small business. I’m happy to introduce you to The Brothers KCoffeehouse.

Located about 42 steps from my apartment, this place will knock your socks off. Brothers Brain and John Kim opened it in 2005. They serve a variety of fair trade organic coffees, teas, and espresso drinks. I have to say they make the BEST caramel latte I have ever had, but their black ice tea is also amazing. Along with caffeinated drinks, they also sell a collection of bakery items from local businesses, but these go quick! I love the ambiance in Brother K coffeehouse. All the baristas I’ve encounters have been very friendly and the outdoor seating area is relaxing and spacious. On any occasion you will see a diverse range of people inhabiting this coffeehouse from the diligent student finishing a paper to families with young children sitting outside enjoying a sunny day. Along with serving coffee they also host latte art classes, poetry readings, open mic performances, and the art work around the coffee house changes every month to highlight local artists. Brothers K coffeehouse is located at 500 Main Street at the intersection of Main and Hinman. My only complaint it that they close at 8:00 pm, so make sure you stop by before then. 

My viewpoint at Brothers K coffeehouse 

You can see one of the brothers standing at the counter. Extremely friendly guy!

This is a good picture of the outdoor seating area.