One of the most common mistakes people make when they get into new relationships is neglecting their friends. Too caught up in the honeymoon stage, we tend to forget that our partner isn't the only one who matters. Luckily, plenty of activities can accommodate your single and taken friends. Just remember, two's company and three's a crowd, so be sure you've got an even number of people in your group!
Mini Golf
Coyote Crossing Mini Golf Course (West Chicago, IL)
Mini golf is a fun and quick alternative to the driving range or a normal golf course. In the suburbs most courses cost less than $10 a person so they're pretty affordable. My friends and I love Green Valley (Hanover Park)! The course isn't too challenging, and on Friday nights there's live music. They also have some of the best soft serve ice cream I've ever tasted, so it's the perfect outing for a summer night.
Paddleboating
Paddleboats on the quarry (Naperville, IL)
I spent my summers paddleboating with my older brother at Twin Lakes (Palatine), and years later I still love it. Paddleboating works best with even number groups because nobody really likes to paddle by themselves. Probably not the best date idea during the day because of the excessive heat Chicago has experienced lately, but look to go later in the evening and you may even get to see the sunset on the water!
Laser Tag
The Basement (Aurora, IL)
This one is a definite winner for the competitive friends and couples. To make it even more fun, split up the couples onto separate teams and you'll see the competition heat up quickly. My best friend and I are beyond competitive and we've definitely played a few games that were close to friendship-ending. We might be all trash talk when armed with lasers, but the second we return our weapons, we're back to best friends. Check with your local laser tag spot to see if they offer summer specials or group rates!
Go-Karting
K1 Speed (Addison, IL)
Go-karting doesn't just have to be the kiddie tracks at the amusement park anymore. Indoor race tracks like K1-Speed allow amateurs to feel like professional race car drivers, while still maintaining the safety of controlled kart speeds. Just remember that everyone's going to have helmet hair, so don't feel too self-conscious about yours!
Whirlyball/Cybersport
Whirlyball (Chicago, IL)
Honestly I've only played whirlyball a few times, but I'm dying to go again. This works really well for larger groups with even numbers of people. It's a mixture of basketball, lacrosse, and bumper cars. Maybe a better idea for the more athletically inclined friend groups, but definitely still fun to play with the less coordinated. I'm quite bad at multitasking so I always struggle to drive and play at the same time (you don't want players like me on your team!).
Local Fair/Festival
Itasca Fest (Itasca, IL)
I love summer, mainly for the seemingly endless amount of county fairs and festivals. There's something for everyone: live music, great food, fun games, bingo, and amusement park rides. I could honestly spend hours on the Ferris Wheel. The best part is that you can spend as little (or as much) as you want because everything is paid for separately. Grab your boyfriend and see if he can win you a goldfish (or two).
Board Game Night
Friendships and relationships go out the window the second someone pulls out the box for Monopoly or Sorry. No amount of "I love you" will make up for the fact that I do not take it lightly when someone coos "Sorry!". Break out some classics and maybe even some card games and see who's still dating (or even friends) at the end of the night. Kudos to those of you that survive.
Bowling
Round 1 (Bloomingdale, IL)
A classic. Who doesn't love bowling? It's always been my go-to date idea and group hangout spot. I'm awful at bowling but it's always given boyfriends the chance to 'teach' me proper form, and provided my friends with plenty of things to joke about. Just remember to take it easy on the bad bowlers and let them have their bumpers!
Drive-In Movie
Cascade Drive-In Theater (West Chicago, IL)
I'll be honest, I've never been to the drive-in but it's definitely on my summer bucket list. Most outdoor theaters offer a double feature for a price that's equal to (or even lower) than the price of a single movie ticket at other theaters. Ask your local drive-in about carload prices and maybe you can save everyone in the group some money! Plus, you're allowed to bring in your own snacks so you won't have to overpay for movie theater concessions (just pop that popcorn at home and you're good to go!). Stock up on blankets and bug spray to ensure you have the coziest time!
Visit a State Park/Nature Preserve
Rock Cut State Park (Loves Park, IL)
Sometimes money's a little tight, but you still want to go out and have a great time. Illinois has tons of gorgeous state parks and forest preserves that you can visit for free. There's an endless amount of opportunities in these parks, from fishing to hiking to picnicking. Get your cooler, pack your hiking shoes, pile into the car, and you're set for the day. Don't forget sunscreen and bug spray!
