Kick Over that Summer Bucket List

If you sometimes feel stuck doing the same things every summer Naperville Patch has a few different ideas for you to consider. These may be items to scratch off that summer bucket list.

Remember what it was like when you were a kid and summer seemed endless. It’s time to get that feeling back and leave the yard work for another weekend. Now’s the time for some fun!

Have a picnic

When was the last time you planned a picnic? Break out the blankets, the basket and the food and find a fine spot to relax, eat and enjoy. The green near is nice because there is shade and sun.

Go for a swim

A trip to is mandatory at least once every summer. You can bring a cooler with some food and beverages and make a day of it. Whatever you do, don’t forget the sunblock.

Love them ribs

It’s not as massive as Taste of Chicago, but this taste of Naperville, better known as Ribfest is a must. If you don’t like ribs you will be able to find a variety of other items, like lemonade, corn, elephant ears and hot dogs. Bring a chair or a blanket and find a good spot to hear one of the musical acts.

A day at the races

Head down to Joliet to the Route 66 Raceway for some drag racing excitement. Watch as the racers try to make it a quarter-mile in only seconds. Watch as they burn rubber and peel out.

Let’s play ball

Why spend a bundle on tickets and parking in the city when it’s quite possible the big league teams will lose? Enjoy a game out in Geneva and watch the Kane County Cougars take on an opponent. A box seat may cost you $14. Not a bad deal, especially if you have kids.

Summer escape

If you’ve ever driven Interstate 90 north you know that every weekend tons of people head to Wisconsin and The Dells. But there’s another option. Head east to Michigan. One town to consider for a weekend getaway is Saugatuck, Mich. It’s a cute resort town with great access to the beach and boat rides. Nice restaurants abound. And, the drive is a breeze—most of the time.

Summer pilgrimage

When I think of Memphis, Tenn., I think of Paul Simon. That is Paul Simon singing about Graceland. “I’m going to Graceland, Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee. I’m going to Graceland.” Why not make a visit to The King. Pick up a few cheesy Elvis knick-knacks. Have some barbecue. Now, that’s living.

Go racing

Bet you thought that you had to be a hardcore athlete to compete in a triathlon. It helps to be in shape but even if you aren’t in tip-top condition why not do the sprint triathlon that will be held in Naperville later this summer. Thousands of folks will be there, many racing without even training. While you have some time, get in some runs, swim some laps and break out the bike. Next thing you know, you’ll be a triathlete.

Backyard tourist

Some people hate crowds and won’t do anything that involves thousands of people. If that sounds like you, break out of that mindset and plan ahead for the Taste of Chicago. While has Ribfest, the taste offers a variety of decadent delights from the pizza and hot dogs to churros and chocolate covered strawberries. Be sure to get some exercise before and after.

The ultimate trip

This item involves travel out west and a willingness to let go. Are you ready for Burning Man? Have you heard of Burning Man? If not, then prepare yourself. This is unlike any other festival. Thousands of people come together in the Nevada desert and create a community from nothing. There are costumes, there are themed campsites, there are art installations and participation is key. This event takes place Aug. 29 through Sept. 5, maybe a little late in the season for some folks, but if you want to go somewhere and be someone else temporarily, this is the place for you.