This post has been sponsored by FLONASE. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

In the summer months, we spend almost every chance we get outside. Whether it’s in our backyard, the pool, or discovering new outdoor activities around Chicago, you can find us with zinc oxide covered faces and plenty of snacks. But when my seasonal allergies really start to act up, it can make being outside a little difficult. When I discovered FLONASE Sensimist Allergy Relief at Walgreens in the allergy relief section, I was saved.

Unlike most allergy pills I’ve tried, FLONASE relieves.* It helps block 6 allergic substances, most allergy pills only block 1.**

Shop for FLONASE and FLONASE Sensimist Allergy Relief at your local Walgreens.

Thanks to FLONASE, I have a whole bucket list of places I want to visit with the kids this summer now that I’m not worrying about my itchy eyes and throat anymore!

Summer Bucket List:

Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground in Schaumburg, IL looks like the most magical place. It features lookouts, naturally made slides, shallow streams, wetlands for playing and other climbing structures. This is definitely #1 on my list. I’ve heard it gets really busy, so we’ll plan to head out there early one Sunday—they open at 9 am.
The Play Garden at Maggie Daley Park is one of the most popular play areas in Chicago. With different sections for kids ages 2-12, there’s something for everyone. We tried it out last summer on one of the HOTTEST days. Be warned, there is virtually no shade so pick your visit wisely. It was also extremely crowded, so I would venture to say that earlier is better.
While we’re downtown at Maggie Daley, I’d also love to check out the Bean and the splash fountains at Millennium Park. It’s fun to be tourists in your own city every once in a while.
The Morton Arboretum is one of the most highly talked about outdoor activities in the suburbs of Chicago. With multiple nature trails and a 3-section Children’s Garden, there’s always something to explore. Open 9:30 am – 5 pm daily, March through October, you could go anytime! I’m looking forward to trying this out this year.
Ever since I moved to Chicago, I keep hearing people talk about how beautiful and amazing the Chicago Botanic Garden is. I’d love to take the kids, and I know there are a bunch of great photo opps there as well. Entry is free, however, parking is $25/car on weekdays and $30/car on weekends, so plan accordingly.
My friend told me about the West Ridge Nature Preserve, and we’re excited to check it out. It’s really close to our house, which is always a plus.
I’m also looking forward to checking out the different beaches along Lake Michigan this year. We went to the Greenleaf Beach last year, but I’d love to scope out some new ones with great playgrounds and, hopefully, smaller crowds for the kids this summer. I LOVE the beach more than anything.
About a 2 hour drive outside of the city is Lake Geneva, WI, and I would love to take the kids there this year. The town is supposed to be lovely, and I’d love to rent a pontoon boat and get on the water. This is where I hope all the swim lessons will pay off, at least with some peace of mind for mom.
I’d love to also check out an awesome walking/bike trail called The 606 Trail.
I hope to get back to Apple Holler in WI this year. We went 2 summers ago, but my allergies were so horrendous that I was kind of miserable the entire time. I’m excited to get back out there!

This is only a small portion of all the things to do in the Chicagoland area with kids in the summer. And don’t forget about all of the free playgrounds, splash pads and the good ole backyard. I’ll be coming out with a list of backyard activities soon.

I’m so grateful to have discovered FLONASE Sensimist Allergy Relief because now I can focus on family time instead of blinking my eyes like a crazy person because of the itchiness. If you struggle with seasonal allergies, head to your local Walgreens to check out FLONASE Sensimist so you can forget about your allergies and have an amazing summer outdoors with your family.