By Visit Lake County Contributor Denise Gentes

After a long winter and an even longer spring, it seems like no one can hide their enthusiasm about the warm weather. To some, this means switching from the treadmill to outdoor trails, or sneaking outside at lunch to eat in the parking lot instead of in front of a desk. Propane tanks are being filled and grills across the county are getting fired up. Tis the season to do things outdoors, and that’s just what our theme is this month- all outdoors!

The best part about summertime is getting to eat meals outside, either on the back porch at home or on a restaurant patio perhaps overlooking one of the many lakes that Lake County is named for. The Silo in Lake Bluff now has its front patio open, a perfect spot for a date or even a family pizza night. Nothing beats their Chicago-style pan pizza, but eating outside definitely makes it an even better experience. If you’re in the mood for something from our neighbors to the south, El Puerto is the best choice for al fresco Mexican dining. Located at Leisure Point in Fox Lake, El Puerto can be reached by boat or by car. All of their dishes are to die for, but if you’re short on time, a margarita is an unbeatable choice.

While you’re out on the lake, Blarney Island should be your next stop. To some, the Island is the closest thing to Key West in the Midwest. Trick yourself into thinking you’re in the Caribbean on Sunday, June 12th and catch Mr. Myers performing at 2pm with steel drums, limbo contests and all your favorite songs by Marley, Buffet and more. Blarney Island can be accessed by a shuttle boat from the Port of Blarney on Grass Lake Road, or by personal boats.

For the cultural and artistically minded, Saturday, June 18th promises two very unique art festivals in Waukegan and Grayslake. Grayslake will be featuring artists from all over the Midwest, specializing in anything from ceramics to watercolor painting. Located in the historic downtown, there are plenty of options to stop for snacks and drinks, especially down the road at Miller’s Dog ‘n Suds for some famous root beer or a shake. Waukegan’s Juneteeth Celebration will feature a celebration commemorating the abolition of slavery. Musical performances will happen throughout the day, as well as food and merchandise booths, and the College of Lake County History Tent.

Not surprisingly, most events and activities through the Lake County Forest Preserve are featured outside. On Saturday, June 11th there will be a Paddle at Dusk event held at Independence Grove. Paddlers of any skill level are welcome to test out the calm waters from 6:30-9pm on a gorgeous summer Saturday night. Pre-registration on the Forest Preserve website is required. For those seeking an even bigger challenge, the Des Plaines River Trail is 31 miles long and runs through the whole county, starting just below the Wisconsin border and traveling into Deerfield. We’d suggest not doing the whole trail in one day, since once you get to the end point in one direction, you have to come back! This is something our summer intern frequently forgets while biking!

Be sure to check our website http://www.visitlakecounty.org for a list of events, great hotel packages and print out coupons to area restaurants and attractions. You can also “Like” us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/visitlakecounty and view our webisodes on Youtube at http://www.youtube.com/visitlakecounty. Hope to see you out exploring our great county!

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