With summer being only a week away, I made a bucket list of all the things I want to do this summer. Thankfully, Chicago is only a train ride away for me so I can take advantage of all of the amazing things it has to offer. Since I will be leaving to study abroad in Barcelona early July, I need to make use of my time. So here is what I have come up with!

1. Shedd Aquarium

No matter how old you get, you can admit the Shedd Aquarium is always going to be a fun adventure. Go with friends or family and have a great time!

2. Baseball games

Cubs or Sox, it doesn’t matter. Baseball games are always a fun summer tradition. So go get a hotdog and watch the magic happen!!

3. Free movies in Millennium

This is possibly one of my favorite things to do in the summer. I’ve done it with both my family and friends before and they were both great. Who doesn’t love to make a picnic, sit on blankets and watch a great movie being projected across Millennium? Oh, and it’s free!

4. Try new restaurants

Being so close to Chicago is great because it means there is always more to explore. There are endless restaurants to try out, which is definitely something I want to do a lot this summer.

5. Go to the beach

The beach is a classic summer staple which I must visit many times before heading off to Europe. I want to go to the beach in the city but also go to my town’s beautiful beach too. I am so lucky to live so close to the water. Snooki said it best...where's the beach?!

6. City shopping day

Shopping in the city is always such a treat; I love going to Zara and Topshop. Finding stores with student discounts is a great help to my bank account, and there are so many options in Chicago. It’s such a fun day which I can’t wait for. I am ready to shop till I drop!

7. Movie marathon

Since I will be working a great deal of my time home, I need to make sure that I am still hanging out with my friends as much as I can this summer. What is better than movie marathon nights?! So get ready for that ladies!

8. Bonfires

I need a handful of bonfires to make sure that my summer is well completed. I love sitting around with my friends, making s’mores and trying to avoid the smoke heading directly toward me.

My summer will be packed with activities, but I am so ready for it. Although I am so sad to leave all of my friends at Miami, having a bucket list makes it easier. So go make your summer bucket list and get ready for a great summer!