When Do Rooftops Open in Chicago? The Burning Question of Summer
So, you're itching to trade your winter coat for a sundress and your coffee for a cocktail? You're not alone. The annual Chicagoan migration to rooftops is a sacred ritual, akin to the wildebeest's great migration, but with fewer predators and more rosé.
The Great Rooftop Await
Now, the million-dollar question (or at least a question worth a few hundred dollars in overpriced drinks): When do these rooftop paradises actually open their gates? Drumroll please. Unfortunately, there's no concrete answer. Chicago weather is as fickle as a teenage heart, and rooftop owners are as cautious as your grandma crossing the street.
Think of it like this: Rooftops are delicate creatures. They need just the right amount of sunshine, a gentle breeze, and zero chance of hail. It's a Goldilocks situation up there. So, while some brave souls might open their doors in April, others prefer to wait until May or even June.
How to Play the Rooftop Game
- Check the Weather App: Your phone is your new best friend. Keep an eye on those temperature forecasts. If it's consistently above 60°F, and the sun is making an appearance, your chances of rooftop success increase dramatically.
- Follow Your Favorite Rooftops: Most places will tease you with social media posts about their opening day. Get ready to stalk their accounts.
- Be Patient: It's a marathon, not a sprint. Rooftops will open eventually. In the meantime, enjoy the build-up and daydream about your future rooftop adventures.
How to Maximize Your Rooftop Experience
- How to dress for a rooftop? Layers, my friend, layers. Even on a warm day, the wind can be a sneaky little devil.
- How to pick the perfect rooftop? Consider your vibe. Are you looking for a chill spot with good music, or a place to see and be seen?
- How to survive a crowded rooftop? Arrive early, be patient, and remember, there are plenty of other rooftops in the city.
- How to make the most of your rooftop visit? Soak up the sun, enjoy good company, and don't forget to take pictures.
- How to handle rooftop prices? Go with a friend who's willing to split the bill, or explore happy hour specials.
Remember, the rooftop season is short, so make the most of it! And if all else fails, there's always next year.