3 things we love about spring in Chicago

With the Spring Equinox upon us, the Our Town staff shares three things we love about springtime in Chicago.

1. Return to the lakefront: When the boats are back in Belmont Harbor, you know it’s time to kick your butt into gear and start enjoying the lakefront again. Whether jogging, rollerblading, biking or bouncing, hot bodies are always a welcome return to the lakefront each spring. Which reminds us — this could be an ideal time to whip yourself into shape. We suggest any number of area boot camps to jump-start your path to rock-hard abs.

2. Grant Park: The last time Chicagoans converged in Grant Park en masse was to celebrate the election of our 44th president. With spring, we return to Grant Park for reasons somewhat less grandiose, but noble nonetheless: softball. Dig those dusty cleats out of the closet, get the gang back together and register for a league through Chicago Sport and Social Club or Players Sports Group

3. Sightseeing boats: Sure, we roll our eyes whenever out-of-town guests suggest them, but we’re always pleasantly surprised at how engaging the architecture, history and skyline boat tours can be. Shoreline Sightseeing tours have already begun. Wendella boats hit the river with architecture tours, wine tasting tours and water taxis April 3.

What did we miss? In the comments section below, tell us what you love about spring in Chicago.