What's Your Happy Place

What Makes a Place a Happy Place?

Do you have a place that just fills you up? A place where your shoulders drop, your breath slows, and something inside you feels quietly, completely content?

For me, in case you couldn't guess, that place is Chicago.

I grew up in the suburbs, so going into the city always felt like a treat. We’d dress up, leave early to beat traffic, and the whole drive felt like anticipation wrapped in joy. My sister and I would race to spot the Magikist lips or the Coca-Cola sign first — both unofficial markers that we were almost there. And of course, the skyline. Always the skyline.

But the magic of Chicago wasn’t just in childhood. It’s stayed with me. Every season in the city offers something different, something grounding — something that feels like home.

Summer in the City

Chicago in the summer is pure delight. Every corner bursts with color — flowers, greenery, community gardens. And can we talk about how clean this city is? It always catches me off guard in the best way.

There’s something for everyone — riverboat tours, long walks along the lake, or quiet mornings in the parks. On a recent trip to Maggie Daley Park, I was stunned by the intentional design, especially for families. Thoughtful signage, age-specific play areas, and an overall sense of care. As a mom of once-small kids, I felt such appreciation. It’s rare to feel that in a big city. (L.A., I’m looking at you.)

Fall's Quiet Magic

Then there’s fall — short, sweet, and almost too beautiful. The leaves! The colors! You have to catch them quickly because autumn doesn’t linger. But while it’s here, it's glorious. Crisp air, cozy layers, lattes and mochas, and that feeling of just-rightness in the world.

Winter’s Unexpected Beauty

Yes, Chicago winters are intense. But they’re also incredibly beautiful. There’s something bonding about ducking into a warm pub with strangers, all of us escaping the same gusts of snow and wind.

And there’s a lesson in winter’s rhythm. It makes room for rest. For dormancy. It clears space for new things to grow. The bare trees aren’t gone — they’re just preparing to return in full color. Isn’t that kind of hopeful?

Spring’s Subtle Gift

And then, finally, spring. After the long wait, color returns. You step outside and catch that smell — damp earth, new life. Tiny flowers peek up. Birds return. Everything feels alive again.

It’s a reminder that beauty comes back. That even if things feel cold or stuck, something better is coming.

Your Turn: What’s Your Happy Place?

Maybe it’s a city like mine.
Maybe it’s a quiet porch swing, a hiking trail, or your grandma’s kitchen.
Maybe it’s somewhere you’ve never even been but dream about often.

Where do you feel at peace? Grounded? Yourself? I’d love to hear from you—what makes a place feel like home to you? Leave a comment or share your story. Let’s gather a little map of happy places together.