Retired attorney, Alan Gabbay spent the height of Covid’s lockdown identifying and visiting area public spaces as a way to connect with friends safely. Surprised by the beauty right at his doorstep, he built a one-of-a-kind website, “50 Great Public Lands Destinations – Chicago and Beyond,” for others to enjoy by activity, ability, and interest.

Check it out: https://www.50chicagoareahikesbikesbites.com/index.cfm

“I’ve lived in the Chicago area for nearly 40 years, and I didn’t know how many remarkable places are so close to home,” said curator Alan Gabbay. “I hope this site encourages others to get out and enjoy the beauty around us.”

In addition to all the activities available at each destination, the website includes fun facts for each destination and suggests nearby places to eat.

“A lot of people think of the Chicago Metro area as flat and uninteresting geographically, I assure you they are wrong.”

For more Stories From The 78, follow @tombarnas78 on Instagram and @storiesfromthe78 on TikTok.