Living European with Dogs: Sitting in Squares

One of the biggest things we noticed when we were traveling was how well Europeans use common space. Everywhere we went there would be a 'Square' where people would gather, even well into the night, eating, people watching, or just sitting.

Of course, most of the squares had some kind of water feature, statue or monument. But the cities definitely felt alive having so many people gathering in one common space.
In Chicago we have a couple of squares, and when we lived near Lincoln Square the square was actually integral to Miss M's CGC training. I used to take her there to practice sit-stays and down-stays among all of the distractions. We love this quaint little square with its ornate lampposts, fountain, and German restaurants.

This also inspired us to check out the square in Logan Square. We picked up some Orangina and fresh baguettes from La Boulangerie and spent the afternoon just sitting. There is a huge monument in the center, and we decided to dine there. It kind of reminded us of Rome where everyone just lounges allover--even sitting on the lion sculptures.

And of course, there's our current standby Wicker Park with its flower gardens, big fountains, and nearby Big Star tacos. The park packs in so much in a tiny space, but plenty of great photo opps. 

I think since most of us don't have our own backyards, these types of common spaces are really important. Do other cities have these types of common spaces? And Chicago people--any other squares that we're missing?