Twin Anchors offers classic digs and "fall-off-the-bones" ribs

Chicago brims with Memorial Day weekend options for those who want to kick-start summer. Here are some ideas that go beyond your typical backyard cookout.

Friday: Snag one of the few outside tables for cocktails at The Matchbox; head to the "garden getaway" for drinks at Room 21; hit the rooftop bar at SushiSambaRio; chow down on BBQ ribs at Twin Anchors; people-watch alfresco at Tavern on Rush.

Saturday: Pay your respects at the Memorial Day Parade on State Street (noon; between Wacker and Van Buren); grab a cheeseburger and fries at the Billy Goat Tavern; stock up on antiques and indie market finds at the Randolph Street Market Festival (Saturday 10 AM–5 PM; Sunday 9 AM–4 PM; $10 per person for admission; 1350 block of West Randolph St.) and followup with a pie at nearby BYO Coalfire Pizza (opens at 5 PM); end or begin a trip to Millennium Park by dining outside at Park Grill; chill under the stars at Chaise Lounge.

Can't make this in your backyard: Superdawg

Sunday: A stretch of Lake Shore Drive will be open to cyclists thanks to Bike the Drive (5:30–10:30 AM; cost varies; see details and registration info); get a dash of culture without missing the sunshine by partaking in the buffet brunch on the patio at Puck’s at the MCA (11 AM–3 PM; $25.50 per adult; $13.50 per child); check out Lula for breakfast, lunch or dinner; if you haven't been to Superdawg lately, it's time.

Monday: Before or after the Cubs' 1:20 PM start at Wrigley Field, stop by the Goose Island Brewing Co. or pop by the patio at Uncommon Ground; try the newish Mercat a la Planxa for breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Blackstone Hotel; go Greek on the patio at Athena; check out Miss Asia – which replaced Thai Me Up in March – for wallet-friendly Pan-Asian eats.